DAV PUBLIC SCHOOLS,

ODISHA ZONE

CLASS-X – 2024-25

DAV CENTER FOR ACADEMIC

EXCELLENCE

REGIONAL TRAINING CENTER

DAV INSTITUTIONS, ODISHA ZONE

 PREFACE
Keeping the approaching class-X CBSE BOARD Examination- 2025 in view, DAV
Institutions, Odisha Zone has framed English Question Bank with Answer
scheme as a handy resource for the students of class X. This resource comprises
questions from Reading section, grammar and writing and literature (FIRST
FLIGHT AND FOOTPRINTS WITHOUT FEET). It will definitely help the students
enrich their knowledge and boost their confidence so that they can prepare
themselves for better outputs in the upcoming class X Annual Exam

Let’s hope, this Resource Material will be properly utilized to bring out the best in
the students.

CONTENT
SL NO Description

1 Reading Skills (Section-A)

2 Grammar (Section-B)

3 Creative Writing Skills (Section-B)

4 Literature (Section-C)
 READING SKILLS

Read the following passage carefully: 10 marks

Passage 1:

1.Today when we pick up a daily newspaper, we invariably find an increasing incidence of

vandalism, fraud, theft, robbery, rape, child spouse, battered spouses, murders, hate crimes,
genocide (now termed as "ethnic cleansing") along with a multitude of other senseless violent
acts that have become disturbingly common. These are not the actions of people who like
themselves.

2. The solution to a great many problems, whether personal, national or global, lies in improving
our feelings about ourselves both as individuals and members of society. When the significance
of good self-esteem is well understood and it achieves the prominence it deserves, a
transformation will begin, for as the people will learn they are deserving of self-respect, their
respect for others will automatically increase.

3. Most of our behaviour has been shaped by our parents, caregivers and authority figures who
played an important part in our early springing and were responsible for crystallizing our ideas
about ourselves and the world. While everyone has self-esteem, only a small percentage of us
have high self-esteem. High self-esteem denotes that we accept ourselves unconditionally exactly
as we are, we appreciate our value as a human being. When, on the other hand, we have low self-
esteem, we believe that we have little intrinsic worth.

4. Vulnerable to the opinions of others, we desperately try to gain their recognition and approval
sometimes through risky and dangerous behaviour. Thus, we are at the mercy of our emotions,
instead of controlling them, we permit them to control us. Since we allow circumstances to
influence our feelings, we are inclined to be moody.

5. The insecurity we feel as a result of devaluing ourselves makes us react with jealousy, envy
and possessiveness. Fear makes us greedy and acquisitive, and feelings of self-hate alternate with
those of futility, unhappiness and depression.

6. Sound self-esteem is the basis for ALL self-improvement. As human beings, our potential is
limitless, our abilities inexhaustible, and the possibilities for creative and constructive changes
are endless. But, we won’t experience satisfactory progress towards our goals or make any
lasting improvements unless we believe we deserve the good we want. Conditions in our lives
will improve permanently only when we believe we are entitled to something better. So
improving our self-esteem inwardly is the vital ingredient for improving our lives.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:

Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. 1

Senseless violent acts are the actions of those people who

(A) like reading newspapers daily

(B) are disturbed and react violently
(C) do not like themselves
(D) do not like others

(i) Based on the reading of the passage, describe the writer’s view in 40 words about the people
who are responsible. 2

(ii) Substitute the underlined part with a suitable word from the options below. 1

People in the later stages of life are easily affected by changes both physically and emotionally

(A) Intrinsic
(B) Vulnerable
(C) Exhaustible
(D) Futile

(iii) Complete the sentence with an appropriate inference

The writer wants people to believe that they are entitled to something better
because________________. 1

(iv) On the basis of your understanding of the passage, explain how would a transformation take
place? 2

(v) Based on your understanding of the passage, infer the tone of the writer. 1
(A) Satirical
(B) Suggestive
(C) Informative
(D) Emotional
(vi) List two ways in which people show their insecurity. 1

(vii) Supply a suitable title to the passage from the options given. 1
(A) Self-esteem – A must have trait
(B) Side effects of self-esteem
(C) Self-esteem – a panacea for self-improvement
(D) The divinity of self esteem

******

MARKING SCHEME
Q.N CONTENT MARKS
O
(i) c) do not like themselves 1
(ii) Responsible people crystalline our ideas about ourselves and the world. 2
(iii) b) Vulnerable 1
(iv) that will improve their living condition. 1
(v) When we believe, we are entitled to something/improving our self-esteem 2
inwardly
(vi) c) Informative 1
(vii) jealousy, envy and possessiveness 1
(viii) c). Self-esteem-a panacea self-improvement 1

Passage 2:

Read the given passage carefully. 10 marks.

1. Human beings are in the process of dramatically reshaping the Earth's ecosystems. As far back
as the 19th century, some scientists have noted that the current era is defined mainly by the
impact of human activity. Now, there is an emerging consensus among Earth scientists that we
have indeed entered a new period of geological time, the Anthropocene epoch.
2. Scientists who study the history of the Earth usually divide the geological time according to
major changes to the biology and climate of the Earth. For instance, the ancient Cambrian period,
some 500 million years ago, is distinguished by a sudden explosion in the diversity of life,
including the emergence of the ancestors of many modern species. More recently, the
Pleistocene epoch, which ended about ten thousand years ago, is notable for the glaciers that
swept over much of the Earth. The new Anthropocene epoch would be distinguished from all
earlier times in Earth's history by the dramatic impacts of human activity on the Earth.

3. Though Earth scientists debate exactly when the Anthropocene began, there is a clear
consensus that human changes to the environment are real and extreme. For one, many life forms
have become, and are becoming, extinct as a result of human activity. For this reason, some
palaeontologists argue that the human impacts of the Anthropocene began at the end of the last
Ice Age, around ten thousand years ago.

4. The growth and spread of human populations, caused by advances in seafaring technology and
agriculture, has led to overexploitation of fragile ecosystems, introduction of invasive species,
and pollution, causing much extinction.

5. This on-going rapid loss of species has been described as a mass extinction, as severe as the
event that wiped out the dinosaurs 65 million years ago.

6. Since the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries, humans have significantly
altered the atmosphere by mining and burning fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
Some by-products of the use of these fuels, such as carbon dioxide, are greenhouse gases that
trap solar energy on Earth. Ice cores, samples of ice layers that have trapped atmospheric
chemicals over time, have supplied scientists with millennia of year-by-year information about
greenhouse gas concentrations and atmospheric temperature.

Answer the following questions based on the above passage.

(i)Which of the following statements best describes the main idea of the passage? 1

(A) responds to controversial claims made by rival scientists

(B) argues for potential solutions to the problems posed by climate change.

(C) describes impact of human activity on the Earth’s environment.

(D) accounts for recent changes in global biodiversity.

(ii) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from Paragraph1? Write your response in
about 40 words. 2
“Some scientists have noted that the current era is defined mainly by the impact of human
activity.”

(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately. 1

The author’s purpose of writing in Paragraph ________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

(iv) The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other from the sets (a) – (e)
below, identify two sets of antonyms. 1

(A) ancient and modern

(B) sudden and explosion

(C) debate and argue

(D) activity and changes

(E) emergence and extinction

(v) Based on the understanding of the passage write in 40 words about the environmental
consequences due to human activity. 2

(vi) Complete the statement appropriately. 1

Humans have significantly _______________________________________________________

(vii) Based on the passage, the relationship between carbon dioxide and ice cores is
that______________________________________________________ 1

(A) carbon dioxide is extracted from ice cores to fuel industrial processes

(B) carbon dioxide destroys ice cores, leading to a loss of a source of information

(C) ice cores can be studied to track changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.

(D) ice cores remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, reducing its effect on the climate.

(viii) State whether the following lines display an example of growth / development / species /
extinction / human activity. 1

“The event that wiped out the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Humans have significantly altered
the atmosphere by mining. Many life forms have become extinct as a result of human activity.”
 **********

ANSWERS

Q1.(i)(C)describes impact of human activity on the earth’s environment.

(ii)*Formal and simple

*concerned observer

*human beings dramatically shaping the earth’s ecosystems

*human changes to the environment are real and extreme

(iii)Is to explain how scientists divide geological time

(iv)(A)ancient and modern

(E)emergence and extinction

(v)* Many changes happen in the environment due to human activity.

* over exploitation of fragile ecosystems

* introduction of invasive species and pollution.

* causing many extinction, glaciers that swept over much of the earth.

(vi)Altered the atmosphere by mining and burning fossil fuels

(vii)(C) ice cores can be studied to track changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels

(viii)extinction

************

Passage 3:

I. Read the following text.

1 Delhi has grown into a city that shuns children. It is now an urban sprawl, its development
model skewed in favour of motorized traffic and commercial capitalization. This has
snatched play fields from kids. With vehicles both stationary and on the move occupying
every inch of space available, the roads and even lanes and bylanes are out of bounds for the
little ones unlike in American and European cities, there are few public spaces where one can
 hang out. ‘It’s time,’ urban planning experts say, ‘to reconsider Delhi’s growth with the
welfare of its children in mind.’
2 Supreme Court Judge Kurian Joseph expressed his anguish at the shrinking playing space for
children in Delhi. The condition of the parks in the city, he said in the letter, was a “serious
violation of human rights of children” as it was “their right in their tender times to have a
decent environment to play and frolic around.”
3 Kuldeep Singh, an architect and urban planner, who worked with DDA during 1956-57 to
bring out Delhi’s first master plan, explained how initially children’s needs were the town
planner’s priority. “Space standards were set very rationally, an in every neighbourhood, a
huge open space was reserved for children which we called ‘tot-lots’. However, due to
administrative reasons, the idea of ‘tot-lots’ had to be dropped and regrettably, was never
entertained again.
4 “Over the years, circumstances have changed and people are reluctant to let their children go
out without some kind of security. Before it’s too late, Mr. Singh hopes the few open spaces
for kids are restored and protected from vehicles looking for parking lots. Another urban
planning expert says the first rectification Delhi’s development model needs to carry out is to
ensure mobility of children”.
5 “Two thousand pedestrians die on Delhi’s roads every year of which several are children.
There may not be a dearth of green spaces in Delhi, but kids have no safe means to reach
their places independently,” says Manjit Rastogi, founder of architecture firm
Morphogenesis. “It is catastrophic to learn about child mortality on Delhi’s roads, but, on the
other hand, you have the tragedy of kids being confined to their homes,” points out Mr.
Rastogi. “From a city of cars, Delhi needs to become a city of pedestrians where children can
enjoy and identify themselves with their surroundings,” he adds.
6 DDA officials say their focus is on balanced development of the city, which takes into
account children’s recreational needs. “DDA is working on new policies like Transit
Oriented Development which have sufficient provisions for taking care of pedestrians and
movement of children and women safely. Their policies will guide the future development
of the city,” said Neemo Dhar, spokesperson, DDA.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
i. Which of the following statements best reflects the author’s opinion towards play fields in
Delhi? (Paragraph 1)
(1)
A. Delhi’s play fields are the hub of architecture and constructions.
B.Play fields in Delhi are either used as vehicle parking are or victims of encroachment.
C. Play fields in Delhi are kid-friendly.
D. Play fields in Delhi resemble the play fields in America and Europe.
Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option.
ii. (1)
The reason of Justice Kurian’s displeasure is _________________.
 A. Delhi is unsafe for children
B. pollution in Delhi
C. Delhi government’s apathy towards kids
D. the shrinking recreational spaces for children in Delhi
iii. Validate Kuldeep Singh’s explanation in paragraph (3)regarding how children’s needs were
prioritized in Delhi’s town planner. Rationalize your response in about 40 words.
(2)
iv. Select the option that conveys the meaning of ‘scarcity’, from words used in paragraph 5.
(1)

A. Catastrophic
B. Mortality
C. Dearth
D. Confined
Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference with respect to the following.
V. The writer quotes that the government is working on new policies in order to________.
(Paragraph 6) (1)
vi. Based on the reading of the passage, justify, in about 40 words, people’s unwillingness to
send their children out of home without a bit of security.
(2)
vii. Compare the attitude of the parents of Ludhiana in the following case? (1)

Ludhiana:A city, which boasts of 800 public parks, is without proper playground for the
children. Now the residents are demanding proper space for the kids to play outdoors.
viii. State whether the following opinion displays a tone of hope/despair /dejection / misery.
DDA’s new policies will play a vital role in shaping the future of the city. (1)
KEY
i. B - Play fields in Delhi are either used as vehicle parking are or victims of encroachment.
ii. D - the shrinking recreational spaces for children in Delhi.
iii. Space standards were set very rationally – a huge open space was reserved –It had to be
dropped due to some administrative reasons.
iv. C - Dearth
v. Increase the safety of pedestrians, women and children.
vi. Parents have genuine concern about safety & security of their children amidst growing crime
against children.
vii. Parents of Ludhiana do not show concern about safety aspects of their children unlike Delhi
parents who are extra sensitive in terms of safety.
viii. hope
Passage 4:

I. Read the following text.

1. It is an indisputable fact that the world has gone too far with the innovation of new technologies
such as mobile phones, the internet and so on, due to which, people are able to tour the cosmos
virtually sitting in one place using their smart devices or other technological gadgets. Though
mobile internet access is often-times hurried and short, it can still provide common internet features
like alerts, weather data, emails, search engines, instant messages and game and music and game
and music downloading.
2. Due to the easy access to smart phones, communication has been very effective and instant. People
are able to convey their message all around the globe to their loved ones without spending hefty
sums of money. Adults are always fond of such gadgets and they always welcome and adopt such
new technology readily. Further, young people have been able to broaden their minds and improve
their skills by doing research on the internet. For instance, they use smart phones to look up any
new word they come across. As we know that most of universities have online teaching provisions
and smart phones assist students to complete their assignments on time.
3. The mobile phone has been a lifesaver for a lot of people in case of an emergency. Likewise, use of
smart phones can be of vital importance in preventing crimes in society by providing information to
the security forces in time.
4. Nonetheless, for the young, the use of mobile phone can be like an addiction and they can misuse it.
Young people are also prone to getting involved in undesirable activities on the internet. This might
have an adverse effect on their academic performance. Therefore, young people should always
monitored and made aware of its adverse/negative outcomes.
5. Also a major contributor to its popularity is the availability of prepaid or pay-as-you-go services
from a phone shop or online store. This allows subscribers to load text or airtime credits to their
handsets by the use of their credit cards, debit cards or by buying a prepaid card from the network
they subscribe to. If a prepaid card is not that appealing to you, then you can opt to subscribe using
the pay-by-moth plan.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
i What does the author mean when he says ‘tour the cosmos’? (1)
A. Booking foreign tours.
B. Seeing so far as one can go.
C. Seeing things which were part of the dream.
D. Seeing different parts of the universe.
ii Based on your reading of the text, list two reasons why the writer approves of smart phones.
Answer in about 40 words.
(2)
iii Fill in the blank.(1)
Grown-ups should________________ the use of new technology by the young people.
iv The passage includes some words that are similar in meaning to each other. From the sets (a)-(e)
below, identify two sets of synonyms.
(1)

A.Preventing and providing

B.World and cosmos
C.Addiction and misuse
D.Effective and instant
V Complete the sentence with an appropriate inference with respect to the following. (1)
Smart phones today have become crucial to education because _______________.

vi According to the writer, destructive use of mobiles can affect youth. Rationalise your response in
about 40 words.
(2)
vii Validate the writer’s reference to the mobile phone as a lifesaver. (1)
viii If you avail pay-as-you-go service, how will you be benefited? Pick the best answer.

A. Subscribers can opt the pay-by-month plan.

B. Subscribers can load text to their handsets.
C. Credits cards and debit cards will be in full use.
D. Subscribers can have uninterrupted internet services from its provider.
KEY
i D -Seeing different parts of the universe.
ii a. To facilitate communication and access to information
b. To enable instant communication for the wide range of resources
iii monitor
iv Both B and C
v they provide easy access to educational resources and offer a wide range of apps and tools.
vi It creates a passive nature for studies among youth and their hard work dries up – causes health
deterioration and shows an adverse effect.
vii Mobile phones are lifesavers for a lot of people in case of an emergency. They can benefit our
health by alerting emergency services. They also prevent crimes in society by providing
information to the security forces in time.
viii B. Subscribers can load text to their handsets.

GRAMMAR
 MODALS

1. Complete the following sentence, by filling in the blank with the correct option.
I __________ rather abandon you than be abandoned.
a. Would
b. Could
c. Should
d. Can

2. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
Manas told me that he will be writing a letter to the editor of an English daily.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

3. Fill in the blank with the appropriate modal.

The level of the fuel in the tank was low but the driver __________ reach the destination
in time.

4. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
I cannot fight with you: you are too strong.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

5. Complete the following sentence, by filling in the blank with the correct option.
If you wore a cardigan at the party, everybody ____________ laugh at you.
a. May
b. Might
c. Would
d. Should
6. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
However fine the weather can be, we should carry an umbrella with us.
 Option No. Error Correction
a. Can be Could be
b. Should Ought to
c. Can be May be
d. Should Might

7. Complete the following stanza of the poem, by filling in the blank with the correct
option.
When God at first made man,
Having a glass of blessing standing by,
“Let us,” said he, “pour on him all we _______ .
Let the world’s riches, which dispersed lie,
Contract into a span.

a. Can
b. May
c. Should
d. Must

8. Use the appropriate modal to complete the following sentence.

You ________ be tired after all that tiresome work.

9. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
Genius does what it must, and talent does what it should.

Option No. Error Correction

a. Must Can
b. Should May
c. Must Might
d. Should Can

10. Complete the following sentence, by filling in the blank with the appropriate modal.
Lest anyone ____________ doubt my intentions, I do not communicate with strangers.

11. Complete the following sentence, by filling in the blank with the correct option.
He _________ have finished the project by now, but he has not done yet.
a. Could
b. Might
c. Should
d. Would

12. Complete the following sentence with the appropriate modal.

 You _____________ apologize for your mistake.

13. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
She may get the right to cast votes, when she turns eighteen.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

14. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
She may have been joking, but she seemed serious.
Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

15. Complete the following sentence with the appropriate modal.

She ____________ have spent money on the expensive dress.
16. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
During my university days, I can solve all the difficult sums.

Option No. Error Correction

a. Can Could
b. Can Must
c. Can Should
d. Can Might

17. Complete the following stanza of the poem, by filling in the blank with the correct
option.

Do not do gentle into that good night,

Old age _____ burn and rave at close of day:
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

a. Will
b. Shall
c. Should
d. May

18. Complete the following sentence, by filling in the blank with the correct option.
You ______________ discuss any disclosure with a colleague.
 a. Should
b. Can
c. Must not
d. May not

19. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
You can be the change you wish to see in the world.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

20. Complete the following sentence with the appropriate modal.

You __________worry about the things that are beyond your control.

DETERMINERS

1. Complete the proverb with the most appropriate word from the given options.
________________ knowledge is a dangerous thing.

a. A little
b. Little
c. The little
d. Some

2. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
This is the quite delicious dish I have ever tasted.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction
3. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
Bad habits who adversely affect the life style of the youth should be nipped in the bud.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

4. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
Of the three, Mohit, Manas and Manoj, the later is the most intelligent.

Option No. Error Correction

a. later latter
b. most more
c. later last
d. most much

5. Complete the given lines with the most appropriate set of determiners from the given
options.

The stars shine bright in the evening sky,

______ celestial show, as _______ day says goodbye.

a. A, the
b. The, a
c. A, a
d. The, the
6. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
Which responsibility is it to ensure the success of the institution?
Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

7. Complete the sentence with the most appropriate word from the given options.
______________ attempts I made to solve the puzzle were unsuccessful.
a. A few
b. The few
c. A little
d. The little
8. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
The older statesman was respected by his peers for his knowledge and wisdom.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

9. Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate word.

There aren’t ___________ witnesses to the fatal accident.

10. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
The new policy applies to each employees who have been with the company for more
than five years.

Option No. Error Correction

a. Each all
b. Have been Has been
c. Each every
d. Have been are

11. Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate words.
________ man and ________ woman has cast their vote.
12. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
Our company offers the unique product that solves a common problem.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

13. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
We had an European professor in our college who was known as the Shakespeare of the
institution.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction
14. Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate word.
We have planted trees on _________ side of the road. Both the sides look beautiful
now.

15. Complete the following extract with the most appropriate determiner.
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame ______ fearful symmetry?

a. Thine
b. Thou
c. Thy
d. Thee
16. Identify the error in the given sentences and supply the correction.
All my hands are engaged right now. I cannot hold your bag.
Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

17. Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate word from the given
options.
How _________ time have you spent in calling the customers and how _________
times have you called each of them?

a. Many, much
b. Much, much
c. Many, many
d. Much, many
18. Fill in the blank with the correct word.
_______ one - horned rhinoceros was brought to the Nandankanan Zoological Park.

19. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
The last version of the smartphone is available here.

Option No. Error Correction

 a. last latest
b. last later
c. last latter
d. last lastest

20. Identify the error in the given sentences and supply the correction.
The diamond necklace bought by the aristocrat is quiet expensive.
Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

TENSES

1. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
It’s high time we _____________ (leave) for the airport, or we’ll miss our flight.

2. Complete the sentence with the most appropriate words from the given options.
I never __________ hurt anybody, and never ________.

a. Did, have
b. Do, did
c. Have, will
d. Will, do
3. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
What is required are not employees with high qualification, but dedicated ones.

Option No. Error Correction

a. is are
b. are is
c. what which
d. is was
4. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
The historic moon landing was telecasted around the world, making a monumental
moment in space exploration.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

5. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
If he _____________ (be) here, he would support me.

6. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
The archaeologist told the team that the ruins were much older than they initially thought,
but they didn’t believe her.
Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

7. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
Seldom had the people in the city saw a costlier ornament.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

8. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
By the time I ____________ (leave) my office, it was already midnight.

9. Complete the sentence with the most appropriate set of words from the given options.
Let him who ________________ most in the cause _____________.

a. Suffered, speak
b. Has suffered, speak
c. Suffered, spoken
d. Has suffered, spoken

10. Complete the sentence with the most appropriate word from the given options.
Our followers __________ but a handful.
a. Is
b. Has been
c. Has
d. Are
11. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
The new product, along with its features, have been well received by the customers.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

12. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
Either the prefects or the captain _______________ (take) the important decisions of the
house.
13. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
If it ____________ not for my friends, I would have never selected the difficult project.

14. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
The new employees had trained by our team for three months before they had started
working on projects.

Option No. Error Correction

a. had have
b. working To work
c. had Had been
d. had were

15. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction.
Unless you apologize, I shall not punish you.

Option No. Error Correction

a. apologize apologized
b. Shall not Shall
c. Shall not Will not
d. Apologize Are apologizing

16. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
If you have informed me earlier, I would have reached the airport to receive you.

Use the given format for your response.

 Error Correction

17. Complete the sentence by filling in the blank with the correct word.
The number of votes _________ to be counted and verified.

18. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
I look forward to ___________ (hear) from you.

19. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
The committee is divided on the issue of distributing the water of the river with the
neighbouring country.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

20. Complete the sentence with the appropriate form of the word given in the bracket.
He __________ (own) the house for a few years.

Answer Keys

Modals

1. a. would 2. will – would 3. could 4. cannot – dare not 5. Would

6. c. can be – may be 7. a. can 8. must 9. d. should – can 10. Should

11. c. should 12. Ought to 13. May – will 14. May – might

15. Should not 16. a. can – could 17. Should 18. Must not 19. Can – must

20. should not

Determiners

1. a. a little 2. Quite – most 3. Who – which 4. c. later – last

5. a. a, the 6. Which – who 7. b. the few 8. Older – elders 9. Any

10. a. each – all 11. Each, every 12. The – a 13. An – a 14. Either

15. c. thy 16. All – both 17. d. much, many 18. a 19. a. last – latest

20. quiet – quite

Tenses

1. left 2. c. have, will 3. Are, is 4. Telecasted – telecast 5. Were

6. told – had told 7. Saw – seen 8. Had left 9. b. Has suffered, speak

10. are 11. Have been – has been 12. Takes 13. Were 14. c. had – been

15. b. shall not – shall 16. Have – had 17. Is 18. Hearing 19. Is – are

20. has owned

(SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT)

1. Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following
line, from a news report:
Last Sunday the Prime Minister of India along with some of his cabinet members were invited to
the UNO.

Option no. Error Correction

A. members member
B. last previous
C. were was
D. some many
2. Complete the given narrative, by filling in the blank with the correct option:
As he was standing on the road, looking out at the moving overcrowded bus on the road, I saw a
group of college students____________ fighting with the conductor for seat.
A. was
B. are
C. were
D. will be
3. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
Neem can tolerate high to very high temperatures and do not tolerate temperature below 4º C (39
ºF).
ERROR CORRECTION

4. Complete the given sentence, by filling in the blank with the correct option:
The timing of all the oceanic activities __________ with the arrival of the south-west monsoon.
A. coincide
B. have coincided
C. coincides
D. coinciding
5. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the sentence.
Now a days not only Mayank but also his friends _______ to school regularly.
A. is not coming
B. was not coming
 C. are not coming
D. will not be coming
6. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.
The name of one of your best friends ________ published in the news paper today who got many
rewards in sports.
A. Have been
B. Has been
C. Were being
D. Was being
7. Identify the error in the given sentence and supply the correction.
The teachers along with their principal is getting ready for a study tour next week.
Use the given format for your response.
ERROR CORRECTION

8. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.

While teaching the students the teacher told, ‘Do you know, slow and steady _______ the race?”.
A. wins
B. win
C. have won
D. are winning
9. Identify the error and supply correction for the following caution written near a traffic
signal point:
In course of a discussion with his teacher Rahul told that a bouquet of flowers were
required for the event.

Use the given format for your response.

ERROR CORRECTION

10. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.

The book ‘Management Principles’ ___________ quite insightful.

A. are
B. is
C. has
D. have
11. Which of the following sentence does not use the correct form of verb in accordance to
the subject?

A. The jury has issued its final judgement.

B. Hunger games was written by Suzanne Collins.
C. His intellect on astronomical sciences is far beyond imagination.
D. The auditor and advisor are dead.
12. Fill in the blank by using the correct verb (was/were/have been) that fits best in the
sentence given below.
 Every engineer and every doctor present at the conference _______ given a copy of
proceedings.

13. Select the option that spots the error and supplies the correction for the following
report.
Many a young and educated person are not joining in politics as it has been one of the
debatable topics.

Last week a child was not allowed to board the plane at Ranchi airport.

Option no. Error Correction

A. many more
B. are is
C. has been have been
D. a an
14. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option.
The quality of Martha’s pens that she purchased from different shops for her birthday gifts ____
very good.

A. have
B. are
C. being
D. is
15. Find the error in the following sentence and suggest the correction for the same in the
given format.

Either Gymnastics or Economics were my worst subject when I was in school.

ERROR CORRECTION

16. Which of the following sentences is correct question for the following answer?
It will cost Rs 100/-(Rupees one hundred only).

A. If one dozen of banana costs Rs.50/-, what is the cost of two dozens of bananas?
 B. If a dozen of bananas costs Rs.50/-, what is the cost of two dozens of bananas?
C. If one dozen of banana costs Rs.50/-, what is the cost of two dozen of bananas?
D. If a dozen of banana cost Rs.50/-, what is the cost of two dozens of bananas?
17. Fill in the blank to complete father’s advice to Raj. You should choose the most
appropriate one from the options that follow.

Raj’s father advised him, “My dear, 2 kilometers ______ not a long distance. If you don’t
have bike you may go by walking. Do some physical exercise.”

