Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 9 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 9 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. Man, always sees tigers as the symbols of pride, our deepest fears, desires and aspirations. The tiger is typically sighted as the most fearsome predator which is admired for its lithe muscles, courage and beauty. The tiger’s body has a hundred different uses, such as the fat is believed to be the tonic for rheumatism and the flesh offers considerable strength to those who eat it.
2. Tigers are powerful animals that are capable of taking on their prey single-handedly and subduing large prey. They have forelimbs and broad shoulders, with the help of which tigers grapple their prey while holding onto it with the retractable, long claws of the broad forepaws.
3. Tigers have muscular bodies bearing strong and powerful forelimbs and large heads. The colour of the coat varies, depending entirely on the subspecies. These big cats also display prominent black stripes that run across their body. No tiger has stripes that resemble other counterparts i.e., each one has its own unique stripes. The black stripes of tigers serve as a natural camouflage for hiding themselves amongst the dappled shadows and the long grasses of their surroundings.
4. The tigers once inhabited all of Asia ranging from Eastern Turkey to the Caspian Sea, including the southern Tibetan plateau and the Sea of Okhotsk. Sadly speaking, the tiger’s range has been limited to a few major habitats. Currently, tigers have become extinct in Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, and the Indus Valley of Pakistan. They were once widespread throughout India including the foothills of the Himalayas, through Bhutan, Nepal, Sikkim, Myanmar, and Assam, but the population has dramatically reduced in the Indian Subcontinent. Unfortunately, extreme hunting together with poaching makes tigers an endangered species.
5. It is sad to contemplate the extinction of an animal species due to the inexorable forces of nature, but it is infinitely more depressing when the extinction is caused by supposedly responsible human beings.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. [1]
(i) What is the main reason for tigers being admired by humans, according to the passage?
(A) Their role as predators
(B) Their fearlessness
(C) Their physical beauty
(D) Their unique stripes
Answer:
(C) Their physical beauty
Explanation:
Man admires tigers for its little muscles, courage and beauty.
(ii) Explain the significance of tigers in human culture, as mentioned in the passage. How have humans historically viewed tigers? [2]
Answer:
Tigers are seen as symbols of pride, fear, desire, and aspiration. They are admired for their physical attributes, including their lithe muscles, courage, and unique stripes. Humans have historically viewed tigers as fearsome predators and symbols of beauty and strength.
(iii) After which paragraph of the passage, would the following paragraph most likely be placed? [1]
Tigers’ remarkable physical attributes are a testament to their adaptability and survival prowess. Their muscular bodies and powerful forelimbs, coupled with broad shoulders, enable them to confront and conquer formidable prey. Moreover, their strikingly varied coat colors, unique to each subspecies, are accompanied by the distinctive black stripes that provide a dual function – not only do these patterns showcase the individuality of each tiger, but they also serve as nature’s artful camouflage, allowing these magnificent creatures to seamlessly blend into their dappled surroundings, enhancing their prowess as apex predators.
Answer:
After paragraph 2.
The paragraph describes tigers’ distinct coat patterns and colours, along with their powerful physiques, hence can be added here.
(iv) Describe the physical characteristics of tigers as mentioned in the passage and explain how these characteristics contribute to their survival in the wild. [2]
Answer:
Tigers have muscular bodies, powerful forelimbs, and large heads. They also have unique black stripes that serve as natural camouflage. These physical characteristics help tigers hunt and subdue prey, making them effective predators in the wild.
(v) Substitute the underlined word in the following sentence with a word/ phrase from the passage, that means the same.
It is sad to contemplate the extinction of an animal species due to the unstoppable forces of nature, [1]
Answer:
inexorable
Explanation:
Inexorable is something which is impossible to stop or prevent.
(vi) Complete the following appropriately:
Tigers have black stripes on their bodies ………… [1]
Answer:
To serve as natural camouflage.
