SET 2

KENDRIYA VIDYALAYA SANGATHAN HYDERABAD REGION

SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER 2024 – 25

CLASS-X
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184)
MARKING SCHEME
Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80

SECTION A: READING SKILLS (20 Marks)

I.
1) The report predicted that an increase in catastrophic weather conditions worldwide would create
more demand for American troops, even as flooding and disastrous weather could damage naval
ports and military bases.
2) The author’s tone can be described as worried or concerned. The author creates anxiety about the
worsening effects by referring to climate change effects as ‘stress multipliers’ that intensify
already existing problems including poverty environmental degradation political instability and
social tensions.
3) (c) The destruction of forests and loss of biodiversity.
4) (a) Catastrophic and disastrous
5) (c) The increase in intensity and severity of ethnic tensions, leading to violence.
6) The passage shows that the effects of climate change act as stress multipliers, Increasing poverty,
environmental degradation, political instability and social tensions.
7) False (The passage is Factual, not narrative)
8) (a) They can quickly escalate into widespread and intense problems.

II.
1. Drug abuse among the younger generation is fueled by shifting cultural values, where traditional
norms are often disregarded. Increasing economic stress and uncertainty contribute to escapism
through substances. Additionally, dwindling supportive bonds, including weakened family and
community ties, leave youth more vulnerable to addiction.
2. (d) All of these
3. (b) Nearly 122
4. (b) Ten lakh
5. (d) 1,2 and 3
6. (b) follow an old ritual
7. (c) 8.9%
8. (d) 1 may/may not be a drug addict and 2 often consumes drugs
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SECTION B: GRAMMAR & WRITING SKILLS (20 Marks)

GRAMMAR:10 M

III.Attempt ANY TEN of the following questions:

i. b) outlines
ii. where he would go the next day.
iii. b) a most – the most
iv. c) has been
v. Ravi told Parth that he could use Mac and had also used Windows 11 once.
vi. a) can
vii.

Error Correction

was Were

viii. d) what she wanted as a gift.

ix. c) had left
x. b) the
xi. d) a few
xii. It is anyone who shows kindness and compassion to others.

WRITING:10M
IV. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below: 5
marks

Letter writing
Format-1 mark
(Sender’s address. Date, Receiver’s address, Subject and Salutation, body of the letter,
Complimentary close (largely accepted: Yours truly/yours sincerely formal/business)
Content- 2 marks
Well-developed with sustained clarity
Organisation of ideas-1 mark
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1 mark -- Consistent to frequent display of the listed parameters.

Highly effective style capable of conveying the ideas convincingly with appropriate layout of a
formal letter viz. addresses, salutation, subscription, and ending.
Carefully structured content with organised paragraphing presented cohesively.
Accuracy-1 mark
Spelling, punctuation and grammar consistently/largely accurate, with occasional minor errors,
that do not impede communication.

V. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given: 5

marks

Analytical Paragraph Writing

Content – 2 Marks
All points included
Well-developed with sustained clarity
Organisation of ideas -2 marks
Highly effective style capable of conveying the ideas convincingly
Carefully structured content with an organised single paragraph, presented cohesively
Highly effective register (formal tone and vocabulary), relevant and appropriate
sentences for conveying the ideas precisely and effectively
Accuracy - 1mark
Spelling, punctuation and grammar consistently/largely accurate, with occasional minor errors,
that do not impede communication.

SECTION C : LITERATURE (40 Marks)

VI. Reference to the Context (10 Marks)

1. Attempt ANY ONE of the two extracts given: (1 X 5
= 5)
A. i. d) Anger
ii. The language used deepens the readers empathy. The highly descriptive narrative technique
Make the reader more empathetic of the plight of Lencho.
iii. difficulty
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iv. In the story, The Postmaster acted like God by responding to Lencho’s desperate letter with
kindness. He gathered money from himself and others to help, signing the letter as ‘God’. This
mirrored God’s generosity, showing compassion and faith in Lencho’s belief.
OR
B. i. In ‘The Thief’ by Ruskin Bond, "I" refers to the narrator, a young 15-year-old boy named
Hari Singh. He was a successful hand at stealing, as he had developed the skills of a thief and was
adept at robbing people without getting caught.
ii. c) Intricate
iii. d) Only one may define flattery as a base companionship which is most advantageous
to the flatterer.

