CBSE Class 10 English LL Sample Question Paper 2026 with Solution

CBSE Class 10 English Language & Literature (184) Sample Question Paper 2026 is an essential tool for both students and teachers in preparing effectively for the upcoming board examinations, including half-yearly and pre-board assessments.

For students, it offers a clear understanding of the updated exam pattern, typology of questions, internal choices, and marking scheme as prescribed by CBSE for the 2025–26 session. By solving the paper, students can practice time management, improve their comprehension, writing, and grammar skills, and get accustomed to the real exam environment. It also helps them identify weak areas and refine answer-writing techniques for literature-based questions. For teachers, the sample paper acts as a reliable benchmark to design practice worksheets, mock tests, and revision assignments that are aligned with CBSE’s latest Curriculum or Syllabus. It also helps in explaining the expected answer structure, marking criteria, and strategies for scoring high in subjective questions. Teachers can also use it during class discussions to enhance students’ analytical and interpretation skills in reading and literature sections.

cbse-class-10-english-lang-lit-184-sqp-2026-with-solution

CBSE Class 10 English (Language & Literature) – 184
Sample Question Paper 2025-26
with Marking Scheme / Solution – PDF Download

Time allowed : 3 hours
Maximum Marks : 80
General Instructions: Read the instructions carefully and follow them:
1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question paper contains THREE sections – Section – A: Reading Skills, Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills, Section – C: Literature Textbook
3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part.

SECTION – A
READING SKILLS (20 Marks)

Read the following passage carefully:

(1) The growing preference for indigenous craft items is a welcome trend in today’s globalised world, where mass-produced goods often dominate markets. These handcrafted products, rooted in the cultural and artistic traditions of their regions, offer more than just aesthetic appeal. They symbolise sustainability, support local economies, and preserve the heritage of diverse communities.

(2) One of the primary reasons for choosing indigenous crafts is their eco-friendliness. Unlike factory-made products, most traditional crafts are created using natural, locally sourced materials. Artisans often employ time-tested methods that minimise waste and avoid harmful industrial processes. For example, pottery made from local clay, handwoven textiles using organic dyes, and bamboo-based crafts all have a much lower environmental footprint compared to their machine-made counterparts. By opting for these items, consumers indirectly contribute to reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices.

(3) Supporting indigenous crafts also strengthens local economies. Many artisans depend solely on their craft for livelihood, often working in small communities where opportunities for other forms of employment are limited. When people purchase their products, it provides a direct income to these artisans, empowering them and encouraging their craftsmanship. Initiatives like fair trade further ensure that artisans receive fair wages, fostering economic stability within their communities.

(4) Moreover, indigenous craft items help preserve cultural heritage. Every handcrafted product carries a story—a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and skills passed down through generations. In India, whether it’s paintings, terracotta jewellery, sculptures, athangudi tiles, mud work frames or many others, each item reflects the unique identity of its region. By choosing these crafts, people not only appreciate the artistry but also help keep these traditions alive in an era where cultural homogenisation threatens diversity.

(5) In addition to their economic and cultural value, indigenous crafts add a personal touch to homes and wardrobes. Unlike mass-produced items, which often lack individuality, handcrafted products are unique. Each piece bears the imprint of the artisan’s effort, creativity, and dedication, making it special for the buyer.

(6) However, the preference for indigenous crafts requires sustained efforts to thrive. Governments, organisations, and consumers all have roles to play. Policies that promote local craftsmanship, provide training to artisans, and create global platforms for showcasing their work can boost the visibility and demand for these products. Consumers, too, must actively seek out and invest in handmade crafts rather than opting for cheaper, factory-made alternatives. Choosing indigenous craft items is a meaningful step toward a more sustainable and culturally enriched world.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:

(i) Why is the growing preference for indigenous craft items described as a ‘welcome trend’ in paragraph 1?
Ans: because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.

(ii) According to paragraph 1, the indigenous craft items have all of the following qualities EXCEPT being:
A. handcrafted products
B. rooted in artistic traditions
C. aesthetic in appeal
D. easily accessible

(iii) Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. The usage of locally sourced materials makes the indigenous crafts ______ (traditional / eco-friendly). (Paragraph 2)

(iv) Select the option that is True from (a)-(c) given for what the phrase, ‘time-tested methods’ suggests in paragraph 2.
A. Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective over generations
B. Artisans use outdated practices that are no longer relevant in today’s commercial markets.
C. Artisans follow techniques that prioritise speed and mass production over craftsmanship.