Explanation:
The black stripes help them hide themselves among the dappled shadows and long grasses.
(vii) The passage mentions that tigers are capable of taking on their prey single-handedly and subduing large prey. This implies that …………….. [1]
(A) tigers primarily hunt in groups
(B) tigers are herbivores
(C) tigers have strong hunting abilities
(D) tigers are scavengers
Answer:
(C) tigers have strong hunting abilities
Explanation:
The passage implies that tigers have strong hunting abilities, allowing them to single handedly subdue large prey.
(viii) Infer one reason from the passage why tigers have become extinct. [1]
Answer:
One reason for the extinction of tigers mentioned in the passage is ‘extreme hunting together with poaching’ by humans.
(ix) True or False: Tigers were once widespread throughout Asia, but their population has dramatically increased in recent years. [1]
Answer:
False
(x) Complete the sentence appropriately
The current status of tiger population has ………… [1]
Answer:
dramatically reduced.
Explanation:
Tigers have become extinct in many countries marking a reduce in their population.
Question 2.
Read the following table. (10 Marks)
Name | Date of Birth | Invention/Discovery | Result of discovery | Books Published | Field of Study |
C.V Raman | November 7, 1888 |
Raman Effect | Explanation of scattering of light by molecules |
Molecular Diffraction of Light” |
Physics |
Jagadish Chandra Bose | November 30, 1858 |
Crescograph | Helped in study of plant growth through precise measurement |
“Response in the Living and NonLiving” |
Physics/ Biology |
HomiJ. Bhabha |
October 30, 1909 | Bhabha Scattering |
Used as a luminosity monitor in a number of e+e- collider physics experiments. |
“Theoretical Physics” |
Theoretical Physics |
Venkatraman Ramakrishnan |
April 6,
1952 |
Ribosome Structure |
Helped to determine structure of ribosomes, (a critical component of the cell responsible for protein synthesis.) |
“Gene Machine: The Race to Decode the Secrets of the Ribosome” |
Structural
Biology |
Satyendra Nath Bose |
January 1, 1894 | Bose-Einstein Statistics |
Describes one of two possible ways in which a collection of non- interacting particles may occupy a set of available discrete energy states at thermodynamic equilibrium. |
“The Theory of Radiation and the Quanta” |
Physics |
Answer the following questions, based on the table above.
(i) Describe the significant contribution of C.V Raman mentioned in the table. [2]
Answer:
C.V. Raman’s notable contribution mentioned in the table is the discovery of the Raman Effect, which explained the scattering of light by molecules, revealing valuable insights into molecular structures.
(ii) What was the field of study for Homi J. Bhabha according to the table? [1]
(A) Chemistry
(B) Theoretical Physics
(C) Biology
(D) Geology
Answer:
(B) Theoretical Physics
(iii) Explain the relationship between Jagadish Chandra Bose’s invention (Crescograph) and his field of study as mentioned in the table. [2]
Answer:
Jagadish Chandra Bose’s invention of the Crescograph, as per the table, was related to his interdisciplinary work in both physics and biology, enabling the study of plant growth through precise measurement.
(iv) C.V Raman : Raman Effect :: Jagadish Chandra Bose : …………. [1]
Answer:
Crescograph
(v) How did Venkatraman Ramakrishnan’s research as stated in the table contribute to the field of structural biology? [1]
Answer:
Venkatraman Ramakrishnan’s research, as stated in the table, contributed to the field of structural biology by helping determine the structure of ribosomes, a critical component of the cell responsible for protein synthesis.
(vi) According to the table Bhabha Scattering is used as ………….. [1]
Answer:
A luminosity monitor in a number of e+e− collider physics experiments.
(vii) Based on the table, why did Satyendra Nath Bose’s work have implications beyond physics? [1]
(A) His discoveries were closely related to chemistry.
(B) His work had applications in the medical field.
(C) His work laid the foundation for a new statistical mechanics.
