Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 2 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 2 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
Reading Skills (22 marks)
Question 1.
Read the following passage: (12 marks)
Hyderabad — The City of Nizams GOLCONDA FORT
1. In the 16th century, when Golconda was the capital of Qutb Shahi Kingdom, it is believed that a shepherd
boy came across an idol on the hill. It was then that the Kakatiya dynasty’s ruler built the fort, which is 120 m high. After it was captured by Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor, the fort fell into ruins.
2. The beautiful ruins of the fort have a story to tell. They make you wonder how the fort may have looked in its days of glory and grandeur. The fort also organises a sound and light show every day and the history of this fort is narrated in such an interesting manner that even a child can understand and enjoy it. The climb to the fort is a difficult one and unless you are physically fit, you should avoid the climb and relax in the gardens below. The view from the top is breath-taking.
3. CHARMINAR
The next place is Charminar. The literal meaning of the monument is ‘four minarets.’ There is a mosque on the second floor. It is said that when the state was hit by severe plague, Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, prayed to end the plague and promised to build a mosque in the very place where he was praying. Thus, Charminar came into being!
4. The walk from the bottom to the top of the monument is a little frightening, owing to the narrowness of the pathway and the steepness of the steps. Once you reach the top, the view of the crowds moving below will surely lift your spirits.
5. Make sure you visit the nearby Laad Bazaar, where there are rows of shops selling the famous Hyderabadi glass bangles and lac bangles.
6. SALAR JUNG MUSEUM
The Salar Jung Museum is the third largest museum in the country and boasts of owning the biggest one- man collection of antiques in the world. A visit to the Salar Jung Museum is a must even if you are not a fan of antique stuff. You can view the Nizam’s collection of textiles, arms, metal ware, ivory carvings, Indian bronzes and carpets.
7. The main attraction is definitely the Musical Clock, made by Cook and Kelvy of England. Inside the clock is a timekeeper. Every hour, he comes out and beats a gong as many times as the time indicates. Another attraction of the museum is the Veiled Rebecca, an amazing sculpture made by the Italian sculptor, Giovanni Maria Benzoni.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
(i) What is the name of the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty who built Charminar? [1]
(A) Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
(B) Sultan Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah
(C) Sultan Abdullah Qutb Shah
(D) Sultan Abul Hasan Qutb Shah
Answer:
(A) Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
Explanation:
Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. He was the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty and he built Charminar in 1591 CE.
(ii) What is the main attraction of Salar Jung Museum? Frame a brief description on the base of the information given in the passage. [2]
Answer:
The main attraction of the Salar Jung Museum is the Musical Clock, made by Cook and Kelvy of England. Inside the clock is a timekeeper who comes out every hour and beats a gong as many times as the time indicates. Another attraction is the Veiled Rebecca, ‘ a sculpture by Italian sculptor Giovanni Maria Benzoni.
(iii) Which of the following statements is true about the Musical Clock in the Salar Jung Museum? [1]
(A) It was made by Cook and Kelvy of England.
(B) It has a timekeeper who beats a gong every hour.
(C) It is the main attraction of the museum.
(D) All of the above.
Answer:
(D) All of the above.
(iv) After which paragraph of the passage, would the following paragraph most likely be placed? [1]
While exploring the rich history of Golconda, consider visiting the nearby Qutb Shahi Tombs. These mausoleums are the final resting places of the rulers of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, who once ruled this region. The intricate architecture and serene ambiance make it a poignant reminder of Hyderabad’s royal past. As you wander through the tomb complex, you’ll find beautifully crafted structures that blend Persian, Indian, and Pashtun architectural styles. It’s a tranquil spot to reflect on the city’s regal heritage and appreciate the architectural marvels of the bygone era.
Answer:
After paragraph 3.
Explanation:
The addition of a paragraph about the Qutb Shahi Tombs provides readers with an opportunity to explore another significant historical site closely associated with Golconda Fort, enriching their understanding of Hyderabad’s heritage and offering an alternative attraction nearby.
