Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 7 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 7 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
1. Popcorn, also known as popping corn, is a special variety of corn. Each kernel contains a tiny drop of water. When it is heated, the water expands causing the kernel to explode and flip inside out. Most US popcorn is grown in Nebraska and Indiana, and increasingly in Texas.
2. Native Americans first discovered popcorn thousands of years ago in Guatemala or Mexico. It was popped in China during the Song Dynasty (960-279), as well as, in Sumatra and India long before Columbus reached the Americans.
3. In 1519 when he invaded Mexico, Spanish Conquistador Hernando Cortes first saw popcorn when he met the Aztecs. Popcorn was important to the Aztecs as food, as decoration for ceremonial headdresses and necklaces, and as ornaments on statues of their gods. Around 1612, French explorers around the Great Lakes met Iroquois, who used heated sand in a pottery vessel to make popcorn. There is an unproven theory that an Indian named Quadequina brought a deerskin bag of popped corn for the first Thanksgiving feast. In 1948 and 1950, anthropologist Herbert Dick and botanist Earle Smith discovered ears of popcorn in the Bat Cave of west central New Mexico. The ears measured from smaller than a penny to about 2 inches. They were determined to be about 5,600 years old.
4. Colonial housewives served popcorn with sugar and cream for breakfast. Some colonists used a cylinder of thin sheet-iron that revolved on an axle in front of the fireplace to make popped corn.
5. In 1885, Charles Cretors of Chicago, Illinois, invented the first popcorn machine. Street vendors were soon pushing steam or gas-powered poppers through fairs, parks and public exhibitions.
6. Today much of the popcorn you buy at movies and fairs is popped in machines manufactured by the Creators family.
7. Americans eat more than 17 billion quarts of popcorn a year, an average of 60 quarts per person per year. As the result of an elementary school project, popcorn became the official state snack food of Illinois. January 19 is National Popcorn Day, and October is National Popcorn Month.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
(i) What causes popcorn kernels to pop and flip inside out when heated? [1]
(A) Air pressure
(B) Expansion of water inside the kernel
(C) Addition of sugar and cream
(D) Exposure to sunlight
Answer:
(B) Expansion of water inside the kernel
Explanation:
On being heated, the water expansion causes the kernel to explode.
(ii) Describe the historical significance of popcorn in the Aztec culture as mentioned in the passage. [2]
Answer:
Popcorn was important to the Aztecs not only as food but also as decoration for ceremonial headdresses and necklaces, and as ornaments on statues of their gods. It had cultural and ceremonial significance in their society.
(iii) Arrange the following events in chronological order: [1]
(A) Invention of the first popcorn machine by Charles Cretors
(B) Discovery of popcorn in the Bat Cave of New Mexico
(C) Native Americans discovering popcorn in Guatemala or Mexico
(D) Introduction of popcorn to China during the Song Dynasty
Answer:
(A) Invention of the first popcorn machine by Charles Cretors
(B) Discovery of popcorn in the Bat Cave of New Mexico
(C) Native Americans discovering popcorn in Guatemala or Mexico
(D) Introduction of popcorn to China during the Song Dynasty
(iv) Explain how popcorn was used by Native Americans,, and the Iroquois, as described in the passage. [2]
Answer:
Native Americans used heated sand to pop popcorn, while the Iroquois used heated sand in a pottery vessel to make popcorn.
(v) Substitute the underlined word in the following sentence with a word/ phrase from the passage. [1]
Some colonists used a cylinder of thin sheet-iron that turned in a circle on an axle in front of the fireplace to make popped corn.
Answer:
Revolved
(vi) Who invented the first popcorn machine as mentioned in the passage? [1]
(A) Hernando Cortes
(B) Native Americans
(C) Charles Cretors
(D) French Explorers
Answer:
(C) Charles Cretors
(vii) Americans eat more than 17 billion quarts of popcorn a year, an average of 60 quarts per person per year. This information suggests that ………….. . [1]
(A) popcorn is a rare delicacy
(B) popcorn is a popular snack in the United States
(C) Americans prefer other snacks over popcorn
(D) popcorn consumption is declining
Answer:
(B) popcorn is a popular snack in the United States
Explanation:
The information provided indicates that Americans consume a significant amount of popcorn, with an average of 60 quarts per person per year, totalling over 17 billion quarts annually suggesting that popcorn is a popular and widely consumed snack in the United States.
(viii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
Popcorn became the official state snack food of Illinois as a result of an ………… [1]
Answer:
Elementary School Project.