(v) Complete the analogy by selecting one of the two correct options (a), (b)
fair trade: fair wages:: _____ : ______ (Paragraph 3)
(a) employment : job security
(b) mass production : reduced prices

(vi) Why is supporting indigenous crafts considered an effective way to improve the economic conditions of small communities? (Paragraph 3)
Ans: Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within these communities.

(vii) What are the main ideas of paragraph 4 and paragraph 5?
i) Choosing indigenous crafts helps preserve cultural heritage
ii) Handcrafted products lack individuality.
iii) Indigenous crafts reflect the artisan’s creativity.
iv) Indigenous crafts promote uniformity by erasing regional differences in artistic traditions.
v) Cultural homogenisation encourages people to choose indigenous crafts over mass-produced goods.
Select the correct option.

Options	Main idea of paragraph 4	Main idea of paragraph 5
A	ii	iv
B	v	ii
Ans: C	i	iii
D	iv	ii

(viii) Why is it important for consumers to take an active role alongside government and organisations in sustaining indigenous crafts? (Paragraph 6)
Ans: While governments and organisations can create supportive policies and platforms, consumers play a crucial role in driving demand for indigenous crafts. Without consumer interest and investment, these efforts may fail to translate into tangible benefits for artisans. Consumers’ choices directly impact the visibility and survival of handmade crafts, making their active participation essential for creating a sustainable market and preserving cultural heritage.

2. Read the following passage carefully:

(1) A recent study conducted across two age groups—students aged 10–12 and 13–16—explored their preferences for ballpoint and micro-tip pens for various writing activities such as note-taking, examinations, and personal writing. The study aimed to understand trends in writing habits and the factors influencing pen selection among students.

(2) The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes. Among students aged 10–12, 65% preferred ballpoint pens for note-taking, citing ease of use and affordability as key factors. However, 35% opted for micro-tip pens, valuing their precision and smooth writing. For examinations, ballpoint pens were the overwhelming choice, with 78% favouring them for their speed and reliability, while 22% stuck with micro-tip pens, appreciating their fine control.

(3) In the 13–16 age group, preferences shifted slightly. For note-taking, 60% favoured micro-tip pens, highlighting their ability to produce neat, legible notes, while 40% continued to use ballpoint pens. During examinations, however, 70% still relied on ballpoint pens, indicating their consistency under time constraints. When it came to personal writing, such as journalling or creative tasks, 58% in this group chose micro-tip pens, appreciating the aesthetic appeal of finer lines, while 42% stuck with ballpoint pens for their convenience.

(4) These findings point to the importance of understanding age-specific preferences and task requirements, enabling manufacturers to innovate products. Manufacturers could further explore incorporating hybrid features, such as pens offering the speed of ballpoint pens with the precision of micro-tip pens, to cater to a wider range of student preferences.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:
(i) Why did the study most likely focus on the two specific age groups of 10–12 and 13–16? (Paragraph 1)
This is so because these age groups ______.
A. represent the largest population of growing students.
B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
C. were the easiest to survey across various schools.
D. have a natural preference for ballpoint pens.

(ii) Identify the phrase in paragraph 1 that conveys the writer’s reference to the patterns or preferences observed in how students use pens for various writing tasks.
Ans: ‘trends in writing habits’

(iii) Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. (Paragraph 2)
Geetha, aged 11, wishes to complete her practical file neatly, ensuring her work is legible and appealing. She is most likely to choose a micro-tip pen for this task because the ______ (speed / precision) offered by this type of pen helps produce tidy work.

(iv) What does the writer mean by ‘affordability’ while citing the high percentage of ball point pen usage? (Paragraph 2)
Ans: By ‘affordability,’ the writer refers to the lower cost of ballpoint pens compared to micro-tip pens, making them accessible and budget-friendly for students.

(v) Complete the following with the correct option.
When the writer says ‘distinct patterns’ in the line ‘The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes,’ of paragraph 3, s/he means that ______.
A. students in both age groups use pens in the same way for all the listed purposes.
B. the preferences for pens varied according to the students’ age and the type of writing task.
C. only micro-tip pens were popular across all writing tasks in the 13-16 age group.
D. students of all age groups preferred ballpoint pens for completing creative writing tasks.