(v) Give a brief description of Charminar in about 30 to 40 words based on the information in the passage. [1]
Answer:
Charminar, meaning ‘four minarets,’ is an iconic monument in Hyderabad. Built by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in response to a plague, it houses a mosque on its second floor. Climbing it offers a thrilling view of the crowds below.
(vi) Find a word in the passage that can be substituted with another word from paragraph 2, that means the same. [1]
“The ascent to the fort is a difficult one.”
Answer:
Climb
Explanation:
In this case, “climb” is substituted with “ascent” to convey a similar meaning.
(vii) What is the main reason why the climb to Golconda Fort is difficult and should be avoided by people who are not physically fit? [1]
(A) The fort is 120 m high.
(B) The fort is captured by Aurangzeb.
(C) The fort has a sound and light show.
(D) The fort has a story to tell.
Answer:
(A) The fort is 120 m high.
Explanation:
The fort is 120 m high. The passage says that the climb to the fort is difficult and should be / avoided by people who are not physically fit, because
it is 120 m high and has steep steps.
(viii) Complete the following appropriately. [1]
Based on the use of the word “boasts” to describe the Salar Jung Museum, in paragraph 6, we can infer that it is very …………… of its collection of antiques.
Answer:
A possible word is proud.
Explanation:
Based on the use of the word “boasts” to describe the Salar Jung Museum, we can infer that it is very proud of its collection of antiques, which is the largest one-man collection in the world.
(ix) Complete the sentence appropriately. [1]
If the title, Hyderabad – The City of Pearls is given to this passage, it would be a suitable title, as compared to Hyderabad – The City of Nizams because ………………. .
Answer:
Hyderabad: The City of Pearls would be a suitable title, as compared to Hyderabad – The City of Nizams because it reflects the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the city, which is famous for its pearl trade and jewellery industry, as well as its cuisine, architecture, and festivals.
(Hyderabad – The City of Nizams would be a more narrow and specific title, focusing only on one aspect of the city’s history and rulers.)
(x) State whether the given assertion is TRUE or FALSE. [1]
The reason why Charminar was built was to end the plague that hit the state.
Answer:
The given assertion is TRUE.
Explanation:
The passage says that Charminar was built by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah to end the plague that hit the state in 1591 CE.
Question 2.
Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow: (10 marks)
Here is a table of five Indian people and how they take care of their health:
Name | Diet | Exercise | Sleep | Stress Management |
Priya | Vegetarian, low-fat, high- fibre | Yoga, 30 minutes daily | 7-8 hours per night | Meditation, deep breathing |
Rohit | Balanced, high-protein, low-carb | Weightlifting, 45 minutes 4x per week | 6-7 hours per night | Time management, hobbies |
Sunita | Vegan, whole foods, plant- based | Running, 30 minutes 5x per week | 8-9 hours per night | Mindfulness, journaling |
Arjun | Pescatarian low-sugar, high-vegetable | Swimming, 1-hour 3x per week | 7-8 hours per night | Social support, therapy |
Meera | Flexitarian, moderate portions, home-cooked meals | Dancing, 1-hour 2x per week | 8-9 hours per night | Gratitude practice, positive thinking |
Answer the questions based on the above passage :
(i) How does Priya’s approach to health, including her diet and stress management techniques, differ from Rohit’s? Provide specific examples of their choices. [2]
Answer:
Priya focuses on a vegetarian, low-fat, high-fibre diet, while Rohit opts for a balanced, high-protein, low- carb diet.
Priya manages stress through meditation and deep breathing, whereas Rohit emphasises time management and hobbies to cope with stress.
(ii) Which of the following people follows a vegan diet? [1]
(A) Priya
(B) Rohit
(C) Sunita
(D) Arjun
Answer:
(C) Sunita
(iii) In what ways does Arjun’s health routine showcase a balanced approach to physical and mental well-being? How does his choice of diet and stress management strategies contribute to this balance?