(ix) Identify the statement as True or False: Popcorn was only used as a food source by the Aztecs. [1]
Answer:
False
Explanation:
Aztecs used popcorn as food, as decoration for ceremonial headdresses and necklaces, and also as ornaments on statues of their Gods.
(x) Complete the following appropriately.
As a result of invention of popcorn machine,Street vendors could be seen ………. [1]
Answer:
pushing steam or gas-powered poppers through fairs, parks and public exhibitions.
Question 2.
Read the following table displaying the details of various wars. (10 marks)
War |
Time Period |
Kings Who Fought |
Who Won the War |
Age of Period of War |
First Battle of Tarain |
1191 |
Prithviraj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori | Prithviraj Chauhan | Medieval India |
Second Battle of Tarain |
1192 |
Prithviraj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori | Muhammad Ghori | Medieval India |
Battle of Khanwa |
1527 |
Babur and Rana Sanga | Babur | Medieval India |
Battle of Panipat (1526) |
1526 |
Babur and Ibrahim Lodi | Babur | Medieval India |
Battle of Talikota |
1565 |
Vijayanagara Empire and Deccan Sultanates |
Deccan Sultanates | Medieval India |
Answer the following questions, based on the table above:
(i) Who fought in the First Battle of Tarain and who won the war? [2]
Answer:
The First Battle of Tarain was fought between Prithviraj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori. Prithviraj Chauhan won the war.
(ii) Which of the following kings fought in the Battle of Khanwa? [1]
(A) Babur
(B) Ibrahim Lodi
(C) Mohammad Ghori
(D) Qutb-ud-din Aibak
Answer:
(A) Babur
(iii) What was the outcome of the Second Battle of Tarain and who fought in it? [2]
Answer:
The Second Battle of Tarain was fought between Prithviraj Chauhan and Muhammad Ghori. Muhammad Ghori won the war.
(iv) First Battle of Tarain : Prithviraj Chauhan : :: ………… : Babur [1]
Answer:
Battle of Khanwa/Battle of Panipat (1526)
(v) Which war was fought first, the First Battle of Tarain or the Battle of Panipat? [1]
Answer:
The First Battle of Tarain was fought first, in 1191.
(vi) The ………. was fought between Babur and Rana Sanga. [1]
Answer:
Battle of Khanwa
(vii) Who won the Battle of Talikota? [1]
(A) Vijayanagara Empire
(B) Deccan Sultanates
(C) It was a draw
Answer:
(B) Deccan Sultanates
(viii) Match the following wars with their winners: [1]
1. First Battle of Tarain (A) Babur
2. Second Battle of Tarain (B) Prithviraj Chauhan
3. Battle of Khanwa (C) Muhammad Ghori
4. Battle of Panipat (D) Deccan Sultanates
5. Battle of Talikota (E) Babur
Answer:
1-B, 2-C, 3-A/E, 4-A/E, 5-D
Section – B
Writing Skills (22 Marks)
Question 3.
As Rohit/Rohini of Divya Kriti Public School, Prayagraj, write an email in maximum 50 words to your principal asking her to set up a recycling program in your college to help reduce waste and promote sustainability. Use the following format. [3]
From:
To:
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 11 March 20XX 05:02 PM
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 11 March 20XX 05:02 p.m.
Subject: Request to Set Up Recycling Program
Dear Principal
I hope this email finds you well. As a concerned student of Divya Kriti Public School, I kindly request your support in initiating a recycling program within our college. This will not only reduce waste but also promote sustainability among our students. Thank you for considering my request.
Yours sincerely
Rohit
Question 4.
You are Rohit/Rohini. Your school recently took you on an excursion to Taj Mahal, write a factual description of the Taj in not more than 100 words. [4]
Answer:
During our recent school excursion to the Taj Mahal, I was spellbound by its majestic beauty. The Taj, an ivory-white marble mausoleum, stands as an architectural masterpiece and symbol of eternal love. Its symmetrical design and intricate details, including delicate marble inlay work and Quranic calligraphy, showcase the brilliance of Mughal architecture. The central dome and four towering minarets create a perfect harmony of form and function. The serene Yamuna River adds to its charm. As I stood before this UNESCO World Heritage site, I felt the history and love that envelops it, making the Taj Mahal an unforgettable wonder of the world.
Question 5.
(a) As the secretary of the ‘Students’ Body of Sports Events’, Rohit/Rohini, write a letter in 100-120 words to M/S Sports Equipment Supplies enquiring about the sports equipment required for a basketball tournament at your school’s annual event- ‘Sports Day.’ [7]
OR
(b) Write a letter in 100-120 words to the editor of a national daily as Rohit/Rohini of 12/345, MG Road, Mumbai, asking him to publish an article so as to draw the attention of local authorities to the increase in air pollution in your area.
