Class X - English - Paper 3 - Practice for Everyone

ENGLISH

(Language and Literature)

General Instructions:

Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:

(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.

(ii) The question paper contains THREE sections –

Section -A: Reading Skills

Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills

Section -C: Literature Textbook

(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.

SECTION – A

READING SKILLS

1. Read the passage given below:

(1) Marie Curie was one of the most accomplished scientists in history Together with her husband, Pierre, she discovered radium, an element widely used for treating cancer, and studied uranium and other radioactive substances. Pierre and Marie’s amicable collaboration later helped to unlock the secrets of the atom.

(2) Marie was born in 1867 in Warsaw, Poland, where her father was a professor of physics. At an early age, she displayed a brilliant mind and a blithe personality. Her great exuberance for learning prompted her to continue with her studies after high school. She became disgruntled, however, when she learned that the university in Warsaw was closed to women. Determined to receive a higher education, she defiantly left Poland and in 1891 entered the Sorbonne, a French university, where she earned her master’s degree and doctorate in physics.

(3) Marie was fortunate to have studied at the Sorbonne with some of the greatest scientists of her day, one of whom was Pierre Curie. Marie and Pierre were married in 1895 and spent many productive years working together in the physics laboratory. A short time after they discovered radium, Pierre was killed by a horse-drawn wagon in 1906. Marie was stunned by this horrible misfortune and endured heartbreaking anguish. Despondently, she recalled their close relationship and the joy that they had shared in scientific research. The fact that she had two young daughters to raise by herself greatly increased her distress.

(4) Curie’s feeling of desolation finally began to fade when she was asked to succeed her husband as a physics professor at the Sorbonne. She was the first woman to be given a professorship at the world-famous university. In 1911, she received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for isolating radium. Although Marie Curie eventually suffered a fatal illness from her long exposure to radium, she never became disillusioned about her work. Regardless of the consequences, she had dedicated herself to science and to revealing the mysteries of the physical world.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

(A) Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given.

The author’s attitude towards Marie Curie’s scientific accomplishments is that he ___________

(a) admires her accomplishments.

(b) is Indifferent towards her works

(d) is envious of her achievements.

View Answer

Ans. (a) admires her accomplishments.

Explanation: Throughout the passage, the author portrays Marie Curie’s achievements in a positive and appreciative light.

(B) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph (4)? Rationalise your response in about 40 words.

Regardless of the consequences, she had dedicated herself to science and to revealing the mysteries of the physical world.

View Answer

Ans. The tone is admiring and reverent. The use of “dedicated” and “revealing the mysteries of the physical world” conveys respect for her perseverance and contributions.

(C) The author uses the phrase, ‘brilliant mind’ in paragraph 2. Which of the following is an example of a ‘brilliant mind?

(a) A person who memorises and recites historical dates without understanding their significance.

(b) An individual who excels at performing simple tasks quickly but lacks critical thinking skills.

c) A student who consistently achieves high grades but struggles to apply knowledge in real-world situations.

(d) A scientist who makes ground-breaking discoveries and demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities.

View Answer

Ans. (d) A scientist who makes ground-breaking discoveries and demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities.

(D) In paragraph 2, what does the phrase Determined to receive a higher education, she defiantly left Poland’ emphasise about Marie Curie’s character?

View Answer

Ans. The phrase “Determined to receive a higher education, she defiantly left Poland” emphasises Marie Curie’s strong determination and resolve to pursue her academic goals despite the barriers she faced.

(E) Complete the sentence appropriately

The author’s tone shifts to a more somber and tragic tone when describing the death of Pierre Curie because _______________

(a) Marie was stunned by this horrible misfortune and endured heartbreaking anguish.

(b) Marie ended her life too after the death of her husband.

View Answer

Ans. (a) Marie was stunned by this horrible misfortune and endured heartbreaking anguish.

Explanation: The author’s tone shifts to a more somber and tragic tone when describing the death of Pierre Curie because it marks a significant and heartbreaking loss for Marie Curie.

(F) Support the writer’s idea that Marie Curie’s was a resilient individual.

View Answer

Ans. Marie Curie is portrayed as resilient through her determination to pursue education despite gender barriers. Her commitment to scientific research after Pierre’s death showcases her unwavering spirit.

(G) Select the option that best lists the quote expressing the central idea of the given passage.

(a) The backbone of success is hard work, determination, and perseverance.

