Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 1 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 1 with Solutions
Time Allowed: 3 hours
Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions:
- 15-minute prior reading time allotted for Q-paper reading.
- The Question Paper contains FOUR sections-Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Grammar and Literature Textbook.
- Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
Section – A(22 marks)
Reading Skills
Question 1.
Read the following passage
1. Orangutans require less food than humans. When they do eat, orangutans nibble mostly on ripe fruit, along with smaller portions of leaves and seeds. Even in captivity, this diet doesn’t diminish an orangutan’s energy. They wake up early, after a long night’s sleep, spending the day socialising, exploring enclosures, and playing games with researchers. These activities collectively amount to the exercise level of humans in demanding agricultural lifestyles.
2. In the wild, orangutans inhabit the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra, facing highly variable and unpredictable food availability. Similar to fresh garden fruit, their sustenance alternates between feast and famine. However, this comes with a drawback: their low energy levels limit growth and reproduction. Consequently, orangutans exhibit slow development and reproduction, posing an evolutionary risk as they might not survive to pass on their genes. In contrast, human mothers can bear children every two to four years, whereas wild orangutans reproduce only every seven to eight years.
3. Orangutans are among the most intelligent primates; they use a variety of sophisticated tools and construct elaborate sleeping nests each night from branches and foliage. These apes have been extensively studied for their learning abilities. There may even be distinctive cultures within populations. Both orangutan species are considered to be endangered, with the Sumatran orangutans being critically endangered. Human activities have caused severe decline in the populations and ranges of both species. Threats to wild orangutan populations include poaching, habitat destruction, and the illegal pet trade. Several conservation and rehabilitation organisations are dedicated to the survival of orangutans in the wild.
4. We will lose much information about our closest relatives and our own evolutionary history if we let them get extinct.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:
(i) Orangutans primarily consume: [1]
(A) Meat and vegetables
(B) Ripe fruit, leaves, and seeds
(C) Processed foods
(D) Dairy products
Answer:
(B) Ripe fruit, leaves, and seeds
Explanation:
Orangutans require less food than humans, thus only consume ripe fruits, seeds and leaves when they do consume food.
(ii) Explain how the slow growth and reproduction of orangutans could be evolutionarily risky. [2]
Answer:
Orangutans’ slow growth and reproduction increase the risk of not passing on their genes due to their vulnerability to environmental changes and threats. Their longer reproductive interval reduces the chances of genetic propagation.
(iii) Arrange the following events in the order they are mentioned in the passage: [1]
(A) Orangutans’ intelligence and tool use
(B) Threats to wild orangutan populations
(C) Orangutans’ daily activities and diet
(D) Comparison of orangutan and human reproduction patterns
Answer:
The correct order is:
(c) Orangutans’ daily activities and diet
(d) Comparison of orangutan and human reproduction patterns
(a) Orangutans’ intelligence and tool use
(b) Threats to wild orangutan populations
(iv) What is the main reason orangutans are active even with their low-energy diet? [1]
(A) Their high metabolism
(B) Their natural agility
(C) Their engaging social activities
(D) Their adaptation to captivity
Answer:
(C) Their engaging social activities
Explanation:
Orangutans stay active due to engaging social activities, like interaction with researchers and exploring, compensating for their low-energy diet in captivity.
(v) Which word from the passage refers to “a situation in which there is either an abundance or scarcity of something”? [2]
Answer:
Feast and famine
(vi) What is the primary reason for the decline in orangutan populations and ranges? [1]
(A) Natural disasters
(B) Climate change
(C) Human activities
(D) Disease outbreaks
Answer:
(C) Human activities
Explanation:
The primary reason for the decline in orangutan populations and ranges is human activities, including habitat destruction, poaching, and the illegal pet trade.