(vi) Complete the following appropriately.
The one likely reason why more than 40% of students still chose ballpoint pens for creative tasks, even though micro-tip pens are better suited for such activities is _______. (Paragraph 3)
Ans: Ballpoints do not dry out quickly unlike micro-tips / Ballpoints work on a variety of surfaces unlike microtips / Ballpoints are less likely to smudge unlike microtips / Ballpoints pens are usually more affordable

(vii) How are ‘aesthetic appeal’ and ‘finer lines’ connected? (Paragraph 3)
Ans: The ‘aesthetic appeal’ is closely connected to ‘finer lines’ because finer lines create neat, elegant, and visually pleasing writing.

(viii) Elaborate how hybrid features in pens would lead to a commercially viable product.
(Paragraph 4)
Ans: Hybrid features in pens, such as combining the speed and reliability of ballpoint pens with the precision and aesthetic appeal of micro-tip pens, would likely result in a commercially viable product as such pens would cater to a broader demographic, meeting the needs of students across different age groups and writing tasks. This would capitalise on the growing demand for versatile and functional writing tools. Which would enhance its commercial success.

(ix) Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. (Paragraph 4)
Understanding age-specific preferences helps manufacturers design products that cater to the unique needs of different age groups, ensuring their products are both ______ as well as appealing.
Ans: functional / useful

SECTION – B
GRAMMAR AND WRITING SKILLS (20 Marks)

GRAMMAR

3. Complete any ten of the following twelve tasks, as directed.

(i) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket for the given portion of a market research:
The special subscriptions of newspapers are well _____ (illustrate), to make reading interesting for school students.
Ans: illustrated

(ii) Identify the error and write the correction in the given sentence from a life skills’ book.
The road to success is not the bed of roses.
Use the given format.

error	correction
the	a

(iii) Fill in the blank with the correct form of verb given in the brackets.
I’m so happy to see my plants again! They ______ (grow) so much since I last saw them.
Ans: have grown

(iv) They said to the guide, “We’d love to come here again next year.”
Report it correctly by completing the following.
They told the guide that ______.
Ans: …they would love to go there again the following year

(v) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the conclusion of a letter of placing order.
There would be no compromise _______ the quality of items supplied.
A. regards
B. regard
C. regardless
D. regarding

(vi) Report the following by completing the sentence correctly.
“Don’t try mending the trousers yourself,” she warned him.
She warned him _______.
Ans: …not to try mending the trousers himself

(vii) Complete the given opinion by filling the blank with correct option.
The experience of watching the movie left me ______ grateful for knowing the importance of being empathetic to others.
A. having felt
B. feeling
C. felt
D. feels

(viii) The given question has an error. Select the option that correctly identifies the error and the correction.
Which kind of person does something like that?

Option No.	Error	Correction
Ans: (A)	Which	What
(B)	kind	kinds
(C)	something	somethings
(D)	that	this

(ix) Report the following question.
She said to her sister, “Are you joining us for lunch today?”
Ans: She asked her sister if she was joining them for lunch that day.

(x) Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in the brackets.
Everyone is saying that Farhana’s chances are bright in the upcoming tournament and she ______ (must / may) become the youngest football player ever.

(xi) Fill in the blank to complete the sentence in a teacher’s diary by choosing the correct option.
______ student in the class submitted their assignment on time.
A. All
B. One
C. Every
D. A

(xii) Choose the correct option to fill the blank.
I looked inside the bucket and saw there was ______ water in it, so they had to add more to use
A. little
B. any
C. few
D. least

WRITING

Note: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.

4. Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below:

(a) As Vaibhav, the Club in-charge of your school’s Ecology Club, you strongly believe in the importance of starting Eco-Clubs in schools in the rural areas surrounding your city to promote the preservation and conservation of nature. Write a letter to the Education Secretary of your city, in about 120 words, highlighting the significance of ecological awareness and suggesting the need to establish Eco-Clubs in these schools.

(b) As Amitha, the Vice Head Girl of Vidya Mandir, you are aware of the increasing prevalence of cyber-attacks and unauthorised exploitation of systems, networks, and technologies affecting individuals across all demographics. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily in about 120 words, stressing the urgent need to promote digital security among all age groups. Highlight the challenges posed by cyber threats and propose practical solutions to address this growing issue.