Answer:
(a) St. Angles School
Unnao
Uttar Pradesh
12 September 20XX
M/S Sports Equipment Supplies
Kanpur
Uttar Pradesh
Sir
Subject: Enquiry Regarding Sports Equipment for Basketball Tournament
I am writing as the Secretary of the Students’ Body of Sports Events at St. Angles School , regarding our upcoming ‘Sports Day’ event. We are thrilled to organise a basketball tournament and require quality sports equipment for its success.
Could you kindly provide a quotation for the following:
1. Basketball hoops (4)
2. Basketballs (10, standard size)
3. Referee whistles (5)
4. Scoreboards (2)
5. First aid kits (2)
Please include product specifications, prices, and any educational institution discounts. Also, specify delivery timeliness and terms.
Your prompt response is crucial for our event planning. We look forward to your positive assistance in making our basketball tournament a success.
Thank you.
Yours sincerely
Rohit
Secretary, Students’ Body of Sports Events
St. Angles School
OR
(b) 12/345, MG Road
Mumbai
12 September 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
Mumbai
Sir
Subject: Urgent Attention Needed: Rising Air Pollution in Our Area
I am writing to you as a concerned resident of MG Road, Mumbai, to bring to your attention to the alarming increase in air pollution in our locality. This pressing issue demands immediate action from our local authorities, and I kindly request you to publish an article to draw their attention to the following concerns:
Noticeable increase in smog and particulate matter in the air.
Frequent cases of respiratory illnesses among residents, especially children and the elderly.
Decreased visibility, posing road safety hazards.
Negative impact on overall quality of life and wellbeing.
We believe that raising awareness through your esteemed newspaper can catalyse the necessary steps to combat this issue effectively. Your support in addressing this matter is greatly appreciated.
Yours sincerely
Rohini
Question 6.
(a) “Fast food may tickle our taste buds, but it harms our health in more ways than we can count.” When fast food fanatic Anita heard her doctor say these words, she was horrified and she immediately decided to junk fast food. Not only that, she even took the responsibility of spreading awareness about the harmful effects of fast food. As a first step, she decided to write and article for a newspaper on “Junk the Fast Food.” Write the article for her, in about 150 words.
Cues
I. What is fast food?
II. Side effects
III. Healthy substitutes
IV. Benefits of giving it up. [8]
OR
(b) As Rohit/Rohini of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, write an article in not more than 150 words on the importance of community gardens in urban areas. Discuss how they provide a space for residents to grow their own food, connect with nature, and build relationships with their neighbours.
Cues
I. What is a community garden and how does it function in an urban area?
II. How do community gardens provide access to fresh, locally grown produce for urban residents?
III. What are the benefits of growing your own food in a community garden?
IV. How do community gardens serve as a space for connecting with nature and the environment?
V. What are some examples of successful community gardens in urban areas?
Answer:
(a) Junk the Fast Food: Choose Health and Happiness -By Anita
Fast food, with its tantalizing tastes and convenience, has become an integral part of our modern lives. However, as Anita discovered through her doctor’s words, the consequences of indulging in it can be more devastating than we might think.
Fast food, typically characterized by high levels of salt, sugar, unhealthy fats, and low nutritional value, poses significant risks to our health. Regular consumption can lead to obesity, heart diseases, diabetes, and a host of other health problems.
But there’s hope. Anita’s decision to renounce fast food serves as an inspiring example for us all. In its place, we can opt for healthier alternatives like homemade meals, salads, and fresh fruits. These not only taste great but also nourish our bodies.
The benefits of bidding farewell to fast food are immense. Improved health, increased energy levels, and a longer, happier life await those who make the switch. Anita’s commitment to raising awareness about this issue is commendable, as it encourages us all to make informed choices.
In conclusion, let’s join Anita in her mission to “Junk the Fast Food.” It’s a small step for our taste buds but a giant leap for our well-being.
OR
(b) “Blooming Connections: The Vital Role of Community Gardens in Urban Areas” -By Rohini
In the bustling heart of urban landscapes, community gardens have emerged as sanctuaries of green tranquillity, where the essence of sustainability and human connection thrives. Bhopal, like many cities, has witnessed the resurgence of community gardens, and their importance cannot be overstated.
Firstly, community gardens empower urban residents to reconnect with nature. Amidst the concrete jungles, these pockets of green serve as havens, offering a respite from the daily grind. Tending to plants, nurturing seedlings, and watching them flourish provide a profound sense of serenity and reconnection with the earth.