(vii) Orangutans’ slow growth and reproduction are attributed to their …………… . (Complete the sentence based on the inference of the passage.) [1]
Answer:
Low energy levels
(viii) Explain why the low energy levels of orangutans pose an evolutionary risk. [1]
Answer:
The low energy levels of orangutans hinder their growth and reproduction, making them vulnerable to environmental changes and threats. This slow pace may lead to the failure of passing on their genes.
(ix) State whether the following is True or False:
Both species of orangutans are endangered, with Sumatran orangutans classified as critically endangered. [1]
Answer:
True
Explanation:
Both orangutan species are endangered, with Sumatran orangutans facing a more critical status as “critically endangered” due to severe threats.
(x) After which paragraph of the passage, would the following paragraph most likely be placed?
Orangutans hold a special place in the study of evolution and primatology due to their remarkable genetic and behavioral similarities to humans. Their research has illuminated complex social behaviours, tool usage, and problem-solving skills, providing valuable insights into our evolutionary past. Protecting orangutans from extinction is not just about preserving biodiversity but also safeguarding the invaluable knowledge they provide about our closest relatives and our role in the natural world. [1]
Answer:
After paragraph 2
Explanation:
It will be placed after Paragraph 2 because Orangutans’ genetic and behavioral parallels to humans offer unique insights into our evolutionary history, making their conservation vital for advancing our understanding of primatology and the interconnectedness of life.
Question 2.
Read the following passage. (10 m)
Answer the following questions, based on the table above.
(i) Identify the person who is likely to ask many ‘why’ questions, and support your choice with one reason. (2)
Answer:
Aryan is likely to ask many ‘why’ questions because his personal qualities include curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. These qualities suggest that he is likely to ask many ‘why’ questions to better understand the world around him. Further, Aryan’s academic achievements and co-curricular activities demonstrate his strong critical thinking skills, which would likely lead him to ask thoughtful and insightful questions.
(ii) Which house captain is most likely to struggle the most with handling stress during the school’s annual inter-house sports tournament? (1)
(a) Rohit
(b) Sanya
(c) Rajat
(d) Ananya
Solution:
(a) Rohit
(iii) Give two justifications for Sanya being the best fit to lead a school-wide initiative to promote mental health and well-being among students. (2)
Answer:
Sanya is the best fit to lead a school-wide initiative to promote mental health and well-being among students because her motto ‘Service before self and the activities she participates in shows a commitment to work with others and help others, which is essential for promoting mental health and well-being. Further, her personal qualities of compassion, organisation, and responsibility; would be valuable in leading such an initiative.
(iv) Select the correct option to fill the blank and complete the analogy. (1)
…………… : Paintbrush :: Rajat : Tabla
(a) Rohit
(b) Sanya
(c) Aryan
(d) Ananya
Answer:
(d) Ananya
(v) Based on the personal qualities of the House Captains, why is Rajat the most likely to be a collaborative worker? (1)
Answer:
Rajat is most likely to be a collaborative worker because of his personal qualities of being a team player and an adaptable person.
(vi) Complete the given sentence with the appropriate reason, regarding the information in the table. (1)
We can infer that Aryan’s overall performance may be negatively impacted by his weakness in time management because ………………………….
Answer:
because his drawback is procrastination which means that he may struggle with completing tasks on time.
(vii) Explain briefly why situation (b), from the three situations given below, showcases Ananya’s motto, “Lead by example”? (1)
(a) During a group project, Ananya assigns each team member specific tasks and sets a high standard for tire project’s quality. She tells them to actively participate in the project and take it to fruition.
(b) During a house debate competition, Ananya notices that a few of her house members are struggling to articulate their arguments effectively. Ananya takes the time to listen to their concerns and provides constructive feedback and support.
(c) During a fundraising event, Ananya volunteers to be in charge of organizing and coordinating the event but she frequently delegates tasks to others and attends to her school assignment while her team completes the task successfully.
Answer:
The second situation (b) aligns with Ananya’s motto because she active!, “stem to her team members and provides support, ultimately helping them to succeed by leading throug: her actions and setting a positive example.