(b) Do not stop working; work is the only key to success.

View Answer

Ans. (a) The backbone of success is hard work, determination, and perseverance.

Explanation: In the given passage, it is clear that Marie was determined and worked hard even after the damage that the radium had done to her. She had also shown perseverance by working even after hardships in her life. These qualities made her name ever-existing in the world of science. Hence, (a) is the right answer.

(H) State whether the following statement is True or False.

The following passage display an example of a biographical text.

View Answer

Ans. True

Explanation: The passage displays an example of a biographical text as it provides information and details about the life, achievements, and experiences of Marie Curie.

2. Read the passage given below:

The Measles Resurgence

(1) Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a range of psychological conditions characterised by abnormalities in social interaction, behaviour, interests, and communication. The fve forms of ASD include Classical autism, Asperger syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Rett syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. Although the number of reported cases of ASD have experienced a dramatic increase in the past 25 years, the majority of doctors agree that this increase is due to changes in diagnostic practices and advances in the understanding of psychiatric health.

(2) While there is no general consensus among medical professionals about the underlying causes of ASD, theories range from genetic inheritance to environmental factors. One of the most controversial theories to have emerged in recent times is the hypothesis that ASD could be caused by the MMR vaccine, which is an immunisation against measles, mumps, and rubella that was first developed in the 1960s. The vaccine is a mixture of three live viruses and is administered via injection to children when they are one-year-old. By the late 1990s, this vaccination had led to the near-eradication of measles in countries that employed widespread inoculation. However, in combination of spurious scientific data and alarmist media attention led to an entirely preventable resurgence in measles cases in the early 21^st century.

(3) The first claims of a connection between the MMR vaccine and autism were mad, in 1998 when an article in The Lancet, a respected British medical journal, reported eight cases of autism that could possibly be traced back to the administration of an MMR vaccine. The parents of the children, in this study, contended that the symptoms of autism in their children developed within days of vaccination. During a press conference, Andrew Wakefield, one of the authors of the article, called on British doctors to stop giving combined MMR vaccines, instead advocating for individual inoculations against measles, mumps, and rubella

(4) Following the publication of this article, Wakefield published several follow-up papers that further questioned the safety of the MMR vaccine. An onslaught of media coverage then began. Parents appeared on television, sharing anecdotal evidence linking their child’s inoculation to the onset of ASD. The popular press quickly seized upon this story: in 2002, over 1200 articles were written about the link between MMR vaccines and ASD. Less than 30% of these articles mentioned that an overwhelming amount of scientific evidence suggested that these vaccinations were completely safe.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

(A) Complete the sentence suitably.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are to abnormalities in social interaction, behavior interests, and communication as a puzzle is to missing ____________.

View Answer

Ans. pieces

(B) Complete the following with a suitable reason.

The statement, the vaccine is a mixture of three live viruses and is administered via injection to children when they are one year old is a fact because ____________

View Answer

Ans. it is an, objective detail

(C) Describe the long-term effects of the misinformation and controversy surrounding the MMR vaccine on public health policies and vaccination rates? Answer in 40 words.

View Answer

Ans. The misinformation and controversy surrounding the MMR vaccine could undermine public trust in vaccines and can lead to decreased vaccination rates.

(D) In the context of the passage, what is the meaning of “resurgence” and how was it connected to measles cases?

View Answer

Ans. In the context of the passage, “resurgence” refers to the reappearance or increase of something that had previously declined or been controlled. This was related to measles cases, as due to incorrect scientific information and alarmist media attention, there was an increase in measles cases after the near-eradication of the disease through widespread vaccination.

(E) Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the impact of Andrew Wakefield’s claims on public perception of the MMR vaccine’s safety?

View Answer

Ans. Andrew Wakefield’s claims and the subsequent media coverage had a significant negative impact on the public perception of the MMR vaccine’s safety. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting the vaccine’s safety, the controversy stirred by Wakefield’s claims led to increased skepticism and reduced vaccination rates.

(F) Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.

Assertion: Wakefield published several follow-up papers that questioned the safety of the MMR vaccine.

Reason: During a press conference, Andrew Wakefield, called on British doctors to stop giving combined MMR vaccines.

(a) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion

(b) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion

(d) The assertion is false, but the reason is true.

View Answer

Ans. (b) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion

(G) Identify the line that indicates a drawback of MMR vaccine.

