Class 10 English Previous Year Question Paper (2025) with Solutions

by | Apr 29, 2025 | General | 0 comments

Class 10 English Previous year question paper 2025

CBSE Class 10 English Chapter-wise Previous Years Questions (2025) with Solution

 

Class 10 English Question Paper (2025) – Solved Question papers from previous years are very important for preparing for the CBSE Board Exams. It works as a treasure trove. It helps to prepare for the exam precisely. One of key benefits of solving question papers from past board exams is their ability to help identify commonly asked questions. These papers are highly beneficial study resources for students preparing for the upcoming class 10th board examinations. Here we have compiled chapter-wise questions asked in all the sets of CBSE Class 10 English question paper (2025).

 

First Flight Book Lessons

 

Chapter 1 – A Letter to God

Q. In what manner did Lencho’s cornfield suffer damage? Did he hold any expectations of receiving assistance? (A Letter to God) [40-50 words]
Ans. Lencho’s cornfield was destroyed by the hailstones. The entire crop was damaged. The destruction was worse than that done by a plague of locusts. Lencho had utmost faith in God and he sought financial help of 100 pesos from him.

Q. Comment on the reactions and feelings of Lencho and Nelson Mandela when they faced challenges in their lives. (A Letter to God and Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom) [100-120 words]
Ans. Both the characters of Lencho and Nelson Mandela teach us to be patient and determined in tough times. These men worked to achieve their target and did not give up in time of adversity. We get to learn that once we stand up for a cause, then there should be no looking back. One has to remain undettered till the goal is achieved.
Lencho’s character also teaches us the power of faith. He is not shaken by nature’s fury because he believes that God is there to help him. We learn that having faith in God is like a powerful weapon which comes into force when all other weapons fail. The character of Mandela teaches us the importance of hope. For thirty long years, he served imprisonment with the hope that one day he would get equality and justice for his people.
Thus, hope and faith are the two essential pillars or attributes that enable men to achieve the unachieveable.

 

Also See: 

 

Chapter 2 – Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

 

Q. Why, according to Mandela, was it important to learn to hate? (Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom) [40-50 words]
Ans. According to Mandela, love comes naturally to the human heart while he is taught to hate. He says that it is important to learn to hate because once one learns to hate, one can be easily taught to love. Love comes naturally to the human heart. A heart that can hate will easily learn to love.

Q. Both ‘Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ by Nelson Mandela and ‘The Trees’ by Adrienne Rich explore themes of transformation, Liberation and the power to change. Examine the commonality of themes in both the works. [100-120 words]
Ans. The themes of transformation, liberation and power to change can be seen in both these compositions.
Nelson Mandela tells us how his involvement in the country’s freedom struggle transformed a law-abiding attorney to become a criminal, that turned a family-loving husband into a man without a home, that forced a life-loving man to live like a monk. In the poem also, we see a transformation in the trees which are moving out of the house and are desperate to go out. Liberation is the key theme in Mandela’s story. Their struggle was primarily to gain freedom and equality for their countrymen. In the poem, the trees symbolically represent females who are seeking freedom from the shackles of the patriarchal society. ‘Going out’ indicates their quest for liberty. Both the compositions show that change can be brought about only through perseverance and courage. Mandela sacrificed his family and his life for the cause that he fought for. The trees also shuffled and stifled to finally break the windows, crack the walls and move out of the walls.
Both the compositions highlight the required qualities for bringing a transformation. To gain liberation from any type of binding, one has to undergo a lot of struggle.

Q. Comment on the reactions and feelings of Lencho and Nelson Mandela when they faced challenges in their lives. (A Letter to God and Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom) [100-120 words]
Ans. Both the characters of Lencho and Nelson Mandela teach us to be patient and determined in tough times. These men worked to achieve their target and did not give up in time of adversity. We get to learn that once we stand up for a cause, then there should be no looking back. One has to remain undettered till the goal is achieved.
Lencho’s character also teaches us the power of faith. He is not shaken by nature’s fury because he believes that God is there to help him. We learn that having faith in God is like a powerful weapon which comes into force when all other weapons fail. The character of Mandela teaches us the importance of hope. For thirty long years, he served imprisonment with the hope that one day he would get equality and justice for his people.
Thus, hope and faith are the two essential pillars or attributes that enable men to achieve the unachieveable.