How does Meera incorporate exercise into her routine? [2]
Answer:
Arjun maintains balance by following a pescatarian diet with an emphasis on vegetables and incorporating swimming as his exercise routine. Additionally, he emphasises social support and therapy for stress management, ensuring a holistic approach to his health.
(iv) Select the correct option to fill the blank and complete the analogy. [1]
Priya : Yoga :: Arjun : ……………….
(A) Swimming
(B) Dancing
(C) Running
(D) Weight lifting
Answer:
(A) Swimming
Priya : Yoga :: Arjun : Swimming
(v) Who among the five people sleeps for the least number of hours per night? [1]
Answer:
Among the five people, Rohit sleeps for the least number of hours per night (6-7 hours).
(vi) According to the table, Sunita practices …………. for stress management. [1]
Answer:
According to the table, Sunita practices mindfulness and journaling for stress management.
(vii) Explain how Meera takes care of her diet, exercise and sleep [1]
(A) Meera follows a flexitarian diet, dances for lhour, 2 times per week and sleeps for 8-9 hours per night.
(B) Meera follows vegan diet, swims for lhour 3x per week, and sleeps for 7-8 hours per night.
(C) Meera follows a pescatarian diet, runs for 30 minutes 5x per week, and sleeps for 8-9 hours per night.
Answer:
(A) Meera follows a flexitarian diet, dances for lhour, 2 times per week and sleeps for 8-9 hours per night.
(viii) Match the following people with their preferred form of exercise: [1]
(A) Priya – 1. Weight lifting
(B) Rohit – 2. Yoga
(C) Sunita – 3. Running
(D) Arjun – 4. Swimming
Answer:
The correct matches are: Priya – 2. Yoga, Rohit – 1. Weightlifting, Sunita – 3. Running, and Arjun – 4. Swimming.
Section – B
Writing Skills (22 marks)
Question 3.
As the Head Boy/Head Girl of St. Bosco School, write an email to the other office bearers of your school about an upcoming meeting with the principal regarding a science symposium and inter-house quiz competition in not more than 50 words. Use the following template to answer the question: [3]
From:
To:
Cc: [email protected]
Date: June 20,2023, 5:06 PM
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: June 20,2023, 5:06 p.m.
Subject: Upcoming Meeting: Science Symposium and Inter-House Quiz
Dear Office bearers,
I hope this message finds you well. We have a meeting with the principal scheduled at 10 a.m. on June 25, 2023 to discuss the upcoming Science Symposium and Inter-House Quiz. Please ensure your availability and preparedness for our discussion.
Best regards,
Advit Head Boy
St. Bosco School
Question 4.
It is your father/mother’s birthday. Write a factual description of a gift you gave them and with what, why, and how of your choice. Describe the gift and the happiness you and your father/mother felt. The description must not cross the 100 words limit. [4]
Answer:
I chose a handcrafted leather journal for my father’s birthday. Its supple, rich brown cover embodies his timeless wisdom and the stories he shares. Inside, smooth cream pages await his thoughts, capturing his reflections as ink dances upon them. I selected this gift because it resonates with his love for writing and encapsulates his profound life journey.
As he unwrapped the gift, a delighted smile graced his face, mirroring my excitement. Running his fingers over the leather, he remarked on its quality. He shared memories of his younger days when he penned his dreams and aspirations. Now, he’s eager to fill its pages with new adventures and musings, as we bond over shared stories and a shared love for the. written word.
Question 5.
(a) Write a letter to the editor of a daily of your city asking him to publish an article about the importance of connecting the drainage of the locality to the sewer, so as to close the drains. Discuss the issues caused by the open drains in the city and how would the closed system add value to it. Your word limit is 100-120 words. [7]
OR
(b)You happened to visit a local slum for a social science case study, and saw that the living condition of the people in slums, along with the issue of intoxication has caused havoc in the area. Write a letter to the Governor of your state as an employee of the NGO ‘The Human Efforts’ conveying him your concern and what can be done to improve these conditions. You can give some ideas of your own in terms of educating the people, especially teenagers, and women about cleanliness and intoxication.