View Answer

Ans. The line that indicates this is ‘The first claims of a connection between the MMR vaccine and autism were made in 1998 when an article in The Lancet, a respected British medical journal, reported eight cases of autism that could possibly be traced back to the administration of an MMR vaccine.

H) Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank.

Shalu was suffering from a form of ASD which can possibly be ____________ (Pervasive Developmental Disorder/ obsessive-compulsive disorder/ schizophrenia)

View Answer

Ans. Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Explanation: The five forms of ASD include Classical autism, Asperger syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Rett syndrome, and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.

(I) What does the mention of “an onslaught of media coverage” in paragraph 4 suggest about the writer’s view on the media’s role in the MMR vaccine controversy?

(a) The writer believes the media coverage was minimal and insignificant.

(b) The writer feels the media coverage was balanced and unbiased.

(d) The writer implies the media coverage was supportive and informative.

View Answer

Ans. (c) The writer suggests the media coverage was extensive.

Explanation: The phrase “an onslaught of media coverage” implies that the media coverage was overwhelming and intense, often associated with sensationalism rather than balanced reporting.

SECTION – B

WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR

GRAMMAR

3. Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed

(A) Complete the following sentence by filling the blank with the correct word:

Hundreds of people ___________ missing in the twin earthquakes that struck war-infected nation.

(a) were reported

(b) have reported

(d) are reporting

View Answer

Ans. (a) were reported

(B) Read the given sentence. Identify the error and supply the correction in the sentence.

Thieves held the managers of the River View Hotel on gun point.

Use the given format for your response.

View Answer

Ans. Error: on, Correction: at

Report Alisha’s question.

How much tip should we leave?

View Answer

Ans. Alisha asked Neha how much tip should they leave?

(D) Read the dialogue between Riya and Priya, Riya’s improvement over the English language.

You need to do a lot of reading in English.

Report Priya’s reply by completing the following sentence correctly

Riya said she wanted to improve her command over the English language. Priya replied by saying

View Answer

Ans. that she needed to do a lot of reading in English.

(E) Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct option from the bracket.

There’s never _____________ (much/many/little) petrol left after Rahul uses the car.

View Answer

Ans. much

(F) ldentify the error and supply correction for the given sentence.

God like qualities are planted with us since birth.

Use the given format for your response.

View Answer

Ans. Error: with, Correction: within

(G) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the closing line of an essay.

Man is the nobler of all animals, the final product of untold ages of progressive evolution

View Answer

Ans. Option (a), Error: nobler; Correction: noblest

(H) Complete the given narrative by filling the blank with the correct option.

The dog ______________ under the chair before the children arrived.

(a) has been hiding

(b) was hid

(d) had hidden

View Answer

Ans. (a) has been hiding

Explanation: The use of “has been hiding” indicates an ongoing action that started in the past and is still continuing in the present.

(I) Report the dialogue between Ravi and the interviewer, by completing the sentence:

Interviewer: So why do you want to be a computer engineer?

Ravi: Well, I have always been interested in computers.

Ravi recently attended an interview for the selection of a computer programmer. At the interview, he was asked ____________

View Answer

Ans. why he wanted to be a computer engineer.

Explanation: Here, in reported speech, ‘told’ will be changed to ‘had told’ and ‘ago’ will be changed to ‘before

(J) Fill the blank by choosing the correct option.

The outdoor adventure club is gearing up for the summer trip, and they are confident that by the end of the season, they _______________ several challenging hiking trails.

(a) will conquer

(b) had conquered

(d) have conquered

View Answer

Ans. (a) will conquer

Explanation: The use of “will conquer” is appropriate here because it indicates a future action that the outdoor adventure club believes they will achieve.

(K) Fill in the blanks with an appropriate answer:

The company ______________ significant profits before the economic downturn.

(a) has been making

(b) made

(d) had been making

View Answer

Ans. (b) made

(L) Read the conversation between a patient and a receptionist

Patient: I want to see the doctor. I have stomach ache.

Receptionist: I am sorry. The doctor is very busy.

Report the receptionist’s reply by completing the following.

A patient went to his doctor’s clinic and told the receptionist he wanted to see the doctor because ___________

View Answer

Ans. he had stomach ache.

WRITING

4. Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words

Indian software engineers are known for being among the best in the world. Despite the fact that their own country needs them, the majority of them relocate to other nations. This is a really significant issue. Write a letter to the editor of The Hindustan Times, expressing concern over the issue of brain drain, in about 120 words. You are Mohan/Mohini.