2. . Attempt ANY ONE of the given two extracts: (1 X 5

= 5)
A. i. change or transformation (any relevant word)
ii. The speaker’s observation carries a sense of optimism and hope for the future of the forest. The
transformation from emptiness to fullness by morning suggests a positive change and a belief in
the resilience of nature.
iii. d. This bird so small and
Sings aloud in the morn
Perched on a green branch
Singing its own melody.
iv. The poet had used rich imagery to describe the movement of trees from inside the house to
outside the forest. This imagery paints a visual picture of the forest coming to life as the trees
return back to it.
B. i. Anne Gregory’s portrayal here shows her concern about being loved only for her
appearance. She feels that if she alters her hair colour it might force people to focus on her true
self instead of her physical beauty. This reflects her desire for a deeper, more genuine kind of love
that values her personality and character over her external features.
ii. b) Option 2 & 3
iii. a) 1 and 3
iv. In “young men in despair”, the word ‘despair’ carries a significant emotional burden,
conjuring feelings of helplessness and agony The word choice emphasizes the intense emotional
conflict that the young men are experiencing and adds to the poems melancholic tone. OR
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In the phrase "young men in despair" from the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’, the mood depicted is
one of sadness and frustration. The tone is somewhat melancholic and reflective, suggesting the
emotional turmoil young men feel due to their unreciprocated or superficial love for Anne, based
solely on her outward beauty. (other similar points can be considered)

VII. Answer ANY FOUR of the following in about 40-50 words: 4x3= 12M

(Points/ answers given are suggestive only. Other relevant points can also be considered)

a. 1. Humorous Observations: In ‘From the Diary of Anne Frank’, Anne uses humor to cope with
the grim realities of hiding, describing her family’s quirks and the absurdities of their situation,
which helps maintain a sense of normalcy. 2. Wit in Adversity: Her wit shines when discussing
her relationship with her mother, allowing her to express frustrations while keeping a positive
perspective on their confined life. 3. Lighthearted Moments: Anne finds joy in small activities,
like creating plays, showcasing her resilience and creativity in the face of hardship. 4. Bonding
with Others: Her humor strengthens relationships in the Annex, lightening tense moments and
providing positivity. 5. Maintaining Hope: By incorporating humor into her diary, Anne reflects
her hope for a better future, demonstrating that laughter can be a powerful tool for coping with
challenges.
b. In Robert Frost's poem ‘Fire and Ice’, the choice of words like "perish" and "destruction" evokes
a stark imagery associated with both fire and ice. "Perish" suggests a violent end, linking fire to
passionate desires that can lead to ruin, while "destruction" conveys a sense of cold, calculated
annihilation associated with ice and hatred. This juxtaposition amplifies the theme of human
emotions' destructive potential, illustrating how both love and hate can lead to the same tragic
outcome. Ultimately, Frost's diction emphasizes the duality of human nature and the inevitable
consequences of unchecked emotions, whether fiery or icy.
c. Valli’s decision to take the bus ride alone in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ showcases the independence
and adventurous spirit characteristic of today’s generation. Her determination reflects a desire for
self-discovery and exploration, as she defies societal norms and the expectations placed on her by
her mother. Valli’s careful planning, such as observing the bus schedule and saving money,
highlights her resourcefulness and maturity. Additionally, her excitement about experiencing the
world beyond her small village resonates with the contemporary inclination to seek new
experiences. Ultimately, Valli's actions embody the courage to pursue freedom and individuality,
mirroring the aspirations of today’s youth.
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d. The line “Lord and master, give me the medicine that will cure my boy” from ‘Sermon at
Benares’ paints a poignant picture of desperation and dependence. It reflects a mother's
helplessness in the face of her child's suffering, appealing to a higher power for relief. This plea
emphasizes the themes of faith and the human condition, as the mother acknowledges her
inability to control life and death. The line illustrates the emotional turmoil of losing a loved one
and the hope for divine intervention, underscoring the overarching message of impermanence in
life. Ultimately, it highlights the universal struggle for solace and healing.
e. In Mijbil, the Otter, several peculiar behaviors illustrate the unique personality of otters: 1.
Playfulness: Mijbil displays a playful nature, enjoying games such as rolling a ball and splashing
in water, which showcases otters' natural inclination toward play and exploration. 2. Intelligence:
Mijbil exhibits problem-solving skills, like figuring out how to open containers, highlighting
otters' intelligence and curiosity about their environment. 3. Affectionate Bonding: Mijbil’s
affectionate behavior toward the narrator demonstrates the strong bonds otters form with their
human companions, emphasizing their social nature. 4. Water Exploration: His love for water is
evident, as he spends hours swimming and diving, showcasing the otter's natural habitat and
adaptability. 5. Unique Communication: Mijbil’s vocalizations and gestures illustrate otters'
distinct ways of expressing themselves, reflecting their complex social behaviors.