A. is
B. are
C. have
D. does
18. Fill in the blank by using the correct verb given in the bracket for the subject.

Majority of the applicants for the post of Manager in the MNC _______ (was/had
been/were) girls.

19. Find the error in the following sentence and suggest the correction for the same in the
given format.

When I was going to market, I saw a black and a white cow was grazing in the field.

ERROR CORRECTION

20. Fill in the blanks and correctly complete the sentence.

Either of the two deputy CMs _____________ eligible to represent our state in the GST Council
meeting called by the Finance Minister of India before the Budget Session.

A. will
B. is
C. were
D. have been

ANSWER SCHEME (SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT)

1- Ans. (C) were – was

2- Ans. (A) was
3- Ans. do-can
 4- Ans. (C) coincides
5- Ans. (C) are not coming
6- Ans. (B) Has been
7- Ans. is (error) – are (correction)
8- Ans.(A) wins
9- Ans. were (error) – was (correction)
10- Ans. (B) is
11- Ans. (D) The auditor and advisor are dead.
12- Ans. was
13- Ans. (B) are - is
14- Ans. (D) is
15- Ans. were (error) – was (correction)
16- Ans. (B) If a dozen of bananas costs Rs.50/-, what is the cost of two dozens of
bananas?
17- Ans. (A) is
18- Ans. were
19- Ans. was (error) – were (correction)
20- Ans. (B) is

SUBJECT VERB CONCORD

I. Fill in the blanks using the correct form of the word in the bracket, for the
given form of the letter

1. Neither the teacher nor the students (are/is) happy with the new
schedule.
2. Each of the answers (require/ requires) a different approach to the
problem.
3. The jury (is/ are) divided in their opinions about the case.
4. A number of people expected to attend the conference next week. (is/are)
5. The herd of elephants (have/has) been moving towards the river for
6. Either the manager or his assistants water
________ able to attend the
conference .(is/are)

7. None of the information accurate according to the recent findings. (is/are)

8. The series of lectures been scheduled for the month of July. (have)

II.Error-identification and correction questions focused on subject-verb agreement:

1. The group of scientists is conducting experiments that requires specialized equipment.

Erro Correction
 r

2. The committee, which consists of experts from various fields, have decided to postpone the
conference due to unforeseen circumstances and will notify all participants in due time.
Erro Correction
r

3. Neither the CEO, who has years of experience in the industry, nor the board members,
who are highly respected professionals, was willing to endorse the risky new venture
proposed by the finance team.

Erro Correction
r

4. Despite the fact that she had studied for weeks, she still feel unprepared for the final exam,
which was scheduled for the following Monday.

Error Correction
5. He claimed that he had finish the report before the deadline, but when the manager asked
to see it, he realized that several sections were still incomplete.

Error Correction

6.As soon as she had finished her degree in engineering, she applied for several
positions at leading tech companies in the city, hoping to secure a job before
graduation.
Error Correction

7. Every one of the advanced algorithms, designed by the software engineers to optimize the
processing speed and accuracy of the data analysis, have been integrated into the new system,
resulting in a significant performance boost.
Erro Correction
r

III. Select the correct option to fill in the blank for the given:
1. The committee, along with the chairman, diligently studying
the proposal for the past month.

A. has been

B. have been

C. was

D. were

2. Neither the manager nor his assistants able to attend the

conference next week.

A. is

B. are
C. has

D. have

3. The fleet of ships, which includes both cargo vessels and passenger liners,
scheduled to depart from the harbor at sunrise.

A. is

B. are

C. has

D. have

4. Each of the players on the team to improve their performance in the

upcoming tournament.

A. is

B. are

C. was

D. were

5. The series of novels, which has captivated readers worldwide,

being adapted into a television series.

A. is
B. are
C. was
D.were

ANSWER KEY

Fill in the Blanks (Correct Form of the Word)

1. are
2. requires
3. is
4. are
5. has
 6. have
7. is
8. has

Error Identification and Correction

1. Error: requires Correction: require

2. Error: have Correction: has
3. Error: was Correction: were
4. Error: feel Correction: feels
5. Error: finish Correction: finished
6. Error: applied Correction: had applied
7. Error: have Correction: has

Select the Correct Option

1. A. has been
2. B. are
3. A. is
4. A. is
5. A. is

REPORTED SPEECH

1. Report the dialogue between a grandson and his grandfather, by completing the
sentence:
Grandson: Grandpa, who are your superheroes?
Grandpa: Anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others.
In response to the question about his superheroes, grandpa says that
________________________.
.
2. Read the following dialogue and complete the sentence by reporting Suman’s request.
Anup: Hello Suman! Do you know that the school trip to Puri has been cancelled?
Suman: No, I don‘t know that. Please tell me more about it.
When Anup met Suman, he asked him if he knew that the school trip to Puri had been cancelled,
to which, Suman replied that he did not know that and _____________.

3. Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between Neelam and
her mother.
Mother: Why ask so many questions, Neelam?
Neelam: I believe that if you don’t know the answer, keep asking till you do!
Mother asked Neelam the reason for the many questions she was asking. Neelam exclaimed
good-humouredly that in event of not knowing the answer one should______________.
. A. keep asking till one does.
B. kept asking till one does.
C. keep asking till one do.
D. kept on ask till one do.
4. Report the dialogue between a father and his son, by completing the sentence.
Father: I am not completely fine.
Son : Do you need some rest?
The father said to his son that he was not completely fine. After that, the son wanted to know
_____________.
5. Madhusmita shared some information with Ranjana about a trip to Cuttack.
Report Ranjana's question.
When will you go there?
6. Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between a student and
his teacher.
Student: Ma‘am, I have some doubts in language.
Teacher: Practise more of grammar.
A student told his teacher that he had some doubts in language. The teacher advised him
___________.
A. to practising more of grammar
B. to practised more of grammar
C. to practise more of grammar
D. to had practised more of grammar
7. Select the correct option to complete the narration of the dialogue between a shopkeeper
and a customer.
Shopkeeper: It is nice to see you, Madam!
Customer: Yes, indeed! Unlike last month, I have been away for quite some time this
month.
The shopkeeper greeted his customer respectfully and mentioned that he was pleased to see her.
The customer answered in the affirmative and explained that unlike the previous
month______________.
A. he has been away for quite some time that month
B. I had been away for quite some time that month
C. I have been away for quite some time this month
D. he had been away for quite some time that month
8. Nikhil and Reena were talking about the launching of Reena’s project.
Report Nikhil’s question.
When are you going to launch your most ambitious project?
9. Report the doctor’s query for the patient by completing the sentence.
Doctor: Why didn’t you take my medicine in proper dose?
Patient: Sorry Sir! I forgot.
The doctor got angry seeing the miserable condition of his patient and asked his the reason for
that. Seeing his casual approach he wanted to know from him
_____________________________dose.
10. Select a correct question Ritesh’s mother to Ritesh for the following narration from the
responses that follow.
Ritesh’s mother asked him whether he had not completed his homework.
A. Ritesh, “Haven’t you completed your homework?”
B. Ritesh, “Has she completed his homework?”
C. Ritesh, “Why haven’t you completed your homework?”
D. Ritesh, “Whether you have completed your homework?”
11. Report the response of the student for the question asked by the teacher in the following
dialogue.
Ms Nayar: Do you know Newton’s 3rd law of motion?
Pradeep: Yes Madam. “Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.”
Ms Nayar is the Science teacher of Pradeep. While teaching in the class, to the teacher’s question
Pradeep responded positively that Newton’s 3rd law_________________________________.
12. Report the following version of Mohan to his friends
Let’s go for a picnic.
13. Which of the following options is not the correct indirect speech of the question that the
master asked his servant?
Master said to his servant, “Why didn’t you come yesterday?”

A. Master asked to his servant that why he didn’t come the day before.
B. Master asked to his servant why he didn’t come the yesterday.
C. Master asked his servant that why he hadn’t come yesterday.
D. Master asked his servant why he hadn’t come the day before.
14. Report Harish’s response to Jyoti’s query?
Jyoti: When are you going to Delhi?
Harish: Next Monday.
15. Find the error in the following sentence and suggest the correction for the same in the
given format.

The doctor asked his patient weather she could come to take the medicine the day after.

ERROR
CORRECTION

16. Report the following statement of the captain.

The captain said to his team members, “Hurrah! We have won the match.”
17. Which one of the options given is a correct direct speech for the sentence given below?
He told me that whether I knew his father had been an astronaut.
A. He said to me, “If I know, his father was an astronaut?”.
B. He said to me, “Do you know, my father was an astronaut?”
 C. He said to me, “Do I know, your father was an astronaut?”
D. He said to me, “Does he know, my father had been an astronaut?”

18. Report the following dialogue of Ram to his aunt by completing the narration.
Ram: Aunty, Please help me in my project.
Aunt: Sorry, I cannot. I’m busy with my office work.
Ram requested his aunt to help him in his project. To that his aunty responded apologetically that
_____________ as she was busy with her office work.
19. Report Altaf’s’s correct query to Fatima’s negative response?
Altaf: Do you always tell a lie?
Fatima: No.
20. Which of the choices is NOT the correct answer for the following order of Gita to her
son?
Shut the door.
A. Let the door be shut.
B. Gita ordered her son to shut the door.
C. Gita told her son let him shut the door.
D. Let the door be shut by Gita’s son.

ANSWER SCHEME (REPORTED SPEECH)

1- Ans. anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others are their superheroes.
2. Ans. requested tell him more about it
3- Ans. (A) keep asking till one does.
4- Ans. whether he needed some rest.
5- Ans. Ranjana asked Madhusmita when she would go there.
6- Ans. (C) to practise more of grammar
7- Ans. (D) he had been away for quite some time that month.
8- Ans. Nikhil asked Reena when she was going to launch her most ambitious project.
9- Ans. why he hadn’t taken his medicine in proper
10- Ans. (A) Ritesh, “Haven’t you completed your homework?”
11- Ans. States/says every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
12- Ans. Mohan proposed his friends to go for a picnic.
13- Ans. (D) Master asked his servant why he hadn’t come the day before.
14- Ans. Harish responded Jyoti that he was going to Delhi the following Monday.
15- Ans. weather (error) – whether (correction)
16- Ans. The captain exclaimed with joy that they had won the match.
17- Ans. (A) He said to me, “Do you know, my father was an astronaut?”
18- Ans. she could not
19- Ans. Altaf asked Fatima whether she always told a lie.
20- Ans.(C) Gita told her son let him shut the door.
 REPORTED SPEECH

i. Read the dialogue between a chef and a customer, and complete the narration as
follows:

Chef: I served you the pasta with extra cheese. Why did you complain about it?
Customer: Chef, I requested the pasta without cheese, it is added anyway.

The chef had served the pasta with extra cheese and questioned the customer's
complaint. The customer explained that

ii. Read the dialogue between a librarian and a patron, and complete the
narration as follows:

Librarian: I handed you the latest novel by John Grisham. Why did you return it unread?
Patron: Madam, I have already read that novel last month, I forgot.

The librarian had given the patron the latest novel by John Grisham and
asked . The patron clarified that

iii. Read the dialogue between a manager and an employee, and complete the
narration as follows:

Manager: I assigned you to prepare the presentation slides. Why did you submit an
incomplete draft?
Employee: Sir, I had completed the presentation slides, the computer crashed.

The manager asked ____________. The employee explained that he had completed the
slides; the computer crashed before.

iv. Read the dialogue between a parent and a child, and complete the
narration as follows:

Parent: I asked you to feed the dog. Why is the bowl still empty?

Child: Mom, I had fed the dog, the food spilled and you didn't notice.

The parent had asked the child to feed the dog and questioned why the bowl was still
empty. The child defended himself, saying .

v. Read the dialogue between a doctor and a patient, and complete the
narration as follows:
Doctor: I prescribed you antibiotics for the infection. Why did you stop taking them?
Patient: Doctor, I had severe side effects from the antibiotics, so I had to discontinue
them.

The doctor had prescribed antibiotics to the patient for an infection and asked why he had
stopped taking them. The patient explained that he had severe side effects from the antibiotics
and ________.

vi. Read the dialogue between a supervisor and an intern, and complete the
narration as follows: Supervisor: I assigned you to compile the research data. Why
haven't you submitted anything yet?
Intern: Sir, I had compiled the research data, but my laptop crashed before I could send it to
you. The supervisor had assigned the intern to compile the research data and asked why there
was no submission yet. The intern clarified that he had compiled the data but .

vii. Read the dialogue between a coach and an athlete, and complete the narration
as follows:

Coach: I told you to run five laps. Why did you stop after three?

Athlete: Coach, I had completed the five laps, but I twisted my ankle on the last lap.

The coach had instructed the athlete to run five laps and questioned why the athlete
stopped after three. The athlete explained that he had completed the laps but
.

viii. Read the dialogue between a salesperson and a customer, and complete
the narration as follows:

Salesperson: I sold you the latest smartphone model. Why did you return it the next day?

Customer: I had bought the latest smartphone model, but it had a defect in the camera.
The salesperson had sold the customer the latest smartphone model and asked why he had
returned that the next day. The customer stated that he had bought the smartphone but
.

ix. Read the dialogue between a tour guide and a tourist, and complete the
 narration as follows:

Tour Guide: I showed you all the historical landmarks. Why are you asking for a refund?
Tourist: The tour guide had shown me all the historical landmarks, but I had already visited
them before.
The tour guide had shown the tourist all the historical landmarks and asked why he was
requesting a refund. The tourist explained that the tour guide had shown him all the historical
landmarks but ____________.

x. Read the dialogue between a customer and a tech support representative,

and complete the narration as follows:

Customer: I called you for help with my internet connection. Why did it take so long to
fix?

Tech Support: Sir, I had fixed your internet connection issue, but there was a problem with
the server.

The customer had called tech support for help with his internet connection and asked why it
had taken so long to fix. The tech support representative explained that he had fixed the
issue but .

xi. Interviewer: Do you have any experience in this field? Candidate: Yes, I have
worked for three years in a similar position.

The interviewer asked the candidate if .

The candidate replied that .

xii. Parent: Did you finish your school project?

Child: No, I will finish it by tomorrow.
The parent asked the child if . The child
replied that ______.

xiii. Police Officer: Did you witness the accident?

Bystander: Yes, I saw everything clearly.

The police officer asked the bystander if .

The bystander replied that .

xiv. Neighbor: Are you planning to sell your house?

Homeowner: Yes, we are moving to a new city next month.

The neighbor asked the homeowner if .

The homeowner replied that .
xv. Lawyer: Can you describe exactly what happened on the night of the
incident? Witness: I heard a loud noise, went to check, and saw two people arguing
near the entrance of the building.
The lawyer asked the witness if . The
witness replied that .

xvi. Counselor: What challenges are you currently facing that impact your
performance at work?

Client: I am struggling with time management and feeling overwhelmed by the workload.
The counselor asked the client what . The client
replied that .

xvii. Interviewer: What motivated you to apply for this position at our company?

Candidate: I have always admired your company’s commitment to innovation and

excellence, and I believe my skills align perfectly with your needs.
The interviewer asked the candidate what .
The candidate replied that .

xviii. Historian: How did the economic policies of that era influence the social
structure of the society?

Researcher: The policies led to significant disparities in wealth distribution, creating a

pronounced divide between the rich and the poor.
The historian asked the researcher how .
The researcher replied that .

xix. Teacher: What do you think are the main reasons for the decline in
student performance this semester?

Head of Department: There could be multiple factors, including increased stress levels, lack
of access to resources, and changes in curriculum.
The teacher asked the head of department what .
The head of department replied that .

xx. Inspector: Can you provide a detailed account of your whereabouts during the
 time of the robbery?
Suspect: I was at home watching television, and my neighbours can vouch for me.

The inspector asked the suspect if . The

suspect replied that .
MARKING SCHEME Reported Speech

i. The chef had served the pasta with extra cheese and questioned the customer's complaint.
The customer explained that he had requested the pasta without cheese, but it was added
anyway.
ii. The librarian had given the patron the latest novel by John Grisham and asked why they
returned it unread. The patron clarified that they had already read that novel last month and
forgot .

iii.The manager had assigned the employee to prepare the presentation slides and asked
why he had submitted an incomplete draft. The employee explained that he had
completed the slides, but the computer crashed before he could save them.

iv.The parent had asked the child to feed the dog and questioned why the bowl was still
empty. The child defended himself, saying he had fed the dog, but the food had spilled and the
parent hadn’t noticed.

v.The doctor had prescribed antibiotics to the patient for an infection and asked why they
were stopped. The patient explained that he had severe side effects from the antibiotics
and had to discontinue them.

vi.The supervisor had assigned the intern to compile the research data and asked why there
was no submission yet. The intern clarified that he had compiled the data, but his laptop had
crashed before he could send it.

vii.The coach had instructed the athlete to run five laps and questioned why the athlete
stopped after three. The athlete explained that he had completed the laps but had twisted his
ankle on the last lap.

viii. The salesperson had sold the customer the latest smartphone model and asked why
he returned that the next day. The customer stated that he had bought the smartphone, but
it had a defect in the camera.

ix.The tour guide had shown the tourist all the historical landmarks and asked why he was
requesting a refund. The tourist explained that he had had already visited the
landmarks before.

x. The customer had called tech support for help with his internet connection and asked why it
took so long to fix. The tech support representative explained that he had fixed the issue, but
there had been a problem with the server.

xi.The interviewer asked the candidate if he had any experience in that field. The
candidate replied that he had worked for three years in a similar position.

xii.The parent asked the child if he had finished his school project. The child replied that he
would finish it by the next day.
xiii. The police officer asked the bystander if he had witnessed the accident. The
bystander replied that he had seen everything clearly.

xiv. The neighbor asked the homeowner if he was planning to sell his house. The
homeowner replied that they were moving to a new city next month.

xv. The lawyer asked the witness if he could describe exactly what had happened on the
night of the incident. The witness replied that he had heard a loud noise, went to check, and
saw two people arguing near the entrance of the building.

xvi.The counselor asked the client what challenges he was currently facing that impacted his
performance at work. The client replied that he was struggling with time management
and feeling overwhelmed by the workload.

xvii. The interviewer asked the candidate what had motivated him to apply for the
position at their company. The candidate replied that he had always admired their
company’s commitment to innovation and excellence, and he believed his skills aligned
perfectly with their needs.

xviii. The historian asked the researcher how the economic policies of that era had influenced
the social structure of society. The researcher replied that the policies had led to
significant disparities in wealth distribution, creating a pronounced divide between the
rich and the poor.

xix. The teacher asked the head of department what he thought were the main reasons for
the decline in student performance that semester. The head of department replied that there
could be multiple factors, including increased stress levels, lack of access to resources, and
changes in curriculum.

xx.The inspector asked the suspect if he could provide a detailed account of his whereabouts
during the time of the robbery. The suspect replied that he was at home watching
television, and his neighbors could vouch for him.
 CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS

SET 1

1.A. You are Mr. Dheerendra Tiwari, a social activist. You belong to Raipur, Chhattisgarh. In a
national daily today, you saw a report on a village of your state, having Maoist link. The people
of that village recently called you and told you about their innocence. Write a letter to the Editor
of that daily to stop such reports and publish after enquiring properly. 5

B.You are Hemant/Himakshi. Write a letter to the Editor of The Herald, New Delhi expressing
your anguish over the problems faced by people due to illicit liquor and the deadly chemicals
like anthrax. 5

2.A. The table below gives information about some of the world's most studied languages. Give
an analytic description in a paragraph highlighting and reporting the main features. Don't forget
to make comparisons where relevant. 5

A B
Language No of people Number of Native Number of Countries
Learning the Speaker where language is
Language spoken
English 1.5 Billion 568 Million 101
French 82 Million 235 Million 51
Chinese 256 Million 954 Million 33
Spanish 65 Million 269 Million 31
Italian 9 Million 187 Million 29
Japanese 7 Million 165 Million 25
Hindi 36 Million 325 Million 23

B.Read the following excerpt from an online post of a website on educational practices.

Kids who appreciate how much effort, time and care goes into growing food will understand how
important farmers are, and Earth. In the world of today, gardening needs to be given more
importance than sports, music and dance in all schools because it creates environmental stewards
and outdoor learning laboratories that help the child and write a paragraph in 100-120 words to
analyse the given argument. You could think about what alternative explanations might weaken
the given conclusion and include rationale / evidence that would strengthen / counter the
argument. 5
 SET 2

1. A. You are Rahul/Rani, Nadia District West Bengal. You are living in a small village near a
national highway. There is no bus stop near our village. Write a letter in 120 to the GM of NHAI
requesting a bus stop for your village. Give all the reasons why you need a stop there. 5

Or

B.Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, expressing your opinion and views on the
increased human dependence on technology. Right from a small child to an adult, or even an old
man, everyone wants gadgets only-cell phone, I-pod, laptop, etc. This also has a negative effect
on social relationships. Using your own ideas and the unit, ‘Science’, write the letter in 100-120
words. 5

2. A. The given pie chart represents the amount of money spent by a family on different items in
a month. Write an analytical paragraph using the information given in the chart. 5

Or

B.The given double bar graph shows the preferences of children in a school in playing different
games over the span of six years. Write an analytical paragraph about the given information. 5
 SET 3

1. A. You are Ravi/Ravina. You are going to organize a health camp in a remote village
to make the people aware about their health and hygiene, to make the camp a successful
one and to ensure more youngster participants write a letter to the editor of a leading
daily regarding the aforesaid topic. 5

B. You are Sunil/Sunita. You have recently gone through an article and found that
average 100 km food is approximately wasted by Indian people whereas in some areas
people are not getting adequate food to survive. Write a letter to the editor to ventilate
your ideas and make the people aware about it. 5

2. A. Go through the given data which shows the changes that have occurred between
1990 to 2020 in Chattisgarh regarding women education write a paragraph in about 100
to120 words. 5

Sl Women education in Chattisgarh 1990 2020

1. No Girl’s School 200 220
2. No of students 200000 250000
3. Literacy Rate 30% 50%
4. Distance Education Centre NIL 15

B. Write an analytical paragraph based on your reading of the given chart. 5

Book reading habits

Books Teens 40s 60s

Fictions 55 15 25
Biography 30 45 50
50 40 10
Travelogue
Competitive 65 35 NIL
Exam
Journal 35 50 65

MARKING SCHEME
1 A, 1 B
Total - 5 Format – 1 [full credit if all aspects included. Partial credit (½ mark) if one-two
aspects are missing. No credit if more than two aspects are missing] Content -2 [ ½ mark
for each content point area addressed - suggestion, importance, implication,
recommendatio n] Organisation of ideas -1 [effective style, orderly sequence,
paragraphed structure and formal tone and vocabulary] Accuracy 1 [Spelling, punctuation
and grammar]

2 A , 2.B.
(For 5 A & B) Analytical paragraph writing should NOT be confused with Descriptive
paragraph writing. Content -2 Four trends/ points included & well-developed with
sustained clarity Organisation of ideas -2 [effective style, orderly sequence, single
paragraph structure, formal tone and functional vocabulary] Accuracy 1 [Spelling,
punctuation and grammar]
SET 2
1 A, 1 B
Total - 5 Format – 1 [full credit if all aspects included. Partial credit (½ mark) if one-two
aspects are missing. No credit if more than two aspects are missing] Content -2 [ ½ mark
for each content point area addressed - suggestion, importance, implication,
recommendatio n] Organisation of ideas -1 [effective style, orderly sequence,
paragraphed structure and formal tone and vocabulary] Accuracy 1 [Spelling, punctuation
and grammar]

2A, 2B
(For 5 A & B) Analytical paragraph writing should NOT be confused with Descriptive
paragraph writing. Content -2 Four trends/ points included & well-developed with
sustained clarity Organisation of ideas -2 [effective style, orderly sequence, single
paragraph structure, formal tone and functional vocabulary] Accuracy 1 [Spelling,
punctuation and grammar]
SET 3
1A, 1B
Total - 5 Format – 1 [full credit if all aspects included. Partial credit (½ mark) if one-two
aspects are missing. No credit if more than two aspects are missing] Content -2 [ ½ mark
for each content point area addressed - suggestion, importance, implication,
recommendation] Organisation of ideas -1 [effective style, orderly sequence, paragraphed
structure and formal tone and vocabulary] Accuracy 1 [Spelling, punctuation and
grammar]

2 A, 2B
(For 5 A & B) Analytical paragraph writing should NOT be confused with Descriptive
paragraph writing. Content -2 Four trends/ points included & well-developed with
sustained clarity Organisation of ideas -2 [effective style, orderly sequence, single
paragraph structure, formal tone and functional vocabulary] Accuracy 1 [Spelling,
punctuation and grammar]
 LITERATURE

FIRST FLIGHT (PROSE)

A LETTER TO GOD

COMPETENCY BASED STUDY MATERIAL

Q.1. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:

A. “Now we’re really going to get some water, woman.” The woman who was preparing supper,
replied, “Yes, God willing”. The older boys were working in the field, while the smaller ones
were playing near the house until the woman called to them all, “Come for dinner”. It was during
the meal that, just as Lencho had predicted, big drops of rain began to fall. In the north- east,
huge mountains of clouds could be seen approaching. The air was fresh and sweet. The man
went out for no other reason than to have the pleasure of feeling the rain on his body, and when
he returned, he exclaimed, “These aren’t rain drops falling from the sky, they are new coins. The
big drops are ten cent pieces and the little ones are fives.”

i. “These aren’t raindrops falling from the sky, they are new coins. The big drops are ten cent
pieces and the little ones are fives.”
In which of the following examples has the same figure of speech used to describe raindrops in
the above lines? 1
(a) She looked as fresh as morning dew.
(b) Waves heaved heavily.
(c) Glow worms are tiny lights floating around in the forest.
(d) Break, break, break on thy cold grey stones, O Sea!
ii. How does Lencho’s mood progress along with the progress of the weather? Answer in about
40 words. 2
iii. What had Lencho predicted? 1
iv. Mention the poetic device used in the last sentence. 1

B. The house – the only one in the entire valley – sat on the crest of a low hill. From this height
one could see the river and the field of ripe corn dotted with the flowers that always promised a
good harvest. The only thing the Earth needed was a downpour or at least a shower. Throughout
the morning Lencho who knew his fields intimately had done nothing else but seethe sky
towards the North-East. “Now we’re really going to get some water, woman. “The woman who
was preparing supper, replied, “Yes, God willing”.

i) Where was Lencho’s house located? 1

a) On the crest of low hill

b) In the entire valley
c) In the field of ripe corn
d) Towards the North-Earth
ii) Complete the sentence: Lencho’s wife was busy preparing ---------------- 1
iii) Find the word from the extract which means ‘very closely’. 1

a) Promisingly
b) Entire
c) Intimately
d) Towards
iv) “ sat on the crest of a low hill”. Analyse the meaning with reasons. 2

Q. 2. Answer the following questions in about 40–50 words. ( 3 marks each)

I. “So, in order not to shake the writer’s faith in God, the postmaster came up with an idea to
answer the letter”. What does this statement tell us about the postmaster? Was his idea
successful? How did the receiver react?

II. “Now we’re really going to get some water woman.” Is Lencho sure that it is going to rain?
Give a reason for your answer.

III. In the hearts of all who lived in that solitary house …, there was a single hope ….’ What was
that?

Q. 3. Answer the following questions in about 100–120 words. (6 marks each)

I. “If you don’t help me, my family and I will go hungry this year.” Lencho had faith in God but
he didn’t manage to solve the problem by himself. Did he lack the courage to resolve his matter
himself? What values did he lack? Explain it in 100-120 words.

