Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 6 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 6 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)
1. I was born in the small but beautiful mountain village of Nakuri near Uttarkashi in Garhwal, with the gurgling, playful Bhagirathi river, flowing nearby. My parents were a hard-working and extremely self-contained couple. Even though our family was poor, barely managing the essentials, my father taught us how to live and maintain dignity and self-respect-the most treasured family value till today. At the same time my parents also practised the creed, “Kindness is the essence of all religion.” They were large-hearted, inviting village folk passing by to have tea at our home, and gave grain to the sadhus and pandits who came to the house. This characteristic has been ingrained in me so deeply that I am able to reach out to others and make a difference in their lives — whether it is in my home, in society or at the workplace.
2. I was the third child in the family-girl, boy, girl, girl and boy in that order-and quite a rebel. I developed a tendency to ask questions and was not satisfied with the customary way of life for a girl-child. When I found my elder brother, Bachchan, encouraging our youngest brother, Raju, to take up mountaineering I thought, why not me? I found that my brothers were always getting preferential treatment and all opportunities and options were open to them. This made me even more determined to not only do what the boys were doing, but to do it better.
3. The general thinking of mountain people was that mountaineering as a sport was not for them. They considered themselves to be born mountaineers as they had to go up and down mountain slopes for their daily livelihood and even for routine work. On the other hand, as a student, I would look curiously at foreign backpackers passing by my village and wonder where they were going. I would even invite them to my house and talk to them to learn more about their travels. The full significance of this came to me later when I started working. The foreigners took the trouble to come all the way to the Himalayas in order to educate themselves on social, cultural and scientific aspects of mountaineering, as well as to seek peace in nature’s gigantic scheme of things.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:
(i) What is the most treasured family value of the author’s family? [1]
(A) Wealth and prosperity
(B) Kindness and self-respect
(C) Preferential treatment
(D) Achieving excellence
Answer:
(B) Kindness and self-respect
Explanation:
The most treasured family value is kindness and self-respect, as the author’s parents emphasised maintaining dignity and reaching out to others with kindness.
(ii) How did the author’s parents influence their values and outlook on life? Provide examples from the passage to support your answer. [2]
Answer:
The author’s parents influenced their values by practicing kindness and self-respect, even in their impoverished condition. They invited village folk for tea and gave grain to sadhus and pandits, demonstrating the importance of generosity and dignity.
(iii) After which paragraph of the story, would the following paragraph most likely be placed?
During my formative years in the picturesque village of Nakuri, I had the privilege of observing the stark contrast between the traditional way of life in the mountains and the world beyond. This exposure sparked a curiosity within me, leading me to dream of achieving something extraordinary in a realm largely unexplored by young girls in my community. [1]
Answer:
After paragraph 2.
Explanation:
The author’s early exposure of local mountain culture ignited a deep curiosity and determination to challenge traditional gender roles.
(iv) Explain the significance of the author’s interactions with foreign backpackers in shaping her perspective on mountaineering and life in general. Use details from the passage to support your explanation. [2]
Answer:
The author’s interactions with foreign backpackers allowed her to see that people from distant places were coming to the Himalayas to explore and understand not just the physical aspects of mountaineering but also its social, cultural, and scientific dimensions. This exposure broadened her own perspective on mountaineering, motivating her to pursue it as a way to connect with nature and learn about the world beyond her mountain village.
(v) What does “ingrained” mean in the context of the passage? [1]
(A) Hidden
(B) Carved
(C) Deeply established
(D) Temporary
Answer:
(C) Deeply established
Explanation:
Ingrained here refers to quality of kindness being deeply rooted in the author.
(vi) According to the author, what is the essence of all religion, as practiced by her parents? [1]
(A) Self-respect
(B) Kindness
(C) Large-heartedness
(D) Treasured family values
Answer:
(B) Kindness
Explanation:
According to the author, the essence of all religion, as practiced by her parents, is kindness, which they extended to others generously.
(vii) The author’s parents were known for their generosity, often inviting village folk passing by to have tea at their home and providing grain to sadhus and pandits. This characteristic has been ingrained in the author, enabling her to ………………. . [1]
Answer:
Make a difference in the lives of others.
(viii) The author’s determination to take up mountaineering was strengthened by the fact that ……………… . [1]
Answer:
she wanted preferential treatment like her brothers.
Explanation:
The author’s determination to take up mountaineering was strengthened by the fact that her elder brothers were receiving preferential treatment and enjoying more opportunities and options, which motivated her to not only pursue mountaineering but also to excel at it.