VIII. Attempt any TWO out of the following questions given below in 40-50 words each (2x3 = 6)

a) In ‘The Midnight Visitor’, Ausable demonstrates remarkable quick thinking and resourcefulness
when confronted by an intruder. Instead of succumbing to fear, he cleverly fabricates a story
about a balcony and a gun, convincing the intruder that he is in greater danger than he actually is.
This tactic not only distracts the intruder but also allows Ausable to regain control of the situation.
His ability to think on his feet highlights the significance of mental agility in overcoming
adversity and ensuring personal safety.
b) In ‘The Making of a Scientist’, Richard E. Bright’s insatiable curiosity drives his scientific
journey, illustrating the importance of questioning and exploration. His early experiments, fueled
by a desire to understand the world, demonstrate that curiosity is essential for scientific inquiry.
Grant's experiences highlight how persistence in the face of failure fosters resilience, encouraging
future scientists to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning. Furthermore, his emphasis on
observation and experimentation showcases that a hands-on approach can lead to innovation,
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inspiring future generations to develop creative solutions to complex problems and advance their
fields with confidence and creativity.
c) If Madame Loisel had embraced her modest circumstances in ‘The Necklace’, her life could have
taken a more fulfilling direction. 1. Contentment with Reality: Accepting her life as a middle-
class woman would have led her to appreciate her existing comforts, such as her loving husband
and a stable home. 2. Avoidance of Materialism: By recognizing the value of her identity beyond
wealth, she would have avoided the desire to borrow the necklace, which ultimately led to her
downfall. 3. Emphasis on Inner Qualities: Embracing her true self would have allowed her to
develop inner qualities such as resilience and gratitude, fostering a deeper sense of happiness
rather than chasing superficial aspirations. Ultimately, valuing her reality could have prevented
the decade of hardship she faced after losing the necklace.

