SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER

ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184)

CLASS-X- (2024-25)
Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80
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General Instructions:
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question paper contains THREE sections – Section – A: Reading Skills

Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills Section – C: Literature Textbook

3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part.
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SECTION A
READING SKILLS

Q.1Read the below given English unseen passage for the Class 10 exam.
The choices we make on a daily basis—wearing a seatbelt, lifting heavy objects correctly or purposely staying out of
any dangerous situation—can either ensure our safety or bring about potentially harmful circumstances.

You and I need to make a decision that we are going to get our lives in order. Exercising self-control, self-discipline
and establishing boundaries and borders in our lives are some of the most important things we can do. A life without
discipline is one that’s filled with carelessness.

We can think it’s kind of exciting to live life on the edge. We like the image of “Yeah! That’s me! Living on the edge!
Woo-hoo!” It’s become a popular way to look at life. But if you see, even highways have lines, which provide margins
for our safety while we’re driving. If we go over one side, we’ll go into the ditch. If we cross over the line in the
middle, we could get killed. And we like those lines because they help to keep us safe. Sometimes we don’t even
realize how lines help to keep us safe.

I’m not proud of this, but for the first 20 years of my life at work, I ignored my limits. I felt horrible, physically, most of
the time. I used to tell myself, “I know I have limits and that I’ve reached them, but I’m going to ignore them and see
if or how long I can get by with it.” I ran to doctors, trying to make myself feel better through pills, vitamins, natural
stuff and anything I could get my hands on. Some of the doctors would tell me, “It’s just stress.” That just made me
mad. I thought stress meant you don’t like what you do or can’t handle life, and I love what I do. But I kept pushing
myself, travelling, doing speaking engagements and so on— simply exhausting myself.

Finally, I understood I was living an unsustainable life and needed to make some changes in my outlook and
lifestyle.You and I don’t have to be like everyone else or keep up with anyone else. Each of us needs to be exactly the
way we are, and we don’t have to apologize for it. We’re not all alike, and we need to find a comfort zone in which we
can enjoy our lives instead of making ourselves sick with an overload of stress and pressure.

On the basis of understanding the passage, answer ANY TEN questions from the twelve that follow. (1×10=10)
Q1) Which of the characteristics are apt about the writer in the following context: “I know I have limits and that I’ve
reached them, but I’m going to ignore them and see if or how long I can get by with it.” ?
1. negligent 2. Indecisive 3. Spontaneous 4. Reckless 5. Purposeless 6. patient

a) 2 and 5 b) 3 and 6 c) 1 and 4 d) 2 and 3

Q2) The reason why living on the edge has become popular is because of the

a) constant need for something different.

b) population being much younger.

c) exhausting effort to make changes.

d) strong tendency to stay within our limits.

Q3) The phrase “potentially harmful circumstances” refers to circumstances that can

(a) certainly be dangerous.

(b) be fairly dangerous.

(c) be possibly dangerous.

(d) seldom be dangerous.

Q4). Choose the option that correctly states the two meanings of ‘outlook’, as used in the passage.

1. A person’s evaluation of life 2. A person’s experiences in life 3. A person’s point of view towards life

4. A person’s regrets in life 5. A person’s general attitude to life

a) (1) and (4) b) (2) and (3) c) (3) and (5) d) (4) and (5)

Q5) Choose the option that best captures the central idea of the passage from the given quotes.

1. It’s all about quality of life and finding a happy balance between work and friends.

2. To go beyond is as wrong as to fall short.

3. Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.

4. Balance is not something you find. It’s something you create.

a) Option (1) b) Option (2) c) Option (3) d) Option (4)

Q6) The author explains the importance of discipline and boundaries in our lives using the example of

a) road accidents. b) traffic rules. c) lines on the highway.

2.Read the following text. 10

(1)A thorough study conducted across several villages of north-west India unveiled fascinating insights into the mural*
landscape. It revealed that a significant majority, comprising around 80%, of these vibrant artworks are meticulously
crafted by the villagers themselves. Approximately 15% of the murals stem from collaborative endeavours between
villagers and local or visiting artists.
(2)Surprisingly, a small fraction, about 5%, of the murals are the result of sponsored initiatives, often commissioned by
governmental or non-governmental organisations. These murals convey social messages ranging from education and
environmental conservation to public health awareness.