Answer:
(a) AshokVihar
New Delhi
26 June 20XX
The Editor
Hindustan Times
New Delhi
Sir
Subject: Urgent Need for an Article on Connecting Local Drainage to Sewer System
I am writing to kindly request the publication of an article highlighting the pressing issue of connecting the drainage system of our locality to the city’s sewer system. The prevailing open drains pose significant problems, including health hazards, environmental degradation, and aesthetic concerns.
Open drains invite the breeding of disease¬carrying mosquitoes and compromise public health. Additionally, they contribute to pollution and foul odours, impacting the overall environment. A closed drainage system, integrated with the sewer, would mitigate these issues, enhancing sanitation, safety, and quality of life for residents.
I urge your esteemed publication to shed light on this imperative matter, emphasising the benefits of a closed drainage system. Such coverage could encourage community involvement and authorities’ attention towards implementing this vital change.
Thanking you.
Yours sincerely
Raman
OR
(b)AKNagar
Jaipur
20 June 20XX
The Governor
Super Ghar
Jaipur
Sir
Subject: Urgent Measures to Address Living Conditions and Intoxication Issue in Local Slums
I extend my warm greetings and wish to bring to your attention to a matter of great concern observed during our recent visit to a local slum area. As an employee of the NGO ‘The Human Efforts,’ I have witnessed firsthand the deplorable living conditions and rampant issue of intoxication that have brought about distressing consequences for the community. The living conditions in the slum are distressingly inadequate, contributing to compromised health, sanitation, and well-being of the residents. Additionally, the prevalence of intoxication compounds the challenges faced by the community, affecting social harmony and individual prospects. Our NGO strongly believes that targeted efforts are needed to address these issues effectively.
We propose a multifaceted approach that includes education, awareness, and community engagement. Initiatives such as workshops on hygiene, cleanliness, and waste management can empower residents, particularly teenagers and women, with knowledge and skills to improve their living environment. Special programs focusing on the dangers of intoxication and addiction can be tailored to raise awareness and provide support for those affected. Collaborating with local healthcare institutions, schools, and community leaders is pivotal to the success of these endeavours. By fostering responsibility and offering essential services, we aspire to elevate living standards in the slum area, creating a healthier, safer, and more prosperous community. Your leadership and support are instrumental in driving positive change. We earnestly request your consideration and assistance in implementing these measures. Together, we can transform this community for the better.
Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter.
Yours sincerely
Biren
Vice President [NGO – The Human Efforts]
Question 6.
(a) ‘Books give you knowledge, travelling — experience.’ As Aakash of class X-C, write an article in not more
than 150 words for your school magazine emphasising the importance of travelling. You can use your own
experience as traveller to provide examples to your statement. [8]
Timeless Truth
Windows to knowledge
Travelling nurtures adaptability, empathy
OR
(b) Write an article on The Two sides of Tourism Industry. As Jasmeet Kaur of class X-D, write an article for your school magazine, in about only 150 words, discussing the opportunities and challenges of tourism, the ethical considerations surrounding it and how it might impact society.
Use the given clues, along with your own ideas.
– Industry offers both opportunities and challenges to society.
– Responsible tourism required
– Tourism can bridge cultural gaps
Answer:
(a) Unlocking the World: The Importance of Travelling — by Aakash X-C
In a world teeming with technological wonders and vast information at our fingertips, there’s a timeless truth that prevails: “Books give you knowledge, travelling – experience.” As Aakash of Class X-C, I’ve embarked on journeys that have instilled in me the immense importance of exploring beyond the confines of my comfort zone.
Books indeed are windows to knowledge, yet the true magic lies in experiencing the world first-hand. During a recent trip to the serene mountains, I learned about diverse cultures, tasted local cuisines, and conversed with people whose perspectives enriched my own. Such experiences are imprinted deep within, sparking personal growth beyond what any textbook could offer.