View Answer

Ans.

7/9 Kunj Apartments

New Delhi

20 March, 20XX

The Editor

The Hindustan Times

New Delhi -110009

Subject: Concerns regarding the brain drain of software engineers

Sir

I am writing to express my concern about a significant issue that our nation is facing – the brain drain of our talented Indian software engineers. These gifted individuals, who are among the best in the world, are leaving our country to work in other nations, and this is a matter of worry.

India needs these skilled engineers to help make our country better. They have the ability to innovate and advance our technology. However, we lose out on their talent when they leave.

It’s high time that we find ways to make them stay. We can offer good job opportunities, offer fair pay, and make the work conditions better. Our country can grow even more powerful if we retain our talented engineers here.

Thanking you

Yours truly

Mohan/Mohini

You are Riya/Ramesh, the coordinator of the Environmental Awareness Club at Lawrence High School. Your club is interested in organising a nature and wildlife exploration trip during the upcoming school break. Write a letter to the manager of India Tour and Travel Agency, inquiring about the available packages, activities, safety measures, and any special educational opportunities.

View Answer

Ans.

Lawrence High School

Agra

6 April, 20XX

The Manager

India Travel and Tour Agency

Agra

Subject: Inquiry about nature and wildlife exploration trip packages

Sir

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the nature and wildlife exploration trip packages offered by your esteemed agency for young students.

We are planning a tour in the first week of May. It would be a tour for three days. We are a group of twenty–five students, four teachers, and two peons. Kindly furnish the details regarding the destinations, itinerary, and duration of each package. Also, please provide information about the safety measures your agency has in place during such trips, including transportation, accommodation etc.

Your assistance in providing the above information will help us in making the correct decision. We wish to receive a response from you soon.

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Riya

Coordinator

5. Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words.

Read the given details of an office space intended for your workplace area.

A central collaborative hub
Private meeting rooms with soundproofing
Relaxation areas with comfortable seating, indoor plants, and a coffee bar.
Natural light sources

Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this office space. Focus on factors such as productivity, comfort, technology integration, suitability for various work styles, and overall atmosphere.

View Answer

Ans.

Suitability of an Office

The layout of the workspace is ideal for increasing comfort and productivity. With its contemporary design, the centre collaborative hub promotes cooperation and idea sharing. Soundproofed private meeting rooms facilitate focused and private conversations while utilising cutting edge technology to facilitate remote connectivity. Cosy lounging places, indoor plants, and coffee shops provide staff members an opportunity to decompress and rejuvenate, which can improve mood overall. A large amount of natural light reduces eye strain and elevates mood while contributing to a comfortable and healthful work environment. With its effective support for a range of work types, this design creates a balanced and practical workspace that can accommodate both individual and collaborative operations.

Shalini, of class X, is contesting for the post of class representative, in the upcoming student council elections. Given below is her character traits’ graphic, shared in the public domain, by the school counsellor, for the awareness of student voters, at school.

All of Shalini’s peers have been asked to write a paragraph in about 120 words, analysing these traits, to either support or oppose her candidacy. As one of her peers, write this analytical paragraph, by selecting some of the traits that support your analysis.

You may begin like this:

As a responsible student voter, I believe Shalini possesses /does not possess the necessary traits to be a class representative.

You may end like this:

For these reasons, I believe she has/ does not have the potential to be a good class representative and I support/oppose her candidaxy.

View Answer

Ans.

Support

As a responsible student voter, I believe Shalini possesses several key traits that make her a suitable candidate for class representative. Her passion and energy for school activities ensure she will enthusiastically engage in representing our class. Shalini’s ability to adjust to changing situations and handle challenges means she can effectively navigate unexpected issues that may arise during her tenure. Moreover, her skill in finding solutions to conflicts shows she can maintain harmony and address disagreements constructively within the class. Shalini’s commitment to achieving class objectives and her dependable nature in following through on commitments assure us that she will prioritize our class’s interests and responsibilities. While she may occasionally overlook others’ feelings and be sensitive and emotional, her overall positive traits outweigh these concerns. For these reasons, I believe she has the potential to be a good class representative, and I support her candidacy.