(viii) Select the option that correctly matches the House Captains (A) – (C), to the trophies (i) – (v). (1)
HOUSE CAPTAINS – (a) Rajat (b) Ananya (c) Aryan
(a) (A) – (ii), (B) – (ii), (C) – (iii)
(b) (A) – (i), (B) – (v), (C) – (iv)
(c) (A) – (v), (B) – (iii), (C) – (ii)
(d) (A) – (iii), (B) – (iv), (C) – (i)
Answer:
(d) (A) – (iii), (B) – (iv), (C) – (i)
Section – B (22 marks)
Writing Skills
Question 3.
You are Satvika/ Satvik, class teacher of Grade 7 Section B. The air conditioner in your classroom is malfunctioning. Report this to the Principal in an email. [3]
You may copy the given template to write your email.
From:
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 3 September 20XX, 09:29 AM
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 3 September 20XX, 09:29 AM
Subject: Request to get the Air Conditioner fixed.
Dear Sir
I would like to bring to your attention that the air conditioner in my classroom, Grade 7 Section B, is malfunctioning. The rising temperatures are making it uncomfortable for both students and teachers. Kindly arrange for a repair at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Warm regards,
Yours truthfully
Satvika
Class teacher (7-B)
Question 4.
Write a factual description, in not more than 100 words, of a potted plant that you and your sibling recently chose, to gift your parent. (4)
Answer:
We recently chose a potted plant called the Hibiscus as a gift for our mother for Mother’s Day. The small plant in the elephant-shaped mud pot looked very cute and enchanting. The plant itself was a small shrub with a height of about 1.5 feet. The leaves looked dark green, and shiny and had a slightly serrated edge. The plant had several buds and appeared to be healthy with one large, fully blossomed deep-red flower which had five petals and a prominent central stamen. The plant came in a small clay pot with a diameter of about 10 inches. It had a simple yellow and red abstract design that complemented the plant well. The soil in the pot looked moist and well-draining along with being enriched with organic matter.
Question 5.
(a) Did you note that despite the Government’s initiatives and provisions made for the girl child, the statistics shown in the enrolment position of girls in primary and upper primary are not very encouraging? Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, expressing your concern about the issue and the need to work on a war footing to counter the problem of poor enrolment of girls in 120 words. [7]
OR
(b) You are Brinda/Brijesh of Horizon Public School, Kanpur. Write a letter to the Sales Manager, Rajesh Electronics Limited, New Delhi placing an order for computers that you wish to purchase for an additional computer lab to promote vocational education.
Answer:
(a) KKNagar
Agra
17 September 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
Agra
Sir
Subject: Concern Over Poor Enrolment of Girls in Primary and Upper Primary Education
I hope this letter finds its way into your esteemed publication to shed light on a concerning issue that demands immediate attention. Despite the commendable initiatives and provisions by the government for the welfare and education of the girl child, recent statistics reveal a disheartening state of affairs regarding the enrolment of girts in primary and upper primary education.
This disparity is alarming and highlights the urgency to address the root causes that deter girls from accessing quality education. We must work on a war footing, implementing targeted strategies to counter this problem. This includes creating safe and conducive learning environments, raising awareness about the importance of girls’ education, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The future of our nation depends on the education of our girls, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that they have equal access to quality education. Let us join forces to overcome this challenge and empower our girls to reach their full potential.
Yours sincerely,
Sharan
Resident of Agra
OR
(b)
Horizon Public School
Kanpur
18 August 20XX
Sales Manager
Rajesh Electronics Limited
New Delhi
India
Dear Sales Manager
Subject: Purchase Order for Computers
We, at Horizon Public School, Kanpur, are interested in procuring twenty computers for our computer lab from Rajesh Electronics Limited. Our preferred specifications are as follows:
Computer Model: Dell OptiPlex 7080
Quantity: 20 units
Configuration:
Processor: Intel Core i7 10th Gen
RAM: 16GB DDR4
Storage: 512GB SSD
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
Accessories:
20 x 24-inch LED Monitors
20 x Keyboard and Mouse Sets
20 x USB Webcam with Microphone
20 x Wi-Fi Adapters
Kindly provide a comprehensive quotation detailing itemized costs, taxes, shipping charges, and any available discounts. Alongside this, we request an estimate of the delivery timeline. The enhancement of our students’ learning experience through cutting-edge technology is our priority, and we believe Rajesh Electronics Limited can fulfill our requirements.