Moreover, travelling nurtures adaptability, empathy, and open-mindedness. When I ventured to bustling city markets or serene village communities, I learned to navigate unfamiliar terrains and appreciate different ways of life. These encounters imparted a deeper understanding of the world’s intricacies, fostering compassion for people from all walks of life.
While books are invaluable sources of knowledge, travelling breathes life into that knowledge, making it tangible and unforgettable. So, fellow students, let us embrace the world as our classroom. Let’s journey beyond pages and screens to gain experiences that will mould us into not only knowledgeable individuals but also global citizens ready to shape a brighter future.
(b) ‘The Two Sides of the Tourism Industry’ – by Jasmeet Kaur X D
The tourism industry is a double-edged sword, offering both opportunities and challenges to society. Tourism creates job opportunities, stimulates economic growth, and promotes cultural exchange. It allows locals to showcase their heritage, culinary delights, and traditions, fostering a sense of pride and preserving cultural diversity. Although mass tourism can strain resources, damage ecosystems, and lead to over-commercialisation. It often pushes up the cost of living for residents in popular destinations, making it unaffordable for locals. Responsible tourism emphasises sustainable practices and respect for local cultures. It’s crucial to be mindful of the impact our travels have on the environment and communities we visit.
Tourism can bridge cultural gaps, increase global awareness, and promote peace. On the flip side, it can lead to cultural homogenization and create a dependency on tourism income.
In conclusion, the tourism industry offers immense potential, but it’s our responsibility to ensure it benefits all stakeholders, respects nature, and preserves the essence of the places we visit. It’s time to embrace ethical and sustainable tourism for a brighter future.
Section – C
Grammar (10 marks)
Question 7.
Complete the tasks A-C as directed
(A) Fill in the blanks (i) -(iii) with appropriate words. [3]
Dina: I hate to say this, Ragini, but you are in terrible shape.
Ragini: I know, what (i) ……….. I do?
Dina: Well, since you are putting on weight, you (ii) ………… plan a healthy diet.
Ragini: You are right. I (iii) ……. not eat so many chocolates and junk food.
Answer:
(i) should
(ii) must
(iii) should
(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 |
A wicked man once went to/Guru | to | a | Guru | |
i. | for initiation into spiritual life. Guru | |||
asked him to give up at least one bad activity. | ||||
ii. | That night, when he went the royal palace to | |||
iii. | commit theft, he found man on the | |||
iv. | terrace, who said that he too was thief. |
Answer:
Word before Omission Word after
(i) life The Guru
(ii) went to the
(iii) found a man
(iv) was a thief
(C) Do as directed 3
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence.
Friend A: Hey, how was your day at school?
Friend B: It was great! I aced my math test.
Friend A: Amazing/that’s/i/with/english/struggled/today. [1]
Answer:
That’s amazing! I struggled with English today.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraph that follows. [2]
Teacher: Why are you looking so sad?
Student: I didn’t do well in my math test.
Teacher: Don’t worry, we can work on it together. When is your next test?
Student: In two weeks, ma’am.
The teacher asked the student ……….. (ii) so sad. The student replied that they didn’t do well in their math test. The teacher advised the student ………… together. The teacher further asked when the student’s next test was, to which the student replied that it was in two weeks.
Answer:
(i) why they were looking
(ii) not to worry and that they could work on it
Section – D
Literature Textbook (26 marks)
Question 8.
Read the given excerpts and answer the questions briefly, for ANY TWO excerpts, of the three, given.
(A) Neither stones nor prayers nor sticks.
Insults or complaints or bricks
Stilled the frog’s determination
To display his heart’s elation.