Reject

As a responsible student voter, I believe Shalini does not possess the necessary traits to be a class representative. Her intense passion and energy for activities, while commendable, might make her focus too much on winning rather than collaborating with others. Her ability to adjust well to challenges and find solutions is valuable, but her extreme sensitivity and emotional nature could lead to difficulties in handling criticism or conflicts constructively. Additionally, her occasional prioritisation of personal interests over the class’s needs could create bias in decision-making. Although she is reliable and dedicated, these traits might affect her ability to fairly represent the entire class and ensure that all voices are heard and considered equally. For these reasons, I believe she does not have the potential to be a good class representative and I oppose her candidacy.

SECTION –C

LITERATURE TEXTBOOK

6. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given.

The expected call came within a few days. Mrs Pumphrey was distraught. Tricki would eat nothing. Refused even his favourite dishes; and besides, he had bouts of vomiting. He spent all his time lying on a rug, panting. Didn’t want to go for walks, didn’t want to do anything.

I had made my plans in advance. The only way was to get Tricki out of the house for a period. I suggested that he be hospitalised for about a fortnight to be kept under observation.

(A Triumph of Surgery)

(A) What inference can be drawn from the given context?

The expected call came within a few days.

View Answer

Ans. It implies that the narrator, the veterinary surgeon, had anticipated this turn of events and had plans ready to intervene by suggesting hospitalisation for Tricki to assess and address his health issues.

(B) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.

The word ‘distraught in the line Mrs. Pumphrey was distraught’ indicates that she was feeling ________ (extremely worried / mildly annoyed).

View Answer

Ans. extremely worried

(C) How does Mrs. Pumphrey’s initial reluctance to separate from Tricki for his hospitalisation highlighted her deep emotional attachment?

View Answer

Ans. Mrs. Pumphrey’s reluctance to separate from Tricki for his hospitalisation reveals her profound emotional bond with the dog. This attachment suggests that Tricki is not just a pet but a significant part of her life, influencing her decisions and causing emotional distress when they must be apart.

D) Which mood is LIKELY to be used in the extract?

(a) Playful

(b) Tense

(d) Carefree

View Answer

Ans. (b) Tense

Explanation: The mood of the extract is one of being tensed due to Tricki’s worsening health.

It’s cold…Im trembling all over, just as if Id got an examination before me. The great thing is, I must have my mind made up. If I give myself time to think, to hesitate, to talk a lot, to look for an ideal, or for real love, then Il never get married. Brr… It’s cold! Natalya Stepanovna is an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, well-educated. What more do I want? But I’m getting a noise in my ears from excitement.

(The Proposal)

(A) What does the experience, as described in the lines below, depict about Lomov?

I’m trembling all over, just as if I’d got an examination before me.”

Choose the most suitable option.

(a) nervous

(b) happy

(d) confuses

View Answer

Ans. (a) nervous

Explanation: One can infer that he is feeling nervous as he has come to propose to Natalya. He is not sure of how she would react. The comparison to having an examination before him implies that he feels under pressure and is afraid of making a mistake or failing in some way.

(B) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket

The phrase ‘a noise in my ears from excitement’ suggests a feeling of _________ (overwhelm / contentment) in the extract.

View Answer

Ans. overwhelm

View Answer

Ans. The author’s use of descriptive language vividly conveys the Lomov’s inner turmoil and urgency. Phrases like “It’s cold…I’m trembling all over” and “Brr… It’s cold!” evoke anxiety, showing Lomov’s emotional state. This also shows his overwhelming apprehension and the pressure to make a decisive choice.

(D) If an actor were to enact this extract, what would he be required to focus on, while modulating his voice?

View Answer

Ans. The actor should convey physically and vocally that Lomov is trembling and feeling cold. This could be depicted through slight shivers in the body and a trembling quality in the voice

7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given.

Though to distinguish beasts of prey

A novice might nonplus,

The Crocodile you always may

Tell from the Hyena thus:

Hyenas come with merry smiles;

But if they weep they’re Crocodiles.

(How to Tell Wild Animals)

(A) What is the significance of the use of the word “beasts of prey” to describe the animals in the poem and how does this word choice contribute to the overall tone of the poem?

View Answer

Ans. The phrase “beasts of prey” is used to describe animals that hunt and eat other animals. The choice of words creates a feeling of danger and highlights the wild nature of these creatures. It sets a tone of caution and awareness in the poem.

(B) What is the most likely reason the poet has written this poem?