For any queries or further information, feel free to contact me at 9897XXXXX We anticipate your swift response to facilitate a seamless procurement process.
Thank you for your attention.
Yours sincerely
Brinda
HOD Computer and IT
Horizon PublicSchool.
Question 6.
A person who uses their expertise and knowledge of the sport to identify potential talent and recruit individuals who can contribute to the team’s success. (8)
A. Some people prefer solo travel, while others enjoy traveling in a group. As Hema Joseph of Class X-C, write an article for your school magazine, in about 150 words, discussing i the advantages and disadvantages of each preference and examining the factors that influence these choices.
Use the given cues, along with your ideas and those you may have gathered from Unit 5: Travel and Tourism, to create this article.
| • How can lonelines and safety concerns impact solo travel?
• What are some factors that can make solo travel more expensive? • How does travelling alone allow for personal growth and discovery? • What are some advantages of being able to choose your itinerary and pace? |
| • How can conflicts and disagreements arise when travelling with others?
• What are some factors that can limit independence and freedom when travelling with a group? • How does travelling with others provide opportunities to make friends? • What are some ways that group travel can be more cost – effective? |
| • How can personality type influence travel preferences?
• How does budget impact travel choices? • What role does the destination play in determining travel preferences? |
Answer:
Choosing Your Travel Style: The Benefits and Drawbacks of Solo and Group Travel
By – Hema Joseph, X-C
Travelling is one of life’s greatest pleasures and today many people have converted it into their professions. With many people taking to travelling, many different styles of travelling have come up. The way we prefer to travel varies from person to person. Factors that influence travel preferences include personality type, budget, destination and the purpose of travel. Some prefer solo travel, while others enjoy travelling in a group. Each preference has its advantages and disadvantages.
Solo travel allows for complete independence and the freedom to choose the itinerary and pace. It also provides an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. However, solo travel can be lonely, especially during meal times and at night. Besides this, it can be more expensive, as accommodation and transportation costs are not shared. In contrast, travelling in a group can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. It is also less expensive, as costs are shared among the group. However, group travel requires more planning and coordination, and sometimes compromises must be made. ‘ Additionally, some people may feel restricted by the group’s itinerary and activities.
Extroverts may prefer group travel, while introverts may opt for solo travel. Budget constraints may make group travel more feasible, while adventure destinations may be better suited for solo travel. Ultimately, the decision to travel solo or m a group is a personal one. Both options have their pros and cons, and travellers should weigh them carefully before embarking qn their journey.
OR
B. Space tourism, though in its early stages, is a reality. As Jagmeet Singh of Class X – D, write an article for your school magazine, in about 150 words, discussing the opportunities and challenges of space tourism, the ethical considerations surrounding it and how it might impact society. Use the given cues, along with your own ideas and those you may have gathered from Unit 3 : Science, to create this article.
| • Safety concerns and potential accidents in space tourism
• Space debris and the need for responsible space traffic management • Turning space in a commodity : the ethics of commercialising space • Ensuring equality and access to space tourism opportunities • Promoting responsible an sustainable practices in space tourism • Balancing economic opportunities with environmental and social responsibility |
Answer:
Space Tourism: Balancing Opportunity and Responsibility
By – Jagmeet Singh, X-D
Space tourism, the idea of sending tourists into space for a few minutes or days, is becoming a reality. However, the opportunities and challenges of space tourism are complex, and ethical considerations need to be taken into account.