II. Writing a letter to God for help really shows not only the unshaken faith in God of the writer
Lencho but also shows his utter simplicity and innocence. Comment.

ANSWER KEY

Q.1. A. EXTRACT-1

I. (i) c. Glow worms are tiny lights floating around in the forest. 1
(ii)Lencho was hopeful of a good shower but the hailstorm changed his mood from happiness to
sorrow. 2
(iii)Lencho has predicted a big drops of rain to fall. 1
(iv)Metaphor
1
B. EXTRACT-2

i) a) On the crest of low hill

ii) Supper
iii) c) Intimately
iv) Here you can find the meaning of The house- the only one in the entire valley -sat on the crest
of a low hill. From this height one could see the river and the ripe corn. - The flowers in the field
promise a good harvest.
Q.2. ANSWER IN 40-50 WORDS

I. Postmaster was a kind, benevolent and helpful man though his idea was successful but the
receiver blamed him as a crook.

II. Yes. Lencho is sure that it is going to rain. He needs rain for his crops. He has been gazing at
the sky since morning. He has perhaps seen some signs of coming rain. True to his prediction. It
soon starts raining.

III. The hail had practically left nothing. The cornfields were totally destroyed. Lencho and his
family would have no corn that year. He could expect no help from human beings. In the hearts
of all who lived in that solitary house, there was a single hope: help from God. Only God could
save them from such a miserable situation.

Q.3. ANSWER IN 100-120 WORDS

I. Lencho was a hardworking farmer. He was completely dependent upon the crops of his fields.
His annual crop was completely destroyed due to heavy rains and hailstorms. In the entire
village, there was no one to help him during the times of financial crisis. He had a firm belief in
God and hence wrote a letter requesting Him to send 100 pesos so that he could sow his fields
again till the next crop. This act did not prove that he lacked the courage to resolve his problem
but shows that he did not have any option left for himself. He had a firm belief in God. He was
an ox of a man but lacked money to stand again.

II. Lencho was a simple and hardworking farmer who worked like an ox in his fields. When the
heavy fall of hailstones destroyed his corn totally, he and his family were rather on the verge of
starvation. He was left with one hope, help from God. He believed that God was all-merciful and
hears the call of those who are of a clear conscience. He requested him to send a hundred pesos
immediately to help him to sow his fields. He and his family also needed some money to live on
until the fresh crop came.

Writing a letter to God and addressing it `To God’ shows the writer’s unshaken faith in God. He
was a simple man not distrusting that such a letter could reach God. His innocence and firm
belief in God’s mercy even deeply impressed and influenced the postmaster who decided to
answer his letter. He didn’t want to shake the writer’s faith in God. He collected and sent 70
pesos as help signing the letter with one word, ‘God’. Lencho had so much faith in God and his
mercy that he didn’t show any surprise when he received the money sent to him. He wrote
another letter requesting him to send the rest of the money immediately but not through the
postal mail as the post office employees were a ‘bunch of crooks’.
 NELSON MANDELA: A LONG WALK TO FREEDOM

1.Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his
religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for
love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite. Even in the grimmest times in
prison, when my comrades and I were pushed to our limits, I would see a glimmer of humanity
in one of the guards, perhaps just for a second, but it was enough to reassure me and keep me
going. Man's goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished.

i. Choose the statement that is NOT true as per the given extract. 1

(a) No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin.
(b) No one is born hating another person because of his background.
(c) No one is born hating another person because of his looks.
(d) No one is born hating another person because of his religion.
ii. Which term does 'grimmest' NOT correspond to? 1

(a) Stern
(b) Strict
(c) Harsh
(d) Gratifying
iii. The extract uses the phrase'...but never extinguished'. Which of the following is incorrect with
respect to the word 'extinguish'? 1

iv. No one is born hating another person because of 'the colour of his skin'. Discuss the statement
with reference to the extract, in 40-50 words. 2

2. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

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 a
rainbow gathering of different colours and nations for the installation of South Africa's first
democratic, non-racial government.

i.The phrase is it was the site of a rainbow gathering of different colours'. Here the term
'rainbow' is in context to: 1
(a) Color of attires
(b) Color of skin
(c) Color of eyes
(d) Color of flags
ii. Choose the option that lists the set of statements that are NOT TRUE according to the given
extract:
1

(1) The ceremony took place in an ampitheatre.

(2) The inauguration was the largest gathering ever of international leaders.
(3) The 'blacks' ruled the country decades ago.
(4) It was the installation ceremony
Select an appropriate option:

(a) (1), (2) & (5)

(b) (2) & (3)
(c) (3), (4) & (5)
(d) (3) & (4)

iii. Which word does 'besieged' NOT correspond to?

1
iv.Tenth May was the day of the installation of South Africa's first democratic, 2
non-racial government. Discuss the significance of the day for the people of South Africa
in 40-50 words.

3. Answer the questions in 40-50 words each. (3x 3)

i. How does Mandela's journey reflect the metaphor of a long walk?

ii. How did Nelson Mandela 's time in prison impact the anti-apartheid movement and his
personal development?

iii. Compare Nelson Mandela's struggle against Apartheid with another historical figure’s fight
for justice. Identify the similarities and differences.

4. Answer the following questions in 100-120 words each. (6×2)

i. Explain how Nelson Mandela 's childhood experiences influenced his later life and activism.
Provide specified examples from the text to support your answer.

ii. Reflect on a time when you faced a challenge and had to persevere to achieve your goal. How
did Mandela's story inspire or influence your approach to overcoming this challenge?

ANSWER KEY:

1. Ans. (A) (c) No one is born hating another person because of his looks.

Explanation: It is clear from the extract that no one is born hating another person (a) because of
the colour of his skin, or (b) his background, or (d) his religion. So, (a), (b) and (d) can't be the
correct answers. But (c) no one is born hating another person because of his looks is not
mentioned in the extract. Hence, (c) is the correct answer.

(B) Harsh

(C) (a) Spark

Explanation: The term 'extinguish means to put out, stop or to end. Here, (b) hope can be
extinguished. Blaze (b) which means fire and candle (c) can both be extinguished. But spark (a)
is different with respect to 'extinguish' as it means to light or to start a thing. Hence, (a) is the
correct answer.

(D) The author was in the prison as he fought against the white 'misrule' and those who fought
against the misrule were put in the prisons by the whites.

(E) Racial discrimination

2. Ans: (A) (b) Color of skin

Explanation: In the extract, the writer says that the Union building had always been the seat of
white' supremacy. White refers to fair-skinned people. But that day, the building was full of
rainbow gathering of color, which means people of all races were present So, the writer is talking
about the color of skin. Hence, (b) is the correct answer.

(B) (d) (3) & (4)

Explanation: It is clear from the extract that the ceremony took place, in an amphitheatre, (2) the
inauguration inauguration was the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South
African soil and (5) it was the installation of South Africa's first democratic, non-racial
government. It is written in the extract that the inauguration was done on Tenth May and not on
Thirteenth May. Decades ago, the Union building had been the seat of 'white supremacy, so the
'blacks' never ruled it.

Thus, sentences (1), (2) & (5) are true while

(3) & (4) are untrue, Hence, (d) is the correct answer.

(C) (c) Freed

Explanation: The term 'besieged refers to be surrounded by something or someone.

Here. (1). (2) & (4) are similar in meaning to the term besieged while (3) means to be freed or
released from the captivity of something or someone which is opposite to the meaning of the
term ' besieged' and hence, does not correspond to it. So. (C) is correct answer.

(D) In the extract, Mandela says that for decades, the Union building had been the seat of 'white
supremacy, and now it was the site of a rainbow gathering of different colours. It means that
earlier, different colored people or races other than white couldn't be a part of the parliament.

(E) Dignitaries refers to important personalities and is the correct answer as it means same as
'eminent personalities.

3.

i. Nelson Mandela's journey reflects the metaphor of a "long walk" as it symbolizes his
prolonged struggle against apartheid, marked by persistence, hardships, and personal growth.
Despite decades of sacrifice, his unwavering commitment led to the collective achievement of
freedom and democracy in South Africa.

ii. Nelson Mandela's time in prison strengthened the anti-apartheid movement by galvanizing
international support and highlighting the injustices of apartheid. Personally, it deepened his
resolve, fostering qualities of resilience, forgiveness, and leadership. Mandela emerged more
determined, advocating for reconciliation and unity, which significantly influenced South
Africa's transition to democracy.

iii.Comparing Nelson Mandela's struggle against apartheid with Martin Luther King Jr.'s fight
for civil rights in the United States reveals both similarities and differences:

Similarities:

 Nonviolent Resistance: Both leaders advocated for nonviolent resistance to combat

racial injustice.
 Imprisonment: Mandela spent 27 years in prison, while King was arrested multiple
times for his activism.
 Inspiring Leadership: Both were charismatic leaders who inspired millions and
became symbols of their respective movements.
 Global Impact: Their struggles had worldwide resonance, drawing international
attention and support.
 Commitment to Equality: Both fought for the equal rights of oppressed communities,
aiming to dismantle systemic racism.
Differences:

 Context and Setting: Mandela fought against apartheid in South Africa, a system of
institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination, while King fought against
segregation and racial discrimination in the United States.
 Methods: Mandela initially supported armed struggle through the ANC's armed wing,
Umkhonto we Sizwe, before embracing nonviolence, whereas King consistently
promoted nonviolent civil disobedience.
 Outcome and Duration: Mandela's struggle led to the end of apartheid and his election
as South Africa's first Black president. King's life was cut short by assassination
before the full realization of his dream, though significant legislative gains were made
during his lifetime.
Both leaders' fights for justice left indelible marks on history, showcasing the power of
resilience and moral leadership in the face of oppression.

4. i. Mandela's childhood experiences significantly influenced his later life and activism.

 Early Exposure to African Leadership: Growing up in the royal household of the Thembu
tribe, Mandela was exposed to African leadership and governance. This early experience
shaped his understanding of African culture and instilled a sense of duty toward his
people.
 Influence of Stories and Traditions: Listening to elders' stories about the African past and
the injustices faced by his people sparked a desire in Mandela to fight against racial
oppression. These narratives cultivated his awareness of the historical context of African
struggles.
  Education and Realization of Inequality: Mandela's education at mission schools and later
at Fort Hare University highlighted the disparities between white and black South
Africans. His expulsion from Fort Hare for participating in a student protest was an early
act of defiance against unjust authority.
 Rural Life and Hardship: His experience of rural life and the hardships faced by his
community instilled resilience and a deep connection to the struggles of ordinary South
Africans. This empathy fueled his commitment to social justice.
 These experiences collectively shaped Mandela's identity and provided a strong
foundation for his lifelong dedication to fighting apartheid and advocating for equality
and justice.
ii. Reflecting on a personal challenge, I recall a period during my studies when I struggled with a
difficult subject. The persistent failure in understanding the concepts made me doubt my
abilities. Inspired by Nelson Mandela's story from "A Long Walk to Freedom," I adopted his
attitude of perseverance and resilience.

Mandela’s unwavering determination during his 27 years of imprisonment, despite the immense
hardships, inspired me to persist. I realized that, like Mandela, I needed to remain steadfast and
resilient, no matter how challenging the situation seemed. His story taught me the value of
patience, hard work, and the belief that persistence eventually leads to success.

By continuously studying, seeking help from mentors, and not giving up, I eventually mastered
the subject and achieved my goal. Mandela’s journey reinforced the importance of enduring
through challenges and believing in the possibility of overcoming them, no matter how
insurmountable they appear.

TWO STORIES ABOUT FLYING

1.Read the given extracts and answer the questions.
“He stepped slowly out to the brink of the ledge, and standing on one leg with the other leg
hidden under his wing, he closed one eye, then the other, and pretended to be falling asleep.
Still they took no notice of him. He saw his two brothers and his sister lying on the plateau
dozing with their heads sunk into their necks. His father was preening the feathers on his
white back. Only his mother was looking at him. She was standing on a little high hump on
the plateau, her white breast thrust forward. Now and again, she tore at a piece of fish that lay
at her feet and then scrapped each side of her beak on the rock. The sight of the food
maddened him. How he loved to tear food that way, scrapping his beak now and again to
whet it.

i. State any one inference about the young seagull from the given context. 1
“He stepped slowly out to the brink of the ledge, and standing on one leg with the other leg
hidden under his wing”
 ii. State TRUE or FALSE. 1
None of the terms (a)-(d) below, can be applied to the statement- “How he loved to tear food that
way, scrapping his beak now and again to whet it.”.
(a) A hypothesis - a proposed explanation for a phenomenon
(b) An assumption - something that is taken for granted or assumed to be true without proof
(c) A premise - a proposition that forms the basis of an argument
(d) A theory - a well-substantiated explanation for a natural phenomenon

iii.The young seagull's mother played a pivotal role in motivating him to 2 take his first
flight. Through tough love and withholding food, she compelled him to overcome his fear and
soar, showcasing her commendable dedication and strategic support. Elaborate in about 40
words, with reference to the extract.

iv. Which word/phrase would correctly substitute 'maddened', in the 1 given sentence
from the extract.
“The sight of the food maddened him.”

2.Read the given extract carefully and answer the questions that follow.
‘Paris was about 150 kilometres behind me when I saw the clouds. Storm clouds. They were
huge. They looked like black mountains standing in front of me across the sky. I knew I
could not fly up and over them, and I did not have enough fuel to fly around them to the
north or south. “I ought to go back to Paris,” I thought, but I wanted to get home. I wanted
that breakfast. ‘I’ll take the risk,’ I thought, and flew that old Dakota straight into the storm.
Inside the clouds, everything was suddenly black. It was impossible to see anything outside
the aeroplane. The old aeroplane jumped and twisted in the air. I looked at the compass. I
couldn’t believe my eyes: the compass was turning round and round and round. It was dead.
It would not work! The other instruments were suddenly dead, too. I tried the radio.’
.
i. Which of the following is NOT a reason for the narrator's decision to continue his journey
despite the adverse circumstances? 1
A. The narrator was an experienced pilot.
B. He wanted to enjoy a traditional English breakfast.
C. The narrator was desperately longing to go to his home.
D. He wanted to avoid the storm clouds.

ii. Why is it fair to say that the narrator's tone, when he says “I’ll take the risk, I thought, and
flew that old Dakota straight into the storm.”, is decisive and confident? Answer in about 40
words. 2
iii. Read the following descriptions (a)-(c) and identify which one correctly corresponds to the
extract. 1
(a) A debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic, usually with two or more people
presenting different viewpoints and arguments.
(b) A soliloquy is a speech given by a character alone which reveals their innermost thoughts and
feelings to the audience/readers.
(c) A discussion is a process where two or more people talk about a specific topic, sharing ideas,
opinions and information.

iv. In the passage, the phrase "straight into the storm" suggests that the pilot chose
to__________________________________. 1

3.Answer the following questions, in about 40-50 words each. (3x3)

i. Courage and perseverance are the wings that lift us to new heights." Explain with reference to
the young sea gull’s efforts and the courage that he mustered to fly.
1. ii.The mother's tough love made the young seagull starve but that was the reason
that taught him to fly Comment on the role of the seagull’s mother as a mentor.
iii. Explain the statement, ‘I was very happy to go behind the strange aeroplane like an obedient
child.’

4.Answer the following questions, in about 100-120 words each. (2x6)

i.The experiences and challenges faced by the young seagull in "His First Flight'' and the pilot of
the Dakota plane in "Black Aeroplane" highlight the themes of fear, courage, and survival.
Elaborate lessons that can be drawn from their respective journeys about overcoming obstacles
and trusting one's instincts?
ii. Imagine that the narrator, from the chapter the First flight, writes a diary entry, of his own
experience how he overcame all the challenges that came his way while flying the Old Dakota
from France to England.
Write this diary entry in about 120 words.

MARKING SCHEME

1. Extract

i.The young seagull was hesitant and fearful as he cautiously stepped to the brink, indicating his
lack of confidence and fear of flying.

ii.TRUE. None of the terms (a)-(d) can be applied to the statement “How he loved to tear food
that way, scrapping his beak now and again to whet it.”

iii.The mother seagull played a crucial role by using tough love and withholding food, forcing
the young seagull to overcome his fear of flying. Her strategic support helped him to take his
first flight, demonstrating her dedication.
iv.The word infuriated / enraged/ tormented would correctly substitute “maddened” in the given
sentence.

2. i. D. He wanted to avoid the storm clouds.

ii.The narrator’s tone is decisive and confident when he says, “I’ll take the risk,” indicating his
determination to continue the journey despite the dangers, showing his resolve and bravery.

iii. (b) A soliloquy is a speech given by a character alone which reveals their innermost thoughts
and feelings to the audience/readers.

iv.Phrase “straight into the storm” suggests that

the pilot chose to confront the danger head-on without hesitation, indicating his willingness to
face the risks directly.

3.
i. The young seagull’s courage and perseverance enabled him to overcome his initial fear of
flying. Despite his hesitation, his determination to get food and his mother’s encouragement
pushed him to take the leap, highlighting how bravery and persistence can lead to new
achievements.

ii. The mother seagull’s tough love, making her young one starve, was a calculated move to
teach him survival. By withholding food, she forced the young seagull to face his fears and learn
to fly, proving her role as an effective mentor who used tough methods for his growth.
iii. The statement “I was very happy to go behind the strange aeroplane like an obedient child”
shows the narrator’s relief and trust in following the mysterious plane, as it provided a sense of
guidance and safety amidst the chaos of the storm.

4.
i.The young seagull’s journey and the pilot’s experience both underscore the themes of fear,
courage, and survival. The seagull’s initial fear of flying is overcome through determination and
his mother’s tough love, teaching the importance of perseverance and support. Similarly, the
pilot’s decision to fly into the storm, driven by his desire to reach home, illustrates the necessity
of taking risks and trusting one’s instincts in challenging situations. Both narratives highlight that
overcoming obstacle often requires bravery, resilience, and sometimes external encouragement,
emphasizing the significance of trusting oneself and facing fears head-on.

2.Diary Entry

Saturday June 29, 2024 9.00 pm

Today was an extraordinary day. As I flew the old Dakota from France to England, I encountered
massive storm clouds that looked like black mountains. My instinct told me to turn back, but the
longing for home and breakfast pushed me to take the risk. Flying straight into the storm,
everything went pitch black. The instruments, including the compass and radio, failed me. I felt
utterly lost and vulnerable, but I pressed on. Miraculously, a strange aeroplane appeared, guiding
me through the chaos. I followed it like an obedient child, and it led me safely out of the storm.
This journey taught me the invaluable lesson of trusting my instincts and remaining courageous
even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

FROM THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK

EXTRACT-1

1. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Let me put it more clearly, since no one will believe that a thirteen-year-old girl is completely
alone in the world. And I’m not. I have loving parents and a sixteen-year-old sister, and there are
about thirty people I can call friends. I have a family, loving aunts and a good home. No, on the
surface I seem to have everything, except my one true friend. All I think about when I’m with
friends is having a good time. I can’t bring myself to talk about anything but ordinary everyday
things.

A. Describe Anne’s feeling from the following. ‘No one will believe that a thirteen-year-old
girl is completely alone in the world’. 1
B. State the speaker’s tone from the following: ‘On the surface I seem to have everything,
except my one true friend’. 1
C. According to Anne, what change would a ‘true friend’ bring into her life? Elaborate in 40
words, with reference to the extract. 2
D. State True/False:
‘Anne doesn’t truly connect with anyone even though she has a loving family and nearly
thirty people around her.’ 1

EXTRACT-2
2. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:
Mr Keesing had a good laugh at my arguments, but when I proceeded to talk my way through
the next lesson, he assigned me a second essay. This time it was supposed to be on ‘An
Incorrigible Chatterbox’. I handed it in, and Mr Keesing had nothing to complain about for
two whole lessons. However, during the third lesson he’d finally had enough. “Anne Frank,
 as punishment for talking in class, write an essay entitled — ‘Quack, Quack, Quack, Said
Mistress Chatterbox’.”

a. State your views behind the title ‘An incorrigible chatterbox’ chosen by Mr. Kessing in
order to punish Anne. In 30-40 words. 2
b. What do you infer from the following sentence: ‘Mr. Kessing had a good laugh at my
arguments.’
c. State True/False:
‘She had the right to be talkative, as it was a classroom and not a prison’.
d. Based on your reading, pick the option that best describes Mr. Kessing.
i. Jovial and creative
ii. Strict and innovative
iii. Tolerant and strict
iv. Indifferent and inhospitable

3. Answer the following questions in 40-50 words. (1x3)

i. Justify, why it is fair to say Mr. Kessing was correct in punishing repeatedly to
Anne.
ii. Grandma had certainly had a strong impact on Anne, state your reasons.
iii. Sanne was a friend to be trusted than always thinking about the paper to be the
best friend. Justify.
LONG QUESTIONS

4. During the PTM Mr. Kessing met Mr. Holand father of Anne Frank. Develop a
conversation between the teacher and parent regarding Anne’s performance and response
in the class. (100-120 words) (6 marks)
5. In one of the pages of the diary Anne writes about the third essay and the way she
successfully defended her stand to talk in the class rightly putting the joke on Mr.
Kessing. Write the diary page in 100-120 words. (6 marks)
MARKING SCHEME

EXTRACT-1

1. i. She was depressed and was certainly looking forward a real friend to speak her heart
out.
ii. hopeless, depressed
iii. She was certainly looking forward a true friend to lie on. She would definitely bring
joy to her and bring a sense of belongingness.
iv. True

EXTRACT-2
 2. i. Mr. Kessing was a man of discipline and wanted no disturbance in the class. In order to
quieten Anne and streamline her behaviour he repeatedly assigned her a task of writing
the essay with a different title.
ii. Mr. Kessing certainly enjoyed the argument stated by Anne in her defence.
iii. False
iv. ii. Strict and innovative
ANSWERS IN 40-50 WORDS
3. i. Mr. Kessing was a man of discipline and wanted classes to run smoothly without any
disturbance. Thus, he was correct in assigning the task even though in form of a
punishment.
ii. Grandma had certainly a great impact on Anne. She had learnt the art of humbleness
and sympathy from her granny. Anne tried to adjust with the situation even though things
were not going in her favour.
iii.Sanne was truly a real friend to be trusted. She helped Anne while writing the essay
and the idea really worked well. If Anne wished, she could have trusted her rather than
thinking about an inanimate object like the diary.
LONG QUESTIONS
4. A conversation must happen on discipline, goalsetting, career, presentation etc.
5. Children must be encouraged to frame their own answer with reference to the text.

GLIMPSES OF INDIA

Q.1. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:

1.A. Our elders are often heard reminiscing nostalgically about those good old Portuguese days,
the Portuguese and their famous loaves of bread. Those eaters of loaves might have vanished but
the makers are still there. We still have amongst us the mixers, the moulders and those who bake
the loaves. Those age-old, time-tested furnaces still exist. The fire in the furnaces has not yet
been extinguished. The thud and jingle of reminiscing nostalgically thinking fondly of the past
the traditional baker’s bamboo, heralding his arrival in the morning, can still be heard in some
places. Maybe the father is not alive but the son still carries on the family profession. These
bakers are, even today, known as pader in Goa. (5)

I. Which statement best summarizes the main idea of the passage?

a) Portuguese bread-making traditions have completely died out in Goa. (1)

b) The Portuguese colonization of Goa had no lasting impact on local culture.
c) Despite the decline of the Portuguese presence, their bread-making traditions continue
in Goa through local bakers.
d) The term "pader" is a derogatory term for Goan bakers.
II. Complete the following sentence: (1)

The passage suggests that the traditional baking profession in Goa has been preserved primarily
because __________.

III. State whether the following sentence is TRUE/ FALSE:

The passage implies that the traditional baking practices in Goa have completely vanished with
the departure of the Portuguese.

IV. Analyze the passage to explain the significance of traditional baking practices in Goa and
their impact on cultural heritage. Answer in 30-40 words. (2)

1. B. Evergreen rainforests cover thirty per cent of this district. During the monsoons, it pours
enough to keep many visitors away. The season of joy commences from September and
continues till March. The weather is perfect, with some showers thrown in for good measure.
The air breathes of invigorating coffee. Coffee estates and colonial bungalows stand tucked
under tree canopies in prime corners. The most laidback individuals become converts to the life
of high-energy adventure with river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing and mountain
biking. Numerous walking trails in this region are a favourite with trekkers. Birds, bees and
butterflies are there to give you company. Macaques, Malabar squirrels, langurs and slender loris
keep a watchful eye from the tree canopy. (5)

I. What distinguishes the district described in the passage as an attractive destination? (1)

A) Its expansive evergreen rainforests covering thirty percent of the area, fostering rich
biodiversity and offering a serene escape.

B) The abundant opportunities for high-energy adventure sports such as river rafting, canoeing,
rappelling, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

C) Its picturesque colonial bungalows nestled among coffee estates, creating a nostalgic
ambiance of a bygone era.

D) The comfortable climate from September to March, characterized by occasional showers that
enhance the natural beauty and charm of the region.

II. Complete the statement: (1)

During the monsoon season, the district described in the passage becomes less accessible to
visitors due to ___________.

III. State whether the following sentence is TRUE or FALSE. (1)

The district described in the passage offers a combination of serene natural beauty, colonial
architecture, and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities throughout the year.
IV. Describe the impact of the district's climate on visitor experiences during the favored season
in 30-40 words. (2)

Q. 2. Answer the following questions in about 40–50 words. ( 3 marks each)

I. In the story "A Baker from Goa," explain the ways a baker's commitment to his craft reflect his
dedication to preserving cultural heritage.

II. The description of Coorg's natural environment evoke a sense of adventure and tranquility
simultaneously. Discuss.

III. Analyze how the narrator's visit to the tea garden in Assam enhances their understanding of
the tea-making process and the region's culture.

Q. 3. Answer the following questions in about 100–120 words. (6 marks each)

I. Evaluate the chapters "A Baker from Goa," "Coorg," and "Tea from Assam" that collectively
depict the diverse cultural and geographical landscape of India. Discuss how these stories
contribute to a deeper understanding of India's regional diversity, traditional practices, and
economic activities. Provide examples from each chapter to support your analysis.

II. Analyze the role of Coorg's natural landscape and cultural heritage in shaping the region's
identity as portrayed in the chapter. How do these aspects influence the reader's perception of
Coorg? Provide specific examples to support your analysis.

MARKING SCHEME
Q.1. A. EXTRACT-1

I. c) Despite the decline of the Portuguese presence, their bread-making traditions continue in
Goa through local bakers

II. it has been passed down through generations within families.

III. FALSE

IV. The passage highlights that traditional baking practices in Goa are preserved through
generational inheritance, symbolizing cultural resilience. This continuity of using age-old
techniques and furnaces underscores the importance of maintaining cultural heritage and
traditions within the community.

B. EXTRACT-1

I. A) Its expansive evergreen rainforests covering thirty percent of the area, fostering rich
biodiversity and offering a serene escape.

II. heavy rainfall that makes outdoor activities challenging

III. TRUE

IV. The district's favorable climate from September to March creates an inviting atmosphere
for outdoor activities like rafting and biking. It also enhances the allure of its lush rainforests
and colonial architecture, making it a compelling destination for adventurous and leisurely
pursuits alike.

Q.2. ANSWER IN 40-50 WORDS

I. A baker's dedication to baking traditional Goan breads and cakes not only sustains his
livelihood but also preserves cultural heritage. His insistence on using age-old methods and
recipes ensures that the flavors and techniques of Goan baking are passed down through
generations, embodying his commitment to cultural preservation.