Answer:
(C) His work laid the foundation for a new statistical mechanics.
(viii) Match the scientists with their notable contributions as mentioned in the passage: [1]
1. C.V. Raman A. Bhabha Scattering
2. Jagadish Chandra Bose B. Ribosome Structure
3. Homi J. Bhabha C. Raman Effect
4. Venkatraman Ramakrishnan D. Crescograph
5. Satyendra Nath Bose E. Bose-Einstein Statistics
Answer:
C.V. Raman – C. Raman Effect
Jagadish Chandra Bose – D. Crescograph
Homi J. Bhabha – A. Bhabha Scattering
Venkatraman Ramakrishnan – B. Ribosome Structure
Satyendra Nath Bose – E. Bose-Einstein Statistics
Section- B
Writing Skills (22 Marks)
Question 3.
As Vikas/Trishla of class X write an email in not more than 50 words to your class teacher to help you change your bus route as you have shifted to a new locality. [3]
From:
To: [email protected]
Cc:
Date: 20 July 20XX, 10:10 a.m.
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 20 July 20XX , 10:10 a.m.
Subject: Request for Bus Route Change
Sir,
I hope this email finds you well. I recently shifted to a new locality, which is quite far from my current bus stop. Could you kindly assist me in changing my bus route to match my new address? Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Yours sincerely
Vikas
Question 4.
Write a factual description in not more than 100 words, of famous athlete, their career, and impact on their sport. [4]
Answer:
Usain Bolt, the Jamaican sprinter, is a famous athlete known for his incredible speed. He achieved global recognition with multiple Olympic gold medals, holding world records in the 100m and 200m sprints. Bolt’s charisma and unmatched performance elevated the popularity of track and field. His impact transcended the sport, inspiring countless athletes worldwide. Bolt’s remarkable career left an indelible mark, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest sprinters in history, and symbol of excellence in the world of athletics.
Question 5.
(a) You are Ritu/Ritwik residing at 25, Green Avenue, Mumbai. You recently purchased a smartphone from Mobile Haven, Mumbai. After one month of use, you’ve encountered several issues with the phone’s performance. Write a letter to the Sales Manager at Mobile Haven, complaining about the problems and requesting a replacement. [7]
OR
(b) As Kashish/ Kishan write a letter to the editor to encourage school authorities to promote study of astronomy as a vocational subject in schools. You wish to see budding astronomers from your nation taking part in understanding the universe in a better way. (120 words)
Answer:
(a) 25, Green Avenue
Mumbai
16 April 20XX
The Sales Manager
Mobile Haven
Mumbai
Subject: Request for Replacement due to Smartphone Performance Issues
Dear Sir
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my disappointment regarding a smartphone I purchased from Mobile Haven a month ago. Unfortunately, I have been experiencing multiple issues with its performance.
The smartphone frequently freezes, apps crash unexpectedly, and there is a noticeable decline in battery life. Despite trying various troubleshooting methods, these problems persist, significantly affecting its usability. As a loyal customer of Mobile Haven, I expected a reliable product.
In light of these issues, I kindly request your assistance in resolving this matter promptly. I believe that a replacement would be the most suitable solution to ensure I have a fully functional smartphone. I have attached a copy of the purchase receipt and warranty card for your reference.
Your immediate attention to this matter will greatly enhance my confidence in Mobile Haven’s commitment to customer satisfaction. Please contact me at 9499xxxxxx to arrange for the replacement or for any further information required.
Thank you for your prompt response.
Yours sincerely
Ritu
OR
(b) Greenfield Colony
Kolkata
19 July 20XX
The Editor
Times of India
Kolkata
Subject: Promoting the Study of Astronomy in
Schools
Dear Editor
I write to express my earnest desire to see the study of astronomy introduced as a vocational subject in our schools. Astronomy is not just about stargazing; it’s a gateway to understanding the universe. By nurturing young minds in this field, we can produce budding astronomers who can contribute significantly to our nation’s scientific knowledge.