One opportunity of space tourism is that it could inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, providing a new way to get people interested in space exploration. However, space tourism also presents many challenges, including the potential impact on the environment. Space debris is already a major problem, and increased space traffic from tourism could exacerbate this issue.
What also causes concern is that it could contribute to the commodification of space, turning it into a playground for the rich rather than a shared resource for all humanity. There is also the question of putting paying tourists at risk for the sake of leisure activities.
As we move ahead with this exciting new industry/, we must remain mindful of the impact on our planet, our society and the future of space exploration.
Section- C (10 marks)
Grammar
Question 7.
Complete the tasks A-C as directed
(A) Fill in the blanks (i) -(iii) with the appropriate words. [3]
Doctor: You …… (ought/should/could)(i) avoid stress if you wish to get healthier soon.
Patient: I don’t think I’m getting healthier any soon then.
Doctor: You ………. (must/cannot)(ii) not think that way, I say so as your friend.
Patient: ………. (Should/Can)(iii) I do some meditation.
Doctor: Nothing’s better than meditation to treat your condition.
Answer:
(i) should
(ii) must
(iii) can
(B) In the following table, one word has been omitted in each line. In your answer sheets, remember to write the missing word along with the word that comes before and after it, as shown below. The first one has been done as an example. [4]
|
No. |
Text |
Word before |
Omission |
Word after |
| Space Shuttle Atlantis which is orbiter |
is |
an |
orbiter |
|
|
i. |
began its first flight October 1985 and | |||
| retired recently after completing its last flight | ||||
|
ii. |
in July 2011, weighed around 80 tonne. It | |||
|
iii. |
spent 306 days, 14 hours 12 minutes43 seconds in space. | |||
|
iv |
During its service, Space Shuttle Atlantis played a vital role in numerous space missions, contributing to our understanding the cosmos |
Answer:
Word before Omission Word after
(i) flight in October
(ii) 2011 it weighed
(iii) minutes and 43
(iv) understanding of the
(C) Do as directed
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence. [1]
(i) We should always try to be honest.
Why, What happens to an honest man?
everywhere / and / is respected / honest man / an / admired.
Answer:
An honest man is respected and admired everywhere.
or
Everywhere an honest man is respected and admired.
or
An honest man is admired and respected everywhere.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraph that follows. [2]
Alex: So, having travelled extensively, do you consider yourself a seasoned explorer?
Sophia: I’m enchanted by the world of travel, despite its challenges.
Alex: Could you elaborate on your previous statement?
Sophia: We encounter diverse cultures, landscapes, and even difficulties, yet the allure of exploration unites us with a common thread.
Alex inquired if Sophia felt like a well-travelled individual, having travelled extensively. Sophia responded that she (ii) ………… even though there were obstacles. Alex then asked her to clarify (iii) ……………. . Sophia elucidated that encountering various cultures, terrains, and even hardships intertwines with the irresistible allure of exploration, binding them with a shared passion.
Answer:
(ii) was enchanted by the world of travel
(iii) her previous statement.
Section – D (26 marks)
Literature Textbook
Question 8.
Read the given excerpts and answer the questions briefly, for ANY TWO excerpts, of the three, given. (4 + 4 = 8)
A. But must I confess how I liked him,
How glad I was he had come like a guest in quiet, to drink
at my water-trough
And depart peaceful, pacified, and thankless,
Into the burning bowels of this earth? (The Snake)
(i) What can be inferred about the speaker’s attitude towards nature based on the except? (1)
Answer:
Based on the given extract, we can say that the speaker shares a complex relationship with nature, experiencing both admiration and fear towards its power.
(ii) List the meaning of the phrase “burning bowels of this earth”. (1)
Answer:
The phrase ‘burning bowels of this earth’ refers to the depths of the earth where it is hot and dark.
(iii) How is the snake’s arrival and departure symbolic? (1)
Answer:
The snake’s arrival and departure is symbolic of a fleeting moment of connection with nature.