II. The lush evergreen rainforests, pristine rivers, and diverse wildlife of Coorg create an
atmosphere of adventure and tranquility. It offers opportunities for activities like river rafting
and mountain biking amidst serene surroundings, while the presence of wildlife adds to the
peaceful ambiance, making it a perfect blend for nature enthusiasts seeking both excitement
and serenity.

III. The narrator's visit to the Assam tea garden reveals the intricate tea-making process, from
plucking to processing, deepening their appreciation for the labor involved. This experience
also highlights Assam's rich cultural heritage tied to tea cultivation, showcasing the region's
unique traditions and economic reliance on tea.

Q.3. ANSWER IN 100-120 WORDS

I. The chapters "A Baker from Goa," "Coorg," and "Tea from Assam" illustrate India's vast
cultural and geographical diversity. "A Baker from Goa" showcases the legacy of Portuguese
influence through traditional baking practices, highlighting Goa's unique cultural heritage.
"Coorg" presents the picturesque landscapes, coffee plantations, and colonial bungalows of
Karnataka, emphasizing the region's adventurous spirit and tranquil environment. "Tea from
Assam" delves into the lush tea gardens of Assam, reflecting the state's economic reliance on
tea production and its ideal climatic conditions for cultivation. Together, these stories offer a
mosaic of India's rich traditions, varying lifestyles, and economic dependencies, enriching
readers' understanding of the nation's multifaceted identity.

II. The chapter "Coorg" intricately weaves together the region's natural landscape and
cultural heritage, shaping its distinct identity. The lush greenery, dense forests, and sprawling
coffee plantations present Coorg as a paradise for nature lovers. The scenic beauty is further
enhanced by the mist-covered hills and abundant wildlife, offering a tranquil escape.
Culturally, Coorg is depicted through its proud, martial Kodava community known for their
hospitality and bravery. The traditional attire, local festivals, and the unique custom of
 carrying firearms without a license highlight the rich cultural tapestry. These aspects paint
Coorg as a region steeped in natural splendor and vibrant traditions, influencing readers to
perceive it as a harmonious blend of scenic beauty and cultural depth.

MIJBIL THE OTTER

EXTRACT-1

1. Answer the following questions

It is not, I suppose, in any way strange that the average Londoner should not recognise an
otter, but the variety of guesses as to what kind of animal this might be came as a surprise
to me. Otters belong to a comparatively small group of animals called Mustellines, shared
by the badger, mongoose, weasel, stoat, mink and others. I faced a continuous barrage of
conjectural questions that sprayed all the Mustellines but the otter; more random guesses
hit on ‘a baby seal’ and ‘a squirrel.’ ‘Is that a walrus, mister?’ reduced me to giggles, and
outside a dog show I heard ‘a hippo’. A beaver, a bear cub, a leopard — one, apparently,
that had changed its spots — and a ‘brontosaur’; Mij was anything but an otter.
i. What do you infer from the given sentence:
‘Is that a walrus, mister?’ reduced me to giggles,’. (1)
ii. Why the author concluded the line by saying ‘Mij was anything but an otter?’ (2)
iii. State true/false
‘Otters belong to a comparatively small group of native folks called Mustellines.’
(1)
iv. Find a word which can substitute the underlined word from the sentence below:
‘I faced a continuous barrage of conjectural questions that sprayed all the
Mustellines’. (1)

EXTRACT-2

2. Answer the following questions

He spent hours shuffling a rubber ball round the room like a four-footed soccer player
using all four feet to dribble the ball, and he could also throw it, with a powerful flick of
the neck, to a surprising height and distance. But the real play of an Otter is when he lies
on his back and juggles with small objects between his paws. Marbles were Mij’s
favourite toys for this pastime: he would lie on his black rolling two or more of them up
and down his wide, flat belly without ever dropping one to the floor.
i. What does it speak about the Otter: ‘He spent hours shuffling a rubber ball round
the room like a four-footed soccer player using all four feet to dribble the ball.’
(1)
ii. The Otter had really a good time at the author’s house. Explain. (2)
iii. State true/false
 Marbles were not Mij’s favourite toys for his pastime. (1)
iv. Which word can substitute the underlined word in the given sentence: he lies on
his back and juggles with small objects.

3. Answer the following questions in 40-50 words. (1x3)

i. Maxwell had a high respect for the airhostess. Comment.
ii. It was not just a sack to open but a life time of happiness for the author. Evaluate.
iii. Briefly discuss the difficulties and preparedness the author had to face while
transporting Mij to England.
LONG QUESTIONS

4. Imagine the author is paying a tribute to his pet dog after getting the Otter. Prepare a
diary entry as he is expressing his joyful moments with Mijbil and an emotional adieu to
the pet dog which he had fondly owned once. (100-120 words)
5. After the successful adoption of a new pet the author has been invited to deliver a lecture
on ‘animal etiquettes’ to the Londoners. Prepare a speech to be delivered before the
gathering with reference to the text.
MARKING SCHEME

EXTRACT-1

1. i. The approach of the Londoners was quite strange and some of them compared to a
walrus.
ii. The author was certainly surprised to hear different comparisons about the otter
from people. To his understanding it was nothing but a simple otter found mostly in
Arabian lands.
iii. false
iv. hypothetical

EXTRACT-2

2. i. Joyful
ii. The otter was enjoying his stay at the author’s house. Starting from water tap to
marble balls, he was really taking the pleasure of every object.
iii. False
iv. trick

ANSWERS IN 40-50WORDS

3. i. Maxwell had certainly had a hard time in transporting Mijbil to London, however
the airhostess provided a good assistance which helped the objective to a great extent.
That certainly developed a great respect towards the hostess.
 ii. Never had the author thought of that something would substitute his demised dog,
however the arrival of the otter brought an immense joy to him in every way. He took
care of him and lived every moment with the new arrival.
iii. The author faced a denial from certain airlines in transporting Mij and at the same
time he had a very limited space to carry the otter.

LONG ANSWERS

4. Students must be encouraged to prepare the diary entry with reference to the text.
5. The speech must include- a proper atmosphere, taming of the pets and right training,
timely visit to the vet and vaccination with approval, proper diet and exercise etc.

*********

MADAM RIDES THE BUS

Q.1. Read the given extract carefully and answer the questions that follow.

(A) Day after day she watched the bus, and gradually a tiny wish crept into her head and grew
there: she wanted to ride on that bus, even if it was just once. This wish became stronger, until it
was an overwhelming desire. Valli would stare wistfully at the people who got on and off the bus
when it stood at the street corner. Their faces would kindle in her longings, dreams, and hopes. If
one of her friends happened to ride the bus and tried to describe the sights of the town to her.
Valli would be jealous to listen and would shout, in English: “Proud! Proud!”

i. How does Valli’s constant observation of the bus and its passengers shape her internal
world? 1 mark

ii. What does Valli's desire to ride the bus symbolize in the passage? 1 mark

A. Her need for attention from her friends

B. Her longing for adventure and new experiences

C. Her dislike for her current life

D. Her wish to show off to her peers

iii. Write whether the given statement is TRUE or FALSE. 1 mark

Valli’s wish to ride the bus was a passing fancy that she quickly forgot.

iv. How does Valli's use of the word ‘Proud!’ reflect her communication style and attitude
towards her friends' experiences? 2 marks
B. Read the given extract carefully and answer the questions that follow.

“Hey, lady,” said the conductor, “aren’t you ready to get off? This is as far as your thirty paise
takes you.” “No,” Valli said, “I’m going back on this same bus.” She took another thirty paise
from her pocket and handed the coins to the conductor. “Why, is something the matter?” “No,
nothing’s the matter. I just felt like having a bus ride, that’s all.” “Don’t you want to have a look
at the sights, now that you’re here?” “All by myself? Oh, I’d be much too afraid.” Greatly
amused by the girl’s way of speaking, the conductor said, “But you weren’t afraid to come in the
bus.” “Nothing to be afraid of about that,” she answered.

i. Which aspect of Valli’s behaviour suggests a conflict between her desires and fears?
1 mark

A. Her reluctance to get off the bus and explore alone

B. Her decision to ride the bus despite having no money

C. Her eagerness to speak with the conductor

D. Her fear of talking to strangers

ii. What does Valli’s decision of returning in the same bus instead of exploring, reveal
about her character? 1
mark

iii. Based on your analysis of the above extract, mention whether the given statement is
TRUE or FALSE. 1 mark

The passage suggests Valli's readiness to pay for her bus ride, indicating her preparedness for
unexpected expenses.

iv. The passage presents a brief but rich interaction between Valli and the conductor. How
does the author use dialogue to develop their characters and advance the narrative?
Answer in 40-50 words 2 marks

Q.2 Answer the following questions in 40-50 words each.

3x3

i. Valli’s maiden bus ride was an exciting experience for her. But it must have been an
unforgettable episode of the conductor’s life too. Discuss

ii. Valli’s return journey was not as joyful as her onward journey to the town. Discuss the factors
that diminished her joy of riding the bus.
iii. How does Valli’s response to her fellow passengers reflects her sense of independence?

Q.3 Answer the following questions in 100-120 words. 6x2

i. The story ‘Madam Rides The Bus captures the essence of a child’s curiosity and innocence.
Discuss how the author uses Valli’s character to portray these themes.

ii. Imagine yourself to be a co-passenger, travelling with Valli who was much concerned about
her safety during the journey and write a letter to the editor of a national daily, in 100-120 words,
advocating the need of teaching children the practical and safety skills, to avoid the challenges of
travelling alone.

MARKING SCHEME

Q.1.A.

i. Watching the bus daily becomes a window to a world she has not yet explored, shaping her
desires and dreams. Her psychological state is influenced by a mix of curiosity, envy, and a
longing for adventure, as she sees the bus as a symbol of freedom and new opportunities.

ii. B. Her longing for adventure and new experiences

iii. FALSE

iv. Valli's use of "Proud!" in English indicates a mix of sarcasm and defensiveness, possibly
masking her true feelings of envy and longing. This reveals a complex character who is proud
and perhaps slightly insecure, using humor or irony as a way to cope with her unmet desires and
to assert her own worth in the face of her friends' experiences.

B. i. a. Her reluctance to get off the bus and explore alone

ii. Valli's decision to return on the same bus indicates a careful consideration of her comfort and
safety. Despite her curiosity, she prioritizes a sense of security over the adventure of exploring
alone.

iii. TRUE

iv. The author uses dialogue to reveal Valli's adventurous spirit, independence, and innocence,
contrasting with the conductor's amused, slightly patronizing demeanor. Their exchange
highlights Valli's determination and curiosity, while the conductor's responses underscore
societal expectations, advancing the narrative through their dynamic interaction.

Q.2.
i. Valli's maiden bus ride was a significant experience for her, filled with excitement, curiosity,
and a sense of adventure. The interaction with the conductor, who initially viewed her with
amusement, also made the journey memorable. Valli's determination to stay on the bus and her
straightforward responses left a lasting impression on him. For the conductor, Valli's boldness
and innocence contrasted sharply with the usual passengers he encountered, making this episode
an unusual and unforgettable part of his routine day.

ii. On the return journey, Valli witnesses the death of a young cow, which deeply affects her. The
sight of the dead cow, which she had previously seen as playful and lively, impacts Valli's mood.
The harsh reality of life and death diminishes her initial joy and enthusiasm. The excitement of
experiencing the bus ride for the first time is no longer present.

iii. Valli's interactions with her fellow passengers highlight her sense of independence through
her self-reliance, assertiveness, and confidence in making decisions. Valli's straightforward
responses to the conductor and her fellow passengers show that she is not easily swayed by
others' opinions or expectations. She expresses her own preferences and reasons clearly,
demonstrating independence of thought.

Q.3 i. Valli's decision to take a bus ride simply for the sake of experiencing it showcases her
curiosity about the world around her. Despite her young age and limited resources, she is eager
to explore and learn from new experiences, such as riding a bus. Her interactions with the
conductor and her genuine responses reflect her innocence. She sees the world with a pure and
unfiltered perspective, expressing her thoughts openly without guile or reservation. Her
fascination with everyday objects like the bus ticket and the bell illustrates her ability to find
wonder in simple things. Through Valli's character, the author emphasizes the importance of
exploration and maintaining a sense of wonder, even in mundane situations. Valli's journey on
the bus becomes a metaphor for embracing life's adventures with curiosity and an open heart,
highlighting the innocence of childhood and the joy of discovery.
Overall, Valli's character in "Madam Rides The Bus" serves as a vehicle for exploring themes of
curiosity and innocence, portraying these qualities as essential aspects of childhood that
contribute to a rich and fulfilling experience of the world.
ii. Value points for content:
importance of teaching children practical and safety skills, especially when they travel alone. -
the need for children to be equipped with essential skills such as knowing how to handle
emergencies, understanding public transport etiquette, and recognizing potential risks- need of
incorporating practical safety education into school curricula and community programs - we can
empower children to navigate the challenges of traveling alone confidently and responsibly -
ensuring our children's safety is a collective responsibility that benefits from proactive education
and awareness.
XXX
THE SERMON AT BENARES

Q. 1. Read the given extract and answer the following questions that follow:
 A. “Of those who, overcome by death, depart from life, a father cannot save his son
nor kinsmen their relations.Mark! While relatives are looking on and lamenting
deeply, one by one mortals are carried off, like an ox that is led to the slaughter.
So the world is afflicted with death and decay, therefore the wise do not grieve,
knowing the terms of the world.
I. The above extract indicates the certainty of death attached to every living being, yet
some are overcome by it. It is because – (1)
a. Their emotions related to that specific being.
b. Their materialistic affairs.
c. Their incapacity of bearing the ultimatum.
d. Their inability to sustain life.

II. “knowing the terms of the world” refers the terms- (1)
a. Related to natural world.
b. Related time and universe.
c. Of death and decay.
d. Of accepting the world order.

III. Elaborate the Idea of death reflected in the above extract in your own words.(2)

IV. Infer the reason why we need to overcome death. (1)

B. Kisa Gotami became weary and hopeless, and sat down at the wayside watching
the lights of the city, as they flickered up and were extinguished again. At last the
darkness of the night reigned everywhere. And she considered the fate of men that
their lives flicker up and are extinguished again. And she thought to herself,
“How selfish am I in my grief! Death is common to all; yet in this valley of
desolation there is a path that leads him to immortality who has surrendered all
selfishness.”
I. The helplessness of Kisa Gotami indicates that- (1)
a. She has been confronted with enough darkness.
b. She has been selfish in her grief.
c. She is exhausted by her relentless searching for the mustard seeds.
d. Her realization of the teaching of Buddha.

II. The city lights and the lives of men seems similar to Kisa Gotami
because – (1)
a. The people live in the city.
b. The flickering lights resemble the lives of men.
c. They are followed by darkness.
d. The extinguished lights end the lives of men.
 III. Narrate the absolute self- realization of Kisa Gotami in your own
words.(2)
IV. What is the ultimate truth that Kisa Gotami learned from the above
extract? (1)
Q.2. Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words:
I. Our own self- realization is the greatest service we can
render the world. Briefly illustrate the self- realization
experienced by Gautama Buddha from the story “The
Sermon at Benares”. (3)
II. Draw a comparison between enlightened Buddha and
Prince Siddhartha Gautama. (3)
III. We must learn to deal with our loses and move forward in
our lives. Do you think sometimes it is too hard to accept
this little truth of our life? Support your answer by referring
to the incident of Kisa Gotami. (3)
Q.3. Answer the following questions in about 100-120 words:
I. “Acceptance is an act of grace that leads to
transformation and healing.” Referring to this line
analyze the transformation of Kisa Gotami after
accepting the fact of her son’s untimely demise. (6)
II. Imagine you are Kisa Gotami from the story “The
Sermon at Benares”. Your son’s untimely death has left
you in utter despair. You tried every possible way to
restore life in him but with no success. In the end you
realized the lesson taught to you by Buddha and
understood the ways of life. Now narrate your
experience by writing in diary. (6)

MARKING SCHEME

Q.1.A.I a. Their emotions related to that specific being. 1

II c. Of death and decay. 1
III Death is an inevitable part of every human being. All the mortals are 2
supposed to engulf by death at some point of their life. So it is pointless to
lament over a dead person.
IV We need to overcome death or we will depart from life. We must learn to 1
move on as wise men do.
B.I. c. She is exhausted by her relentless searching for the mustard seeds. 1
II. b. The flickering lights resemble the lives of men.

III. When Kisa Gotami became tired of her long and tireless search, she looked at 2
the flickering lights of the town and resembled them with the lives of
men. She realized that all the living beings are subject to death.
IV Kisa Gotami learned that death is common to all. 1
Q.2.I It is the self realization of Siddhartha Gautama that we found one of the most 3
enlightened men in our world, the Buddha. When he saw the sufferings of the
people in this world, he sought for enlightenment and he realized that how the
world need assistance of his service. If he wouldn’t have self realization we
might not know who Siddhartha Gautama was.
II. Buddha at his initial stage was known as Siddhartha Gautama, who was the 3
prince of Northern part of India. He lived a life of royalty without
experiencing any sorrow or misery and also married to a princess. When he
saw the misery of this world, he sought for enlightenment. After enlightening
his soul he preached peace and could answer all the woes of this world.
III. Yes, it is true that we cannot always accept the things as they are and it might 3
get hard sometimes to digest the reality. In this story, Kisa Gotami lost her
only son and in utter desperation she came to seek the help of Buddha who
asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where death has
not entered. Trying in vain she realized the ultimate truth of life and what
Buddha has been trying to teach her.
Q.3.I. It was never easy for Kisa Gotami to accept the fact of her son’s untimely 6
demise. However, she had desperately tried to restore life in her dead son. She
went to Buddha to ask for help but the task she got from Buddha can never be
accomplished in reality. She sat down helplessly and realized that she has
been selfish throughout.
She looked at the flickering lights of the city, how they light up and
then extinguish. She resembles the flickering light to the lives of men, they
also brighten up and extinguish. She realized that ‘Death is common to all’.
II. Saturday 6
22nd June, 2024
10 p.m
Things are sometimes too heavy to bear. God has taken away the only
ray of hope from me. My beloved son was everything to me that mattered in
this mundane world and I cannot accept the fact of his untimely demise. He
had a whole life in front of him. God should have taken my life instead of my
son’s. I was desperate to restore life in him but I learned a bitter yet valuable
lesson from the wise Buddha. I learned that death is common to all and no
one can escape it. All the living beings are subjected to death and decay. I
must learn that my son is not coming back to life and I must continue to live.
Kisa Gotami
 XXX

THE PROPOSAL

Q.1. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:

A. LOMOV : Well, you see, it’s like this. [Takes his arm] I’ve come to you, honoured Stepan
Stepanovitch, to trouble you with a request. Not once or twice have I already had the privilege of
applying to you for help, and you have always, so to speak... I must ask your pardon, I am
getting excited. I shall drink some water, honoured Stepan Stepanovitch. [Drinks.]

CHUBUKOV : [aside] He’s come to borrow money. Shan’t give him any! [aloud] What is it, my
beauty?

LOMOV : You see, Honoured Stepanitch... I beg pardon Stepan Honouritch... I mean, I’m
awfully excited, as you will please notice... In short, you alone can help me, though I don’t
deserve it, of course... and haven’t any right to count on your assistance...

CHUBUKOV : Oh, don’t go round and round it, darling! Spit it out! Well?

LOMOV : One moment... this very minute. The fact is I’ve come to ask the hand of your
daughter, Natalya Stepanovna, in marriage. (5)

I. What is the MAIN reason for Lomov's nervousness and difficulty in expressing himself?
(1)

a) He is afraid of Chubukov's reaction.

b) He is unsure if Natalya will accept his proposal.

c) He is overly formal and struggles with direct communication.

d) He is physically unwell and needs water to calm down.

II. Complete the following sentence: (1)

The passage suggests that the traditional baking profession in Goa has been preserved primarily
because __________.

III. Identify two phrases Lomov uses that reveal his overly formal and polite nature when
speaking to Chubukov. (1)

IV. Evaluate the comedic effectiveness of the miscommunication between Lomov and
Chubukov. Does this scene rely on stereotypes, or does it offer a deeper commentary on
communication and relationships? (2)
B. CHUBUKOV : Why, of course, my darling, and... as if she won’t consent! She’s in love;
egad, she’s like a lovesick cat, and so on. Shan’t be long! [Exit.]

LOMOV : It’s cold... I’m trembling all over, just as if I’d got an examination before me. The
great thing is, I must have my mind made up. If I give myself time to think, to hesitate, to talk a
lot, to look for an ideal, or for real love, then I’ll never get married. Brr... It’s cold! Natalya
Stepanovna is an excellent housekeeper, not bad -looking, well-educated. What more do I want?
But I’m getting a noise in my ears from excitement. [Drinks] And it’s impossible for me not to
marry. In the first place, I’m already 35 — a critical age, so to speak. In the second place, I ought
to lead a quiet and regular life. I suffer from palpitations, I’m excitable and always getting
awfully upset; at this very moment my lips are trembling, and there’s a twitch in my right
eyebrow. But the very worst of all is the way I sleep. I no sooner get into bed and begin to go off,
when suddenly something in my left side gives a pull, and I can feel it in my shoulder and head...
I jump up like a lunatic, walk about a bit and lie down again, but as soon as I begin to get off to
sleep there’s another pull! And this may happen twenty times... [Natalya Stepanovna comes in.]
(5)

I. Find out Lomov's primary concern in this passage. (1)

(a) The cold weather

(b) His upcoming examination

(c) His decision to propose marriage

(d) The twitch in his right eyebrow

II. Complete the statement: (1)

Lomov's internal conflict stems from a tension between his desire for companionship and his
concerns about his health and advancing age, ultimately revealing a __________.

III. List the specific physical ailments Lomov mentions as contributing to his desire for a settled
life. (1)

IV. Lomov's ailments highlight his vulnerability and reliance on societal expectations for
stability through marriage. Explain in 40 words. (2)

Q. 2. Answer the following questions in about 40–50 words. ( 3 marks each)

I. Show the central conflict of the play, and mention how does it drive the characters' actions.

II. Analyze how Chekhov uses humour in the play to comment on societal norms.

III. Comment on the character of Stepan Stepanovitch. What is his role in the play, and how does
he influence the other characters?
Q. 3. Answer the following questions in about 100–120 words. (6 marks each)

I. Chekhov's ‘The Proposal’ reflects his value for social responsibility and concern for the
welfare of others, and he persuades his audience to share this value. Examine the statement.

II. Analyze how Chekhov's proposal demonstrates his commitment to honesty and integrity, and
how these values are essential to his argument.

MARKING SCHEME

Q.1. A. EXTRACT-1

I. c) He is overly formal and struggles with direct communication.

II. Chubukov's aside, "He's come to borrow money. Shan't give him any!" reveals his tendency to
make assumptions based on past experiences and stereotype.

III. Two phrases that reveal Lomov's overly formal nature are: "honoured Stepan Stepanovitch"
and "I beg pardon Stepan Honouritch." He constantly uses honorifics and apologizes, even when
unnecessary.

IV. The miscommunication between Lomov and Chubukov is comedically effective due to its
reliance on exaggerated stereotypes of the nervous suitor and the materialistic father. While it
plays on these tropes, it also offers a deeper commentary on the barriers to effective
communication caused by assumptions and societal expectations..

B. EXTRACT-1

I. (c) His decision to propose marriage.

II. pragmatic approach to finding a life partner.

III. 3Lomov mentions palpitations, excitability, and sleep disturbances (pulling sensations) as
contributing to his desire for a settled life.

IV. Lomov's ailments, including palpitations and sleep disturbances, reveal his vulnerability and
highlight a societal pressure on men to marry for stability and care, thereby conforming to
traditional expectations. His anxieties reflect a deeper fear of isolation and a desire for
companionship as he ages.

Q.2. ANSWER IN 40-50 WORDS

I. The central conflict of the play is the internal struggle of the characters to reconcile their desire
for love and companionship with their pride, stubbornness, and fear of vulnerability. The main
characters have difficulty expressing their emotions and admitting their need for each other.
Their pride and stubbornness lead them to engage in a series of comedic misunderstandings and
arguments, as they struggle to propose and accept each other's love.

II. Chekhov uses humor and satire in "The Proposal" to comment on societal norms in several
ways viz. exaggerated characters, comedic misunderstandings, satirical dialogue, parody of
romantic conventions, social commentary through character flaws etc.

III. Stepan Stepanovitch, Natalya's father, is a significant character in the play "The Proposal" by
Anton Chekhov. His role is multifaceted:

1. Comedic relief: He provides comedic moments with his absurd antics, exaggerated
expressions, and ridiculous behavior.

2. Catalyst for conflict: Stepan's interference and meddling create tension and conflict between
Ivan and Natalya, driving the plot forward.

3. Symbol of societal pressures: He represents the societal expectations and pressures that
influence the behavior of the other characters, particularly Natalya.

4. Contrast to Ivan: Stepan's foolishness and exaggeration serve as a contrast to Ivan's more
level-headed and rational nature. (any three)

Q.3. ANSWER IN 100-120 WORDS

I. Chekhov's proposal reflects his value for social responsibility and concern for the welfare of
others in several ways:

Emphasis on collective benefit: He highlights how the proposal's benefits will extend to the
broader community, demonstrating his commitment to the greater good.

Empathy and understanding: Chekhov shows compassion for the needs and struggles of others,
illustrating his concern for their well-being. Call to action: He encourages his audience to take
responsibility and join him in addressing the issue, fostering a sense of shared ownership and
social responsibility.

Appeal to moral obligation: Chekhov frames the proposal as a moral imperative, emphasizing the
importance of helping others and contributing to the greater good.

To persuade his audience to share this value, Chekhov uses emotive language to evokes
emotions like empathy, compassion, and a sense of duty to inspire his audience.

II. Chekhov's proposal demonstrates his commitment to honesty and integrity in several ways:

a. Transparent goals: He clearly states the proposal's objectives, without hiding behind
vague or misleading language.
b. Accurate data: Chekhov uses reliable data and statistics to support his argument, avoiding
exaggeration or manipulation.

c. Acknowledgment of challenges: He honestly addresses potential obstacles and

limitations, showing a willingness to confront difficulties head-on.

These values are essential to Chekhov's argument because:

a. Trust: Honesty and integrity establish trust with the audience, making them more likely
to consider the proposal.

b. Credibility: Chekhov's commitment to accuracy and transparency enhances his

credibility, making his argument more persuasive.

c. Respect: By acknowledging challenges and taking responsibility, Chekhov shows

respect for his audience's time and consideration.

d. Ethical appeal: The proposal's ethical considerations appeal to the audience's sense of
morality, making the argument more compelling.

FIRST FLIGHT (POETRY)

DUST OF SNOW

1. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION

Read the exact and answer the questions that follow: [5]
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued.
i) What is the poet's mood now? (1)
a) appreciative of nature. b) thoughtful. C) happy. d) cool
ii) Synecdoche is a poetic device that uses a part to represent the whole. (1)
Pick up an example of Synecdoche from the given lines.
iii) In the poem 'Dust of Snow' mention the negetive symbols that have been used to create
positive effect . (1)
iv) Comment on the poet's use of language in these lines. Answer in about 40 words. (2)

2. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION

Read the given extract and answer the questions: [5]
The way a crow
Shook down on me
The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part Of a day
I had rued.

i) Fill the blank with one word. (1)

The poet was out on the cold snowy day when the dust of snow fell on him and changed his
sad__________ .
ii) The poetic device used in the line And saved some part' is Alliteration.What effect does the
poet wish to create? (1)
(a) Emphasis
(b) Comparison
(c) Humour
(d) Personification
iii) Of the many symbols the hemlock tree represents something, state the one that Frost drew
upon in all likelihood for the poem. (1)
iv. Comment on the poet's use of language in these lines within 40 words. (2)

3. Answer the following questions in 40-50 words: [3 × 3]

A. Illustrate the poet's observation of nature in the poem Dust of Snow in 40-50 words.
B. What do you think the poet selected such poetically uncommon bird and tree and what does
it reflect?
C. Do you think that the poet presents a very bright or cheerful side of nature in the poem? Give
a reasoned to your answer.