5. Attempt any one from (a) and (b) given below:

(a) You are the President of the Debate Society in your school. Two guest speakers
–Mr. Rajan Sharma and Ms. Meera Kapoor, have written to express their interest in participating in your upcoming debate competition. Below are excerpts from their letters.

Excerpt 1:
…I am thrilled to express my interest in participating as a guest speaker at your school’s debate competition. With over 10 years of experience as a public speaker and debate coach, I have guided numerous students to success in national-level competitions. My approach focuses on encouraging critical thinking and fostering a passion for debating. I have previously spoken at various schools and universities, often receiving positive feedback for my engaging sessions and practical insights. I believe my experience and knowledge can inspire and empower your students to excel in debating.
Best regards
Mr. Rajan Sharma

Excerpt 2:
…It would be a privilege to participate as a guest speaker at your school’s upcoming debate competition. I have participated in international debate forums and have won accolades for my arguments on global and social issues. My strength lies in connecting with young audiences and making debates relevant to real-world scenarios. I also emphasise how debating can improve public speaking, confidence, and interpersonal skills. I look forward to sharing my journey and experiences with your students to inspire them to use debating as a tool for personal growth.
Yours sincerely
Ms. Meera Kapoor

Analyse the information in a paragraph, justifying which guest speaker would be a better choice. Consider factors such as experience, relevance to the topic, and audience engagement.

(b) Jaspreet, class X, is known for her creativity, excellent communication skills, and ability to think outside the box. However, she sometimes struggles with time management and prefers collaborative efforts over working solo. She has been assigned an art-integrated project presentation and must choose a partner from Sunaina, Tabassum, and Alice. Below are the profiles of the three candidates.

Sunaina: Sunaina is highly disciplined and excels in meeting deadlines. She is known for her strong organisational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently. However, she is slightly reserved and prefers working in structured, predictable environments.

Tabassum: Tabassum is enthusiastic and spontaneous, with a talent for generating unique ideas. She is an excellent artist and thrives in creative settings. However, she occasionally struggles to stay focused on tasks and complete them on time.

Alice: Alice is confident and articulate, with a flair for delivering polished presentations. She is detail-oriented and ensures that the final product is of high quality. However, she sometimes prefers to take control and may overlook collaborative efforts.

Based on the features of each candidate, analyse and decide who would be the best partner for Jaspreet. Consider aspects such as complementary strengths, teamwork, and the project’s requirements.

SECTION-C
LITERATURE TEXT BOOK (40 Marks)

6. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a) or (b):
(a) He just felt a bit dizzy Then he flapped his wings once and he soared upwards. “Ga, ga, ga, Ga, ga, ga, Gaw-col-ah,” his mother swooped past him, her wings making a loud noise. He answered her with another scream. Then his father flew over him screaming. He saw his two brothers and his sister flying around him curvetting and banking and soaring and diving. Then he completely forgot that he had not always been able to fly, and commended himself to dive and soar and curve, shrieking shrilly. (Two Stories About Flying – First Flight)

(i) Contradict the view that the young seagull celebrated his maiden flight alone.
Ans: The young seagull did not celebrate his maiden flight alone. His mother and father encouraged him by flying past him and prompting him. Additionally, his siblings, were flying around him, further motivating him. The collective presence of his family made the victory a shared experience rather than a solitary one.

(ii) Which of the following statements best explains the young seagull’s experience as he starts flying?
a) The young seagull immediately mastered flying and was no longer afraid.
b) The young seagull gradually gained confidence and joined his family in the air.

(iii) What can be inferred about the young seagull’s emotional state after flying with his family?
Ans: The young seagull feels a sense of accomplishment and excitement, as he forgets that he was once afraid to fly and embraces the thrill of soaring and diving with his family.

(iv) Read the following sound and movement words.
i) flapped ii) shrieking iii) swooped iv) soared v) screaming
Select the option that correctly categorises (i) –(v) into sound and movement words.