(iv) The speaker compares the snake to the guest. Which word in the extract displays the snake’s non-guest-like behaviour? (1)
Answer:
The word ‘thankless’ displays the snake’s non-guest-like behaviour.
B. Antony: If you have tears, prepare to shed them now.
You all do know this mantle: I remember
The first time Caesar put it on;
‘Twas on a summer’s evening, in his tent,
That day he overcame the Nervii:
Look, in this place ran Cassius’ dagger through:
See what a rent the envious Casca made:
Through this the well-beloved Brutus stabb’d;
And as he pluck’d his cursed steel away, (Julius Caesar)
(i) How does Antony use visual imagery to make his point about the assassination of Caesar? (1)
Answer:
Antony uses vivid and evocative descriptions of the wounds inflicted on Caesar by his assassins in order to stir up emotions in his audience and to create a sense of horror and outrage.
(ii) What is the significance of the mantle that Antony refers to, in his speech? (1)
Answer:
The mantle represents Caesar’s power and authority and serves as a symbol of the leader’s ability to inspire loyalty and devotion in his followers.
(iii) Identify the tone of Antony’s statement when he says, “If you have tears, prepare to shed them now”. (1)
Answer:
Antony’s statement is emotive and urgent as he seeks to move his audience to tears and to evoke a sense of shared grief and loss.
(iv) What does Antony’s reference to the Nervii suggest about Caesar’s military prowess? (1)
Answer:
Antony’s reference to the Nervii, whom Caesar defeated in battle, highlights Caesar’s skill as a military leader and his ability to conquer even the most formidable enemies.
C. “Well,” I said, “we’re leaving on Monday. Is there anything I can do for you before we go?”
Nicola shook his head, but suddenly Jacopo said, “Sir,” he burst out, “every Sunday we make a visit to the country, to Poleta, 30 kilometres from here. Usually we hire bicycles. But tomorrow, since you are so kind, you might send us in your car.”
I had already told Luigi he might have the Sunday off. However, I answered, “I’ll drive you out myself.”
There was a pause. Nicola was glaring at his young brother in vexation . “We could not think of troubling you, sir.”
“It won’t be any trouble.” (Two Gentlemen of Verona)
(i) Identify the phrase that indicates that the visit to Poleta on Sundays is significant as a routine or tradition. (1)
Answer:
The phrase ‘every Sunday’ indicates that the visit to Poleta on Sundays is significant as a routine or tradition.
(ii) What does the narrator’s offer to drive the brothers to Poleta reveal about his character? (1)
Answer:
The narrator’s offer to drive the brothers to Poleta reveals his kindness/generosity.
(iii) Why was there a pause after the narrator’s offer? (1)
Answer:
There was a pause after narrator’s offer because Nicola was taken aback by Jacopo’s request and needed a moment to process it. Nicola was hesitant to accept help from the narrator, possibly due to pride.
(iv) State one reason why Jacopo might have wanted a car ride despite the choice of hired bicycles? (1)
Answer:
Jacopo wanted a car ride despite the choice of hired bicycles a car ride would be more efficient and less tiring than cycling for 30 kilometers. Further, it is an opportunity to experience something different and more comfortable.
Question 9.
Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each.
(i) “Pen is mightier than the sword”. Elucidate concerning the poem ‘Not Marble Nor Gilded Monuments’. [2]
Answer:
‘Pen is mightier than the sword’ because everything else fades away with time. Time is all-powerful and can destroy everything except literature. Art and literature are immortal. They transcend time and remain relevant throughout the ages.
(ii) Why does Mrs. Slater decide to shift the bureau from her grandfather’s room before the arrival of the Jordans? (The Dear Departed) [2]
Answer:
Abel, the grandfather, is ‘found dead’ in the room by Mrs. Slater. She informs her sister and then
starts waiting for her to come for the mourning. At that time, it strikes her that grandfather’s things will be divided between the two of them. She loves her grandfather’s bureau. So, she decides to shift it to her room before the arrival of Jordans so that she can tell them that the bureau is theirs and not grandfather’s. That way she will be the sole owner of it.