(ix) State whether the given assertion is TRUE or FALSE [1]
The author’s family was wealthy and had all the essentials they needed.
Answer:
False
Explanation:
The assertion is FALSE because the author’s family was poor and struggled to manage the essentials, but they valued self-respect and kindness.
(x) What was the general thinking of mountain people about mountaineering as a sport? [1]
(A) They considered it a common sport for everyone.
(B) They believed they were born mountaineers.
(C) They thought it was only for foreign backpackers.
(D) They were indifferent to mountaineering.
Answer:
(B) They believed they were born mountaineers.
Explanation:
The general thinking of mountain people was that they were naturally born mountaineers due to their daily mountainous livelihood.
Question 2.
Read the following passage:
Historical Place | Year of Starting Construction | Year of Completion | Historical Importance | King/Queen Associated to |
Taj
Mahal |
1632 | 1653 | The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. | Shah Jahan |
Red Fort | 1638 | 1648 | The Red Fort is a historic fort in Delhi that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. The fort represents the peak in Mughal architecture under Shah Jahan and combines Persianate palace architecture with Indian traditions. | Shah Jahan |
Qutub
Minar |
1192 | 1220 | The Qutub Minar is a five-storeyed red sandstone tower built by Muslim conquerors in the thirteenth century to commemorate their final triumph over the Rajput rulers of Delhi, while also serving as a tower from where muezzins (criers) call for prayer at the Quwwatul-Islam mosque nearby. | Qutb-ud-din
Aibak |
India
Gate |
1921 | 1931 | India Gate is a war memorial in New Delhi dedicated to the troops of British India who died in wars fought between 1914 and 1919. It was originally called All-India War Memorial and was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. The monument also houses the Indian Army Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Amar Jawan Jyoti. | British Empire |
Hawa
Mahal |
1799 | Unknown | Hawa Mahal, translated as the Palace of the Winds, is Jaipur’s most distinctive landmark. It was built for the Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, in order to allow the women of the royal household to see everyday life in the city below them whilst maintaining their modesty. This was necessary at the time as the women were required to observe a purdah – meaning to remain covered. | Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh |
Answer the following questions, based on the table above.
(i) What is the historical importance of the Red Fort and who built it? [2]
Answer:
The Red Fort is a historic fort in Delhi that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan when he decided to shift
his capital from Agra to Delhi. The fort represents the peak in Mughal architecture under Shah Jahan and combines Persianate palace architecture with Indian traditions.
(ii) Which of the following historical places was built by Shah Jahan? [1]
(A) Qutub Minar
(B) India Gate
(C) Hawa Mahal
(D) Taj Mahal
Answer:
(D) Taj Mahal
(iii) What is the purpose of India Gate and who built it? [2]
Answer:
India Gate is a war memorial in New Delhi dedicated to the troops of British India who died in wars fought between 1914 and 1919. It was originally called AllIndia War Memorial and was built by the British Empire.
(iv) Taj Mahal: Shah Jahan :: …………….. : Qutb-ud-din Aibak [1]
Answer:
Qutub Minar
(v) Which historical place was built first, Qutub Minar or Taj Mahal? [1]
Answer:
Qutub Minar was built first, in 1192.
(vi) The Taj Mahal is a ……………… mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. [1]
Answer:
white marble
(vii) Explain the situation question: Why was Hawa Mahal built? [1]
(A) To serve as a residence for the royal family
(B) To allow women of the royal household to see everyday life whilst maintaining their modesty
(C) To commemorate a military victory
Answer:
(B) To allow women of the royal household to see everyday life whilst maintaining their modesty
(viii) Match the following historical places with their associated King/Queen: [1]
1. Taj Mahal (A) British Empire
2. Qutub Minar (B) Shah Jahan
3. India Gate (C) Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh
4. Hawa Mahal (D) Qutb-ud-din Aibak
Answer:
1-B, 2-D, 3-A, 4-C
Section – B
Writing Skills (22 Marks)
Question 3.
As Vineet/Vineeta of Olympus High, write an email in maximum 50 words to your principal asking her to setup an anti-ragging cell in your college to help the children suffering from ragging. Use the following format. [3]
From:
To:
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 25 September 20XX, 07:08 p.m.