 

Also See: 

 

Chapter 3 – Two Stories About Flying

Q. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
The moon was coming up in the east, behind me, and stars were shining in the clear sky above me. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky. I was happy to be alone high up above the sleeping countryside. I was flying my old Dakota aeroplane over France back to England. I was dreaming of my holiday and looking forward to being with my family. I looked at my watch: one thirty in the morning. (Two Stories About Flying)

(i) What time of the day is the above extract set in?
(A) dawn
(B) afternoon
(C) night
(D) dusk
Ans. (A) dawn

(ii) State any one inference about the writer from the given context. “I was looking forward to being with my family.”
Ans. He was a family man.

(iii) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets. The use of the phrase ‘clear sky’ adds to a sense of__________ (favourable/flavourful) weather conditions.
Ans. favourable

(iv) How does the serene atmosphere described by the narrator contribute to the mood and anticipation of his journey back to England? Elaborate in about 40 words, with reference to the extract.
Ans. It adds convenience to the narrator’s journey and makes us feel that his aim of enjoying breakfast with the family will be a reality.

Q. The young seagull’s fear of flying and reluctance to leave his ledge contribute to the development of the theme of independence and courage in the story. Justify. (Two Stories about Flying) [40-50 words]
Ans. The seagull’s character is cowardly and fearful. Due to this he is unable to fly. Finally, hunger drives him to take the first flight and he realizes that his fear was merely a figment of imagination. Thus, we realize that the inhibitions anf ears that we hold are also baseless. One has to imbibe courage and a desire for independence if one wants to achieve something in life.

 

Also See:  

 

Chapter 4 – From the Diary of Anne Frank

Q. Read the given extracts and answer the questions :
“Paper has more patience than people. I thought of this saying on one of those days when I was feeling a little depressed and was sitting at home with my chin in my hands, bored and listless, wondering whether to stay in or go out. I finally stayed where I was, brooding: Yes, paper does have more patience, and since I’m not planning to let anyone else read this stiff backed notebook grandly referred to as a ‘diary’, unless I should ever find a real friend, it probably won’t make a bit of difference.” (From the Diary of Anne Frank)

I. In light of the excerpt, what can we infer about the speaker’s emotional state?
Ans. The speaker is lonely and depressed. She feels listless because she is unable to share her secrets with her friends and thinks that she lacks a true friend.

II. The narrator enhances the narrative technique of the extract by using:
(A) descriptive language
(B) literary allusions
(C) humour
(D) reflective
Ans. (C) humour

III. Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket:
The narrator doesn’t plan to let anyone read her diary as she doesn’t have any real___________. (friend/incidents)
Ans. friend

IV. Why does the narrator say that ‘paper has more patience than people’?
Ans. In contrast to people, the paper (or her diary) will not react to or comment on what she writes. So, she feels that paper has more patience in comparison to people.

Also See:   

 

Chapter 5 – Glimpses of India

Q. Pranjal seemed to have a different level of enthusiasm compared to Rajvir when they both saw the tree plantation. Justify. (Glimpses of India) [40-50 words]
Ans. Since Pranjal was from Assam, he was not curious and excited on seeing the tea plantations. However, Rajvir was experiencing the place for the first time. He was captivated by the expansive plantations and was eager to know more about the place.

Q. Why does the author refer to Coorg as the kingdom of heaven? (Glimpses of India – Coorg) [40-50 words]
Ans. Coorg is referred to as a slice of heaven from the kingdom of God. This is a land of rolling hills, evergreen forests, wildlife and the home of the brave and fierce Coorgi race. Thus, the scenic beauty and rich heritage make it nothing less than a heaven.

Q. The portrayal of the baker’s attire and role in the village emphasize the cultural and social significance of bread-making within the community. Elaborate. (Glimpses of India – A Baker from Goa) [40-50 words]
Ans. Bakeries hold an important role in the Goan culture and tradition. Bakers wear traditional attire called Kabai and visit the households twice a day to supply the freshly baked goods. Goan tradition involves the use of different baked goods on different occasions and festivals.

Also See: 

 

Chapter 6 – Mijbil the Otter

Q. The inherent instinct for freedom is a fundamental trait in all living creatures. Justify this statement with reference to ‘Mijbil the Otter’ and ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’. [100-120 words]
Ans. In both the compositions we see the animal’s desire for freedom. Mijbil is packed in a box when the narrator has to transport it to England via a flight. Mijbil remains restless, tries to escape the box and injures itself and finally escapes the box and creates havoc on the flight. The tiger who is confined in a cage in the zoo is not its natural self because it knows that its power is restricted. It wants to snake and roar, roam around in the jungle and hunt its prey. However, the tiger remains silent and walks to and fro within the limited area of the cage.
When these animals are removed from their natural habitat, they feel stifled and want to go back. All living creatures desire freedom.