Astronomy fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a passion for exploration. It can inspire our youth to reach for the stars, quite literally. Encouraging this subject will not only widen educational horizons but also prepare our nation for the challenges and opportunities of space exploration in the future.
I urge our school authorities to consider this proposal seriously and help students become the astronomers of tomorrow, contributing to a better understanding of the cosmos.
Yours sincerely
Kashish
Question 6.
(a) Write an article in not more than 150 words on the colossal wastage of food in the lavish Indian weddings. [8]
Cues
I. Indians spend life’s saving on weddings.
II. Wedding market in India is approximately? 150,000 crores per year.
III. India also hosts one of the biggest armies of starving people in the world.
IV. No wastage more condemnable than wastage of food.
V. Responsibility of the guests to limit the size of the servings according to their appetite.
VI. Take spoonfulls of each to taste and decide, instead of filling the plate with every dish.
OR
(b) As Harbhajan/Yuvraj write an article for a local daily in 150 words about the need of rain water conversation.
Cues
I. Why is rainwater conservation becoming increasingly crucial in our local community and beyond?
II. How can rainwater harvesting help alleviate the growing water scarcity issues we face?
III. What are the environmental benefits of implementing rainwater conservation methods?
IV. Are there any notable success stories or initiatives related to rainwater harvesting in our area?
V. What role can individuals and local organisations play in promoting rainwater conservation?
Answer:
(a) Extravagant Indian Weddings: A Colossal Food Wastage Concern -By Srishti
In the grand tapestry of Indian culture, weddings are celebrated with unparalleled extravagance and opulence. Families often pour their life’s savings into these lavish affairs, aspiring to create unforgettable memories. While the spirit of celebration is certainly commendable, it is disheartening to witness the colossal wastage of food that accompanies these grand festivities.
The wedding industry in India is staggering, estimated at approximately ` 150,000 crores per year. Unfortunately, amidst the lavishness, there looms an uncomfortable truth: India is home to one of the largest populations of starving people in the world. In this context, no wastage is more condemnable than the wastage of food.
It is crucial for guests to recognise their responsibility in curbing this excess. One simple step is to limit the size of servings according to their appetite. Instead of heaping plates with every available dish, taking spoonful of each to taste and decide can significantly reduce food wastage. This small adjustment can go a long way in ensuring that the joy of a wedding celebration does not come at the cost of exacerbating food insecurity in the nation.
OR
(b) The Vital Necessity of Rainwater Conservation -By Yuvraj
Rainwater conservation is no longer a choice; it’s an urgent necessity. Our groundwater reserves are depleting at an alarming rate, and water scarcity looms as a daunting challenge. Rainwater conservation is a potent solution that we must embrace.
Conserving rainwater is eco-friendly and costeffective. Methods like rain barrels and rooftop harvesting capture and store rainwater for various uses. This not only lessons the burden on municipal water supply but also benefits agriculture and helps reduce urban flooding.
Community involvement and awareness are key. Government policies and incentives can encourage rainwater harvesting adoption. By practicing rainwater conservation, we engage in sustainable water management for the future.
In conclusion, rainwater conservation is not just an option; it’s our responsibility. We must act now to secure our water resources for future generations. Let’s make rainwater conservation a way of life, ensuring water for all.
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]
Linda: John, you’re coughing a lot. (i) ………. (must/may/should) you see a doctor?
John: I’ve been thinking about it. (ii) ……….. (should/ought to/might) I make an appointment tomorrow?
Linda: Yes, please do. (iii) ………….. (could/may/as well) you also try drinking warm tea with honey?
