Chapter-wise Board Exam Questions: English Language & Literature | Class X
Updated: Feb 25
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2023
A Letter to God
Who read the letter sent by Lencho? What did he do then?
What did Lencho hope for and why ?
In what way would writing a letter to God help Lencho tide over his crisis ?
The Postmaster had mixed emotions while opening the letter. Comment.
Why did the night after the rains turn sorrowful for Lencho?
What are the raindrops compared to and why?
Answer Key (LTG)
1. The postman, who was also an employee at the post office, read the letter sent by Lencho. He then showed the letter to the postmaster, and both of them found amusement in the letter. The postmaster, however, decided to answer the letter to maintain Lencho's faith in God.
2. Lencho hoped for help from God because his crops had been destroyed by a hailstorm. He needed financial assistance to sow his field again and sustain his family until the new crop could be harvested.
3. Writing a letter to God was Lencho's way of seeking divine intervention and expressing his desperation. He believed that God, who sees everything, would understand his situation and provide the financial help he needed. In a symbolic sense, the act of writing the letter allowed Lencho to externalize his plea and find solace in the hope that divine help would come.
4. The postmaster had mixed emotions because, while he found amusement in the letter, he also admired Lencho's unwavering faith. He recognized the genuine belief Lencho had in God's ability to help him. This admiration led the postmaster to decide to answer the letter and attempt to provide some assistance, despite the practical challenges.
5. The night after the rains turned sorrowful for Lencho because the hailstorm had destroyed his entire cornfield. The crops, which were essential for his family's livelihood, were ruined. The realization of the significant loss and the impact on their sustenance made the night a sorrowful one for Lencho and his family.
6. The raindrops were compared to coins by Lencho. He expressed this metaphorically, stating that the big raindrops were like ten-cent coins, and the smaller ones were like five-cent coins. This comparison reflects Lencho's positive anticipation of the rain benefiting his crops, as if the drops were valuable currency from the sky, bringing prosperity to his fields.
Two Stories About Flying
'I'll take the risk''. What is the risk? Why does the narrator take the risk?
Describe the young seagull's first flight.
Family played a vital role in the first flight of the young seagull. Give examples to substantiate the above statement.
Motivation plays an important role in taking risks in life and in succeeding. Do you agree ? Discuss with reference to the pilot of the old Dakota and the young seagull.
Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
Mandela said, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love. Discuss. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin or his background or his religion. Do you agree? Elaborate on the basis of the chapter ' Nelson Mandela- Long Walk to Freedom'. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Answer Key (NM)
Q1. Nelson Mandela's statement, "People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love," reflects his profound belief in the malleability of human attitudes. In the context of the chapter "Long Walk to Freedom," Mandela emphasizes the transformative power of education and exposure. He suggests that hatred is not inherent; rather, it is acquired through learning. This perspective underscores the importance of dismantling prejudiced ideologies through education and fostering understanding among diverse communities. Mandela's own journey from being oppressed under apartheid to advocating reconciliation and forgiveness exemplifies this principle. The idea is a call to break the cycle of hatred through enlightenment, education, and a shared commitment to building a just and inclusive society.
Q2. Mandela's assertion, "No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion," aligns with his personal experiences and the broader narrative in "Long Walk to Freedom." The chapter chronicles the impact of apartheid on South Africa, highlighting how a system of racial domination was imposed on the nation. Mandela describes his idyllic childhood, emphasizing that freedom and unity were natural until external influences disrupted this harmony. The narrative suggests that societal prejudices, including racial discrimination, are learned behaviors shaped by oppressive systems. Mandela's life journey, from his realization of lost freedoms to his activism for universal rights, underscores the notion that hatred is acquired and can be overcome through education, empathy, and a collective commitment to equality.
Glimpses of India
2023
Where is Coorg located? Write any two characteristics of the people of Coorg?
What did Pranjol and Rajvir do during the journey? Why?
What is the Indian legend about the discovery of tea?
Valour and hospitality are inherent in the people of Coorg. Explain.
'A Baker from Goa' is a nostalgic saga of childhood memories. Comment.
Who are paders and why are they friends of children?
Why did s excitement at seeing the tea gardens ?
How is the Goan baker still an important part of the life of a Goan village?
How did the baker become synonymous with celebrations and occasions in Goa?
What does the writer recall about his childhood in Goa?
2022
9. What attracts visitors to Coorg ? (Glimpses of India)
10. Why is Coorg called the land of the rolling hills?
The Sermons at Benares
What does the Buddha say about the world? 40-50 Words/ 3 Marks)
Through the story of Kisa Gotami, what did the Buddha try to preach to the common man? (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Kisa Gotami went from door to door when her son died. What was the result?