View Answer

Ans. The poet has written this poem to make the learning process enjoyable. By presenting animal identification in a humorous and rhyming format, the poem engages readers. This playful approach helps to maintain interest and make the information more memorable

The crocodile and the Hyena serve as cautionary examples, reminding us to be wary of making judgements based solely on ___________

View Answer

Ans. outward appearances

Explanation: The Crocodile and the Hyena are used as examples to caution against making judgements based solely on outward appearances. The comparison between the Hyena’s “merry smiles” and the Crocodile’s potential “weeping” emphasises that appearances can be deceiving.

(D) Select the option that best suggest the rhyme scheme of the first four lines:

(a) abbcca

(b) abcbac

(d) ababcc

View Answer

Ans. (d) ababcc

Don’t eat that chocolate, Amanda!

Remember your acne, Amanda!

Will you please look at me when I’m speaking to you, Amanda!

(I am Rapunzel, I have not a care;

life in a tower is tranquil and rare;

I’ll certainly never let down my bright hair!)

(Amanda!)

(A) What kind of atmosphere is Created through the first three lines?

Select the correct option

(a) 1 and 4

(b) Only 5

(d) 4 and 5

View Answer

Ans. (a) Only 5

(B) In what way is the use of the exclamation mark in Amanda!’ significant in the poem?

View Answer

Ans. The use of the exclamation mark in ‘Amanda!’ indicates that the speaker wants to grab Amanda’s attention and make her take immediate notice of what is being said. It also emphasises the frustration that her mother is causing her.

View Answer

Ans. The portrayal of Amanda’s mom in the given lines is characterised by a mix of concern and frustration. Her commands and reminders—”Don’t eat that chocolate, Amanda!” and “Remember your acne, Amanda!”— reflect her preoccupation with Amanda’s well-being and appearance. The repeated use of Amanda’s name underscores her frustration and wanting Amanda to pay attention. This contrasts sharply with Amanda’s daydreams about being a rapunzel.

(D) Complete the sentence appropriately:

Amanda’s inner fantasies about being a mermaid and Rapunzel contrast sharply with _________

View Answer

Ans. her mundane or ordinary reality.

8. Answer ANY FOUR questions in 40-50 words each.

(A) How does the theme of absurdity and exaggeration contribute to the comedic elements of the story, “The Proposal”, particularly in the way the characters’ conflicts escalate?

View Answer

Ans. The story is filled with ridiculous arguments that arise over trivial issues. For example, the argument over the Oxen Meadows, a piece of land, is blown out of proportion to the point where it becomes comical. The characters take an absurd amount of interest in something that appears to be meaningless.

(B) How does Valli’s reaction to the sight of the dead cow reveal about her feeling during her first bus journey?

View Answer

Ans. Valli’s reaction to the dead cow reflects her changing emotions during her first bus journey. At first, she laughed and enjoyed the bus ride with excitement. But when she saw the cow, she felt sad and disturbed. This shows how quickly her feelings shifted from joy to sadness, realizing the fragility of life and the unexpected experiences it had to offer.

View Answer

Ans. In the poem “Fog,” Carl Sandburg uses imagery to describe fog as if it were a quiet, watchful cat. The fog is shown as moving silently and calmly over the city, creating a peaceful and mysterious scene. This helps readers visualise and feel the fog’s gentle presence.

(D) Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portraying the exploration of beauty, authenticity, and the challenges Anne Gregory faces in seeking love and acceptance.

View Answer

Ans. Anne’s hair colour acts as a symbol of beauty and attractiveness. By focusing on her yellow hair, the poet explores society’s obsession with external beauty. Anne’s willingness to change her hair colour reflects the challenges she faces in finding true love and acceptance for her true self. She wishes to change her hair colour so that she is accepted and liked by men for her inner beauty rather than her outward appearance.

(E) How does Leslie Norris use vivid imagery in “A Tiger in the Zoo”, to describe the tiger as a beautiful animal?

View Answer

Ans. The poet has used vivid imagery through words like “vivid stripes” and “brilliant eyes” to describe the tiger. These words show that the tiger looks very attractive. The poet wants us to imagine how the tiger looks and appreciate its beauty. The visual imagery makes the tiger seem very striking and pleasing to look at.

9. Answer ANY TWO questions in 40-50 words each.

(A) How does Dr. Herriot’s treatment lead to the happy ending in the story?