Secondly, these gardens offer a solution to food security issues. Residents can grow their own organic produce, reducing their reliance on mass-produced, often less nutritious options. This not only promotes healthier lifestyles but also fosters a sense of selfreliance and empowerment.
Moreover, community gardens are catalysts for building relationships. They bring together diverse individuals who share a common love for gardening.
Neighbours become friends as they swap gardening tips and share their harvests, fostering a close-knit, supportive community.
In conclusion, community gardens in urban areas like Bhopal are much more than plots of land; they are green lungs, food providers, and hubs of connection. They remind us that amidst the urban rush, nature and meaningful relationships can thrive if we nurture them.
Section – C
Grammar (10 Marks)
Question 7.
Complete the tasks A-C, as directed.
(A) Fill in the blanks with appropriate option from those in the brackets. [3]
Alex: Sarah, you’re always late for our meetings. What (i) ……… (may/can/but) you do to be on time?
Sarah: I’m sorry, Alex. I know it’s a problem. (ii)I …… (could/would/but) set an alarm for our next meeting?
Alex: That’s a great idea. And (iii) ………… (could/might/shall) you try leaving a bit earlier too?
Answer:
(i) can
(ii) could
(iii) could
(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 |
|
The Ramayana is epic poem tells the story of Rama. | is | an | Epic | |
i. | Rama is prince of Ayodhya and is considered | |||
ii. | to be the seventh avatar of god Vishnu. He | |||
iii. | is married to Sita, who is abducted by demon | |||
iv. | king Ravana. Rama, with help of Hanuman brings Sita back. |
Answer:
Word before Omission Word after
(i) is a prince
(ii) of the god
(iii) by the demon
(iv) with the help
(C) Do as directed
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence. [1]
(i) Friend A: Hey, did you watch the new movie that released last week?
Friend B: Yes, I did! It was amazing.
Friend A: That’s/ hear/ great/ to/ V watch/ planning/ it/ am/ weekend/.this./to
Answer:
That’s great to hear. I am planning to watch it this weekend.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraph that follows. [2]
Teacher: Why are you looking so upset?
Student: I didn’t do well on my test, teacher.
Teacher: Don’t worry, we can work together to improve your grades. When did you take the test? Student: Last week, teacher.
The teacher asked the student ………. (ii). The student replied that …….. (iii). The teacher assured the student that they could work together to improve their grades. The teacher further asked when the student took the test, to which the student replied that it was last week.
Answer:
(ii) why they were looking so upset
(iii) they didn’t do well on their test
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 (A) “In the grey sky of early dawn, stars still glowed, as happy memories light up a life that is nearing its close. An old man was walking through the town, now and from the cold and biting wind.” again drawing his tattered clothes tighter to shield his body
(The Letter)
(i) Whose life is drawing to a close? [1]
Answer:
Coachman Ali.
(ii) Where is he going? [1]
Answer:
To the post-office.
(iii) Why is he going there? [1]
Answer:
He is going there to check if his daughter has sent him a letter
(iv) What does this show about his character? [1]
Answer:
He is determined and does not stop even in the face of physical discomfort.
(B) And I had never found it healthy to contradict Jenkins. Jenkins always seemed to have an uncanny knowledge as to when the landlord or the grocer was pestering me, and he dunned me for a ghost. And somehow, I’d always been able to dig one up for him, so I’d begun to get a bit cocky as to my ability.
(A Shady Plot)
(i) Why couldn’t John contradict Jenkins? [1]
Answer:
Whenever he was in need of money, it was Jenkins who provided it. / He was the only one who was publishing his stories.
(ii) What did John ‘dig up’ for Jenkins? [1]
Answer:
A ghost/horror/supernatural story.
(iii) Who was Jenkins? [1]
Answer:
Jenkins was a publisher who published the stories written by John Hallock.
(iv) What does the word ‘cocky7 mean? [1]
Answer:
Over confident, very sure of himself, arrogant, proud.
(C) HowgladI ivas he had come like a guest in quiet, to drink at my water- trough
And depart peacefully, pacified, and thankless,
Into the burning bowels of this earth?
(Snake)
(i) Who is the guest here? [1]
Answer:
The guest is the snake.
(ii) He would depart thanklessly because…. [1]
Answer:
There is no need for him to thank the poet as the water is a natural resource and he has as much right to it as the poet.
(iii) Explain ‘burning bowels’. [1]
Answer:
The snake’s hole, very very hot, like Etna burning, deep inside.
(iv) Give the antonym of ‘depart’. [1]
Answer:
Arrive
Question 9.
Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each 5 x2=10
(i) What job did Patol Babu have in Calcutta and why did he leave it? [2]
Answer:
Patol Babu worked as a clerk with Hudson and Kimberley. Patol Babu had a smooth sailing when he was working in Calcutta. He was in the boss’ good books. But he lost his job due to a sudden retrenchment in his office due to war.
(ii) Why was Sebastian Shultz in a coma?
(Virtually True) [2]
Answer:
Sebastian Shultz was in a coma because he had been badly injured in a road accident with his head hitting his laptop.
(iii) Why is Decius Brutus successful in taking Caesar to the Senate in spite of Calpurnia’s efforts to prevent him from going?
(Julius Caesar) [2]
Answer:
Decius Brutus is successful in persuading Caesar as he is the most trusted friend and a fellow Roman warrior. Caesar is not a coward. When Calpurnia tells him to inform the Senate that Caesar is sick, he decides to go against her wishes as he was too proud. Brutus interprets her dream to his own advantage. Moreover, he tellsa lie that the Senate has decided to crown him. His flattery succeeds while Calpurnia’s love fails.
(iv) What do the expressions on ‘Ozymandias’ face reveal about him? [2]
Answer:
The face of ‘Ozymandias’ statue was shattered. The sculptor was such a skilful artist that the expressions on his face were still very clear. They showed frown and hostility on the face of the statue which revealed that he looked down upon others and was an arrogant and boastful king.
(v) Why does the Ancient Mariner compel the wedding guest to listen to his story?
(The Rime of the Ancient Mariner) [2]
Answer:
The Ancient Mariner was deeply troubled because he was guilt–ridden of killing the Albatross. His guilt compelled him to narrate his experience to the wedding guest as he believed that confession of a sin would lead to its redemption.
(vi) What according to the poet transcends time in the poem, ‘Not Marble, Nor the Gilded Monuments’? [2]
Answer:
The poet’s verses which immortalise his beloved will outlive the grand memorials or monuments built by princes in their memory. All signs of worldly power, glory and grandeur will fade away with the passage of time. All gold-plated monuments, memorials and statues will fall into utter neglect, decay and deterioration. The words of the poet’s ‘powerful rhyme’ will be a living record of the memory of his beloved.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 150 words. [8]
(A) Henry, I’ve been thinking about that bureau of grandfather’s that’s in his bedroom. You know I always wanted to have it after he died. Victoria is deeply anguished at her mother’s remark. As Victoria write a letter to a friend expressing your feelings on how your mother is behaving in a greedy manner highlighting the values her mother should have possessed.
(Dear Departed)
OR
(B) The Frog and the Nightingale” is a poem written by Vikram Seth, while ‘Snake1 is a poem written by D.H. Lawrence. These two poems are distinct works by different authors and belong to different literary traditions, but they do share some thematic similarities, particularly in their exploration of the relationship between nature and human intervention. Bring out two points of similarity between these two poems.
Answer:
(A) Dear Jeanette
I am very upset today as I saw my mother, whom I take to be my ideal, behave in an irresponsible manner. It was a difficult time for us as we believed that my grandfather was dead. But instead of being upset, my parents especially mother was busy pinching his things. She wanted the bureau in his room, the clock and has already passed on grandfather’s slippers to my father. I was rather shocked at this behaviour of hers and am unable to believe their reaction. I was really saddened at this. I had never thought even in my dreams about such reaction by my parents.
I think they should behave in a responsible manner. They should have felt sorrow that a soul had departed and should have shown respect to that departed soul. I wish I could convey my thoughts to my parents, but I know they will not listen to me. My heart feels lightened after sharing my thoughts and emotions with you.
Yours sincerely
Victoria
OR
(B) The point of similarities between, The Frog and the Nightingale and Snake can be brought by referring to the following:
1. Nature and the Natural World: Both poems focus on the natural world and its inhabitants. ‘The Frog and the Nightingale’ features a frog and a nightingale, while ‘Snake’ centers on a snake. The poets use vivid descriptions and sensory imagery to bring these creatures and their environments to life.
2. Human Intervention: Both poems touch upon the theme of human intervention in the natural world. In ‘The Frog and the Nightingale,’ the frog’s manipulation of the nightingale’s talent serves as ametaphor for exploitation and commercialization. In ‘Snake,’ the speaker must decide whether to allow the snake to drink from his water trough, highlighting the human tendency to impose our will on nature.
While these thematic similarities exist, it’s important to note that the two poems have distinct styles, tones, and messages. Vikram Seth’s ‘The Frog and the Nightingale’ is a fable-like poem with a moral lesson, whereas D.H. Lawrence’s ‘Snake’ is a more introspective and complex exploration of human and natural instincts.