(iii) Although Nicola and Jacopo are young boys, the author refers to them as Gentlemen. Why did he do so? (Gentlemen of Verona) [2]
Answer:
The boys had lost their home and their father had been killed in the war as well. The war had led them to the streets. Their sister was suffering from tuberculosis of the spine. They worked very hard to pay for her treatment. All this did not break their spirit. They remained dedicated and selfless. They would rather work hard and earn money than have anybody feel sorry for them and help them. Therefore, the author refers to them as Gentlemen.
(iv) How did Louisa Mebbin manage to buy the pretty weekend cottage? (Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger) [2]
Answer:
Mrs. Packletide had killed the wrong animal and he tiger had died of a heart-attack. Only Louisa Mebbin knew this. Every newspaper and magazine reported the killing of the tiger and Mrs. Packletide did not deny it. Louisa found that enough reason to blackmail her and that is how she bought the cottage.
(v) What was Ali’s profession when he was young? (The Letter) [2]
Answer:
Ali was a hunter. When Ali sighted the earth-brown partridge, the poor bird was as good as in his bag his sharp eyes would spot the hare crouching in a yellow-brown shrub and in another moment, it was dead, even the best hunting dogs would fail, but Ali never missed to notice game nor did he ever miss his mark.
(vi) What made the writer believe that he was good at writing ghost stories and how was it disproved? (A Shady Plot) [2]
Answer:
The writer considered himself to be good at writing ghost stories as he had written many for a magazine. He was over-confident of his ability to write such stories but suddenly the ghost Helen appeared and told him that it was she who helped him by giving him the plots for writing ghost stories and now she would not do it any longer.
Question 10.
Answer Any One of the following two questions in about 150 words. (8)
A. Even though both, the frog from Vikram Seth’s poem The Frog and the Nightingale and Abel’s children from the play The Dear Departed display greed, there are differences. Elaborate, in about 150 words, how the greed of the frog and that of Abel’s children differ in motivation, actions, relationship, and consequences.
Answer:
It is true to say that even though both, the frog from Vikram Seth’s poem, The Frog and the Nightingale, and Abel’s Children from the Play, The Dear Departed, display greed, there are differences.
Motivation: The frog’s greed is motivated by a desire for personal gain and success, whereas Abel’s children are motivated by a desire for material possessions and inheritance.
Actions: The frog takes advantage of the nightingale’s talent and exploits her, while Abel’s children scheme to acquire their father’s belongings through deception.
Relationship: The frog and the nightingale have a business relationship, while Abel’s children have a familial relationship with their father.
Consequences: The consequences of the frog’s greed result in the nightingale’s demise, while the consequences of Abel’s children’s greed result in a family dispute and moral dilemma.
OR
B. Imagine that the mariner hears of Mrs. Packletide’s hunt and decides to share some advice with her, about the impact of wilfully killing creatures. As the mariner, write this letter, in about 150 words, to Mrs. Packletide, based on the consequences following your own experience of having killed a creature intentionally.
(The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger)
Solution:
Dear Mrs. Packletide
I have written this letter to advise you against killing any creature. Recently, I heard about your vain hunt and was shocked that you did it for nothing. Let me tell you that such vain killings are always disastrous. I have suffered the consequences of such killings. I killed an albatross and brought a curse upon myself and my crew. I learned the hard way that there are often unintended consequences to our actions. Thus, we need to respect all the creatures we encounter. Remember that the tiger you killed was a majestic creature that deserves to be appreciated and respected, rather than simply a trophy to be mounted on your wall. Do not take any creature’s life lightly for all life is precious.
Your actions create a resonance in the world. Reflect on how your killing of a tiger reflected your disrespect for life and nature. As a famous figure now, enlighten people against killing any creature and you will find peace within yourself.
Hope my words impact you.
Mariner.