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 25 September 20XX, 07:08 PM
Subject: Request to Establish an Anti-Ragging Cell
Dear Principal
I urge you to establish an anti-ragging cell at Olympus High to support students facing ragging issues. This initiative will ensure a safer and more inclusive environment for all of us. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Warm regards
Yours sincerely
Vineeta
Question 4.
You recently got the chance to visit Paris with your family, describe the architecture of a famous landmark that caught your eyes there in not more than 100 words. [4]
Answer:
During my recent family trip to Paris, the breathtaking architecture of the Eiffel Tower left an indelible mark on me. As I gazed up at its towering presence, I marvelled at the intricate iron lattice work that seemed to stretch endlessly towards the sky. The tower’s graceful curves and intricate design details were awe-inspiring. Its three levels, each with its own unique charm, offered panoramic views of the romantic city below. The Eiffel Tower’s iconic silhouette against the Parisian skyline was a testament to Gustave Eiffel’s genius, and it served as a symbol of love, art, and engineering that continues to enchant visitors from around the world.
Question 5.
(a) As the secretary of ‘Students’ Body of cultural events, Ravish/Ravisha, write a letter in 100-120 words to M/S Raja Singh Theatrical Supplies enquiring about the costumes required for a Bharatnatyam performance at your school’s annual event- ‘Spandana.’ Your school is St. Bosco International Academy. [7]
OR
(b) Many Schools do not have enough open space for playgrounds. This harms the health of the students. Write a letter in 120 words to the editor of a national daily mentioning the problems it can cause and the possible solutions. You are Rima/Ramesh, 12 Station Road, Ambala.
Answer:
(a) St. Bosco International Academy
Delhi
10 July 20XX
M/S Raja Singh Theatrical Supplies
Delhi
Subject: Inquiry about costumes required
Madam
I trust this letter finds you in good health. I am writing as the Secretary of the Students’ Body for Cultural Events at St. Bosco International Academy to inquire about Bharatnatyam costumes needed for our school’s annual event, ‘Spandana.’
We are planning a Bharatnatyam performance, and we require authentic, high-quality costumes to make it exceptional. Could you kindly provide details regarding costume availability, pricing, and delivery options? Quality and authenticity are paramount.
If customisation options are available to meet our performers’ specific requirements for both male and female dancers, please inform us.
Your prompt response is appreciated to facilitate our costume selection process. Your support will contribute significantly to the success of ‘Spandana,’ an eagerly awaited event in our school community.
Thanking You
Yours sincerely
Ravisha
Secretary
OR
(b) 12, Station food
Ambala
02 March 20XX
The Editor
Times of India
New Delhi
Subject: Lack of playgrounds in the schools
Sir
Through your esteemed newspaper, I would like to draw your kind attention towards the insufficient facility of games and sports in many schools as they do not have enough space for playgrounds in their schools. It results in poor health of the students as they have no physical activities in the schools. The students do not get opportunity for physical exercises and thus they become the victims of obesity which causes frustration among them. They become short tempered and their performance becomes poor.
To overcome this problem, I would like to suggest that the schools should provide adequate facilities of games in the school premises and if any how they do not have such facilities, they should tie up with the local communities to provide facility. The students should also be made aware about their health and they should be mobilised towards the government efforts to improve their health standard. If such steps are initiated, our country will become a healthy country.
Yours truly
Rima
Question 6.
(a) Write an article for your school magazine on ‘Celebrating Diversity but Working for unity’ in 150 words. [8]
Cues
I. What is Diversity?
II. What is Unity?
III. How to create a balance between the two? 8
OR
(b) As Ayub/Aleena of Ernakulam, Kerala, write an article in not more than 150 words on the importance of public libraries in society. Discuss how they prove to be a place of learning and meeting,new people, and knowing about them and their thoughts, rituals, etc.
Cues
I. What is the role of public libraries in society?
II. How do public libraries provide access to information and resources for learning?
III. What are the benefits of using public libraries for personal and professional development?
IV. How do public libraries serve as community hubs for social interaction and connection?
V. What are some examples of programs and events offered by public libraries to bring people together?
Answer:
(a) Article Celebrating Diversity, but Working for Unity -by Sasha
In today’s world, diversity is more than just a buzzword; it’s a reality that surrounds us. Our school is a microcosm of this diverse world, where students from various backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs come together. While celebrating diversity is essential, it’s equally crucial to work towards unity. Diversity enriches our learning experience, exposes us to different perspectives, and fosters tolerance. It encourages us to embrace our unique identities and celebrate the beauty of our differences. However, it can also lead to divisions if not managed correctly.