4. Answer the following questions in 100-120 workds: [2 × 6]

A. The poem Dust of Snow is written in a light hearted way. Do you think this simple poem can
be related with our daily life situations. Write a letter to your friend to share your view on the
importance of the poem in your life with 100-120 words.

B. Positive attitude in life can make the world a better place to live in. Do you agree or disagree
with reference to the poem ‘Dust of Snow’? Express your views bringing out the inherent values.

MARKING SCHEME _

DUST OF SNOW

1. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION (5 Marks)

i) c) happy. (1)
ii) Has given my heart
A change of mood (1)
iii) crow and Hemlock tree (1)

iv) The poet has used very simple and accessible language to invoke the strongest of emotions
through the poem. He has told us that though his mood at the beginning was sorrowful and
despairing, it has changed now to joy.

(2)

2. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION (5 Marks)

i) mood (1)

ii) a. Emphasis (1)

iii) The symbol of healing is one that Frost drew upon, in all likelihood, for this poem. (1)

iv) The poet, Robert Frost, uses very simple, everyday and accessible language in the poem and
it is through this language that he is able to invoke the strongest of emotions. The poet tells us
though his mood at the beginning was sorrowful and despairing, overshadowed by darkness,
which is symbolised by the crow, it has changed now to hopeful and devoid of regret, which is
symbolised by the snow covered tree. Thus, an in-depth reading of the poem reveals that there's
much more going on in what appears to be simple, straight forward lines.

(2)

3. Answer the following questions in 40-50 words: (3Q×3M)

A. The poet has observed the nature as a positive medium of change for him. The poet had been
sorrowful and depressive mood in the poem. But then the way a crow shook snow dust off, it
changed his mood. The nature gave him an inspiration to behave in positive manner.

(3)

B. The poet seems to be in a depressive and sorrowful mood. In such a mood, one cannot think
of the sweet and beautiful side of the nature. The harsh, bitter and poisonous images come to his
mind. That is why he uses an uncommon, harsh, ugly crow and a poisonous tree like hemlock.

(3)

C. No, Robert Frost has presented nature in it’s elemental and raw form. It is quite dull and
depressive wintry day. The fall of fine dust of snow does bring a sudden change in the mood of
the poet. It refreshes his spirits and brings cheerfulness to his depressed spirits and mood.

(3)
4. Answer the following questions in 100-120 words: (2Q×6M)

A. Value Points:

● Format of informal letter

● Truly, Frost has used simple language to drive home a very significant message, that little
thing sometimes, have a big impact.
● An easy, uncomplicated language, coupled with unusual visual imagery and brevity of
words in the poem created the desired effect.
● The poet's bitterness had found reflection even in the environment around him. The
noisy, dark crow, the poisonous hemlock and the icy snow around-all are depressing
images.
● Despite the negativity, when the crow shakes down the dust of snow onto the poet, it also
shakes off some of the author's regretful thoughts.
● Today, when all of us live in a stressful atmosphere, the poem teaches us to gain
happiness from little things. In gloomy time, one must be patient and positive to wait for
good things to happen.
● In modern times, faith in the general goodness of the world and its people can hold great
importance in making theirsituation more positive.

(6)

B. Value Points:

● I completely agree with the statement that positive attitude can make the world a better
place to live in Robert Frost, in ‘Dust of Snow’, talks of how an otherwise bad day
altered into a not so bad one, due to the action of a crow.
● It was a seemingly disconnected occurrence that brought about a change of mood in the
poet. One lesson that can be learnt from the poet, is to see the brightness amidst the
gloom.
● The crow, the hemlock and the snow are all dark images, and yet, the poet sees the colour
of happiness. Another lesson is that life is made up of small joys.
● It is through them that one can always manage to see positivity in negativity.

FIRE AND ICE

1. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION

Read the exact and answer the questions that follow: [5]

Some say the world will end in fire

Some say in ice.
From what I’ve tasted of desire
I hold with those who favour fire.
i) Select the option that correctly classifies the connotations for fire and Ice, as suggested in the
poem. (1)

1) rage. 2) violence. 3) indifferent. 4) hate. 5) greed

a) Fire- 3, 4; Ice 1, 2, 5 b) Fire- 2, 5; Ice 1, 3, 4

c) Fire- 1, 3, 5; Ice 2, 4 d) Fire- 1, 2, 4; Ice- 3, 5

ii) Identify at least two poetic devices used in the first two lines of the above lines. (1)

iii) How are ice and fire similar to each other though they have contradictory traits? Write your
answer in 40 words, (2)

iv) Find out the rhyming scheme of the given stanza. (1)

2. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION

Read the given extracts and answer the questions given: [5]

Some say that the world will end in fire,

Some say in ice.
From what I've tasted of desire
I hold with those who favour fire.
But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
to say that for destruction ice
is also great
and would suffice.
i. Fill the blank with one word. (1)

According to the poet, fire refers to violent desires passion and_______

ii. Mention what does the poet wants to convey through the poem? (1)

iii. Identify the most likely tone of the poet in the given line: (1)

'to say that for destruction ice is also great'

(a) Sarcastic
(b) Humorous
(c) Optimistic
(d) Encouraging
iv. How does Robert Frost caution the common man? Answer in about 40 words. (2)

3. Write the answer the following questions in 40-50 words: [3 × 3]

A. Do you think it is possible to destroy the entire world with fire and ice? Reasonate your
opinion with the reference of the poem Fire and Ice.

B. The use of language in the poem Fire and Ice helps in making it effective and meaningful.
Justify the statement.

C. "I think I know enough of hate." Explain the mood of the speaker.

4. Answer the following questions in 100-120 workds: [2 × 6]

A. Imagine you are Sameer/ Sameer. Prepare a speech for the observation of Republic Day on
the topic Fire and Ice: An Anti-War Poem within 100-120 words.

B. Dust of Snow and Fire and Ice are written by Robert Frost. Do you find anything common
between these two poems and how these poems inspire you. Draft a page in your diary to express
your thoughts ìn 100-120 words.

MARKING SCHEME

FIRE AND ICE

(6)

1. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION (5 Marks)

i) b) Fire- 2, 5; Ice 1, 3, 4 (1)

ii) Alliteration, Anaphora, Assonance, etc (1)

iii) Both fire and Ice can bring this world to an end. Fire represents desire and can be the reason
for destruction.

Ice that symbolises coldness and indifference towards one another will be enough to end the
world. (2)

iv) abaa (1)

2. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION (5 Marks)

i) jealousy (1)
ii) Through the poem 'Fire and Ice', the poet wants to convey that the world will come to an end
either by fire or by ice. Fire, here stands for desire and greed and ice here stands for hatred and
rigidity. (1)

iii) a. Sarcastic (1)

iv) Robert Frost cautions the common man and says that he should not forget the bitter reality
that everything in this world is transitory and death is inevitable. So man should avoid being too
desirous or too indifferent. (2)

3. Answer the following questions in 40-50 words:

A) poem. In the poem, fire stands for greed, avarice, lust and fury. The ice stands for coldness,
cruelty, hatred, conflict, intolerance and indifference. Both fire and ice are capable of destroying
mankind as well as the entire world. (3)

B) Frost chooses words from the everyday talk in his poem. The poem is full of colloquial tone
and conversational language. The contrast between simple and precise vocabulary, and the vague
gravity of its subjects makes the poem serious and meaningful. The abrupt beginning of the
opening sets the tone of the speech and makes the poem vivid and lively. (3)

C) The poet says that he knows enough of hate, but we are not told if he has first-hand
knowledge about hate or if he experienced it at a distance. But the poet's intuitive power reminds
him that it is no less dangerous than the fire of lust. It can also play a trick upon anybody as it is
a silent killer. (3)

4. Answer the following questions in 100-120 words: (2Q×6M)

A. Good morning everyone present over here. I,.... of class X is going to deliver a speech on this
special day on the topic Fire and Ice: An Anti-War Poem.

The poem "Fire and Ice" by Robert Frost presents a contrast between the fire of desire and the
coldness of( hate, both of which are powerful passions. The speaker reflects on the idea that the
world may end either in fire or in ice, and expresses their preference for fire due to their
experience with desire. However, they acknowledge that the coldness of hate is equally
destructive, as it can lead to the same result of destruction and the end of the world. The poem
implies that intense passion, whether it be the fiery desire or the icy hate, is capable of bringing
about the end of the world. The contrast between the two emotions highlights the idea that both
are equally dangerous and destructive, and serves as a warning against the dangers of unchecked
passion.

To establish peace and to save the entire mankind, we must control our extreme desire and free
ourselves from the fantasy of hatred. With this, we can avoid the bloodshed as well as the war to
save our nation, our motherland. The poet indirectly shows us the way to cherish unity, humanity
and the world of harmony through the poem. Thank you. (6)

B. Value Points:

● Format of diary entry

● Similarities: both of the poem are talking about life Skills. How to lead a happy life with
unity and satisfaction.
● In Dust of Snow, the poet explains how an act as petty as experiencing snow on one's
body can brighten one's day up. On the other hand, in Fire and Ice, the poet, very
artistically, underpins the philosophy that we let our emotions rule us and if don't control
them they will surely destroy everything around us.
● Truly, Frost has used simple language to drive home a very significant message, that little
thing sometimes, have a big impact. An easy, uncomplicated language, coupled with
unusual visual imagery and brevity of words in the poem created the desired effect.
● The poet's bitterness had found reflection even in the environment around him. The
noisy, dark crow, the poisonous hemlock and the icy snow around-all are depressing
images. However, despite the negativity, when the crow shakes down the dust of snow
onto the poet, it also shakes off some of the author's regretful thoughts.
● The poet has touched the universal issue of the ending of this existing world in Fire and
Ice. He gives a warning to human beings. Man is swaying between two extremes - lire'
and 'ice'. Sometimes he is torn by his unbridled fire of passions, desires, lusts, longings
and fury. If not controlled, they can help in bringing an early end of this world. The other
extreme behaviour is born out of cold and 'icy' reasoning. When our cold reasoning
becomes completely devoid of human warmth, feelings, love and sympathy, it breeds
hatred.
● Today, when all of us live in a stressful atmosphere, the poem teaches us to gain
happiness from little things. In gloomy time, one must be patient and positive to wait for
good things to happen. In modern times, faith in the general goodness of the world and its
people can hold great importance in making their situation more positive. (6)

A Tiger in the Zoo

1. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow. 5 marks

(A) He should be lurking in shadow,

Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole
Where plump deer pass.

i. Fill the blank with one word.

According to the extract, the poet wishes for the tiger to be ‘sliding’ through the foliage as this
would
assist in keeping the ---------unsuspecting of the predator’s sound.
1

ii. What does the poet’s wish for the tiger to be in its natural habitat suggest about the poet?
1

iii. Pick the phrase that DOES NOT suggest that the forest in the extract is lush.
1

a) long grass
b) the water hole
c) plump deer
d) lurking in shadow
iv. Comment on the poet’s use of language in these lines. 2

B. But he’s locked in a concrete cell,

His strength behind bars,
Stalking the length of his cage,
Ignoring visitors.
He hears the last voice at night,
The patrolling cars, …

i. Choose the option listing the most likely reason for the tiger to ignore visitors, according to the
extract. 1
a) He is scared of their constant stares.
b) The visitors don’t provide him with any food.
c) He knows that none would help him out of captivity.
d) The visitors don’t speak to him kindly.

ii. Fill the blank with one word. 1

The main contrasting idea suggested by the extract is that of freedom and -------- .
iii. What could be a reason the speaker mentions the behaviour of the tiger at the jungle's
'edge' and not at its centre? Answer in about 40 words. 2

iv. Why does the tiger ignore the visitors? Answer in one sentence. 1

Q2. Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words each. (3 marks each)
i.Do you think the tiger in the poem had lost its natural instinct due to captivity? Support
your response with evidence from the poem.
 ii. What do you think the tiger would say to you, as a visitor? You may begin like this:
Please stop staring. You have no idea……………(continue)……….
iii. The poem ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’ and ‘How to Tell Wild Animals’ depicts a different
picture of the same creature- the tiger. Explain.

Q3. Answer the following questions in about 100-120 words each. ( 6 marks each)
i.How does Leslie Norris use vivid imagery and metaphorical language in ‘A Tiger in the
Zoo’, to effectively depict the confinement and oppression, experienced by the captive
tiger.
ii. Imagine the tiger in the poem “A Tiger in the Zoo’ has been set free by the zoo
authorities to live in his natural habitat. It has been chosen to address the animals on the
topic ‘ Life in Captivity’. Prepare the speech draft in not more than 120 words, with
reference to the untold sufferings and helpless condition which the tiger endured in the
poem.

You may begin this way:

Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to share with you the untold sufferings and helpless
condition that I endured at the zoo.
You may end this way. To conclude, I’d like to say that ... Thank you

MARKING SCHEME
1. A.
i. prey
ii. The poet is a great advocate /supporter/votary of animal freedom and opposes the idea
of keeping them in captivity.
iii. D lurking in shadow
iv. The poet uses easy and simple language along with vivid imagery and personification
to describe the majestic animal in its natural habitat and to achieve the overall effect of
the poem on the readers.
1.(B)
i. c) He knows that none would help him out of captivity.
ii. confinement
iii. The author has described the tiger at the 'edge' of the jungle to show how a tiger
would react and respond to the people encroaching his territory. He would scare them.
This is done to contrast how the tiger behaves towards people when caged.
iv. (Any one)
The tiger ignores the visitors because:
♦ he is disinterested in his confined environment and feels indifferent towards the visitors
 ♦ he is protecting himself from the constant intrusion and confinement of zoo life
♦ he feels sad as the visitors looking at him remind him of his powerlessness
♦ his freedom is more important to him than entertaining visitors
2.
i. Yes, the tiger had lost its instinct due to captivity---it felt helpless—paid no attention at
the visitors—knew that it would not be able to show its rage and pounce on them---
stalked the few steps of the concrete cell---showed its restlessness and helpless
situation---no scope to show its fury—its power limited behind the bars
ii. about my helpless condition---not able to roam freely like you---not allowed to hunt
my prey near the hole---no freedom---my strength is limited behind the bars---- no scope
to breathe the free air of the fores—my home—my power and prowess meaningless
now---lonely life---no hope to be free anymore—would be a great favour if could set me
free
iii. The tiger in the poem ‘ A Tiger in the Zoo’ is incaptivity---has no freedom---its power
limited behind the bars---has no scope to enjoy life in its own habitat---bored and helpless
—lost its instinct of being ferocious and frightening---the tiger in the poem ‘How To
Tell Wild Animals’ is different---it enjoys its freedom—lives in its own natural
surrounding—shows it fury and vehemence--
3.
i. Leslie Norris uses vivid imagery and metaphorical language in "Tiger in the Zoo" to
effectively depict the confinement and oppression experienced by the captive tiger--- use
of the words "vivid stripes" and "pads of velvet quiet" creates a powerful image of the
tiger's physical beauty and grace that is restricted within the confines of the cage. The
contrast between the tiger's natural habitat and its captivity is highlighted through the
description of its expected behaviour in the wild such as "sliding through long grass" and
"snarling around houses" and its actual behaviour within the cage. The metaphorical
language used in "quiet rage" and "ignoring visitors" conveys the tiger's frustration and
anger at being confined. The last two lines, "He hears the last voice at night, the
patrolling cars, and stares with his brilliant eyes at the brilliant stars," depicts the tiger's
longing for freedom and its natural habitat. Finally, the poem explores the psychological
impact of living in captivity.

ii. Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to share with you the untold sufferings and
helpless condition that I endured at the zoo---no better than hell---no freedom---kept at
the mercy of human beings---no scope to enjoy the free air of the forest and your life---
restricted surrounding---breathless----lonely and embarrassing ---no way out--- power
within the bars----stalks up and down---no friend ----no sliding in the tall grass near the
pond—no deer to hunt---never come to edge of the jungle or terrorise the villagers—
monotonous life—no change---feels suffocating---but no scope to run away—thankful to
the zoo authorities--- set me free----got a new life
 ‘HOW TO TELL WILD ANIMALS’

Extract – 1

Q.1. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (5)

‘‘If strolling forth, a beast you view,

Whose hide with spots is peppered,
As soon as he has lept on you,
You'll know it is the Leopard
Twill do no good to roar with pain,
He ‘ll only lep and lep again.’’

(i) Which of the following statement is NOT TRUE according to the extract? (1)
(a) The poet asks the reader to hide on seeing the leopard.
(b) As per the information of the poet the skin of a leopard is covered with dark spots.
(c) The poet alerts the reader that a leopard can launch repeated attacks.
(d) The poet tells that there is no escape from a leopard even if one cry with pain.
(ii) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the extract. (1)

Animal : Beast :: Discomfort : ______________ .

(iii) Specify the tone of the poet in the given stanza. (1)

(iv) Metaphor is the literary device which is used in the fifth line of the stanza in a unique way.
Justify in about 30 words. (2)

Extract – 2

Q.2. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow : (5)

‘If when you’re walking round your yard

You meet a creature there,
Who hugs you very, very hard,
Be sure it is a Bear.
If you have any doubts, I guess
He’ll give you just one more caress.’
(i) State whether the sentence is TRUE or FALSE. (1)
According to the poet, the act of touching gently is not a characteristic of a bear.

(ii) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the extract. (1)
alluring : repulsive :: uncertain : ___________

(iii) Highlight the speciality of a bear hug. (1)

(iv)Irony is the literary device which is used in the last line of the stanza in a beautiful manner.
Justify in about 30 words. (2)

Q.3. Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words. (3x3=9)

(i) Humour plays a crucial role in the poem ‘How to tell wild animals’. Justify from the
statement.
(ii) Comment on the poet’s love for wild animals in the poem ‘How to tell wild animals’.
(iii) Hyperbole is a literary device used when the poet exaggerates an image to make it comical.
State two instances from the poem ‘How to Tell Wild Animals‘ where this literary device has
been used.
Q.4. Answer the following questions in about 120 words. (6x2=12)

(i) After going through the poem ‘How to tell wild animals’, you have realized the poet’s love
for wild animals. So prepare a speech for the morning assembly on the topic ‘ Importance of wild
life conservation’.Sign yourself as Lalit / Lata.
(ii) It is rightly said that animals can be marked at their best in their natural habitat. Justify the
statement taking ideas from the poem ‘How to tell wild animals’ and ‘ A tiger in the zoo’.
MARKING SCHEME

Extract - 1

Q.1. (i)(a) The poet asks the reader to hide on seeing the leopard.
(ii)Pain
(iii) Humorous tone as the description of how leopard like wild animal kills is intended to make
us laugh.

(iv)
 Metaphor is a literary device which is used while making a covert comparison between two
different things or ideas.
 In the fifth line, the painful voice is compared ironically with the roar of a leopard when the
poet writes ‘roar with pain’.
Extract - 2

Q.2. (i) FALSE

(ii) sure
(iii) The specialty of a bear hug, as highlighted in the poem, is its intensity ("hugs you very, very
hard"). It's a hug so strong and tight that it leaves no doubt about the identity of the hugger – it
must be a bear!

(iv)

 Irony is the poetic device that is used by the poet to bring humour or satire on somebody.
 It has one surface meaning and another underlying meaning.
 In the last line, the term ‘caress’ is used ironically for a bear’s claw attack.
Q.3. (i)

 Humour as the main theme

 Humour is created by suggesting dangerous ways to identify wild animals
 Instead of protecting ourselves we are busy identifying the attacker
(ii)

 The poem 'How to Tell Wild Animals' describes various wild animals which live in forest.
 The poet has described their peculiarities, body colour and typical actions of particular
animals. This shows us the poet's love for wildlife.
 The Asian lion, the Bengal tiger, the leopard, the bear the hyena, the crocodile and the
chameleon all have been described in an amusing manner. We come to know about the
features of various animals through this delightful poem.

(iii)

 The crocodile tears and the hyenas smile. Both these references are exaggerations as we
have never seen a crocodile cry or a hyena smile.
 The identification of a chameleon is also expressed through hyperbole as the poet states that
when an individual sees nothing on a tree, there must be a chameleon on it. This is an
exaggeration to say that chameleons become completely invisible.

Q.4. (i)
Respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends,

Good morning! I, Lata, stand before you today to shed light on the crucial topic of wildlife
conservation. The poem "How to Tell Wild Animals" humorously highlights the unique
characteristics of various creatures, reminding us of the diverse and fascinating world we share.

Wild animals play an indispensable role in maintaining the ecological balance of our planet.
They are an integral part of the food chain, help in pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control.
Moreover, they are a source of wonder, inspiration, and scientific knowledge.

However, due to habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change, many wild species are facing
the threat of extinction. It is our responsibility to protect and conserve these precious creatures.
We can contribute by supporting wildlife conservation organizations, raising awareness,
reducing our ecological footprint, and respecting the natural habitats of these animals.

Let us remember, the survival of wild animals is intricately linked to our own. By protecting
them, we protect our planet and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Thank you.

(ii) The contrast between "How to Tell Wild Animals" and "A Tiger in the Zoo" perfectly
illustrates the statement.

In "How to Tell Wild Animals," the poet humorously describes the distinct behaviors of animals
in their natural habitat. The Bengal tiger, for instance, is depicted majestically roaming the
jungle, asserting its power and freedom. This resonates with the idea that animals are at their
most authentic and vibrant when they are free to express their natural instincts and behaviors in
their own environment.

Conversely, "A Tiger in the Zoo" portrays a caged tiger pacing restlessly, its spirit dampened by
confinement. The poem highlights the stark difference between the tiger's subdued existence in
captivity and the magnificence it would display in the wild. It underscores the notion that
confining animals deprives them of their true nature and limits their ability to thrive.

Thus, both poems collectively emphasize the importance of natural habitats for animals to
flourish and exhibit their full splendor.

Xxx

THE BALL POEM

Q.1 EXTRACT-1

Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.

Now he senses first responsibility

 In a world of possessions. People will take
Balls, balls will be lost always, little boy.
And no one buys a ball back. Money is external. (The Ball poem)

i. Complete the sentence appropriately.

In the given lines, the phrase ‘money is external’ indicates that ---------- (1)

ii. The poet has used a poetic device in the given lines. What effect does
she wish to create by its use? Balls , balls will be lost always, (1)
a) Emphasis b) comparison c) rhyme d) humour
iii. ‘ He senses first responsibility’. What ‘responsibility’ is referred to here? (1)
iv. ‘ Money is external’. What does the poet mean by this expression? (2)

Extract: 2

1.Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.

What is the boy now, who has lost his ball,

What , what is he to do? I saw it go
Merrily bouncing, down the street , and then
Merrily over-there it is in the water! (The Ball Poem)
i. In what way does the language used in this poem challenge traditional ideas of what
poetry should be ?
(1)
ii. What is the significance of the use of no punctuation after the words ‘what is the boy
now, who has lost his ball’. And the use of a dash in ‘ Merrily over-there it is in the
water! In the poem and how does this contribute to the overall mood and tone of the
poem? Answer in about 40 words.
(2)
iii. Complete the sentence with the appropriate option.
The poet seems to have indicated the merrily bouncing of the ball to ________
(1)
a) Create a sense of rhythm in these lines.
b) Support the happiness of the experience of playing.
c) Contrast with the dejected feeling of the boy.
d) Indicate the cheerful mood of the boy.
iv. Identify the use and purpose of repetitive sounds used in the given lines of the poem.
(1)

2.Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words.(4x3=12)

 i.“Money is external”. What does the poet mean by this expression taken from “The Ball
poem”?
ii.What message does the poet wish to convey through “ The Ball poem”
iii.What does show that the ball was valuable for the boy?
iv.Recount your reaction to the loss of a favourite object as a very young child. Would you
have behaved
the same way now? Explain with reason.

Q.3 Answer the following question in 100-120 words.(1x6=6)

How is the lost ball, the metaphor of the lost childhood of the boy? Why doesn’t the poet want
to ‘intrude on’ the boy by offering him money to buy another ball? (The Ball Poem)
OR

If the Buddha were to summarise the life lesson of "The Ball Poem", what would that sermon
be? Think and create this address for people of your age.

MARKING SCHEME

THE BALL POEM

EXTRACT 1

1.

i) Money is meant to be spent

ii)(A) emphasis

iii)The ‘responsibility’ referred to here is how to stand up or bear the loss through self-
understanding and trying to console oneself on his our as the boy who lost his ball was trying to
do.

iv.. The poet says that ‘ Money is external’ to make the boy understand about his responsibility
and that the loss is immaterial. By the phrase, the poet means that every loss cannot be replaced
by money. Money cannot buy the memories associated with a thing and cannot replace the
things that we have, for example the boy’s lost ball.

EXTRACT-2

1.

i.The poem is written in free verse with ample use of enjambment. These features combine to
show a very unusual and unconventional style of writing poetry.

ii.The unusual use of punctuation makes the loss of the boy more final and transformational. It
suggests that the boy is nothing now that his ball is gone. A dash after ‘merrily over’ helps draw
attention to a specific moment in the poem for a dramatic pause or a suspenseful moment. The
ball has gone for good.

iii.(c ) contrast with the dejected feeling of the boy

iv.The poet repeatedly uses ‘what’ to address the absent audience . He uses assonance by
repeating the vowel ‘o’ in “now, who has lost his ball” ‘bouncing’, ‘over’. He has repeated the
word ‘what’ in lines 1 and 2 and ‘ merrily’ in lines 3 and 4 for emphasis and rhythmic effect.

2. Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words.

i. By this expression the poet intends to make us realize the mere material value of money which
in no way helps us to understand the essential worth of a commodity. In this world of
possession , the value of money is only to buy things and this does not make us understand the
true value of things.

ii.Through this poem, the poet wishes to convey the futility of grieving over the past. The
memories are a treasure. The poet says that money and material things and their losses do not
matter. One has to learn to accept them as a part of life.

iii. The ball was valuable for the boy is obvious from the way he reacts after losing it, he was
under shock, remained fixed, trembled with grief staring at the place where the ball had fallen.
All this shows that he loved the ball and it was valuable for him?

iv.As a young child I felt upset after losing my favourite toy car. I did not feel like playing with
any other toy. Now, I am responsible enough to accept the loss in life. Although it is difficult to
let go of something or someone that is close to our heart.

3. Perhaps the boy has a lot of love for the ball and has been keeping it for a long time. He must
have developed a lot of attachment and love with the ball. Suddenly , while he is playing , the
ball bounces down the street. And after a few bounces, it falls down into the harbor. Thus, it is
lost forever. The boy stands there shocked and fixed to the ground. He continuously goes on
staring at the spot where his ball fell down into the water. Outwardly, the loss seems to be quite
small. The boy seems to be making a big fuss over a small loss. Many boys have lost such balls
and will lose so in future as well . A new ball can be easily bought in a dime . But the metaphor
of the lost ball is beautifully linked to the loss of sweet childhood. No amount of money can buy
the ball back that has been lost forever. Similarly, no worldly wealth can buy back the lost
childhood. The poet doesn’t want to sermonize on this issue. The boy himself has to learn
epistemology or the nature of the loss. He has to move ahead in life forgetting all the losses he
has suffered in the past .