What does Kisa Gotami ask for when she goes from house to house after she speaks with Buddha ? Does she get it ? Why ? Why not ?
What did Siddhartha Gautama come across by chance when he was about twenty-five years old ?
As ripe fruits are in danger of falling early, so mortals when born are always in danger of death'. With this statement of the Buddha find out the moral values that Kisa Gotami learnt after the death of her child. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Why did Kisa Gotami meet the Buddha? How did Buddha change her life?
What did Kisa Gotami do after the death of her only son ?
Grief is often seen as a measure of love. Justify your response to Buddha s sermon
'These sights so moved him that he at once went out into the world to seek enlightenment.'' What were the sights that moved him?
2022
9. How, according to Buddha, can one obtain peace of mind ? (The Sermon at Benares )
Madam Rides the Bus
Whenever we want to achieve something, difficulties always come in our way. What did Valli have to do to go and ride in a bus? (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
The people and surroundings are a great book to learn from. Valli in the lesson ' Madam Rides the Bus' learns a lot from others. Mention the traits of her character which help her to learn from people and her surroundings. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
How did Valli gather the details of the bus journey?
What stopped Valli from going to the stall to have a drink ? What do we learn about Valli from this ?
Valli was an extra-ordinary girl who had self-confidence and courage to realize her ambition by planning and drawing on her spirit of adventure. Discuss in reference to the chapter ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
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6. Valli was a mature girl and ahead of her age. Justify the statement with evidence from the text. (Madam Rides the Bus)
7. Valli was sensitive, but at the same time she was fearless and quite determined. Explain with reference to the text.
The Proposal
2023
Forgiveness is the foundation of a cordial relationship. Do you agree ? How is this message conveyed in the play ' The Proposal'?
How did Chubukov react when Lomov asked for the hand of his daughter in marriage?
Russian society emerges as an important character in the play. Support your answer giving instances.
2022
3. Write a brief character-sketch of Lomov.
4. What was the objective of Lomov's visit to Chubukov's house?
Q. Natalya and her father Chubukov 'turn around' when Lomov puts his proposal in the open. As a reader briefly describe what you think of Natalaya and Chubukov from the play "The Proposal".
Ans: In "The Proposal," Natalya and her father Chubukov are initially portrayed as hot-tempered and argumentative characters. Natalya, though sought after by Lomov for marriage, is quick to engage in a heated dispute over the ownership of Oxen Meadows. Her fiery nature is evident as she vehemently defends her position. Chubukov, her father, mirrors this temperament, displaying a similar inclination towards confrontation and disagreement.
However, the dynamics abruptly shift when Lomov reveals his true intention – a marriage proposal rather than a debate over land. This unexpected revelation prompts a sudden change in Natalya and Chubukov's demeanor. Their quick turnaround from anger to acceptance showcases a humorous and ironic aspect of their characters. It suggests that their contentious nature is perhaps more rooted in the trivialities of daily life rather than deep-seated animosity. The comedic element arises from the exaggerated reactions of Natalya and Chubukov, adding a layer of satire to their personalities in Anton Chekhov's play.
The Tale of Custard The Dragon
2023
Q1. How does the poem ‘The Tale of Custard The Dragon’ differ from the traditional ballad?
Q2. What did custard look like?
Q3. How did the other pets celebrate Custard getting rid of the pirate?
Q4. Describe how custard the dragon fights with the pirate.
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Q5. How did Custard prove 'the Cowardly dragon' tag to be untrue?
Amanda
Q1. What impression do you form about Amanda in the poem?
Q2. Why does Amanda wish to be a mermaid?
Q3. Amanda is alone, but not lonely in the world she envisions. Give instances from the poem to justify.
Answer 1.
The impression of Amanda in the poem is that of a young person who is being constantly nagged and corrected by someone, presumably an authority figure, likely a parent or guardian. Amanda is given a list of instructions and admonishments throughout the poem, suggesting a sense of control and expectation imposed upon her. Despite being given instructions, Amanda seems to escape into her imagination, creating vivid and parallel worlds where she can experience freedom and tranquility.
Answer 2
Amanda wishes to be a mermaid as it provides her with an imaginative escape from the constraints and expectations imposed upon her in the real world. The lines "There is a languid, emerald sea, where the sole inhabitant is me—a mermaid, drifting blissfully" suggest that in her mermaid fantasy, Amanda finds solace and freedom, away from the demands and restrictions of her everyday life.