View Answer

Ans. The doctor, Mr. James Herriot, is shocked to see the state of Tricki as bloated as a sausage. He gets Tricki admitted, starts feeding him a balanced diet, and rids him of all the junk food that he has been eating. Soon, Tricki starts feeling better and ultimately gains his energy.

(B) Justify the opinion that “The Thief’s Story” is a powerful example of the importance of trust and human connection.

View Answer

Ans. “The Thief’s Story” shows how trust and friendship can change a person. Hari, despite planning to steal from Anil, feels guilty when he sees Anil’s kindness and trust. This teaches him the value of honesty and friendship. Anil, even after being robbed, forgives him and continues to help, showing that kindness can transform even a thief like Hari.

View Answer

Ans. The author’s use of suspense in the story creates an exciting and adventurous atmosphere. For example, the careful planning of Horace before the robbery, his unexpected encounter with the young lady, and the twist at the end contribute to the suspenseful tone. This keeps the reader engaged and curious to know what will happen next and how the story will unfold.

10. Answer ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words.

Both Anne Frank and Amanda use their respective mediums of diary writing and imagination as a means of escaping. Examine these differences.

View Answer

Ans. Both Anne Frank and Amanda use their diary and imaginations to escape from their realities. Anne Frank finds comfort in her diary, “Kitty,” where she can share her deepest thoughts and emotions while hiding during World War II. It becomes a safe place where she can be herself without worrying about others’ opinions.

One the other hand, Amanda escapes through her imagination in Robin Klein’s poem, creating fantasies where she becomes characters like Rapunzel or a mermaid. These fantasies allow her to temporarily leave behind everyday concerns and enjoy moments of freedom and creativity.

Both girls show how writing and imagination can provide a refuge from the challenges in their own different ways, offering them a sense of freedom and comfort.

In the poem, “Fire and Ice”, Frost subtly mocks the human propensity for both intense passion and cold detachment. Similarly, in the poem, The Trees”, through the depiction of the trees, the poet mocks societal constraints placed on women. Evaluate the similarities.

View Answer

Ans. In both poems, Frost and Rich use their imagery to critique human nature and societal issues. In “Fire and Ice,” Frost explores how extreme emotions like intense passion (fire) and cold detachment (ice) are equally destructive. He mocks how these powerful feelings can lead to self-destruction.

Similarly, in “The Trees,” Rich depicts trees breaking free from confinement, symbolising women’s struggle against societal constraints. The trees’ movement from a restrictive house to a liberating forest mocks the limitations placed on women by society.

Both poems highlight and criticse how humans or societies impose damaging extremes or restrictions, revealing the flaws and consequences of these behaviours.

11. Answer ANY ONE of the following in 100-120 words.

Evaluate how Bholi’s transformation and self-assertion contribute significantly to the overarching theme of self-respect in the story.

View Answer

Ans. Bholi’s transformation and self-assertion are crucial to the theme of self-respect in the story. At first, Bholi is seen as a simpleton with low self-esteem, largely due to her appearance and speech impediment. However, her teacher’s encouragement helps her gain confidence and value herself.

When Bholi rejects the marriage proposal from Bishamber Nath, she does so with newfound self-respect, standing up against the exploitation and disrespect shown to her. By refusing to marry someone who belittles her, Bholi asserts her worth and dignity.

This bold action reflects her personal growth and self-respect, showing that she now values herself and will not accept a situation that undermines her self-worth.

Mme. Forestier writes a diary entry after having met Matilda, knowing the truth and seeing the transformation in her friend. Write a diary entry as Mme. Forestier about your encounter and how you felt.

You may begin like this:

Today, I had a surprising encounter with my dear friend, Matilda, who once used to be filled with dreams and aspirations…

View Answer

Ans.

12 November 20XX, Monday

2 p.m.

Dear Diary,

Today, I had a surprising encounter with my dear friend, Matilda, who once used to be filled with dreams and aspirations. She, now appears burdened by life’s challenges and, it breaks my heart to see her in such a situation. I kept thinking about the borrowed necklace when we met today. I couldn’t help but experience all kinds of feelings. I feel pity for her upon seeing the consequences of her actions and the difficulties that she is currently dealing with. Her experience serves as an important reminder that material things alone cannot provide true happiness. It is a lesson that I will always carry with me, cherishing the genuine blessings in my own life. With a heavy heart, I hope that Matilda finds peace and learns from her experiences. Mme Forestier

Class X – English – Paper 3