OR
If Buddha were to summarise the life lessons of ‘The Ball Poem', it would be the following.

Life is a never-ending process of sacrifices, So, don't get attached to any hving or non-living
things. Attachment gives pain on separation. Nothing is permanent in this world. One who has
here will definitely take leave. When you did not bring anything with you, how can you claim
ownership over anything. You might be the owner of this house today but tomorrow somebody
else will own this house. Your grandparents, parents and siblings, and even your best friends will
go one by one. Make a habit of enjoying things and relations as if they might not stay tomorrow

The Ball Poem

1. Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.

(A) What is the boy now, who has lost his ball,
What, what is he to do? I saw it go
Merrily bouncing, down the street, and then
Merrily over- there it is in the water!

(i) The extract suggests that the poet is

a) an onlooker observing
b) a parent recounting the incident
c) the boy talking about himself
d) imagining the incident

(ii)Is the loss of the ball important for the boy. Why

(iii)The poem begins with a question. Based on your reading of the poem, the speaker
a) wants the boy to answer the question.
b) expects the passers-by to respond.
c) is looking for answers in a self-help book.
d) is thinking to himself.

(iv) Alliteration is a literary device that occurs with the same letter or sound at
the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.
Pick the option that showcases an example of alliteration from the extract.
a) What is the boy now
b) who has lost his ball
c) I saw it go
d) and then/ Merrily over

(B)An ultimate shaking grief fixes the boy

As he stands rigid, trembling, staring down
All his young days into the harbour where
His ball went. I would not intrude on him;

(i)The poet uses the word ‘ultimate’ to describe the boy’s reaction.Pick the meaning that DOES
NOT display what, ‘ultimate’ means in the context given.
a) consequent
b) final
c) conclusive
d) fateful

(ii) An ultimate shaking grief fixes the boy here means..

(iii) Why does the speaker choose not to intrude?
This is so because the poet
a) knows that it would embarrass the boy in his moment of grief.
b) feels that it’s important that the boy learn an important life lesson,undisturbed.
c) realises that he doesn’t have sufficient funds to purchase a new ball forthe boy.
d) Experiences a sense of distress himself, by looking at the boy’scondition.

(iv)Choose the option that lists the meaning of ‘harbour’ as used in the extract.
Noun:
(1) a place on the coast where ships may moor in shelter.
(2) a place of refuge.
Verb:
(3) keep (a thought or feeling, typically a negative one) in one's mind,especially secretly.
(4) shelter or hide (a criminal or wanted person).
a) Option 1
b) Option 2
c) Option 3
d) Option 4

2. Answer in 40-50 words

(i)Recount your reaction to the loss of a favourite object as a very young child. Would you have
behaved the same way now? Explain with reason.

(ii) What feelings do you think, might be experienced, at the loss of a mobile phone, for a
youngster today? Explain how these would be different from those felt by the boy in the poem.

(iii) When we think of losses, we generally think of people or possessions. Time is considered a
very precious commodity. Explain why time can probably be one of the things people bitterly
regret losing/wasting.

3. Answer in 100-120 words

1. Should the boy be allowed to grieve for his ball? If his loss is irreparable or irretrievable then
how should one handle it? What lessons can be learnt?
2. A popular quote states: Responsibility is self-taught. How does the poem, ‘The Ball Poem’
address this thought?
 MARKING SCHEME

1.

(A)

(i)a

(ii) yes the ball was important for the boy because he is associating the ball with his lost
childhood

(iii) b

(iv) b

(B)

(i) d

(ii) here means he could not come in terms with the loss of the poem

(iii) b

(iv) a

2.

( i ) No, I wouldn’t have behaved the same way now as I have learned how to cope with the loss
and move on in my life.

(ii) Mobile phone have now a days has become an integral part extensive use of mobile have
made the youngster addict to it . Therefore the feeling the boy experience on the loss of a ball
could have been more or less similar with the feeling of youngster at the loss of a mobile.

(i) A stitch on time saves nine’. The time that flies, comes back never’. So we should not
waste our precious time because time doesn’t work according to us best we need to
work according to time we should utilize the present fully because we can’t do
anything about the time that has passed and the future is uncertain.
3

1. One has to do certain duties in order to live happily. As one grows, one has to bear the
pain of separation and loss of beloved persons and things. This pain makes us conscious
towards our responsibilities. In the poem The Ball Poem the child learns responsibility
after the loss of his ball.
 2. Yes, the boy should be allowed to grieve for his ball, as he had that ball for a long time.
He had many old memories associated with it since his childhood. Moreover, when a
person is trying to overcome his grief on his own, then one should not intrude or disturb
him as it may break his chain of thoughts and may irritate him. One should have self-
consolation, and self -understanding in order to bear the loss. Self-realization and
understanding are more effective and lasting than when it is done by an external agency or
a person.

AMANDA

Extract:1

Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.

There is a languid, emerald sea

Where the sole inhabitant is me-

A mermaid , drifting blissfully.

i. The colour of the sea is ___________. (1)

a) Blue b) yellow c) red iv) None of these

ii ) Identify the poetic device used in the lines 2 and 3 of the extract. (1)

iii) Why is the extract given in parenthesis? (1)

iv)Why does Amanda want to be a mermaid? Answer in about 40 words. (2)

EXTRACT-2

Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.

I am an orphan , roaming the street,

I pattern soft dust with my hushed , bare feet,

The silence is golden , the freedom is sweet

Don’t eat that chocolate, Amanda!

Remember your acne, Amanda!

Will you please look at me when I’m speaking to you. (Amanda)

 i. Fill the blank with one word.
The extract shows that the speaker, Amanda ‘s mother is ________ (1)
about Amanda’s acne and cares for her.
ii. How does the use of metaphor impact this extract? (1)
iii. Why is Amanda imagining being an orphan? Answer in about 40 words. (2)
iv. What is the poet estimating by making silence golden? (1)
a) The worth of silence
b) The worth of beauty
c) The value of independence
d) The worth of privacy

Q.2 Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words.(4x3=12)

i. Do you consider Amanda’s mother to be a nagging mother?
ii. How would a life on a tower be different from a life anywhere else for
Amanda?
iii. Who is the ‘ mermaid’ in the poem Amanda ? What does ‘she ‘ wish to do?
iv. ‘Amanda is alone but not lonely in the world she envisions’. Justify the
statement with reference to any one image she pictures in her mind.

Q.3 Answer the following questions in about 100-120 words .( 1x6=6)

How does Amanda tackle the nagging nature of her parents? Explain with examples from the
poem ‘Amanda!’ What values does it portray about Amanda?
OR

Bringing up teenagers can be both a challenge and fun. How far do you agree? Express your
views with reference to Amanda's life."

MARKING SCHEME
Amanda

EXTRACT-1

1.

i.D) None of the these

ii. Metaphor

iii) The extract is given in parenthesis as they are the thoughts of the child (Amanda ) in
between the instruction she is being given by her mother.
iv. Amanda is an escapist. She imagines herself to be a mermaid and wants to live on an island
where she is the only inhabitant. She loves freedom and wants to drift, blissfully like a mermaid
on that lonely island.

EXTRACT 2

1.

i. Concerned

ii. The use of metaphor impacts the extract by an imagination and by helping the writer
convey more emotions.

iii. Amanda is imagining being an orphan to live a life of freedom. She is constantly scolded
by her mother. So, she escapes into her own world of imagination wherein she lives a peaceful
life, all alone.

iv.. a) The worth of silence

2.Answer the following questions in 40-50 words.

i. Amanda’s mother is indeed a nagging mother. She is all about instructions and finding faults.
No doubt it is her responsibility to instill good values into her daughter , but not at the cost of her
child’s happiness. One should know how to strike a balance between maintaining responsibilities
and taking good care.

ii. Life on a tower for Amanda would be different from her reality. Just like Rapunzel, even she
desires to live on top of a tower, away from everyday chaos. Amanda suffers due to the constant
nagging from her parents. She seeks a place full of peace and serenity, where there is no one to
disturb her. Hence, she wishes to live on a tower.

iii. Amanda is the mermaid in the poem. She wants to be free child who can enjoy the nature.
She does not like social boundaries. She is dreaming to be free mermaid, who can swim freely
in the vast sea.

iv.Amanda wants to live alone and away from her parents’ dos and don’ts . She imagines herself
as a mermaid who is drifting happily in the sea. She envisions herself enjoying her solitude ,
whereras a lonely person feels sad and upset. That’s why , it is said that she wants to live alone
and not lonely.

3. Answer in 100-120 words.

Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 100-120 words . 1x6=6

Amanda is a small girl who is termed as moody for her careless behavior. But it is very
surprising to know that this is her defence mechanism to shield herself against her nagging
 parents. Amanda is getting instructions from her parents , which become too much to handle for
the small girl. She is told not to eat her nails and sit in a proper position. Amanda’s response to
it is her work of imagination where she is a mermaid drifting effortlessly by the languid river.
Further, she is asked about cleaning her room and finishing her homework to which she reacts
by imagining herself being an orphan roaming in the street and making patterns with her bare
feet. Amanda then faces the heat for eating a chocolate, which had once caused her acne. This
time in her imagination, she takes the form of Rapunzel and wishes to live on top of a tower
away from everyone. Amanda’s parents are upset over her behavior and casualness , but she
stays in her own world. All these portray Amanda in a positive light while her parents in a
negative light.

OR

Bringing up teenagers is truly challenging and fun. Teenagers can be rebellious and apparently
hot-headed with a highly independent perspective. In such circumstances, selling at them, and
nagging them, as done in the poem with Amanda, will only make matters worse. Forcing decisions
on them only make them more detached, as we see Amanda's case, where she wishes to be the sole
mermaid, an orphan, or the lonely Rapunzel. To make things fun, one must become a friend where
needed. Sometimes, one needs to get into the mind of a teenager, reflect on one's own teenage
period, and empathise with the child. Life would be simpler and worthwhile, for both the parents
and the teenagers.
XXX

THE TREES
(A)
Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.
1.A “ My head is full of whispers
which tomorrow will be silent.
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.”

i. Complete the sentence appropriately.

It is clear that simile is the poetic device used for ‘The moon is broken like a mirror’
because ........................ .
(clue: Explain how simile applies here)

ii. The trees are stumbling as

(A) The people have started cutting them.

(B) They hurry to move outside after breaking the glass.
(C) They are trying to escape from the clutches of the wood cutters.
(D) They are trying to protect other trees from being cut.

iii. State whether the sentence is TRUE or FALSE.

The extract speaks about the efforts of human beings to free themselves from the clutches of the
desire to achieve everything.
iv. Why would the whispers be silent tomorrow?
A. The poet and her friends are going out of city.
B. The people will cut down all the trees.
C. The poet will stop talking to the trees.
D. The trees will move outside the forest.

OR

1.B “All night the roots work

to disengage themselves from the cracks
in the veranda floor.
The leaves strain toward the glass
small twigs stiff with exertion
long-cramped boughs shuffling
under the roof
like newly discharged patients
half-dazed, moving
to the clinic doors.”
i. The tone of the speaker in the given extract is
(A) Hopeful
(B) Despairing
(C)Argumentative
(D)Analytical
ii. What is ‘newly discharged patients’ contrasted with?
iii. Identify the reason for which the roots work all night.
(A) Absorb water from the soil
(B). Free themselves from the walls put around by humans
(C). Absorb minerals from the soil
(D). Go deep into the soil so that they are not uprooted by the storms.
iv. Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the extract.
strain: calm:: Inaction: .........
Q.2 Answer the following in about 40-50 words.
i. The description of the moon is different in the beginning and at the end of the third stanza.
Explain briefly.
ii. Justify the revolt of the trees and state two values which the man should possess to stop the
revolt.
iii. The poem ‘The Trees’ presents a conflict between Man and Nature. Discuss.
Q.3 Answer the following in about 100-120 words.
i. Validate that the poem ‘The Trees’ makes a strong plea against deforestation.
ii. ‘Departure is painful’. So is the departure of the trees for the poet. What will happen after
their departure?

ANSWER KEY

Q.1 A.

i. It is a direct comparison and moon is compared with the mirror.

ii. They hurry to move outside after breaking the glass.
iii. TRUE
iv. The trees will move outside the forest.

1B.

i. A. Hopeful
ii. ‘Newly discharged patients’ are compared with the branches which are cramped under the
house’s roof.
iii. Free themselves from the walls put around by humans.
iv. Inaction: Exertion

Q.2

i. At the beginning of the third stanza, the poet says that one can see the whole moon shining in
the open sky, but in the end, the moon seems to be broken like a mirror and its pieces shine in the
crown of the tallest oak tree. The change is caused by the shifting of the trees outside.
ii. The trees inside the house get suffocated as they grow. They try to free themselves from the
cracks of the veranda floor and the leaves stretch out as if to move towards the glass. They are
justified in their revolt. Men should learn the importance of trees.
iii. The poem ‘The Trees’ presents the rebellion of the tree against the human oppression and
imprisonment within walls. The forest is the natural habitat of the trees. The trees feel suffocated
in houses. They rebel against it and move out.
Q.3

i. The poem, ‘The Trees’ sends home a strong message against deforestation. It highlights the
importance of trees when the poet says that without trees there will be no shadow, no forest, no
place birds to sit, no place for insects to hide. As a sapling, the plant adds to the beauty of the
surroundings when it spreads its branches, leaves and roots around. It gets the suit house. Thus,
in the poem, the trees are welcomed by the strong winds and the moon.
ii. Just like the departure of close to us is painful, so also is the departure of a tree. When they are
planted as a sapling, they look nice and enhance the beauty of our surroundings. But as they
grow and spread out their branches, they look wild and require more space for their growth. The
roots create cracks in the floor and the leaves stretch out as if to move towards glass, perhaps in
need of sunlight.

XXX

FOG

Q.1 Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

1A. The fog comes

 on little cat feet.
It sits looking
over harbour and city
on silent haunches
and then moves on.‘

i. Choose the option with qualities of the cat that Carl Sandburg applies to the fog.
1. Cats are independent animals, they don‘t follow rules, they slip and slide in and out of our
lives as they please.
2. Cats are distrustful of strangers and can be jealous and moody.
3. Cats are stealthy, moving in slow motion at times and they appear to be moving in a
mysterious fashion.
4. Cats often communicate with a combination of a distinctive sound and body language.
5. Cats like to move on at their own pace and before you know it, they ‘ve disappeared.

(A) Only 1
(B) 2, 3 and 4
(C) 1,3 and 5
(D) Only 4
ii. Which one/s of the following applies to the given lines?
1. Personification is a literary device where we give an animal, object or natural
phenomenon, qualities or abilities that only a human can have.
2. Transferred epithet is a literary device when an adjective usually used to describe one
thing is transferred to another.
3. Imagery is the language used by poets and writers to create visual representation of ideas
in the minds of the readers.
4. Oxymoron is a figure of speech in which contradictory terms appear side by side.
(A) 1 and 4
(B) 2 and 3
(C) Only 1
(D) Only 3

iii. Pick the option that includes an image of the cat on its haunches.

(A) Option (1)

(B) Option (2)
(C) Option (3)
 (D) Option (4)
iv. Choose the option that DOES NOT list the movement of the fog.
1. It stole in on us like a foot-pad 3. The fog it tricks the eye
somewhere out of the sea and air.- E.J Pratt The wonder of the veil of white
Under the clear blue sky.
K.C.Cox

2. A fog drifts in , the heavy-laden

Cold white ghost of the sea- Sara Teasdale 4. … comes gliding,
Rolling
In at ground level,
Pressing its white
featureless face
Against…..- R.H
Grenville

(A) Option (1)

(B) Option (2)
(C) Option (3)
(D) Option (4)

1.B The fog comes

on little cat feet,
It sits looking
over harbour and city
on silent haunches
and then moves on.‘

i. How is dual imagery used in this poem? Choose the correct option.

(A) Cats are stealthily moving in slow motion at times. They can fix themselves onto an object
or creature, seemingly in a trance.
(B) Cats like to move on at their own pace at their leisure.
(C) This poem captures a little of this feline mystery –thick white fog slowly turning into a
cat, a cat morphing back into the fog .
(D) Cats have the habit of finding a place which gives them an overview of a landscape or
territory.
ii. What is the fog doing?

iii. Comment in detail, on the significance of the closing phrase of the poem,’ moves on’.

iv. Complete the following analogy on the basis of the above extract.
Snake: Reptile: ------------ feline
2. Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words.

i. How does the poet employ the double imagery of the fog and the cat?
ii. Highlight the aspect of nature that Carl Sand-burg presents in the poem ‘Fog ‘.
iii. List three things that tell us that the fog is like a cat.

3. Answer the following questions in about 100-120words.

i. Difficulties come but they are not to stay forever. They come and go. Comment referring to
the poem ―Fog
ii. The poet is able to visualize the image of a cat in the fog. Similarly, there is an inseparable
connection between nature and all creations in it. Based on the reading of the poem, write a
paragraph on the topic ―God lives in His creations in nature.

ANSWER KEY
1. A
i. Option (C)
ii. Option (D)
ii. Option (B)
iv. Option (C)

1.B.
i. Option (C)
ii. Fog is sitting silently and watching over the harbour and city.
iii. The phrase ‘moves on’ is crucial to depict the mysterious quality of the fog. It comes and
leaves suddenly without being noticed by anyone.
iv. Cat

2.
i. The poetic device of metaphor is very effectively used in the poem. The fog is converted into a
cat and the cat is morphed back into the fog. The silent arrival of the fog is like a little cat. The
fog stays there sitting like the cat on its haunches.
ii. The poet presents nature in its raw and natural state. The fog comes as if from nowhere. It
comes suddenly and silently like a little cat. The fog ‘s power is overwhelming. It engulfs
everything, the city and the harbour in its all-embracing fold. Then following the law of change,
it disappears, no one knows where.
iii.
a) The fog comes slowly and silently like a cat.
b) The cat sits on its haunches for some time looking around and then moves away as it came.
c) Similarly, the fog spreads over the harbour and city for some time. Finally, it moves away
like a cat.
3. i. None can deny that fact that after every nightfall, there is sunshine. In other words, sorrows
follow happiness. Life has many ups and downs. We must all accept that problems as a part of
life. We should strengthen ourselves so much that we are able to face them and stand up to solve
these problems. We should not get carried away. We should learn that time and tide wait for
none. Fog is also symbolic of darkness but it comes quietly like a cat and goes away. It
symbolises that if we are not disturbed by difficulties then life will itself move to lighter side and
things will be easy to confront. We should always remember that we must face all the problems
boldly.

ii. God is omnipresent and nature is a gift of God to us. Nature has both, the power to sanctify
and power to destroy. He makes his presence which provides us with the vital oxygen, the food
that grows beneath and above the ground, the water that satisfies out thirst etc. He has made
everything and everyone with a purpose and he lives in all of them. Nature cannot exist on its
own. It is because God ‘s reflection falls on each of his creation that we, mere mortals survive
and thrive on this planet. Thus, we must always respect, love, and care for all of God ‘s
creations.

THE TALE OF CUSTARD THE DRAGON

Q.1 Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

1.A . Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,

And little mouse blink strategically mouse hold.
But up jumped Custard, snorting like an engine,
Clashed his tail like iron in a dungeon,
With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went to a pirate like a robin at a worm.

i. What is the poet ‘s purpose of using the onomatopoeic words given in the extract?
ii. Pick an option that best fits the usage of the word trickled as used in the extract.
(A) The water trickled down the tap and filled the trough.
(B) Students trickled into the classroom as the teacher entered.
(C) Tears trickled down her cheeks as she heard the sad news.
(D) His enthusiasm for the task slowly trickled away.
iii. State whether the sentence is TRUE OR FALSE.
Custard attacked the pirate after careful observation.
iv. Select the option that fits with the reaction of the characters in the context of the extract.
Ink: terrified: Blink: (i) _______
Pirate (ii ) _______ :: custard : undaunted
 (A) (i) shocked (ii) displeased
(B) (i) petrified (ii ) wondered
(C) (i) upset ( ii ) dazed
(D) (i) petrified ( ii ) shocked

1.B. Belinda giggled till she shook the house

And Blink said week! Which is giggling for a mouse,
Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age.
When Custard cried for a nice safe cage,
Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound
And Mustard growled, and they all looked around

i. What can you infer from the repetition?

(A) There was an immediate change in the sense.
(B) It focuses on the hasty attack and the loud noise.
(C) It emphasizes on the fact that an unexpected noise was heard.
(D) It draws our attention towards the loud cry that occurred.
ii. A cage means captivity. Why is Custard inclined to remain in a cage despite what it
symbolises? This is so because he viewed it as a____.
1. sanctuary
2. guardhouse
3. cubicle
4. refuge
5. Booth

(A) 1,2 & 5

(B) 1& 4
(C) 3,4 & 5
(D) 3&5
iii. Why has the poet used the word “week” to signify the giggling of the mouse?
(A) Uses it to add suspense in the poem.
(B) Has imagined how the mouse would sound in this mood.
(C) Has mocked at the mouse for giggling at Custard.
(D) Uses it to create a scary effect for readers.
iv. Which belief about dragons is in contrast to Custard’s behaviour in the extract.
(A) Dragons are brave and fearful.
(B) Dragon can grant wishes.
(C) Dragons can become invisible at will.
(D) Dragons are soft hearted and kind.
2. Answer the following questions in about 40-50 words.
i. The poem is a light- hearted ballad with a powerful message? If the poem was written in any
other style, do you think it would have created the same effect on readers. Justify your response
with reasons lines.
ii. Custard humbly accepts that other animals are braver than him. Give a reason to support your
stand that humility is a virtue that drives vanity away.
iii. Belinda and other animals have been described as brave. But on seeing the pirate, they
behaved in a cowardly way. How did they react?
3. Answer the following questions in about 100-120 words.
i. Being impressed by custard ‘s feat, the young seagull ‘s sister wrote a letter to Custard seeking
advice on addressing the situation of her young brother. Write custard ‘s response to this letter.
Base the advice from his experience.
ii. Why do you think Custard; the dragon was called a coward? How was custard able to save all
his Housemates from the pirate? What values should Belinda have possessed so that Custard too
have been among her favourites.

ANSWER KEY
1A.
i. it is to emphasize on the might and boldness of custard
ii. b) students trickled as the teacher entered
iii. FALSE
iv. d) i) petrified ii) shocked

1B. i.(c) It emphasis that an unexpected noise was heard

ii. (b) 1& 4
iii. (b) has imagined how the mouse would sound in this mood
iv. (a)Dragons are brave and fearful.
2. i. Generally, ballads are tales of adventures and heroism. In the poem the poet does present the
encounter of clustered and the pirate in a typical spirit of ballad. Hence, no other style would
have created the same effect on readers other than a ballad.

ii. Custard was very humble. He had a very low opinion of himself. Belinda and other animals
pretended to be brave and inject mocked at custard. But on seeing the pirate they behaved in a
cowardly way

iii. Belinda turned pale with fear. She cried for help. Mustard ran barking fearfully. Ink went to
the bottom of the house. The little mouse ran into his hole in no time.
3.
i. Dear Ms Seagull,
Thank you for seeking me out. I am humbled. Based on my limited experience I feel that being
is the defining characteristic of an unpretentious and modest person, someone who does not think
that he or she is better or more important than others. The opposite of humility is pride. Humility
means peace and harmony. Each person must look into her heart and make changes so that you
may become humble when you reach your destination. Humility is the basis of true love. It is an
essential attitude for success in life to have faith in your life.
Regards
Custard

ii. The dragon appeared to be a coward as he always cried for a safe cage. So, he was called
cowardly dragon. Later when the pirate entered the house with pistols in his left hand and right
hand everyone was scared and ran away and disappeared, except custard who faced him boldly
and attacked him, hit him hard with his forceful tail and gobbled every bit of him. Belinda should
have been nice to him. She should have made him feel comfortable and safe in the house, instead
of laughing and making fun of him with other pets. Belinda should have been protective towards
him.

FOR ANNE GREGORY

EXTRACT :1

Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.

But I can get a hair-dye

And set such colour there,
Brown, or black, or carrot,
That young men in despair
May love me for myself alone
And not my yellow hair.
(For Anne Gregory)

i. What is the objective of the poet in using conjunction 'but' in the given extract?
(1)

ii. What is the significance of the argument "But I can get a hair-dye/ And set such colour there.
Brown. or black, or carrot"? What effect will it have on the young men? Answer in 40 words.
(2)

iii. Complete the sentence with the appropriate option.

(1)

Anne Gregory despite her young age seems to have clarity of thought because she
wants_______

(a) to dye her hair brown, black, or carrot.

(b) young men to love her for her yellow hair.

(c) to be loved for her internal beauty.

(d) young men to love her desperately.

iv. Identify the use of consonance in the given lines of the poem.
(1)

Extract -2

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

Never shall a young man, Thrown into despair

By those great honey-coloured

Ramparts at your ear,

Love you for yourself alone

And not your yellow hair.

i. What is the contextual meaning of the word ‘rampart’

(1)
ii. Why does Anne want to change the colour of her hair? Answer in about 40 words. (2)
iii. Choose the phrase that best represents, ‘love you for yourself alone’.
(1)
a) One-sided love b)mutual love c) unconditional love d)blind love
iv. Comment on the poet’s use of language in these lines.
(1)

Q.2 Answer the following questions in 40-50 words.(3x4=12)

i. Describe the method Anne Gregory suggested in order to prove that she is loved for who
she is.
ii. The ‘yellow hair’ is a symbol in the poem. Briefly support the statement with reference to
the poem “ For Anne Gregory”
iii.Highlight the central theme of the poem “ For Anne Gregory”.
iv.The advice given by elders is crucial to young lives. Explain in the context of the poem “ For
Anne Gregory”.

Q.3 Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words.(1x6=6)

Imagine Anne Gregory grows up to be a motivational speaker. As Anne Gregory, write a short
speech on the importance of loving oneself.

You may begin this way:

Dear friends,
The importance of believing in oneself can never be overstated. It becomes most important,
therefore, to love oneself. I learnt this, as a young teen, the day a poet pointed out that
(continue)....... (For Anne Gregory)

OR

The poet in the poem, 'For Anne Gregory' conveys that we should give importance to the inner
beauty and not the physical appearance. Elaborate with reference to the poem.

MARKING SCHEME

For Anne Gregory

Extract-1

1.

i. The speaker uses 'but' to challenge the ideas of the listener i.e. the poet by getting into an
argument with him.

ii. Anne Gregory vehemently supports changing the colour of her hair to compel the young
suitors to love her for herself. Since the speaker's appearance due to her gorgeous yellow hair is
largely the reason young men hope to get her attention, her argument is not valid.

iii. (c) to be loved for her internal beauty.

iv. Ans. The repetition of the consonant sound ‘I’ in ‘love me for myself alone’ and sound ‘n’ in
‘ And not my yellow hair’ are examples of consonance.

EXTRACT-2

1.

i. A lock of hair
ii.Anne’s hair is yellow. She says that she could het her hair dyed to brown, black or carrot
colour so that the young men in despair would love her only and not her yellow hair. She wanted
them to love her for what she was and not for her appearance. She wishes to emphasise that
external beauty is not real.

iii.(c) unconditional love

iv. The language used is conversational and simple. The use of poetic device is straight-forward.
2.Answer in 40 words.

i.She said that he would change her hair from yellow to some other colour by applying a hair dye
to confirm that she is loved for her inner beauty and not for her outer personality.

ii.In some countries, yellow or blonde hair is considered appealing in contrast to dark hair. Girls
with lighter hair colour are portrayed as beautiful in movies and stories. So the yellow hair of
Anne Gregory in the poem emphasizes her beautiful outlook.

iii.The central theme of the poem is that humans on earth love the outer beauty of everything.
They appreciate what seem beautiful to their eyes. In the poem , Anne who is innocent and not
well aware of idea of beauty in world,desires to be loved for her soul which is beautiful.
However, the poet tells her that people on earth will love her because of her golden hair.