Ans 3
In the poem, Amanda's imaginative worlds provide instances where she is alone but not lonely. For example:
In the mermaid world, she describes herself as the sole inhabitant of the emerald sea, drifting blissfully. This solitude is not depicted as a lonely experience but rather as a peaceful and content one.
As an orphan roaming the street, she patterns soft dust with her hushed, bare feet. The silence is golden, and the freedom is sweet, indicating a sense of comfort in her state of being alone.
When she envisions herself as Rapunzel in a tower, she describes life as tranquil and rare, suggesting that she finds fulfillment and peace in her solitary existence.
These instances highlight Amanda's ability to find solace and contentment in her imaginative worlds, even when she is physically alone.
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Q3. Don't bite your nails, Amanda !
Don't hunch your shoulders, Amanda
What does this reflect about Amanda's mother and Amanda.
Q4. Amanda was blamed for a number of things. Mention any two.
The Thief's Story
Why does Anil not hand over Hari Singh to the police?
How does Hari Singh justify to himself his stealing Anil's money?
Trust and compassion can reform a person. Justify this statement in the light of the lesson 'The Thief's Story.'
What does the thief say about the different reactions of the people when they are robbed ?
Why did Hari Singh smile in his most appealing way towards the end of the story?
The Making of a Scientist
2023
What opinion did Mr. Weiherer, Ebright’s Social Science teacher have about him ?
How did Ebright's mother help him to become a scientist?
Why did Richard Ebright raise a flock of butterflies?
What lesson did Ebright learn when he did not win anything at a science fair?
A parent should try to be a companion to a child. Explain with reference to Richard s mother. (The Making of a Scientist)
2022
6. What are the essential qualities for becoming a scientist, according to Ebright (The Making of a Scientist)
Answer Key (MOAS)
Ans: 1. Mr. Weiherer, Ebright's Social Science teacher, had a positive opinion about him. He described Ebright as someone who gave extra effort, was competitive in a good sense, and wanted to be the best for the right reasons.
2. Ebright's mother played a crucial role in his development as a scientist. She encouraged his curiosity, took him on trips, provided him with educational tools, and engaged in activities with him. She was a constant companion and support, especially after his father's death.
3. Richard Ebright raised a flock of butterflies to facilitate his study of their migration patterns. Initially tagging individual butterflies proved tedious, so he opted to raise them from eggs in his basement, allowing for a more comprehensive study of their life cycle and migration.
4. When Richard Ebright didn't win anything at a science fair in the seventh grade, he realized the importance of conducting real experiments rather than presenting a neat display. This experience motivated him to strive for more meaningful scientific research.
5. Richard Ebright's mother was a companion to him, especially after his father's death. They spent evenings together, engaging in various activities and fostering a love for learning. This companionship and support likely contributed significantly to his success in science.
6. According to Ebright, essential qualities for becoming a scientist include a first-rate mind, curiosity, and a competitive spirit driven by the desire to do the best job for the right reasons. These qualities, combined with scientific curiosity, contribute to success in the field of science.
The Midnight Visitor
How did Ausable get rid of Max without using a weapon?
Describe Max as a secret agent.
What does the phrase 'honour among thieves' mean? Why does Horace get angry at this phrase?
A Triumph of Surgery
What was Mr. Herriot’s strict advice ? Did Mrs. Pumphrey agree to his advice ?
Why was Mr. Herriot Shocked at Tricki's appearance?
How did Mrs. Pumphrey treat Tricki?
What excuses did Mrs. Pumphrey make about Mr. Herriot’s advice ?
Bholi
Education is always a great asset in the life of a woman. How did Bholi, an educated girl, face the challenge posed by Bishamber’s greed? (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks) /2-4-1
Bholi was believed to be a dumb cow. What turned her into a fearless, bold and confident girl?
Education is considered the most important tool for empowering women in the society. It plays an important role in social and cultural development. Prove the above statements in the light of the of the story 'Bholi'. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Destiny had been cruel to Bholi yet she made a place for herself in a conservative society. Discuss.
The credit of Bholi's transformation to Sulekha goes to her teacher. Elaborate with instances from the text in 120 words.
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5. Imagine you are Bholi and you have been invited to give a speech on the
importance of girl education. Write a speech on 'Girl Education and
Empowerment.