Unity, on the other hand, is the glue that holds our diverse community together. It’s about finding common ground, respecting one another, and working towards shared goals. Unity doesn’t mean we should abandon our unique identities; instead, it emphasises that we are stronger together.
To achieve unity while celebrating diversity, we must actively engage in open dialogue, promote empathy, and stand against discrimination.
Let’s recognise that our differences are our strength, but unity is our foundation. Together, we can create a harmonious and inclusive school environment where every student feels valued and cherished.
OR
(b) The Heart of Knowledge: The Significance of Public Libraries** -by Ayub
In the age of smartphones and digital content, public libraries may seem like relics of the past, but their importance in society remains undeniable.
Public libraries are more than just shelves of books; they are gateways to a world of knowledge. They provide access to a vast repository of information, catering to diverse interests and ages. From literature and science to history and culture, libraries offer a treasure trove of resources.
Yet, they are not just about books. Public libraries are spaces for people to come together, learn, and share. They host events, workshops, and discussions that foster intellectual growth and social interaction. It’s a place to meet people from different walks of life, exchange ideas, and gain new perspectives.
Public libraries are the custodians of our collective wisdom, preserving not just books but the thoughts, rituals, and rituals of our society. They are sanctuaries where the past and present converge, allowing us to explore our heritage and imagine our future.
In a world that’s constantly changing, public libraries stand as timeless institutions, reminding us of the enduring importance of learning, community, and the pursuit of knowledge. They are, without a doubt, the heart of our society.
Section – C
Grammar (10 Marks)
Complete the tasks A-C, as directed
Question 7.
(A) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words [3]
Maria: Tom, your room is a mess. What (i) ……… (can/should/may) you do about it?
Tom: Yeah, I know, it’s been chaotic lately. I (ii) ……… (will/ can/ almost)clean it up this weekend.
Maria: That’s a good idea. You (iii) ………… (must/have/should) also organise your books and papers.
Answer:
(i) should
(ii) will
(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. [4]
Text | Word before | Omission | Word after | |
Panchtantra is collection of tales and fables. | is | a | collection | |
i | The stories in Panchatantra are believed have | |||
ii | been written by Vishnu Sharma as early 3rd | |||
iii | century B. C. A king ancient India requested | |||
iv | Vishnu Sharma teach his son morals and values. |
Answer:
Word before Omission Word after
(i) believed to have
(ii) early as 3rd
(iii) king from ancient
(iv) Sharma to teach
(C) Do as directed
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence.
(i) Friend A: Hey, how was your trip to the beach?
Friend B: It was fantastic! The weather was perfect.
Friend A: That’s/to hear/ great/I/ also /a/ trip/ have/planned /next/for/ month. [1]
Answer:
That’s great to hear. I also have a trip planned for next month.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraph that follows. [2]
Doctor: Why are you looking so worried?
Patient: I am not feeling well, doctor.
Doctor: Don’t worry, we will find out what’s wrong and fix it. When did you start feeling unwell?
Patient: Since yesterday, doctor.
The doctor asked the patient why they were looking …… (ii). The patient replied that they were not feeling well. The doctor assured the patient that they would find out what was wrong and ………… (iii). The doctor further asked when the patient started feeling unwell, to which the patient replied that it was since yesterday.
Answer:
(ii) so worried.
(iii) fix 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. 4+4=8
(A) So the Nightingale once more,
Quite unused to such applause,
Sang till dawn without a pause.
(The Frog and the Nightingale)
(i) What did the Nightingale do once more? [1]
Answer:
The Nightingale sang once more.
(ii) Was the Nightingale used to such applause? [1]
Answer:
No, the Nightingale was quite unused to such applause.
(iii) How long did the Nightingale sing? [1]
Answer:
The Nightingale sang till dawn without a pause.
(iv) Did the Nightingale take any breaks while singing? [1]
Answer:
No, the Nightingale did not take any breaks while singing. It sang continuously till dawn without a pause.
(B) “My credit now stands on such slippery ground,
That one of two bad ways you must conceit me,
Either a coward of a flatterer.
That I did love thee, Caesar, O, ’tis true.”
(Julius Caesar)
(i) Who is speaking to whom? [1]
Answer:
Mark Antony to the conspirators.
(ii) What does slippery ground stand for? [1]
Answer:
Slippery ground stands for the allegiance shown by Antony to Caesar as well as the conspirators.