Iv. Anne is in her young age. The poet , being an elder, advises her about the concept of love. He
also resolves the conflict Anne had in her mind. Quoting a religious text, he makes her
undersrand that only God has the ability to withstand the temptations of physical beauty.

Q.3.Motivational Speech

Dear friends,

The importance of believing in oneself can never be overstated. It becomes most important
therefore to love oneself. I learnt this as a young teen, the day a poet pointed out that men are
attracted towards females’ outer beauty. Does it mean that not so beautiful people are not loved
in this world? I think to escape this situation an individual should invest their time in self-love.
It's the unconditional support and compassion that translates to good health, great self- esteem,
happiness, and well-being. Self-love allows us to fill in the gaps external sources of love may
leave. No one has a better understanding of our innermost thoughts and needs than we do.
Everyone is born with a unique set of characteristics so we should not compare ourselves with
others and let ourselves down. But it should not be confused with selfishness or singing one's
own praises.

OR

Ans. In the that takes place between Anne Gregory and another speaker, thepoet has tried to
show that inner beauty is real beauty, whereas physical appearance is changeable and hence,
unimportant. The first speaker says to Anne that young men love her for her beautiful yellow
hair and may never love her for what she really is. To this, Anne replies that her hair colour can
be changed into black, brown or carrot,meaning that external beauty is all superficial and men
should not love her for that.Through Anne's reply, the poet has made clear his preference for
internal beauty over physical appearance.

XXX
 SUPPLEMENTARY READER(FOOTPRINTS WITHOUT FEET)

A TRIUMPH OF SURGERY

1.A. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

He discovered the joys of being bowled over, tramped on and squashed every few minutes. He
became an accepted member of the gang, an unlikely, silky little object among the shaggy crew,
fighting like a tiger for his share at mealtimes and hunting rats in the old henhouse at night. He
had never had such a time in his life. All the while, Mrs. Pumphrey havened anxiously in the
background, ringing a dozen times a day for the latest bulletins

i. Why does the narrator describe being trampled on and squashed as joys?

(A) To suggest the irony about the strange ways of dogs

(B) To mention the simple pleasures of canine life
(C) To compare it to Tricki's earlier play-time at the house
(D) To direct attention towards Tricki's successful recovery.

ii. Pick the option that reveals Tricki's characteristics in the context of "fighting like a tiger
for his share at mealtimes and hunting rats in the old henhouse at night.

1. Selfish
2. Happy
3. Greedy
4. Confident
5. sturdy
6. Cruel

iii. What does the phrase 'ringing a dozen times for the latest bulletins' mean?

iv. What does the reference to Tricki as a ‘silky little object, signify?

1B. From then on, his progress was rapid. He had no medicinal treatment of any kind but all day
he ran about with the dogs, joining in their friendly scrimmages. He discovered the joys of being
bowled over, tramped on and squashed every few minutes. He became an accepted member of
the gang, an unlikely, silky object among the shaggy crew. fighting like a tiger for his share at
mealtimes and hunting rats in the old henhouse at night. He had never had such a time in his life.

i. "He became an accepted member of the gang." How did the other dogs initially behave
with Tricki?
ii. Figurative device used in the expression, 'fighting like a tiger' is to establish:

(A) sharp comparison between tiger and Tricki

(B) a parallel between Tricki and crew
(C) sharp contrast between tiger and Tricki
(D) sharp comparison between crew and Tricki

iii. 'From then on, his progress was rapid'. What does 'from their' refer to here?

(A) Tricki's surgery

(B) Tricki's medication
(C) Tricki's fight with other animals
(D) None of these

iv. Complete the analogy on preposition.

________________: over: tramped: on

2. Answer the following in about 40-50 words each.

i. Trick’s gradual progress was a triumph of surgery. Elaborate

ii. According to a popular quote – Where there is no struggle, there is no strength. In what way
is this quote relevant to the events of the story?

iii. The story, A Triumph of Surgery is a powerful example of the importance of saying “no”.
Explain.

3. Answer the following in about 100-120 words.

i. Mrs. Pumphrey and Dr. Herriot have been invited to speak at a community pet adoption drive.
There were some differences in Mrs. Pumphrey and Dr. Herriot’s notions of responsibility and
experiences of keeping a pet. As a reporter for the local pet magazine, write an article recording
and comparing their perspectives. Don’t forget to give it an interesting title.

ii. Compare and contrast Tricki in the beginning and in the end of the story.

ANSWER KEY

1A.
(i) (b) To mention the simple pleasures of canine life.
(ii) Happy, Confident and Sturdy
(iii) The phrase means that Mrs. Pumphrey used to call the narrator several times in a day to ask
the latest news about Tricki.
(iv) This reference to Tricki as a ‘silky little object’ signifies that Tricki had lived a life of luxury
unlike other dogs at the clinic
1B.

(i) The day when Tricki came to the surgery, the other dogs circled around him sniffing. For
them Tricki was an uninteresting object because he was very fat and not able to run and play. So
they ignored him.

(ii) (A) sharp comparison between tiger and Tricki

(iii) (D) None of these

(iv) bowled
2.
(i) During the treatment, Tricki was not given any specific medications. He was rather put under
a strict diet. For the first three days, Tricki was not given any food but plenty of water. Even
Tricki did not show any inclination towards food. Later when Tricki showed a slight interest
towards food, he was given food like the other dogs. Dr Herriot treated him like an ordinary dog
and made him be social with other dogs. He made up a bed for him in a warm loose box next to
where other dogs slept. Slowly Tricki started joining the other dogs in their friendly scrimmages.
This gave him the much needed exercise. In two week time, Tricki had recovered completely and
was transformed into a lithe, hard-muscled animal. Thus, we can conclude that Tricki gradual
progress was a triumph of surgery.

(ii) This quote means strength gets accumulated after facing struggle. In the story, even Tricki
had to struggle to lose his weight. He was kept on a strict diet. It was only after losing his weight,
that he gained his strength back and became an active, fit dog

(iii) The story - a powerful example of the importance of saying no when it comes to making
decisions that affect the health and well-being of others, whether it be for pets or for people.
Mrs. Pumphrey's love and indulgence for her dog, Tricki, leads to the dog becoming severely
overweight and unhealthy.
Despite Herriot's advice to put Tricki on a diet and exercise regimen, Mrs. Pumphrey is unable to
say 'no' and abstain from overfeeding the dog -- Tricki becomes seriously ill due to his weight
and unhealthy habits.
The story, thus, highlights the fact that sometimes, the best way to help someone is to say no and
steer them towards a better path, even if it may be uncomfortable or unpopular in the moment.

3.

(i) Our society has twisted what it means to love a pet which leaves a lot of us wondering, what's
more important, 'I care for your attitude' or 'I will not let you feel low even for a single moment
attitude'. Parents like Mrs Pomphrey do undoubtedly exist. And it's because of their existence,
pets up brought under their supervision get spoilt. They pamper their pets to such an extent that
they tend to forget their own mettle and become habitual of spoon feeding. They dysfunction
their young ones and offspring in the name of love and care.

This not only jeopardizes their true potential but also put their life at risk. Such a behavior cannot
be laudable act. 'A smooth sea can never make a skilled mariner' is an old adage. It's been
asserted with a remarkable experience which elaborates that one can find his/her worth only
when they are made to face the adverse situation on their own. Unless they face the ordeals of
life, they can never emerge victorious. Hardships, miseries and failure are some of the basic
ingredients of a successful life. There is no true benefit to living in persistent supervision but
there is in living without any guidance.

(ii) In the beginning of the story, Tricki was excessively obese and walked with great difficulty.
He looked like a 'bloated sausage with bloodshot eyes and a lolling tongue from his jaws. In the
words of Mrs. Pumphrey, he was 'listless'. Owing to overfeeding by his owner, he had become a
glutton who never refused food. His physical mobility was too little and he wasn't given any
regular exercise either. Thus, he fell ill, lost all interest in food and suffered bouts of vomiting.
The situation became so bad that he had to be hospitalized. However, a fortnight's supervision by
the expert veterinary surgeon, Doctor Herriot, and a strict diet with exercise regime eventually
cured him of his ailment. He began to behave like a normal dog and started participating in all
the activities like the other dogs. This made him agile, strong muscled and healthy in the end.

THE THIEF’S STORY

1A. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.
I had made a study of men‘s faces when they had lost their goods . The greedy man showed fear
; the rich man showed anger ; the poor man showed acceptance . But I knew that Anil‘s face ,
When he discovered the theft would show only a touch of sadness. Not for the loss of money but
for the loss of trust.
i. Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the word ‗show‘ in line 2 of the
extract.
(A) The annual function was celebrated with great pomp and show.
(B) The actor is a great show off
(C) The child ‘s eyes show a great sense of joy.
(D) Did you like the show.
ii. Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the extract
Thief: ___________:: playwright :writing

iii. Select the option that displays the reason what Hari Singh was apprehensive about.
(A) He was in the fear of being caught .
(B) He was afraid to lose the money.
(C) He did not want to deceive a man like Anil.
 (D) He was unable to study Anil‘s face.
iv. According to Hari Singh Anil‘s reactions would be more of.....
List any two suitable points
A)_____________________________________________
B) _____________________________________________

1B.
I gave him my most appealing smile. I want to work for you, I said. But I can‘t pay you. I
thought that over for a minute. Perhaps I had misjudged my man. I asked, Can you feed me? Can
you cook? I can cook, I lied again. If you can cook, then may be I can feed you. He took me to
his room over the Jumna Sweet Shop and told me I could sleep on the balcony. But the meal I
cooked that night must have been terrible because Anil gave it to a stray dog and told me to be
off. But I just hung around, smiling in my most appealing way, and he couldn‘t help laughing.

i. Select the option listing Anil‘s characteristics, as revealed in the extract.

1) unassuming
2) kind
3) determined
4) naïve
5) humorous
(A) (2) and (3)
(B) Only (5)
(C) (1), (2) and (4)
(D) Only 2
ii. The phrase hung around suggests that Hari Singh continued to………….
(A) smile.
(B) cook.
(C) appeal.
(D) linger
iii. Select a word that does not correspond to the word appealing ‘
(A) Alluring
(B) Attractive
(C) Engaging
(D) boring
iv. Explain, ‘Perhaps I had misjudged my man‘.

2. Answer the following in about 40-50 words each.

i. Hari Singh did not catch the train deliberately while he could catch it easily . What reason does
not let Hari Singh to get away while he could do so?
ii. Anil was a large hearted person. Pick out instances from the story which prove that he was
large hearted.
iii. I smiled at Anil in my most appealing way. And the smile came by itself, without any effort.‘
Explain the reason behind Hari Singh‘s admiration for Anil.

3. Answer the following in about 100-120 words

i. Love, trust and compassion transformed Hari Singh . Explain with reference to ‘The Thief’s
Story’.
ii. It is a common proverb ‘good begets good and evil begets evil’. Do you think ‘The Thief’s
Story’ conveys this message.

ANSWER KEY

1A.
i. (C)The child's eyes show a great sense of joy.
ii. Theft
iii.(C) He didn't want to deceive a man like Anil.
iv. A)Sorrow
B) dismay due to the betrayal of trust.

1B.
i. (C) (1), (2) & (4))
ii.(D) linger
iii (D) boring
iv. This phrase means that Hari Singh thought that Anil was a man who had enough wealth,
and could become a good victim of robbery, but when Hari offered to work for Anil, the latter
replied that he couldn't pay him.
2.
i. Hari Singh hesitated to board the train and leave, because he thought of Anil's reaction to this
theft, which is sadness, but not for the loss of money, but the loss of trust. He also remembered
the benefits of staying with Anil i.e. education.

ii. In the night the thief boy stole the money and ran out in the rain. Later his heart changed and
he decided to put the money back under the mattress. Anil discovered all this. But he was so
large-hearted that he said nothing to the boy.

iii. Hari Singh was grateful to Anil because Anil taught him to read and write whole sentences
and to add numbers. Soon he would become an educated man and would be able to achieve
 anything in life. Hari Singh gave his most appealing smile to Anil because he knew that in order
to win his confidence and get some favour, he had to behave pleasingly.

3.
i. It is love and sympathy which has transformed Hari Singh into a respectable person. After
staying with Anil, Hari Singh learnt how to write his name. When Hari Singh stole money that
was kept by Anil, Anil did not say anything because he knew that his love would transform Hari
Singh. That is exactly what happened. Hari Singh came back to Anil and he could not run away
from the love showered by Anil.

ii. The Thief Story rightly conveys the message "Good begets good and evil begets evil - It
emphasizes on the fact that the human values and relations are important in life and such values
can change a person too- Like Anil‘s kind gesture transformed Hari Singh from a thief to an
aspiring individual.
XXX

THE MIDNIGHT VISITOR

EXTRACT-1

1. Read the following extracts carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Max was slender, a little less than tall, with features that suggested slightly the crafty, pointed
countenance of a fox. There was about him - aside from the gun - nothing especially menacing.
"The report," he murmured. "The report that is being brought to you tonight concerning some
new missiles. I thought I would take it from you. It will be safer in my hands than in yours."
Ausable moved to an armchair and sat down heavily. "I'm going to raise the devil with the
management this time, and you can bet on it," he said grimly. "This is the second time in a month
that somebody has got into my room through that nuisance of a balcony!"

i. State the reason why owning a gun gave a menacing impression to Max's character.

ii. 'Ausable moved to an armchair and sat down heavily'.

Choose the word that can replace 'sat down heavily' in the above sentence.

A. flumped
B. slouched
C. progressed
D. rested

iii. State TRUE or FALSE.

 None of the terms (a) - (d) can be applied to the statement - It will be safer in my hands than in
yours.

(a) A hypothesis - a proposed explanation for a phenomenon

(b) An assumption - something that is taken for granted or assumed to be true
(c) A hyperbole - exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally
(d) A premise - a proposition that forms the basis of an argument

iv. Max wouldn't appear menacing if not for the gun. Elaborate in about 40 words with reference
to the
Extract.

EXTRACT-2

2. Read the following extracts carefully and answer the questions that follow.

Ausable did not fit any description of a secret agent Fowler had ever read. Following him down
the musty corridor of the gloomy French hotel where Ausable had a room, Fowler felt let down.
It was a small room, on the sixth and top floor, and scarcely a setting for a romantic adventure.
Ausable was, for one thing, fat. Very fat. And then there was his accent. Though he spoke French
and German passably, he had never altogether lost the American accent he had brought to Paris
from Boston twenty years ago. "You are disappointed," Ausable said wheezily over his shoulder.

i. State TRUE or FALSE.

None of the terms (a) - (d) can be applied to the statement - Ausable did not fit any description of
a secret agent Fowler had ever read.
(a) A hypothesis a proposed explanation for a phenomenon
(b) An assumption - something that is taken for granted or assumed to be true
(c) A hyperbole - exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally
(d) A premise - a proposition that forms the basis of an argument

ii. State any one inference about a secret agent from the given extract.
iii. Which of the following best describe(s) Ausable?
1. Sloppy
2. Intelligent
3. Oblivious
4. Skinny
5. Astute

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

iv. Fowler was disappointed by Ausable when he met him. Validate Fowler’s disappointment in
about 40 words.
SHORT QUESTIONS
1. Ausable displays an acute sense of awareness of his surroundings. Justify with any two
instances from the text.
2. “Stereotypes are often misleading”. Elaborate on the given quote in the context of “The
Midnight Visitor”.
3. Discuss briefly, the reasons owing to which Fowler was interested in meeting Ausable.

LONG QUESTIONS

1. Crafty and foxy Max failed to take away the all-important report concerning some new
missiles from Ausable. Explain.

2. ‘Attack is the secret of defense.’ Justify the statement in the case of Ausable in ‘The
Midnight Visitor.’

MARKING SCHEME

EXTRACTS

1.
i. Owing a gun gave a menacing impression to Max's character because a gun has a threatening
implication.

ii. A - Flumped

iii. False. The term assumption can be applied.

iv. Max was a slender, a little less than tall, with features that suggested slightly the crafty,
pointed countenance of a fox. His appearance wasn't especially menacing except for the gun.

2.
i. True
ii. It can be inferred from the extract that a secret agent is expected to be fit and svave.

iii. B .1, 2 and 5

iv. Fowler was disappointed by Ausable when he met him because didn't have the personality of
a spy.

SHORT ANSWERS

1. Ausable's keen awareness is evident when he explains the balcony's layout to Fowler,
revealing his understanding of the surroundings. Moreover, his anticipation of Max's actions
showcases his acute perception as he accurately predicts Max's intention to shoot and escape,
which ultimately leads to Max's defeat.
2. In "The Midnight Visitor," the quote holds true as Fowler's preconceived stereotypes about
secret agents clash with the reality of Ausable's appearance and methods. Ausable defies the
typical spy image by being overweight and employing unexpected tactics, illustrating that
assumptions based on stereotypes can be far from accurate.
3. Fowler was curious about meeting Ausable because he had heard intriguing stories about
Ausable's incredible skills as a spy and his ability to solve challenging problems. Fowler
wanted to witness Ausable's legendary talents firsthand and learn from him.

LONG QUESTIONS

1. Naturally, it was a fight between two secret agents belonging to two different organizations.
The bone of contention was the all-important report concerning some new missiles. It was
with Ausable, and Max wanted to take it away by the use of his gun. The report was so
important that several men and women had risked their lives to get it. Someday that report
might well have affected the course of history. No doubt, Max had come prepared. When
Ausable switched on the light, he found Max standing halfway across the room with a small
automatic pistol in his hand. Ausable had to use his presence of mind and fertile brain to
outwit Max. His cooking up of two stories related to the balcony below his window and the
police were his masterstrokes. In his simple way, Ausable succeeds in convincing Max that
both the stories were true. Actually, there was no balcony below his window. He wanted to
unnerve Max by planting the false story that the loud knockings at the door of the police. In
desperation, Max jumped out of the window and Ausable got rid of his crafty rival forever.
2. The statement "Attack is the secret of defense" means that the best way to protect oneself is
to be proactive and take the initiative. This is certainly true in the case of Ausable, the
protagonist of the story "The Midnight Visitor". When Max, a rival secret agent, arrives at
Ausable's hotel room late at night, Ausable does not panic. Instead, he quickly thinks of a
plan to outwit Max. He tells Max that there are police officers outside the room and that they
are waiting to arrest him. Max is so scared that he jumps off the balcony to his death.
 Ausable's victory over Max shows that the best way to defend oneself is to attack first. By
taking the initiative, Ausable was able to surprise Max and defeat him. This is a valuable
lesson for anyone who wants to protect themselves from danger. In addition to this, Ausable
also used his intelligence and cunning to defend himself against Max. He was able to trick
Max into believing that there were police officers outside the room, even though there were
none. This shows that Ausable was not only quick-thinking but also very good at
manipulating people.

XXX

A QUESTION OF TRUST

Extract - 1

1. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

“How foolish people are when they own valuable things, Horace thought. A magazine
article had described this house, giving a plan of all the rooms and a picture of this room.
The writer had even mentioned that the painting hid a safe! But Horace found that the
flowers were hindering him in his work. He buried his face in the handkerchief.”

i. Statement - A magazine article had described this house, giving a plan of all the
rooms and picture of this room.

State which term from (A) - (D) can be applied to this statement.

A. A fact – Something is true

B. An opinion – a belief or feeling about something
C. A warning – A notice about a possible problem
D. A suggestion - an idea offered for consideration

ii. Horace considers people who own valuable things to be foolish. Justify in about
40 words with reference to the extract.

iii. The information in the extract suggests that the magazine article revealed the
_____________________ of the house.

iv. Pick out the option from the following that CAN NOT be inferred from the above
extract.
 A. Horace Danby had enough information about the house.
B. Horace Danby was a meticulous planner.
C. Horace Danby didn’t like flowers.
D. The house that Horace Danby planned to rob is of a well off family.

Extract - 2

2. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

“Fifteen years ago, Horace had served his first and only sentence in a prison library.
He loved rare, expensive books. So he robbed a safe every year. Each year he planned
carefully just what he would do, stole enough to last for twelve months, and secretly
bought the books he loved through an agent.”

i. State True or False.

None of the following terms describe Horace Danby’s yearly theft for buying
books.
a. A compulsion
b. A necessity
c. A strategy
d. An obsession

ii. Horace’s regular thefts show he is a good ____________________.

iii.Horace Danby involves himself in safety crimes. Elaborate in about 40 words with
reference to the text.

iv. Which of the following best describes Horace Danby?

A. Respectable and completely honest.

B. Respectable but not completely honest.
C. Completely honest but disreputable.
D. Impractical and anxious.
Short Answer Questions

3. Answer the following question in about 40-50 words.

i. Horace Danby was a meticulous planner but still he faltered. Justify.

ii. “Horace Danby was a typical thief.” Elaborate.
 iii. Describe how Danby prepared for the robbery at Shotover grange? Did he succeed?
If not, describe what went wrong?
iv.“Every event happens for good only”. Relate this quote with the chapter “The
Question of Trust”.

v. Based on the story, would it be fair to say that deception is crucial for robbery. Do
you agree? Why/Why not?
Long Answer Questions

4. Answer the following questions in about 100-120 words.

a) Write a character sketch about the lady who befooled the protagonist of the story.
Explain her strategy in befooling Horace and describe how it was effective against
him in that situation.

b) “Horace Danby was punished for the crimes he did not commit” - Discuss.

XXX

MARKING SCHEME

A QUESTION OF TRUST

1.
i. A. A fact – Something is true
ii. Horace thought that people, who owned valuable things, were foolish as they often
did not protect them well. In his case, a magazine article had provided the full
blueprint of the house and had mentioned about the location of the secret safe which
was hidden behind the painting.

iii. Blueprint/plan/layout/design/structure or any similar response

iv. C - Horace Danby didn’t like flowers.
2.
i. False

ii. Planner/Schemer/Tactician/Organiser/ any other similar response

iii. Horace’s steals once a year careful risk. He steals just enough to meet his needs and
tries not to get caught. This shows he thinks about keeping safe while doing
something wrong.

iv. B. Respectable but not completely honest.

3.
i. Horace Danby was a meticulous planner as he had done numerous robberies without
being caught. But this time he did not research well enough about the real occupants
of the house. If he had done that he would not have been tricked by the lady.

ii. Horace was a fifty-year-old man, who robbed from the rich to satisfy his wish of
buying expensive and rare books. He made locks and was successful at his business.
But his habit of stealing to fulfil his luxuries was not good. He cannot be categorized
as a typical thief because he did not steal frequently and for his survival. He had a
business, along with 2 people who worked for him.

iii. Horace first collected the information regarding the house from a magazine. He then
prepares a duplicate key of the house and arranges some materials required for the
robbery and executed it when the residents and the servants were out of the house. He
failed because he thought that the lady was the owner of the house and got befooled
by her tricks.

iv. Even though Horace was arrested for no reason at all, he was appointed as the
assistant librarian. As he became the assistant librarian, he had access to huge
amounts of rare books which he could easily read for free. Thus, he now had an
unlimited supply of books, for which he had been stealing.

v. Yes, it is fair to say that deception is required for robbery, as seen in the chapter “A
Question of trust”. In the chapter deception wasn’t only used by Horace but was also
used by the lady in the red dress. Deception tactics are essential for planning and
executing robberies.
4.
i. The Lady in Red is a smart and tricky person in the story. She makes Horace Danby
believe she belongs to the house he is trying to rob. She is very good at staying calm
and in control, even when she meets Horace during the theft. She does not panic at
all. She is also charming and uses her charm to make Horace help her, showing how
good she is at convincing others. As soon as she shows up, she takes over, making
Horace do what she wants for her own benefit. We don’t know much about her real
background or why she does things, which makes her seem even more mysterious.
She is very clever and uses whatever she can to get what she wants, like pretending to
be someone else. Her skills at staying calm and getting things to go her way show that
she is a very clever and resourceful person. The technique she used was effective
against Horace as he hadn't researched about the original residents of the house and
thought that the lady was the owner of it.
 ii. Horace Danby's is a curious case. He was guilty of theft and yet not guilty. The lady
who got away with the jewels was the real culprit. Yet she escaped with the booty and
nobody could raise a finger at her. Horace Danby did not get anything out of this
robbery. Still he was sent to the prison. The fact is that all the legal evidence was
against Horace. His fingerprints were found all over the place. So in the eyes of law,
he was a real burglar and accordingly got imprisonment, though he did not deserve
such harsh punishment.
XXX

FOOTPRINTS WITHOUT FEET

Extract – 1
5. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.
He escaped easily enough from the boys who followed his footprints in London. But his
adventures were by no means over. He had chosen a bad time of the year to wander about
London without clothes. It was mid-winter. The air was bitterly cold and he could not do without
clothes.

i. State True or False.

None of the terms (a)-(d) can be applied to the statement — Griffin had chosen a bad time of
the year to wander about London.

a) A prediction – a statement about what will happen in the future

b) An explanation – a reason or justification for an action
c) A description – a detailed account of something
d) A complaint – an expression of dissatisfaction or annoyance

ii. Griffin’s choice to wander London in mid-winter shows his lack of _______ about the
consequences.

iii. Why couldn’t Griffin wander about London without clothes for long? Answer in about 40
words.
iv. The adjective form of the word ‘adventure’ is

A. advantage
B. adventurously
C. adventured
D. adventurous

Extract – 2
All of a sudden Mrs Hall heard a sniff close to her ear. A moment later the hat on the bedpost
leapt up and dashed itself into her face. Then the bedroom chair became alive. Springing into the
air it charged straight at her, legs foremost.

i. State True or False.

None of the terms (a) - (d) can be applied to the statement - The hat on the bedpost leapt up
and dashed itself into Mrs. Hall’s face.

(a) An illusion – something that tricks you into seeing something that isn’t real
(b) A coincidence – when things happen at the same time by chance
(c) An explanation – a reason for something
(d) An observation – watching or noticing something

ii. The moving hat and chair in Mrs. Hall’s room suggest an unseen _____________.

iii. Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the passage.

alive : dead : : Sudden : __________________.

iv. Mrs Hall’s reaction can be best described as__________________.

A. Brave, Curious
B. Captivated, Interested
C. Dreadful, Perplexed
D. Fearful, Curious

v. Infer a reason for chair’s spring into air with reference to the extract.

Short Answer Questions

1. What are the ethical issues with Griffin’s experiments? Did he have the right to make himself
invisible? Why or why not?

2. Why is it important to think about how our actions affect others? How can we apply this in
everyday life?

3. “Griffin was rather a lawless person.” Comment.

Long Answer Questions

 1. A character arc is the transformation or development of a character throughout a story and
refers to the changes a character undergoes as a result of his/her experiences, challenges and
interactions with other characters.

In the light of the above information, trace the character arc of Griffin in H.G. Well’s
‘Footprints Without Feet’.

2. Based on your reading of the textual cue given below, write a conversation between the two
characters – Mrs. Hall and Griffin.

“Mrs. Hall, the landlord’s wife made every effort to be friendly, but Griffin had no desire to
talk.”