Option No.	Sound	Movement
A	i, ii, v	iii, iv
B	iv, v	i, ii, iii
Ans: C	ii, v	i, iii, iv
D	v	i, ii, iii, iv

(b) Historian: …You haven’t heard about the Martian invasion of 2040? Tsk, tsk. What do they teach children nowadays? Well, you know, the invasion never really happened, because a single book stopped it. What was the book, you ask? A noble encyclopaedia? A tome about rockets and missiles? A secret file from outer space? No, it was none of those. It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope and show you what happened many centuries ago, in 2040. (She turns on projector, and points it left. Spotlight on Historian goes out…) (The Book That saved the Earth)

(i) What does the pause indicated by the dash in the line ‘It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope and show you’ convey?
i) a sense of impatience and frustration
ii) a point of suspense and anticipation
iii) a moment of confusion and hesitation
iv) a sudden shift to lightheartedness
v) a reflective moment of deep thought
A. i, ii, v
B. Only ii
C. iii and iv
D. Only v
Explanation: the pause creates an expectation for the audience, setting the stage for a revelation and keeping them intrigued

(ii) How do the stage directions, such as ‘Historian turns on projector’ and ‘Spotlight on Historian goes out,’ contribute to the atmosphere and understanding of the scene in this part of the play?
Ans: The stage directions, like turning on the projector and dimming the spotlight, help create a shift in focus and set the tone for the scene. The projector signals a transition from narration to visual storytelling, while the fading spotlight on the Historian reveals the movement toward the next key action or character, heightening the suspense and anticipation of the forthcoming revelation. These technical elements guide the audience’s attention and contribute to the play’s overall pacing and dramatic effect.

(iii) Select the option that correctly completes the following.
The Historian dismisses the noble encyclopaedia and rockets because she wants to _____
a) convey the importance of scientific knowledge and military power in stopping the invasion.
b) stress the surprising and unexpected nature of the book that stopped the invasion.

(iv) What emotion is the Historian most likely conveying with the phrase ‘Tsk, tsk’?
Ans: disappointment / disapproval

7. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a) or (b):
(a) He is learning, well behind his desperate eyes,
The epistemology of loss, how to stand up
Knowing what every man must one day know
And most know many days, how to stand up. (The Ball Poem)

(i) What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the phrase ‘desperate eyes’ and ‘epistemology of loss’?
i) despair ii) anger iii) frustration iv) confusion v) helplessness
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii
B. i, iv, v
C. ii, iii, iv
D. iv, v

(ii) What does the phrase ‘how to stand up’ suggest about the boy’s emotional growth?
Ans: The phrase ‘how to stand up’ suggests that the boy is learning to confront and cope with the emotional impact of loss. It signifies his emotional growth, as he begins to understand that facing grief is an essential part of life. This realisation helps to teach him to recover from hardship and accept the inevitability of loss.

(iii) Which phrase from the extract conveys the poet’s idea that loss is universal?
Ans: most know

(iv) Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.
The loss of his ball symbolises ______ in life.
Ans: the inevitable hardships / the hardships / the first encounter with grief / the harsh realities / the fleeting nature of joy / the transient nature of material possessions

(b) Or if some time when roaming round,
A noble wild beast greets you,
With black stripes on a yellow ground,
Just notice if he eats you.
This simple rule may help you learn
The Bengal Tiger to discern. (How to tell Wild Animals)

(i) What does the poet imply by referring to the Bengal Tiger as a ‘noble wild beast’?
A. The tiger is majestic and dignified despite its ferocity.
B. The tiger is kind and considerate toward humans.
C. The tiger has a royal lineage and should be revered.
D. The tiger is a symbol of fear and destruction.

(ii) Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘ground’ in the line ‘With black stripes on a yellow ground’ refers to ______.
Ans: …the background colour of the tiger’s coat, which is yellow

(iii) How does the poet use humour in the description of the Bengal Tiger?
Ans: The poet uses humour to present the Bengal Tiger’s dangerous nature in a light-hearted way. By describing it as ‘noble’ but humorously suggesting identification through being eaten, the poet softens the fear associated with the tiger and makes its ferocity entertaining The playful tone and the ironic contradiction between calling the tiger ‘noble’ and focusing on its ferocity create a humorous effect, making the tiger’s dangerous nature seem amusing rather than frightening.