Answer:
(i) Should
(ii) Should
(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 Taj Mahal one of the most famous monuments | Mahal | is | one | |
i. | in India. It located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh and was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan | |||
ii. | memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal | |||
iii. | considered one of the greatest examples of Mughal architecture. | |||
iv | Its breathtaking white marble facade adorned with intricate carvings and the stunning symmetrical layout make a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of eternal love. |
Answer:
Word before Omission word after
(i) It is located
(ii) Jahan in memory
(iii) Mahal is considered
(iv) make it a
(C) Do as directed
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence. [1]
(i) Mother: Hey, how was your piano recital today?
Daughter: It went really well! I think I played my piece perfectly.
Mother: That’s / have / I / great / one / another/ for/ scheduled / month / next / you
Answer:
That’s great! I have another one scheduled for you next month.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraphs that follow. [2]
Manager: Why are you looking so stressed?
Employee: I have a lot of work to do, manager.
Manager: Don’t worry, we can prioritise and delegate tasks. When is your deadline?
Employee: In a week, manager.
The manager asked the employee ……….. (ii). The employee replied that they had a lot of work to do. The manager assured the employee …………….. (iii). The manager further asked when the employee’s deadline was, to which the employee replied that it was in a week.
Answer:
(ii) why they were looking stressed
(iii) that they could prioritise and delegate tasks
Section- D
Literature Textbook
Question 8.
Read the given excerpts and answer the questions briefly, for ANY TWO excerpts, of the three, given.
(A) Answering a reporter’s question as to what the family was going to do next, Mr. Shultz said that they were off to stock up on some games. “It was while we were in the hospital, someone stole the lot. I don’t know what happened to them.”
(i) Why was Shultz in the hospital? [1]
Answer:
Shultz was badly injured in a motor-way accident, and was in a coma.
(ii) What happened to the games after they were stolen? [1]
Answer:
They were sold at the Computer fair from where Michael’s father bought them
(iii) What does the phrase, ‘stock up’ mean? [1]
Answer:
buy in large amounts / a mass for future use
(iv) Whom is Mr. Shultz taking to? [1]
Answer:
A reporter from a newspaper.
(B) “Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.”
(Ozymandias)
(i) What emotions does the imagery in the poem evoke? [1]
Answer:
The imagery in the poem evokes emotions of desolation, emptiness, and a sense of loss. The ‘colossal wreck’ and the ‘lone and level sands’ that stretch far away create a stark and barren landscape that suggests the passing of time and the transience of human achievements.
(ii) What is the significance of the “colossal wreck” in the poem? [1]
Answer:
The ‘colossal wreck’ in the poem represents the ruins of a once-great civilisation or monument, now reduced to nothing but decay and rubble.
(iii) What literary device is used in the line “The lone and level sands stretch far away”? [1]
Answer:
The literary device used in the line ‘The lone and level sands stretch far away’ is alliteration, where the repetition of the initial consonant sound ‘l’ creates a pleasing effect.
(iv) How does the use of alliteration in the poem contribute to its overall effect? [1]
Answer:
The use of alliteration in the poem, such as in the line ‘The lone and level sands stretch far away,’ adds to its overall effect by creating a pleasing rhythmic quality that enhances its readability and memorability.
(C) Calpurnia: Do not go forth today: call it my fear
That keeps you in the house, and not your own.
Let me, upon my knee prevail in this.
(Julius Caesar)
(i) What is Calpurnia’s fear? [1]
Answer:
The Calpurnia’s fear was that Caesar might be killed.
(ii) What is the cause of her fear? [1]
Answer:
The cause of her fear were her dreams and the supernatural omens and events.
(iii) What does the phrase, ‘go forth’ mean? [1]
Answer:
The phrase ‘go forth’ means ‘go out’ or ‘go to the Senate or go ahead’.
(iv) ‘Let me upon my knee…..’ means. [1]
Answer:
Let me make request.
Question 9.
Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each:
(i) Why was the Albatross considered as a ‘Christian Soul’? [2]
(The Rime of the Ancient Mariner)
Answer:
The Albatross was considered as a ‘Christian Soul’ because its arrival took away all the miseries that the Mariners had been facing. They felt that Lord Christ had sent them help in the form of an Albatross.