MARKING SCHEME

EXTRACTS

2.
v. True

vi. Awareness / Foresight

vii. The air was bitterly cold in mid-winter and Griffin could not do without clothes.

viii. D - adventurous

2.

i. False
ii. presence
iii. Gradual
iii. C - Dreadful, Perplexed
ix. It is because Griffin’s invisibility.

SHORT ANSWERS

4. He does not misuse his discoveries for personal gains or selfish ends. But Griffin, though a
brilliant scientist, misuses his discovery. By his experiments, he has been able to make his
body transparent and invisible. He uses this discovery to cause harms to others.
5. People who judge and criticise behave unconsciously, they're unaware of the damage. This is
why becoming conscious and aware of our thoughts, words and actions is so important.
Everything we do has a ripple effect on other people.
6. It is rightly said that Griffin was a lawless person. A person who follows law and order of the
country can’t think of damaging others property. But Griffin set fire to the house and became
a homeless wanderer. He also robbed a shopkeeper of all the money he could find.

LONG ANSWERS

3. It is true to say that a character arc is the transformation or development of a character

throughout a story and refers to the changes a character undergoes as a result of his/her
experiences, challenges and interactions with other characters. In H.G. Well’s story
’Footprints Without Feet’, the character Griffin undergoes a significant character arc that
showcases his transformation and development throughout the narrative. Griffin is
introduced as a mysterious and invisible man who is struggling with the consequences of his
scientific experiment that rendered him unseen. As the story progresses, Griffin’s character
arc can be traced through various stages.

Introduction of Griffin At the beginning of the story, Griffin is portrayed as a reclusive and
secretive scientist who has successfully turned himself invisible. His invisibility, however,
comes with its own set of challenges and consequences, leading to his isolation from society.

Quest for reversing Invisibility Griffin’s initial motivation revolves around finding a way to
reverse his invisibility and regain his visible form. This quest drives his actions and
interactions with other characters in the story, as he seeks a solution to his predicament.

Conflict with Society Griffin’s transformation into a villain leads to conflicts with society,
as his actions become more destructive and harmful. He becomes a threat to those around
him, using his invisibility for personal gain at the expense of others.

Tragic End Depending on the interpretation of the story, Griffin’s character arc may
culminate in tragic end. He may realize the error of his ways and seek redemption for his
actions, or he may face the consequences of his villainous deeds in a tragic conclusion. Over
all, Griffin’s character arc in ‘Footprints Without Feet’ highlights the complexities of human
nature and the consequences of unchecked ambitions and power.

4. Mrs. Hall: It is such a pleasure to have you as my guest Mr…

Griffin: Never mind my name, Madam. I guess I have made my payment in advance and
you should not bother me any further.

Mrs. Hall: Well, yes of course. Thanks a lot for the payment. I was just wondering if you
would need any help with something since you seem to be in a terrible state,
these bandages and all.
 Griffin: Oh, no! All is fine with me. No concern required at all. Now, if you may please
leave me to do my important work for which I sought solitude in this village on
the outskirts of the city.

Mrs. Hall: Sure. It’s fine with me. Still, I mean in case you ever need any assistance, fiil
free to call me…

Griffin : Madam, stop begin overindulgent. I can manage all my needs. Please leave and
close the door behind you.

XXX
THE MAKING OF A SCIENTIST

Extract – 1

6. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

Then in the seventh grade he got a hint of what real science is when he entered a county science
fair – and lost. “It was really a sad feeling to sit there and not get anything while everybody else
had won something”, Ebright said. His entry was slides of frog tissues, which he showed under a
microscope. He realized the winners had tried to do real experiments, not simply make a neat
display.

i. ‘Winners had tried to do real experiments, not simply make a neat display’ – Which of the
following best replicates the idea conveyed in the given sentence from the extract?
(1)

A. A winning attitude allows you to work on the things you can control.
B. Winners strive for reality; do not do things for name sake.
C. First, accept sadness. Realize that without losing, winning isn’t so great.
D. Success is a state of Mind. If you want success, start thinking of yourself as a success.

ii. What lesson did Richard learn when he lost at the science fair?
(2)

iii. The noun form of the word ‘realize’ is ____________

(1)

A. realizing
B. real
 C. realization
D. realistic

iv. State whether the following statement is True or False :

(1)

Ebright gained a glimpse of true scientific inquiry at his early age.

Extract – 2

7. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

Ebright and his college roommate, James R Wong, work all that night drawing pictures and
constructing plastic models of molecules to show how it could happen. Together they later
wrote the paper that explained the theory. Surprising no one who knew him, Richard Ebright
graduated from Harvard with highest honours, second in his class of 1510.

i. Which of the following best describe Richard Ebright?

(1)

1. Intelligent
2. Ambidextrous
3. Passionate
4. Collaborative
5. Polymath

Select the option.

A. 1,2 and 3
B. 3,4 and 5
C. 2, 3 and 4
D. 1,3 and 4

ii. Ebright and his roommate James R Wong, worked all that night in order to
________________. (1)

iii. State any one inference about Ebright from the given context:
(1)
 Together they later wrote the paper that explained the theory.

iv. Fill in the blank with one word only.

(1)

Ebright’s academic performance at Harvard was _______________, ranking second in a

large class of 1510.

v. Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the extract.
(1)
Hole: Whole :: Rote : ____________.

Short Answer Questions

1. How can Ebright’s theory of cell life be a revolution in the medical field if it proved
correct?

2. “Failures are stepping stones to success” – Elucidate with reference to the text.

3. Richard Ebright's mother was a gentle, independent and strong lady. Justify

Long Answer Questions

1. Hobbies play a very important role in one’s life. Elaborate this with reference to “The
Making of a Scientist”.

2. Imagine you are Richard. You have been invited by Mr. Weiherer to deliver a short
address to the students at a school. You have been asked to encourage them to take an
interest in the study of science. Write a short speech.

MARKING SCHEME

Extract – 1

i. B - Winners strive for reality; do not do things for name sake.

 ii. When Richard did not win anything at the science fair, he realised that the winner had
tried to do real experiments and not simply make a neat display

iii. C – realization

iv. True

Extract – 2

i. D – 1, 3 and 4

ii. draw pictures and constructing plastic models of molecules

iii. Strongly determined / Ebright likes to work in team

iv. exceptional / unusual / extraordinary

v. Wrote

Short Answer Questions

1. If Ebright's theory on how cells work is proved to be correct, it could assist scientists a
great deal in presenting various types of cancer and other diseases. It is a big step towards
understanding the biological processes of life.

2. Some lessons are learnt in a hard way. When Ebright entered the County Science Fair,
and failed he learnt what science was all about. He realised science is not only about a
neat and tidy display of tissues on a slide. It was about the real experiments that were
performed to get some real results.

3. Richard Ebright's mother was a gentle, independent and strong lady who took care of
herself as well as her child. She furnished Ebright with his full potential. She became his
best friend, motivation, and inspiration. She would bring home friends for him and she
considered Richie as her whole life
Long Answer Questions

1. It is true that hobbies play a very important role in one’s life. It was Richard’s hobbies
that led him into the field of science. Richard Ebright was a multi-faceted and versatile
personality. He was not only man with scientific mind, but also had a panache for sports
and other-co-curricular activities such as debates, declamations, etc. He started collecting
butterflies as a hobby. But later on he had managed to collect all the twenty-five species
of butterflies that were found in his hometown and had classified them. This led him to
research and discover many things.

Science was not only his passion. He was an active member of his school’s debating club
and was an effective orator and public speaker. He was an enthusiastic canoeist and an
all-round outdoor person with a keen interest in photography. He always tried to put that
extra effort in his work. He was competitive but for the right reasons. Because of his
hobbies and interest, it was possible for him to devote time and energy to many other
interests. He was a champion, not because of his desire to win for the sake of winning but
for attempting to do his best. All of these traits of him males him a perfectly groomed
personality.

2. Good Morning everyone!

Today, I Richard Ebright, am here to encourage you to take an interest in the study of
Science and let you know how research in Science can help the world. Have you ever
thought why Science is so important for society? Science is humanity’s way of
understanding the Universe, which allows us to predict the consequences of actions, and
ultimately allows us to enhance our lives.

Scientific knowledge allows us to develop new technologies, solve practical problems,

and make informed decisions — both individually and collectively. New scientific
knowledge may lead to new applications.

Science informs public policy and personal decisions on energy, conservation,

agriculture, health, transportation, communication, defence, economics, leisure, and
exploration. It's almost impossible to overstate how many aspects of modern life are
impacted by scientific knowledge. In short, Science makes our life Better.
 * * *

XXX

THE NECKLACE

Extract – 1

8. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

And she responded, “I am vexed not to have a jewel, nothing to adorn myself with. I shall
have such a poverty-stricken look. I would prefer not to go to this party.” He replied. “You
can wear some natural flowers. In this season they look very chic.”

i. What is the tone of Matilda in the above extract? (1)

A. Fuming
B. Aggravated
C. Complaining
D. Excited

ii. Enumerate the reasons in about 40 words for Matilda’s vexation. (2)
iii. Mention an inference about Mr. Loisel’s character basing on the above extract. (1)
iv. Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the passage.

Frustrated : Vexed : : elegant : _______________ (1)

Extract – 2

9. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.
“He was silent, stupefied, in dismay, at the sight of his wife weeping. He stammered, “What is
the matter? What is the matter?”By a violent effort, she had controlled her vexation and
responded in a calm voice, wiping her moist cheeks, “Nothing. Only I have no dress and
consequently I cannot go to this affair. Give your card to some colleague whose wife is better
fitted out than I.”

i. Select the option that displays the reason why Matilda asked Mr Loisel to give the card to
some other colleague –

A. She thought that she would not look good in her old fashioned dull dresses.
B. She lost interest as Mr Loisel was an economical clerk.
C. She found that Mr Loisel couldn’t help her in buying a new dress
D. She wanted to help Mr Loisel’s friend’s wife who was better fitted out than her.

ii. State whether the following statement is True or False based on the given context.

“M Loisel over-pampered his wife and readily accepted her demands”.

iii. Pick the correct option that matches with the feelings of the highlighted words related to the
characters.

Matilda: By a violent effort, she had controlled….

M Loisel: He was grieved….

1. Matilda felt aggressive; M Loisel was troubled

2. Matilda was irritated; M Loisel was upset and cried
3. Matilda tried extremely hard; M Loisel felt intense sorrow
4. Matilda was quite calm; M Loisel’s heart ached for love

A. Only option 1
B. Options 2 and 3
C. Only option 3
D. Options 1 and4

iv. The extract includes certain words like ‘weeping’, ‘violent’ and ‘vexation’. What do they
speak about the tone of the speaker? Discuss in about 40 words.

Short Answer Questions

1. Briefly state how Matilda invited ‘a dreadful life of necessity’ into her family.

2. Why did Madame Forestier exclaim in astonishment, when she saw Matilda, years after
the Minister’s ball?

3. Mr. Loisel fulfils all the required qualities of a good husband. Justify.
Long Answer Questions

1. Mme Forestier writes a diary entry after having met Matilda, knowing the truth and
seeing the transformation in her friend. Write a short diary entry as Mme Forestier about
your encounter and how you felt.

2. The Necklace’ reveals that vanity is evil. It may bring joy for a short period but
ultimately it leads to ruin. If you were placed in a situation similar to that of Matilda,
what would you have done? Write your views.

3. “Oh! My poor Matilda! Mine was false.” Confession saves you from a lot of trouble and
sense of guilt. Justify the statement.

MARKING SCHEME

EXTRACT – 1:

i. C – complaining

ii. Matilda was simply displeased when her husband showed the invitation. She felt
humiliated and threw the invitation spitefully as she had nothing beautiful to wear to such a
grand gathering.
iii. Mr. Loisel is a caring and consideration husband.

iv. Chic

EXTRACT – 2:

i. A - She thought that she would not look good in her old fashioned dull dresses.

ii. True

iii. Only option 3

 iv. Pessimistic and frustrated. She is not content with what she has. Ungrateful - She is
ungrateful for the modest life her husband provides for her. She yearns for finer things
and constantly laments her situation.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS :

i. Matilda always wanted a life full of comforts and luxuries despite of her being born in a
middle-class family. She was very self-centered. She invited a dreadful life of necessity
into her family for her own selfish reasons which were that she wanted to show everybody
that she was also rich and could afford to wear expensive clothes and jewelry.

ii. Matilda had struggled a lot after the Minister's ball because she lost her friend's necklace
and had to compensate for it. Days of hardship ruined her beauty that she was once proud
of. She turned into a poor old lady with dry and dull looks. There was a lot of change in her
physical appearance. This is the reason Madam Forestier was shocked to see Matilda years
after the Minister's ball.

iii.Mr. Loisel was definitely fulfils all the required qualities ofa good husband. He was a kind,
loving and very caring husband. Despite of being his mere earnings, he always tried his
best to satisfy all the demands of his wife. He pampered and spoiled her to the best of his
ability

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS :

i.

Monday 20th July

10:00 pm

I was really shocked to the core to meet Matilda, my friend in the park today. I
couldn’t recognise her at all. The most beautiful girl of our gang has turned into an
ugly aged lady. wish she had told me the truth about the necklace. I can’t even
imagine what hardships she had to face over these ten years that her appearance
changed drastically. I feel guilty of the fact that she and her husband had to live a life
of extreme poverty for a necklace that wasn’t more than five hundred francs. Only if
Matilda had told me the truth of losing the necklace, she wouldn’t have to go through
this adversity.
 Madam Forestier

ii.
It is true that vanity is evil. It may bring joy for a short period but ultimately it leads to
ruin. Matilda, to get a little pleasure and to show her vanity, borrowed a diamond
necklace from her friend to wear at the minister’s party. She lost it. Mr. Loisel, her
husband took a big loan to replace it. For ten years, both of them worked hard to repay
the loan. Poor Matilda had to sacrifice her comfort, youth, softness and beauty. She
became a crude, hard, poor lady with rough hair and hands. Later, the irony was Mrs
Forestier told her that it was a false diamond necklace only for 500 francs.

If I were placed in such a situation, I would have told my friend the truth. I would have
told her that I felt extremely sorry for losing it and would have requested her to give me
some time. Also, I would have assured her that I would try my best to replace it to the
best of my ability.

iii.
Matilda’s friend Mme Forestier meets her after a long time, nearly a gap of ten years. She
does not recognize Matilda at all. She looked pathetic with old and dry skin, disheveled
hair and dull appearance. Matilda informs her about her misery and suffering she has
gone through in replacing the necklace. Mme Forestier could only sympathize with
Matilda. She could have clearlytold Matilda about the fake diamonds.But what the loss of
it brought to Matilda was irreversible. If Matilda had only taken courage and been honest
to her friend, she would still have been living comfortably without suffering for long 10
years, compromising her beauty. Thus, justifying the statement given above, her own
senseless attitude led to her ruin.

XXX

CHAPTER - BHOLI

EXTRACT 1

A. Read the extract and answer the questions .

5 marks

1. Ramlal had seven children - three sons and four daughters , and the youngest of them was
Bholi. It was a prosperous farmer's household , and there was plenty to eat and drink. All the
children except Bholi were healthy and strong. The sons had been sent to schools and later in
colleges. Of the daughters, Radha, the eldest , had already been married. The second daughter
Mangla's marriage had also been set, and when that was done, Ramlal would think of the
third ,Champa.

i. In the above extract it is clear that the sons in the family had been sent to schools and
colleges but not about daughters because :
1

a) the writer is gender biased.

b) the daughters hadn't been sent to schools for the tradition of the society .

c) they were also educated in the same way as they belonged to a well to do family.

d ) the narrator wants to highlight the education of sons and marriage of daughters.

ii.Complete the analogy.

1

Nutritious : Healthy ; well to do :______

iii. All the children except Bholi were healthy and strong. State what might be the reasons for it.
2

iv. Infer your impression about the society from the given extract.
1

EXTRACT 2

2. “Let her wear some decent clothes today or else what will the teachers and the other
schoolgirls think of us when they see her? New clothes had never been made for Bholi. The old
dresses of her sisters were passed on to her. No one cared to mend or wash her clothes. But today
she was lucky to receive a clean dress which had shrunk after many washings and no longer
fitted Champa.”

i. Pick the sentence that brings out the meaning of ‘decent' as used in the extract
1

a)He gets a decent amount of salary

b)One must be decent when having a conservation with strangers

c)She was dressed in a decent manner for the interview

d)It was very decent of him to lend me some money

ii. “I am only taking you to school.” How would you describe Ramlal’s mood when he says this
to Bholi?1

a) Petrified

b) Perplexed

c) Nauseated

d) Heavenly

iii. Which of the following options describes the meaning of ‘passed on’ as used in the extract?
1

a) We should remember our family members who have passed on.

b) Three weeks passed on the cruise.

c) An education bill is passed on the 6th of August.

d) The secretary passed on her birthday gift to her sister.

iv.Why was Bholi reluctant to go to school initially? Explain.

2 .Short Answer Questions ( 3 marks)

B. Answer the questions (40- 60 words )

1.. After reading the story ‘Bholi’, point out the way she was treated in her family.

2. Bholi became a masterpiece in the hand of her teacher. Elucidate.

3. Bholi was not sent to school by her parents to improve her standard of knowledge .Her
parents had some other motive. Bring the other reasons of her parents to light.

Long Questions (6 marks)

C. Answer the questions (100 -120 words )

1. the social attitude towards Bholi make her introvert. Suggest what should be done to help
such children to face the world bravely.
2. Bholi is a child different from others. This difference makes her an object of neglect and
laughter. Elaborate this and write a few lines advising other children suffering like her how to
overcome this situation .

ANSWERS

EXTRACT 1

A. Read the extract and answer the following questions.

i. b) the. daughters hadn't been sent to schools for the tradition of the society.
ii. wealthy

iii. She was a neglected child in the family. Moreover she was affected with measles in her
childhood and had lost a part of her brain falling from cot. Thus she was weak and backward.

iv. rudimental and orthodox society.

Importance was given to the education of boys and marriage of the girls

EXTRACT 2

i. c) She was dressed in a decent manner for the interview.

ii. b) Perplexed

iii. d) The secretary passed on her birthday gift to her sister

iv.. Bholi thought she was being sold away by her parents like their cow Laxmi and she was
going to be handed over to a butcher . So she was quite reluctant to go to school.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS ( 3 MARKS)

B. Answer the following questions. (40- 60 words )

1.Bholi was the youngest daughter in her family. She was neither good looking nor intelligent.
So her father Ramlal was worried about her how she would marry. She was a neglected child in
the family.No one combed or oiled her hair. She was given worn out dresses which were no
longer fit to her elder sisters .Even if her parents knew that no one would marry her if she went
to school ,her parents sent her there.

2. Bholi who was quite afraid and reluctant to come to school and couldn’t utter her name, felt
great joy and inspired by the teacher on the first of her school. The teacher transferred a
simpleton girl into a well behaved and confident girl. She instilled knowledge and courage in
her. The teacher put in all her hard work to enable her speak words clearly and think wisely ,
for which she could avoid her disgraceful marriage and assured her parents that she could stand
on her feet and take care of him in her old age. It was really a masterpiece of the teacher.

3. Bholi was sent to school for unusual reasons. The tehsildar had advised Bholi's father,
Ramlal, to send his daughters to school. The main reason that Bholi had little chance of getting
married due to her physical appearance and speech difficulties. Sending her to school was a way
to get rid from her . And also a way to improve her prospects and give her a chance for a better
future.

LONG QUESTIONS 6
MARKS

C. Answer of the questions (100 -120 words )

1. The social attitude towards Bholi considering her a ‘dumb cow’ , made her feel inferior and
less self confident. Bholi was constantly ridiculed and laughed at by others , which made her
withdraw into herself and become introvert. She feared speaking up because of her stammering
and fear of being ridiculed further .

To help such children to face the world bravely ,it is essential to change the social attitude
towards them. They should be treated with love, care, and respect just like other children.
Encouragement, support and understanding from parents, teachers and society can make a
significant difference in their lives. Creating a safe and inclusive environment where they feel
accepted and valued will help them build up confidence and overcome their insecurities.
Providing opportunities for their talents to shine and recognizing their achievements will boost
their self esteem . Additionally, counseling and therapy can also be help beneficial in helping
them overcome their fear and develop the necessary skills to face the world bravely.

2. Bholi, originally named Sulekha ,was considered as different from other children due to her
physical appearance, mental impairment and speech difficulties. When she was ten months old ,
she fell on her head, resulting in damage to a part of her head. At the age of two , she contracted
small pox which left deep pock marks on her entire body except her eyes. Additionally Bholi
couldn’t speak clearly and stammered when she spoke. This made her a target of mockery and
laughter by the other children further isolating her .

Due to her differences Bholi was neglected and treated indifferently even by her family. She
remained a quiet and introvert child choosing not to speak much to avoid being ridiculed.
However when she started going to school her life began to change. Her teacher provided her
with the necessary encouragement, inspiration and love, which boosted her confidence and
transformed her into a smart, fearless and confident girl. Bholi’s teacher played a crucial role in
changing the course of her life, showing with the right support and education. Children who are
considered different can overcome negligence and laughter and become empowered individuals
being powered with education.

THE BOOK THAT SAVED THE EARTH

EXTRACT -1

I Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

Think-Tank: That’s better Noodle, I wish to be placed in communication with our manned
space probe to that ridiculous little planet we are going to put under our generous rulership.
What do they call it again?

Noodle: Earth, your intelligence.

Think – Tank: Earth – of course. You see how insignificant the place is? But first something
important my mirror I wish to consult my mirror.

i. Think-Tank wants to communicate with the ____________________.

(1)
A. people of Earth
B. scientists on Earth
C. environmentalists on Earth
D. Martians on Earth

ii. Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the passage.
(1)
Read : Learn :: Explore : _____________.

iii. What does Think-Tank want to do? Is he successful and why / why not? Answer in about 40
words.(2)

iv. Which of the following best describes Think-Tank?

(1)
A. Unkind and inconsiderate
B. Proud and intelligent
C. Unusual in appearance and lacked common sense
D. Compassionate and confident
 EXTRACT -2

II Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.

Think–Tank: Mirror, mirror, in my hand. Who is the most fantastically intellectually gifted
being in the land?
Off stage voice: You, sir.
Think-Tank: Quicker. Answer quicker next time. I hate a slow mirror. (He admires himself
in the mirror.) Ah, there I am. Are we Martians not a handsome race? So much more attractive
than those ugly Earthlings with their tiny heads. Noodle, you keep on exercising your mind,
and someday you’ll have a balloon brain just like mine.
Noodle: Oh, I hope so, Mighty Think-Tank. I hope so.
Think- Tank: Now, contact the space probe. I want to invade that primitive ball of mud called Earth
before lunch.
Noodle: It shall be done, sir. (He adjusts levers on switchboard. Electronic buzzes and beeps
are beard as the curtains open.)

i Think-Tank’s interaction with the mirror reveals his extreme arrogance. Substantiate your
answer in about 30-40 words.
(2)

ii State whether True or False.

(1)
Noodle’s hopeful response to Think-Tank’s comment lends an insight into the rich heritage
and culture of the Martian society.

iii Select the appropriate option to fill the blank. The desire to conquer a “primitive ball of mud”
reflects a _________________ mindset.
(1)

A. Diplomatic
B. Colonial
C. Conciliatory
D. Democratic

iv The playwright’s decision to put certain content in brackets serves the purpose of
3. “An old book of nursery rhymes saved the Earth form a Martian
invasion”. Justify.

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS

1.A Satire is when a person, idea, or institution is criticised by highlig

using humour. Describe how “The Book That Saved the Earth”
supporting examples from the text.

2. Discuss 'The Book That Saved The Earth,' written by Claire Bo

drama.

__________________.
(1)

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Based on “The Book That Saved the Earth”, State how jumping to conclusions had an
unintended consequence for the Martians.

2. Describe briefly how the Martians reach upon the correct application of the book.

EXTRACT 1
 i. D – Martians on Earth
ii. Probe
iii. Think-Tank wants to rule over the Earth. No, he is not successful in his project as he misinterprets
nursery rhymes and thinks that the Earthlings what to capture him Mars.
iv. C - Unusual in appearance and lacked common sense

EXTRACT 2

i He seeks confirmation of his intellectual superiority and places high value on physical appearance – hi
contempt for Earthlings and admiration for Martian aesthetics show a superiority complex rooted in
intelligence and appearance.
ii False (its more about Think-Tank’s mindset on Martian society rather than Martian heritage and culture)
iii B - Colonial
iv. Providing stage directions intended for the actors, directors, or production team rather than the audience.

1.

It is true to say that jumping to conclusion had an unintended consequence for the Martians.
Think-Tank had planned a Martian invasion of Earth based on the assumption that the Martians
were a more advanced race than the Earthlings. However, due to his incorrect interpretation of
some nursery rhymes, the Martians had to hurriedly leave Earth and evacuate Mars.

2.

Initially, when Martians found the books in the library, they took them to be sandwiches or
communication device. Later when they realised the real use of books, they were asked to take
certain vitamins. This helped them reach upon the correct application of books.

3.
The invasion of the Earth was stopped because the Martian Commander-in-Chief misinterpreted
the rhyme “Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.” Think-Tank interpreted the word ‘shells’ ‘silver’
and ‘garden’ to be representative of superior weapons. Further, he saw an image of Humpty
which looked like him and thought that the Earthling were planning to capture Mars Central
Control and him. He ordered the invasion fleet to evacuate the entire planet of Mars.

LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS

1.

A satire is when a person, idea, or institution is criticised by highlighting their faults and
weaknesses using humour. Considering this definition, ‘The Book That Saved the Earth’ can be
considered as satire because it uses humour and exaggeration to criticise and mock the Martians’
intelligence. The Martians misinterpreted Earth’s books, especially the nursery rhymes. This
creates a satirical commentary on cultural misunderstandings and the dangers of jumping to
conclusions.

In the end, it was simple book of nursery rhymes that became the key to save the Earth from the
invasion by an alien military force, creating an ironic and satirical twist to the story. Think-
Tank’s intelligence is described in exaggerated terms as the ‘most powerful and intelligent
creature in the whole universe’. He is even described as having a large ‘balloon brain’. This is an
example of satire and mockery as Think-Tank is shown to be more pompous than intelligent.

2.
Ans. This lesson is about a nursery book called "Mother Goose." The play's plot is set in the twentieth
century, and it depicts an attempt by a Martian named Think-Tank and his crew to attack Earth. When
his crew arrived at an Earth library, they were perplexed as to what books were for. They were initially
misled by Think-Tank, which mistook those weird things (books) for 'sandwiches.' They eventually
discovered that the books are intended for 'communication' with the help of Noodle's (Think-Tank's
assistant's) advice. They took vitamins and were able to read the book after that because it was tough for
them to read stuff from the books.

The book they chose to read was "Mother Goose," a collection of nursery rhymes. Think-Tank
felt terrified and disturbed after hearing lines like "a cow jumped over the moon, and a little dog
laughed to see the cow's act, and a dish ran away with a spoon" transcribed by the crew. Think-
Tank believed that Earthlings have advanced to the point where even pets are raised with
emotions and that Earthlings could invade Mars with millions of cows.

Furthermore, since the image of 'Humpty Dumpty' resembled Think-Tank, he was terrified of the
lines 'Humpty Dumpty had a great fall,' fearing that Earthlings would seize Mars
and overthrow Think-Tank.

As Think-Tank was afraid of the poetry words from 'Mother Goose,' he ordered his crew to
return to Mars rather than invade Earth. He also fled to Alpha Centauri, a star closer to our solar
system. The play concludes with the moral that things should be analysed rather than taken
at face value. Hence, this is a fictional, comic drama.