(iv) Identify the phrase in the poem that is advisory in nature.
Ans: ‘This simple rule may help you learn’

8. Answer any four of the following five questions in 40 – 50 words each:

(i) Otters are known for their peculiar behavioural traits. Support this statement with reference to any two traits mentioned in ‘Mijbil the Otter.’
Ans: » Love for movement in water – Otters cannot tolerate static water. Mijbil overturned bowls, sat in them, or splashed water until it overflowed, ensuring water was always in motion.
» Curiosity – Mijbil explored his surroundings keenly, investigating objects and trying to interact with his environment, such as fumbling with taps to turn them on.

(ii) How does the use of repetition in the poem ‘Amanda!’ highlight the speaker’s expectations and Amanda’s responses?
Ans: The repetition highlights the speaker’s constant expectations, reinforcing Amanda’s lack of freedom and autonomy. The repeated commands like ‘Don’t bite your nails’ highlight the pressure placed on Amanda.
In contrast, Amanda’s imaginative escapes, which are not repetitive, reflect her desire for independence and freedom, showcasing the tension between external control and her longing for self-expression.

(iii) How can Nelson Mandela’s vision of ‘liberating both the oppressed and the oppressor’ be applied in modern-day societies to address issues of inequality and discrimination? (Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)
Ans: This vision can be applied in modern societies by fostering dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation between different groups. Addressing inequality requires not only empowering marginalised communities but also educating and transforming the mindsets of those who perpetuate discrimination, breaking the cycle of hatred and prejudice. This dual approach ensures lasting peace and equality.

(iv) How does the line ‘and then moves on’ reflect the transient nature of the fog thereby contributing to the poem’s deeper message about life’s impermanence? (Fog)
Ans: The line symbolises the fleeting and impermanent nature of the fog, paralleling the transient moments in life. Just as the fog quietly arrives, lingers briefly, and disappears, so too do many moments in life that come and go without warning, often leaving a lasting impression or a sense of reflection. This imagery reinforces the poem’s theme that, like fog, many experiences are temporary, quietly arriving and departing without notice, leaving behind a sense of mystery and contemplation.

(v) How does Chubukov’s reaction to Lomov’s marriage proposal reflect his priorities and values? (The Proposal)
Ans: Chubukov’s reaction to Lomov’s marriage proposal reflects his opportunistic and materialistic priorities. He enthusiastically embraces the proposal, showing relief and joy, not because of Lomov’s love for Natalya but due to the potential benefits of securing a marriage for his daughter with a neighbouring landowner. His exaggerated affection for Lomov, calling him ‘my dear fellow,’ contrasts sharply with his prior suspicions. This reveals Chubukov’s value for a status in society and economic security over genuine emotional connections.

9. Answer any two of the following three questions in 40 – 50 words each:

(i) How does ‘The Necklace’ illustrate the significance of honesty as the key element for leading a happy and stress-free life?
Ans: • Matilda’s decision to replace the necklace without telling her friend the truth leads to a decade of suffering – how dishonesty can result in unforeseen consequences that affect one’s well-being.
• The act of lying causes unnecessary stress and anxiety – Matilda and her husband live in constant fear of being found out, which affects their physical and emotional health.

(ii) Briefly evaluate the validity of the adage ‘Values are caught, not taught’, in the context of the relationship between Anil and Hari Singh in ‘The Thief’s Story’.
Ans: The statement ‘Values are caught, not taught’ is evident in the story, particularly in the incident when Hari Singh steals Anil’s money but later decides to return it. Anil’s silent trust and kindness, such as forgiving Hari Singh’s failed attempt at cooking and teaching him to read and write, deeply impact the thief. These actions, rather than words, teach Hari Singh the value of trust and honesty, prompting him to choose integrity over theft.

(iii) Griffin’s experiences moments of comfort and normalcy while being invisible. How do these fleeting moments impact his sense of identity and his actions throughout ‘Footprints Without Feet’?
Ans: Griffin’s fleeting moments of comfort, such as finding warmth and food, momentarily restore his sense of normalcy but quickly highlight his isolation. These experiences deepen his frustration and longing for connection, influencing his actions. His desperation for survival leads him to steal, disguise himself, and ultimately resort to violence, revealing the emotional toll and the erosion of his identity as he becomes increasingly detached from society.