(ii) How does the time destroy the monuments and memorials? [2]
(Not Marble, Nor the Gilded Monuments)
Answer:
Time has been portrayed as a powerful element, which spoils the marbled or gilded monuments. It discolours them, breaks them or makes them dirty through its agencies like air, rain, etc.
(iii) How does the poet describe the atmosphere of the day when he saw the snake? [2]
(Snake)
Answer:
It was summer season and the day was hot. A snake came to his water trough to drink water beside the bigdark carob-tree, which was strange and scented. The poet had to wait there with his pitcher until the snake left.
(iv) “The incidental expenses are heavy”, she confides to inquiring friends. Who is the speaker? What is she referring to here? [2]
(Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger)
Answer:
Mrs. Packletide is the speaker. Her paid companion Louisa Mebbin knew that Mrs. Packletide was unworthy of the honour she received for having killed a tiger. She feared that Mebbin would reveal the truth about the tiger’s death. She had to please Mebbin who exploited the situation. The money spent on Mebbin is referred to as incidental expenses.
(v) John Hallock could never displease Jenkins. Why? [2]
(A Shady Plot)
Answer:
John Hallock could never afford to displease Jenkins as Jenkins was the publisher of the magazine which printed the ghost stories written by John Hallock. In fact, he was the only one who published his stories and would push up his sales. Moreover, the narrator, John Hallock, was in need of money which he would get from Jenkins by writing stories.
(vi) reminds him of his past; not being successful; feels overconfident; over excited; day-dreaming. [2]
Answer:
When Patol Babu was offered a role in a film, he was very excited. He shared his happiness with his wife who in turn reminded him of his past when he was not successful though he had tried to do many different jobs. She told him that he was counting his chickens before they were hatched. He was only daydreaming about his success which is not easy to gain.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 150 words. [8]
(A) Dedication and hard work are essential for success. Take inspiration from Patol babu’s success and Mrs Packletide’s unwavering attempts to kill the tiger.
(Patol Babu, Film Star and Mrs’Packletide’s Tiger)
OR
(B) Imagine you are Michael. Write a diary entry describing your spirit of fellow feeling with which you finally rescued Sebastian.
Answer:
(A) Dedication and hard work stand as timeless pillars of success, vividly depicted in the literary works of Patol Babu and Mrs. Packletide. In Patol Babu, we encounter a humble man with a passion for acting. Despite facing life’s challenges, his unwavering commitment to his craft leads to a moment of glory when he delivers a memorable line in a film, showcasing that dedication and persistence can transform dreams into reality.
On the other hand, Mrs. Packletide’s relentless pursuit of her goal – to kill a tiger – demonstrates a different kind of determination. While her motives may be questionable, her perseverance in attempting to achieve her ambition highlights the power of focused effort.
These two literary characters remind us that success is often the result of dedication, hard work, and the willingness to push beyond obstacles. Whether in the pursuit of a passion like Patol Babu or an ambitious goal like Mrs. Packletide, their stories inspire us to strive for our dreams with unwavering determination.
OR
(B) Dear Diary,
Today was a day that I will never forget. After many attempts, I finally succeeded in rescuing Sebastian Shultz from the virtual world. It was a difficult journey, but my compassion and empathy for Sebastian kept me going. I knew that he was in trouble and needed my help, and I couldn’t just sit back and do nothing.
I played game after game, trying to find a way to rescue him. Each time I failed, I felt more determined to try again. I knew that if I kept trying, eventually I would succeed. And finally, in the game ‘Warzone,’ I was able to save Sebastian.
It was an incredible feeling to know that I had helped someone in need. Even though Sebastian and I had never met in the real world, we were connected through the virtual world, and that connection was enough for me to feel a sense of responsibility towards him.
I am grateful for this experience and for the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.
Yours truly,
Michael