(3)Among the locally crafted murals, nearly 55% depict scenes from mythology and folklore, celebrating the rich cultural
heritage of the region. About 26 % of these murals showcase daily life in the villages, capturing moments of joy, struggle,
and victory. The remaining 19% feature abstract or contemporary themes, reflecting evolving artistic expressions in rural
settings.

(4)Further analysis reveals that among the locally crafted murals, nearly 63% are found on the walls of community
centres, temples, and other public spaces. Around 27 % adorn the exterior walls of residential houses. The remaining
10% are scattered across schools, health centres, and other institutional buildings, serving as educational tools and
sources of inspiration for the younger generation.

(5)To delve deeper, comparisons across various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques,
community engagement, and impact are crucial. Analysing these facets not only provides a comprehensive
understanding of mural creation in northwest Indian villages but also unveils avenues for cultural preservation,
community development, and creative expression.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above

I)What does the use of the phrase 'fascinating insights' by the writer, in paragraph 1, tell us about their feelings?

A. The writer is expressing surprise.

B. The writer is conveying boredom and frustration.

C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.

D. The writer is showing disappointment. 1

II) Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.

Assertion: The murals in northwest Indian villages are meticulously crafted.

Reason: The murals are the result of collaborative endeavours.

A. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

B. Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

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

D. The assertion is false, but the reason is true. 1

III )Identify the word that indicates that the writer anticipated a higher percentage of sponsored initiative murals?

IV)How do the murals in northwest Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness? 1

V) Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank.

In Hari's village, a mural depicting sustainable farming practices is showcased on the Panchayat office wall.

The percentage of mural type that this would be counted in is. (26% / 19% / 55%) 1
VI) What does the highest percentage of different mural themes suggest about the artistic preferences and cultural
priorities in northwest Indian villages? 1

VII) Complete the sentence suitably.

The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses highlight. 1

VIII) Complete the following with a suitable reason.

The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an ‘educational tool’ is because it can . 1

IX) In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various parameters such as demographic
patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact in understanding the mural landscape in
northwest Indian villages. 2

SECTION B: WRITINGSKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)

GRAMMAR
3.Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.
I) Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal letter: Dear Mr. Patel,We are
pleased to inform you that your proposal for the upcoming project by the board of directors_____________.

A. had endorsed

B. will have been endorsed

C. has been endorsed

D. have endorsed 1

II) Read the given sentence from a marketing report. Identify the error and supply the correction in the given
format.The company continues to strives tirelessly to meet customer demands. 1

III) Rhea asked the following question to her colleague, Deepak. Have you finalised the magazine content to be
submitted tomorrow? Report Rhea’s question correctly

IV)Complete the given school announcement by selecting the correct option to fill in the blank.Good news, everyone!
Our school's robotics team has successfully______________a place in the semi-finals.

A. securing B. secured C. will secure D. had secured 1

V) Report the dialogue between a teacher and a student, by completing sentence. Teacher: Did everyone understand
the new assignment?

Students: Yes, we all got it, thank you! The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment, to which
the students , expressing their gratitude. 1

VI)Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from a handbook for managers. The manager consider
the proposal before making a decision.

A. will B. should C. might D. can 1

VII)Complete the given sentence about the reaction of some friends, by selecting the correct option:

The group of friends excited at the prospect of their upcoming adventure.