IX. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 100-120 words. 6 M

A. Content- 3 Marks Expression- 2 Marks Accuracy- 1 Mark
Value Points:
1. Nostalgia for Tradition: The proverb highlights the deep-rooted nostalgia among the elders in Goa
for the Portuguese influence, particularly in culinary practices, emphasizing how traditional skills
like baking bread have cultural significance and are cherished memories.
2. Culinary Heritage: In ‘A Baker from Goa’, the art of baking bread is portrayed as an important
cultural practice passed down through generations, showcasing the baker’s skill and the
communal joy associated with freshly baked loaves, which unite the community.
3. Symbol of Community: The loaf of bread symbolizes more than just food; it represents a way of
life and the close-knit relationships within the Goan community, illustrating how traditional
practices foster social bonds and shared identity.
4. Preservation of Skills: The chapter emphasizes the significance of traditional baking skills that
have been preserved through time, reflecting the value of maintaining cultural heritage in the face
of modernity, as seen in the continued respect for the baker's craft.
5. Cultural Identity: The reminiscence of the "good old Portuguese days" underscores the importance
of cultural identity in shaping the Goan community, as the memories associated with traditional
baking evoke a sense of pride and belonging that reinforces their unique heritage.
OR
B. Content- 3 Marks Expression- 2Marks Accuracy- 1 Marks
Value Points:
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1. Struggle for Independence: In ‘His First Flight’, the quote reflects the young seagull's struggle to
break free from the constraints of his nest, symbolizing the natural instinct to seek independence
and face challenges head-on.
2. Fear of Failure: The young seagull initially hesitates to fly due to his fear of falling, mirroring the
idea that growth often requires confronting and overcoming one's fears, as seen when he finally
takes the leap.
3. Parental Influence: The seagull’s parents encourage him to fly, highlighting the role of support and
guidance in overcoming obstacles. This demonstrates that having a supportive environment can
foster resilience and determination.
4. Moment of Courage: The act of taking flight represents a pivotal moment of courage for the young
seagull, illustrating how facing fears can lead to personal growth and achievement.
5. Transformation Through Experience: Once the young seagull successfully flies, he realizes that
his struggles were necessary for his transformation, reinforcing the idea that overcoming
challenges is essential for development and success.
X. Answer ANY one of the following questions: 6M
Content- 3 Marks Expression- 2Marks Accuracy- 1 Mark
Value Points:
A.“ 1. Bholi's Transformation: In Bholi, the teacher’s kindness and encouragement help Bholi gain
confidence, transforming her from a timid, self-conscious girl to a bold, self-assured individual.
2. Compassion of the Teacher: The teacher’s genuine care and belief in Bholi's potential show how
kindness can uplift someone who feels neglected and insecure.
3. Trust in Hari Singh: In The Thief's Story, Anil’s trust in the young thief, despite knowing his
intentions, leads to Hari Singh's internal conflict and eventual change of heart.
4. Anil’s Forgiveness: When Hari Singh steals but later returns the money, Anil’s silent forgiveness
and trust provide him the chance to reform, demonstrating the power of compassion in
encouraging change.
5. Self-Worth in Bholi: Bholi’s growing self-worth is a direct result of the trust placed in her by her
teacher, showing how belief in someone can inspire confidence and strength.
6. Hari Singh’s Redemption: The kindness shown by Anil instills a sense of moral responsibility in
Hari Singh, prompting him to choose honesty over theft.
7. Impact of Trust: Both stories highlight how trust and compassion can lead individuals to reflect on
their actions and embrace positive change, proving that small acts of kindness can indeed change
lives.
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OR
B.1. Misinterpretation of the Nursery Rhyme: In ‘The Book that Saved the Earth’, the Martians
misinterpret a simple nursery rhyme from ‘Mother Goose’ as a serious military threat,
demonstrating how partial understanding can lead to incorrect conclusions.
2. Failure of Martian Intelligence: The Martians' lack of full comprehension of Earth’s culture and
literature results in them panicking over harmless rhymes, showing the dangers of acting on
incomplete knowledge.
3. Escalation of Fear: The Martians’ limited understanding causes unnecessary fear and tension,
illustrating how half-knowledge can lead to overreactions and poor decision-making.
4. Preventing Logical Action: The Martians’ inability to fully grasp the situation stops them from
making informed decisions, emphasizing that half knowledge hinders logical, well-thought-out
responses.
5. Comedy of Errors: The chapter humorously portrays how dangerous and absurd outcomes arise
when individuals act on incomplete information, highlighting the critical need for complete
understanding before making decisions.

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