(iii) Why does the speaker say so? [1]
Answer:
Antony’s shaking hands with the conspirators may prove that he is either a coward or a flatterer.
(iv) What does the word ‘Coward’ mean? [1]
Answer:
Not brave.
(C) “The Wedding-Guest he beat his breast,
Yet he cannot choose but hear,
And thus spoke on that Ancient man,
The bright-eyed Mariner.”
(The Rime of the Ancient Mariner)
(i) What did the Wedding-Guest do? [1]
Answer:
The Wedding-Guest beat his breast.
(ii) Could the Wedding-Guest choose not to hear? [1]
Answer:
No, he cannot choose but hear.
(iii) Who spoke on? [1]
Answer:
The Ancient man spoke on.
(iv) How is the Mariner described? [1]
Answer:
The Mariner is described as bright-eyed.
Question 9.
Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each 2×5=10
(i) Who does the ‘shattered visage’ in the poem, ‘Ozymandias’, belong to and why is it ‘half sunk’? [2]
Answer:
The shattered visage in the poem ‘Ozymandias’ belongs to the King Ozymandias. He had a frowning expression on his face which reflected his scornful and contemptuous nature. It was half-sunk because it had been ravaged by time which spares no one. whether rich or poor.
(ii) In what way is ‘The Dear Departed’ satirical? Comment on the nature of human beings. [2]
Answer:
‘The Dear Departed’ brings out children’s greed; they are more interested in what they will inherit and try to grab a lion’s share. The play shows how children sometimes care more for what they will receive from their parents than for their welfare and happiness.
(iii) Describe how the monuments and statues brave the ravages of time.
(Not Marble, Nor the Gilded Monuments) [2]
Answer:
Time leaves its marks on everything as everything in this world is mortal. None can fight time. Monuments and statues break and get dirty with the passage of time. They also get demolished during wars.
(iv) Why did the poet throw a log at the snake? (Snake) [2]
Answer:
The poet threw a log at the snake because the voice of education and social conventions made him think that the snake which is golden- brown in colour, is venomous and must be killed. Moreover, the poet wanted to stop the snake from disappearing into the hole or make it run.
(v) How did the loss of parents in the war affect the two boys? (Two Gentlemen of Verona) [2]
Answer:
The loss of their parents in the war had forced them to work hard not only for themselves, but they also had to take on the responsibility of getting their sister treated, for which they worked hard and did all kinds of odd jobs. This lent them a seriousness beyond their ages.
(vi) What preparations were made for the tiger shoot? (Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger) [2]
Answer:
An old tiger was found for the tiger shoot. A platform was constructed on a tree and a goat was placed there as bait. Mrs. Packletide waited on the platform with a rifle and a pack of cards.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 150 words. [8]
(A) Imagine Caesar being part of the future and wanting to know about Michael and Sebestian’s adventure in the virtual world. As Michael’s friend write a letter to Caesar informing him of the adventures and fun Michael and Sebestian had.
(Julius Caesar and Virtual World)
OR
(B) In what ways does Ali’s character in ‘The Letter’ by Dhumketu embody the themes of love, devotion, hope, and perseverance? Can you provide specific instances from the story to support your answer?
Answer:
(A) Dear Caesar
Sebastian was a 14-year-old boy who was very fond of playing computer games. But he was trapped in the virtual world when he met with an accident while playing games. His memory got saved in the disks which got stolen when he was at the hospital after having met with an accident. Michael bought those disks from the computer fair as he and his father both were game friendly. They came home and Michael started playing the games. He entered Sebastian’s memory through the games and tried saving him through different games like Wild West, Dragon Quest, Jailbreak, etc. In the end he played War Zone. This time he succeeded and he hit the jackpot by saving Sebastian. Next day, it was the headline of the newspaper ‘Miracle Recovery’. This virtual world was a reality. It is difficult to believe but it had happened.
Yours heartily
Michael’s friend
OR
(B) In ‘The Letter’ by Dhumketu, Ali’s character exemplifies the themes of love, devotion, hope, and perseverance through his unwavering determination to receive a letter from his daughter. Despite not receiving any letters for five long years, Ali continues to visit the post office every day in the hope of receiving one. His love and devotion to his daughter are evident in his willingness to brave the cold and biting wind to make the journey to the post office. Even when others mock him for his persistence, Ali remains steadfast in his hope and continues to visit the post office every day. Through his actions, Ali demonstrates the power of love, devotion, hope, and perseverance in the face of adversity. His story serves as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up hope.