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

 VIII) Identify the modal verb in the following sentences. 2M
1. My teacher (can/must) speak four languages.
2. (May/should) I use your mobile to call my mother?
3. You (must/could) not speak loudly in the hospital.
4. I (could/must) use a little help in packing all these clothes.
5. Madam (could/may) you repeat what you said?
6. I (can/might) not be able to make it tonight.
7. Sheldon (ought to/must) study more if he wants to pass the test.
8. (Can/May) you come to the prom with me?
IX) Go through the following sentences and fill in the blanks with the suitable form of the verbs given in brackets.1
1. All my friends _________ here. (be)
2. I _________ the guitar. (play)
3. They _________ packed all that they will need for the trip. (have)
4. Samantha, Rachel and Sheena _________ eighth-grade students. (be)

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

4A)You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in about 120 words, to the Project
Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse effects of e-waste*
pollution. Suggest measures for addressing its management through community engagement and government
initiatives.
* Discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions, which are no longer in use or have
reached the end of their lifecycle. 5

OR

4B)You are Chhavi Pathak of Ranchi, Bihar. Write a letter in about 120 words addressing the Secretary of the City
Municipal Authority. Detail the problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in the neighbourhood and request the
delegation of personnel for regular pruning.

5A) Read the product details on a label for a school bag: 5

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ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG
1. Made from recycled materials
2. Ergonomic* design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel
3. Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers 4.Reflective strips for visibility and safety
5. Water-resistant fabric
6. Available in various vibrant colours and patterns
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Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words,
considering factors such as its eco- friendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects, and design options.
* Design that is intended to maximise comfort, efficiency, and safety for the user
OR
5B)Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area.
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 A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture, such as a miniature fort, with multiple levels
and slides.
 Swings adorned with colorful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a zip line.
 A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers
 Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional
chaupals or gazebos.
 Trees, shrubs, and flower beds
 Ample open space
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Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this playground.
Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, suitability for different age
groups, and overall experience.

6)Read the given extracts and answer any one of the two questions given below 5
A) With a loud scream he fell outwards and given downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his
heart stood still. He could hear nothing. But it only lasted a minute. The next moment he felt his wings spread
outwards. The wind rushed against his breast feathers, then under his stomach, and against his wings. He could feel
the tips of his wings cutting through the air. He was not falling headlong now. He was soaring gradually downwards
and outwards. (HisFirst Flight)

I)What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the baby seagull? 1
With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart
stood still.
Chose the most suitable option.
A. exhilarates
B. overwhelms
C. energises
D. confuses
II)How does the author's use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the paragraph? 2
III)Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. 1

The use of the word ‘rushed’ adds to a sense of (speed / relief), in the extract
IV)How does the seagull's feelings towards the end of the extract contrast with the initial feeling of terror?

7)Read the given extracts and answer the questions for any one of the two, given. 5
A) He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage. (Tiger in the Zoo)

I)What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of just stating the colours of the
stripes? 2
II)Fill the blank with ONE word.
The tiger's stalking suggests a movement that is___________ within the confines of its cage. 1
III)How does the poet reinforce the contrast between the tiger's confined environment and its internal emotions? 2

8)Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. 4x3=12
I)What does the postmaster's reaction to Lencho's letter reveal about his character?
II) What does Nelson Mandela refer to as “an extraordinary human disaster”?
III) When did the seagull’s flight begin?
IV) Did upbraiding and threatening of his parents help him in flying?
V) How did Anne justify her habit of talking in her first essay on ‘A Chatterbox’?
9)Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2x3=6
I) What were the second and third essays assigned to Anne Frank as punishment?
II) Horace Danby represents such people who adopt the wrong ways to fulfil their wishes. What values would you like
such people to imbibe to reform themselves?
III) Horace stated that he robbed only those who had a lot of money. Was he really a threat to the society? Did he lack
the qualities of a good citizen? Discuss the values he needs to imbibe to lead a path of righteousness.
10)Answer of the following question, in about 100-120 words 8
I) Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature to convey their respective
messages about life and human emotions but they do it differently. Examine these differences.
II) Herriot enjoyed the lavish meal during Tricki's stay but still, he felt compelled to inform Mrs. Pumphrey about the
recovery of Tricky. Why did he not keep Tricki for a longer time? Did he feel concerned for Mrs. Pumphrey?
11)Answer of the following questions, in about 100-120 words. 4
I) Ausable was a successful secret agent. What qualities can be attributed to him? Give some examples.
d) safe driving.