6. After reading the story ' Bholi' you find her to be 'a role model' for village girls. Discuss
The Necklace
2023
Those who are satisfied with what they have are happy in life. Those who aspire more than what they can afford ruin their life. Matilda was one such person. If she were content with her life, she would have led a happy life. Elaborate on the basis of the chapter ‘The Necklace.’ (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Mme Loisel's disposition invites her doom. Elucidate with reference to the text. (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Contentment in one's life is very important to lead a peaceful life. We should be happy with what we have and should not crave for what we do not have. Matilda suffered in life because she was not content in her life. Her desires led to her disaster. What do you learn from her mistake in life? (100-120 Words/ 6 Marks)
Matilda's over-ambitiousness was the cause of her destruction. Justify.
Matilda was very proud of her beauty and charm and this led to her downfall. Elaborate.
6. How did the necklace change the life of Loisel ?
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6. Matilda realized that one little act of negligence can lead to total ruin. What do you learn from this and how would you move on in life? (The Necklace)
(2-5-1)/ 2-6-1
From the Diary of Anne Frank
Let me put this more clearly, since no one will believe that a thirteen-year old girl is completely alone in this world. And I’m not. I have loving parents and a sixteen years old sister, and there are almost thirty people I can call friends. I have a family, loving aunts and a good house. No, on the surface I seem to have everything, except my one true friend. All I think about when I am with friends is having a good time. I can’t bring myself to talk about anything, but ordinary everyday things.
(i) On the surface, it appears that Anne the thirteen-year-old girl _____.
(ii) How can we infer that the speaker felt alone in the world ?
(a) She had a family of many people.
(b) She had loving parents.
(c) She had thirty friends.
(d) She craves for a true friend.
(iii) Anne and her friends talked about _____.
(a) their problematic parents
(b) their financial problems
(c) common everyday things
(d) the commuting problems
(iv) Complete the analogy by selecting the suitable word from the text:
alone : friends : : nothing :
v) Select the option that correctly captures the usage of the idiom ‘bring myself ’ from the extract
(a) to do something willingly
(b) to do something unwillingly
(c) a charitable act
(d) an involuntary act
Footprints Without Feet
Mrs. Hall almost fell down the stairs in hysterics. She was convinced that the room was haunted by spirits and that the stranger had somehow caused these to enter into her furniture.
(i) Mrs. Hall tripped because ______
(a) the floor was oily.
(b) she was standing on a chair.
(c) she was in a state of panic.
(d) the door was slammed.
(ii) Mrs. Hall suspected everything in the room was put under a spell of witchcraft by ______.
(iii) Fill in the blank with one word only : Mrs. Hall was afraid that spirits had entered _______.
(iv) According to the extract, the feeling of Mrs. Hall can be best described as
(1) stunned
(2) happy
(3) awestruck
(4) nervous
(5) outraged
(6) agitated
Select the correct option:
(a) (2) and (4)
(b) (3) and (6)
(c) (5) and (6)
(d) (1) and (6)
(v) ‘Spirits’ in the above lines means the same as
(a) ghosts
(b) conscience
(c) ego
(d) attitude
For Anne Gregory
The poet in the poem ' For Anne Gregory' conveys beauty as temporary. Explain with reference to the poem.
What is the colour of the woman's hair? Why will she change colour of her hair?
How To Tell Wild Animals
Though to distinguish beasts of prey
A novice might nonplus,
The crocodiles you always may
Tell from the Hyena thus :
Hyenas come with merry smiles;
But if they weep they’re crocodiles.
1. Select the appropriate option to complete the sentence, according to the extract
Crocodiles can be identified by their _______.
(a) tears
(b) attitude
(c) smiles
(d) attacks
2. State whether the following statement is True or False :
Hyenas are famous for weeping.
3. ‘Novice’ in line 2 means the same as :
(a) learner
(b) beast
(c) tender foot
(d) beginner
4. In this extract the poet has presented two different behavioural traits of animals. They are ______.
5. The poet uses ‘A novice might nonplus” instead of the novice might get confused. How does this usage impact the poem ?
(a) adds an incorrect option.
(b) it is associated with beasts.
(c) it rhymes and adds humour.
(d) it simplifies the meaning.
A Tiger in the Zoo
He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage
He should be lurking in shadow
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole
Where plump deer pass.
(i) Complete the sentence appropriately. The vivid stripes refer to the ______.
(ii) Which word from the extract is the opposite of ‘loud’ ?
(iii) The use of the phrase ‘pads of velvet’ means
(a) neck (b) tail (c) skin (d) paws
(iv) State whether the following statement is True or False
(v) The confinement of the cramped space of the cage has restricted the tiger’s steps.
(v) The tiger was lurking in shadow _________
(a) to catch its prey
(b) as the cage was dark
(c) as the velvet was quiet
(d) as he was in a rage
Q2. State any three disadvantages that the tiger faces inside a cage.
Q3. How would the tiger behave in the forest?
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