10. Answer any one of the following two questions in 100 – 120 words:

(a) How does literature like ‘The Baker from Goa,’ ‘Coorg,’ and ‘Tea from Assam’ contribute to promoting tourism and raising awareness about regional cultures and traditions?
Ans: Introduction
It plays a significant role in promoting tourism by showcasing the unique cultural, historical, and natural elements of these regions. Each narrative vividly describes local traditions, landscapes, and lifestyles, sparking interest in these destinations among readers.
Body response points
• ‘The Baker from Goa’ highlights the enduring Goan tradition of baking, the cultural significance of the baker’s role, and the idyllic charm of the region. By focusing on the local customs and the nostalgia of childhood memories, it attracts visitors eager to experience Goa’s rich heritage, culinary delights, and laid-back atmosphere.
• ‘Coorg’ introduces readers to the region’s beautiful landscapes, rich history, and distinct culture. It entices tourists by describing the Coorgi people’s martial traditions, hospitality, and connection to nature.
• ‘Tea from Assam’ presents Assam as a tea haven, talking about its tea gardens, picturesque landscapes, and cultural significance. The story highlights the importance of tea in Assam’s history, making it an attractive destination for travellers keen on exploring the tea estates, learning about tea cultivation, and experiencing the region’s serene beauty.
Conclusion
The detailed depictions of these regions, make them effective tools for promoting tourism by encouraging people to visit and experience these unique places firsthand.

(b) The poems, ‘The Trees’ and ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’ resonate the theme of importance of freedom and the desire to break free from any kind of dominance. Examine.
Ans: • The trees are metaphorically trapped within the house, with their roots disengaging from the cracks in the veranda. Their movement toward the forest represents a yearning for freedom and a return to their natural state.
The tiger is physically confined to a cage in the zoo, symbolising the desire to break free from captivity and return to the wild. The tiger’s restlessness in the cage mirrors the internal struggle for freedom.
• The trees symbolise natural growth and freedom. Their release from the house signifies nature’s tolerance and the need for unrestricted growth, much like the human desire to escape limitations that are either physical or the society’s.
The tiger represents the power of nature and wildness that is stifled by human confinement. The metaphorical connection to freedom is portrayed through the tiger’s yearning for the freedom to roam freely in its natural habitat.
• The movement of the trees towards the forest symbolises liberation from human-made boundaries, stressing how freedom brings renewal and natural growth.
The zoo represents oppression, where the tiger’s desire for freedom is unmet. The contrast between the freedom of the wild and the limitations of captivity is stark, showcasing the tiger’s struggle.

11. Answer any one of the following two questions in 100 – 120 words:

(a) How does the author use the narrative technique of misdirection in ‘The Midnight Visitor’, to enhance the suspense and the story’s unexpected ending?
Ans: The author uses the narrative technique of misdirection masterfully in ‘The Midnight Visitor’ to enhance suspense and deliver an unexpected ending.
From the beginning, the reader is led to believe in the existence of a balcony through Ausable’s fabricated story. By confidently describing how the balcony has been used for intrusions in the past, Ausable creates a believable scenario. This misdirection not only deceives Max but also builds tension as the reader anticipates how the balcony might play a role in the unfolding events.
The suspense peaks when Max, in a desperate attempt to avoid the ‘police,’ decides to escape through the balcony – only to realise too late that it doesn’t exist. This clever twist destabilises expectations and highlights Ausable’s wit and resourcefulness.
The use of misdirection keeps the reader engaged and ensures a surprising and satisfying conclusion to the story.

(b) Comment critically on the role of the Surgery in the ‘The Triumph of Surgery’.
Ans: The role of the Surgery in the story is pivotal, both as a place of physical recovery and as a catalyst for Tricki’s transformation. Critically, the Surgery represents a contrast to the overindulgent environment at Mrs. Pumphrey’s home. While Mrs. Pumphrey’s pampering and excessive feeding led to Tricki’s ill health, the Surgery offers a more balanced, structured environment where Tricki receives proper care, including a strict diet, exercise, and, importantly, social interaction with other dogs, all of which contribute significantly to his recovery.
The Surgery symbolises not just medical intervention but a shift toward responsible pet care, bringing up the important aspect of a pet’s well-being which requires more than affection and indulgence.
Through Tricki’s recovery at the Surgery, the writer critiques overindulgence and highlights the importance of holistic, responsible care for pets, both physically and emotionally.

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