But one night a nightingale
In the moonlight cold and pale
Perched upon the sumac tree
Casting forth her melody
Dumbstruck sat the gaping frog
And the whole admiring bog
Stared towards the sumac, rapt,
(The Frog and the Nightingale)
(i) What is the name of the frog’s vocal training method? [1]
Answer:
The name of the frog’s vocal training method is not mentioned in the poem. However, it is described as being harsh and demanding, with the frog forcing the nightingale to sing for long hours in bad weather.
(ii) How did the nightingale die? [1]
Answer:
The nightingale died due to a burst vein caused by the strain of the frog’s training and singing excessively for many hours.
(iii) What did the frog charge the nightingale for his services? [1]
Answer:
The frog charged the nightingale for his services as her trainer, but the exact amount is not mentioned in the poem. However, it is mentioned that the frog charged admission fees from the audience who came to listen to the nightingale’s singing and earned a lot of money from her performances.
(iv) What did the audiences enjoy in the nightingale’s song? [1]
Answer:
The audiences enjoyed the nightingale’s sweet and melodious voice. They cheered her with words like ‘bravo’, ‘too divine’, ‘encore’. They were enraptured by her voice and clapped, wept, and cheered in reaction to her singing.
(B) And on the pedestal these words appear;
“My name is Ozymandias, king of kings. Look upon my works, ye mighty and despair!
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay of that colossal wreck,
boundless and bare. The lone and level sands stretch far away (Ozymandias)
(i) The word that best describes the attitude of Ozymandias is ……… [1]
Answer:
The word that best describes the attitude of Ozymandias is arrogant. Ozymandias is portrayed as a proud and boastful king who believed in his own greatness and power.
(ii) The irony of the pedestal statement is ………… [1]
Answer:
The irony of the pedestal statement is that despite Ozymandias’ claim to be the ‘king of kings’ and his command to “look upon my works, ye mighty, and despair,” nothing remains of his works or his kingdom. All that is left is a ruined statue in the middle of a desert, surrounded by nothing but sand.
(iii) The figure of speech used in the line, ‘the lone and level sands stretch far away’ is ……….. [1]
Answer:
The figure of speech used in the line, ‘the lone and level sands stretch far away’ is alliteration. Alliteration is the repetition of the same sound at the beginning of multiple words in a phrase or sentence.
(iv) The word ‘boundless’ means ………. [1]
Answer:
The word ‘boundless’ means unlimited or vast. In this context, it refers to the vast expanse of sand surrounding the ruined statue of Ozymandias.
(C) CAESAR: Cowards die many times before their death;
The valiant never taste of death but once.
Of all the wonders that I yet have heard.
It seems to me most strange that men should fear;
Seeing that death, a necessary end,
Will come when it will come
(Julius Caesar)
(i) Whom does Caesar console and why? [1]
Answer:
Caesar is consoling himself in this passage. He is trying to calm his own fears about the possibility of death by reminding himself that death is a necessary end that will come when it is meant to come.
(ii) Which quality of the speaker is revealed here? [1]
Answer:
The quality of the speaker that is revealed here is bravery. Caesar is portrayed as a brave and valiant man who does not fear death.
(iii) Explain: Cowards die many times before their deaths. [1]
Answer:
The phrase “Cowards die many times before their deaths” means that cowards are constantly afraid and live in fear of death, experiencing the fear of dying many times before they actually die. On the other hand, brave people face death without fear and only experience it once.
(iv) Give the synonym of ‘Gallant’. [1]
Answer:
A synonym for ‘Gallant’ is brave or courageous. It refers to someone who is bold and fearless in the face of danger or adversity.
Question 9.
Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each
(i) How did the killing of the albatross bring ill luck to the mariners?
(The Rime of the Ancient Mariner) [2]
Answer:
The killing of the albatross brought ill luck to the mariners as the breeze stopped blowing and the sails also dropped down. The whole atmosphere was sad and depressing. Their ship was stuck in the middle of the hot and sultry silent sea. There was water everywhere but they couldn’t drink it. There were strange occurrences. They were under the state of a lot of physical and mental agony.
(ii)What do time and war do to the monuments?
(Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments) [2]
Answer:
The monuments erected by kings and princes are not permanent or eternal. They get destroyed or are crumbled in the event of a war as gunshots demolish them. They are discoloured or broken by the passage of time. Both time and war demolish them and they are forgotten by people.
(iii) How does the poet describe the atmosphere of the day when he saw the snake?
(Snake) [2]
Answer:
It was summer season and the day was hot. A snake came to his water trough to drink water beside the big dark carob-tree, which was strange and scented. The poet had to wait there with his pitcher until the snake left.
(iv) What does Mrs. Slater want to possess from the grandfather’s room? What were her plans after his death? (The Dear Departed) [2]
Answer:
Mrs. Slater has her eye on grandfather’s bureau and the clock. She intends to grab her share of her grandfather’s property. She and her sister Mrs. Jordan are after jewellery, insurance, etc.
(v) Describe the superstitions which scared Calpurnia.
(Julius Caesar) [2]
Answer:
Calpurnia had a nightmare. She saw Caesar’s statue in her dream. Blood was spouting out of it and Romans were dipping their hands in Caesar’s blood. Then she overheard a watchman say that a lioness had given birth to cubs on the street which was weird. There was a conflict in the heavens and graves seemed to have opened up, showing the dead buried inside. All of this scared Calpurnia.
(vi) How did the Roman mob react to Antony’s speech?
(Julius Caesar) [2]
Answer:
The Roman mob got provoked and realised their mistake. They decided to avenge Caesar’s murder and turned against the conspirators for assassinating Caesar. They were also ready to give proper burial to Caesar.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 150 words. [8]
(A) How do the themes of power, impermanence, and human folly in Satyajit Ray’s ‘Patrol Babu’ and Percy Bysshe Shelley’s ‘Ozymandias’ reflect the universal values of hubris and the transience of human achievements? Provide examples from both texts and extrapolate on how these themes resonate in contemporary society.
OR
(B) Victoria Slater is truly attached to her grandfather. She is confused by the behaviour of the elders at home,their attitude towards the old man.
As Victoria write a diary entry in not more than 150 words, outlining the incidents and the elders’ feelingstowards the misfortune.
(The Dear Departed)
Answer:
(A) The themes of power, impermanence, and human folly are evident in both Satyajit Ray’s “Patrol
Babu” and Percy Bysshe Shelley’s “Ozymandias,” highlighting universal values of hubris and the fleeting nature of human accomplishments.
In “Patrol Babu,” the protagonist, Nishikanto, is a low-level government clerk who becomes obsessed with the power he wields over a seemingly insignificant village. His actions reflect the folly of individuals who misuse their authority, believing it to be absolute. This mirrors the theme of power and its corrupting influence, a timeless commentary on the human condition.
On the other hand, “Ozymandias” portrays the ruins of a once-mighty civilisation, with the inscription “Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!” This serves as a stark reminder of the impermanence of even the most grandiose achievements. Shelley’s poem underscores the futility of human hubris, as all that remains is a shattered statue in a desolate desert. These themes transcend time and resonate in contemporary society, where the consequences of unchecked power and the fleeting nature of human triumphs continue to be relevant. They serve as cautionary tales, urging individuals to remain humble and mindful of the transient nature of their actions and legacies.
OR
(B) 28 February 20 xx
Tuesday 10:00 p.m.
Dear Diary
I am quite confused by the behaviour of the elders towards my grandfather. As soon as they found him to be dead, it was as if mother was in a hurry to divide Grandpa’s belongings. She informed Aunt Elizabeth who arrived along with uncle. To my shock, none of them were feeling sad about the departed soul. Rather they started fighting for Grandpa’s property. Is this what we call love and affection? Bureau, grandpa’s slippers and many other things were gaining priority at that moment. My mother and aunt forgot that their father was dead.
They were being so materialistic. It was a terrible experience. Thank God! Grandpa is still alive. Now I wonder would they accept if I pay them back in the same coin.
Victoria