 

Also See:  

 

Chapter 7 – Madam Rides the Bus

Q. Valli did not board the bus impulsively. Justify. (Madam Rides the Bus) [40-50 words]
Ans. Valli sees the bus travel from her village to the town and back. Whenever it passes her house, there is a set of new passengers. Valli wants to take a ride in it as well and so, she saves money for the ticket. She overhears passengers, asks discreet questions to know the timings of the bus, the fare, etc. Then one day, she selects a good time and boards the bus to fuifil her desire. Thus, she does not board the bus on an impulse, it is a planned move.

Q. How does Valli’s desire to ride the bus reflect her aspirations and challenges in context of her daily life? (Madam Rides the Bus) [40-50 words]
Ans. Her desire to ride the bus shows her loneliness. She remains restricted to the house and so she wants to explore the world outside. She abstains from spending on candies, etc. to save enough for the bus ticket. She even selects such a time when her mother sleeps in the afternoon so that she can go for the bus trip secretly. Perhaps her loneliness has made her secretive and mature.

 

Also See:  

 

Chapter 9 – The Proposal

Q. Engaging in discussions and disputes rarely leads to problem resolution. Support the statement with evidence from the text. (The Proposal) [40-50 words]
Ans. In the play, the characters of Lomov and Natalya are neighbours. They are grown up individuals but they indulge in arguments and verbal fights over petty issues. However, we realize that the arguments do not solve the matter. They go on exaggerating and speaking abuses for each other’s families as well. Such acts never solve any problem and so, one should not engage in disputes if one seeks to resolve a matter.

Q. Discuss how the writers use language to create humour in the poem ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ and the play “The Proposal”. [100-120 words]
Ans. We see the use of playful language and whimsical imagery in ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’. The poet Odgen Nash is famous for his humorous writing style. In this poem also he uses rhyme, irony and a poetic license to alter the words which is aimed to create lyrical effect and humour. Comparing Belinda’s bravery to a barrel full of bears is also humorous. The poet compares Custard’s attack on the pirate to that of a robin bird who attacks a worm. This is also amusing. The writer uses witty dialogue and situational irony in ‘The Proposal’. The play is a farce, a comic, dramatic work. The use of adjectives like ‘gypsies’, ‘land-grabber’, ‘pettifogger’, ‘guzzling gambler’ create humour. The extent of argument by both the parties over trivial matters, overlooking the matrimony creates drama.
Thus, in both the lessons the writers have used unique ways of writing to make the work humorous.

 

Also See:   

 

First Flight Book Poems

 

Poem 1 – Dust of Snow

Q. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
The way a crow
Shook down on me
The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood

(i) Fill the blank to complete the sentence.
Shaking down of dust of snow gave the speaker a change of heart by ____.
Ans. the crow

(ii) How does the interaction between the natural elements (crow, snow, hemlock tree) contribute to the speaker’s emotional transformation in the poem? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans. The crow is sitting on a snow-covered hemlock tree. As the poet stands under the tree, the crow flies off and shakes the branch which leads to dusting of the snow on the poet. This dust of snow transforms the poet’s mood.

(iii) ‘Dust of Snow’ is referred to as:
(A) mist
(B) dust of branches
(C) snow residue
(D) snowflakes
Ans. (C) snow residue

(iv) The crow and the hemlock tree represent _________.
1. sorrow
2. elation
3. hope
4. anxiety

5. enthusiasm
(A) 1 only
(B) 2, 3 and 5
(C) 4 only
(D) 1, 4 and 5
Ans. (A) 1 only

Q. In the poem “Dust of Snow”, the ‘hemlock tree’ and the ‘crow’ hold specific meanings. Elaborate on how these symbols are utilized within the context of the poem. [40-50 words]
Ans. In the poem, the poet has used the hemlock tree and the crow as symbols of goodness. Traditionally, these two are considered omens of bad luck and death. However, the poet Robert Frost shows these two as good symbols which bring happiness in his life.

Also See: 

 

Poem 3 – A Tiger in the Zoo

Q. The inherent instinct for freedom is a fundamental trait in all living creatures. Justify this statement with reference to ‘Mijbil the Otter’ and ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’. [100-120 words]
Ans. In both the compositions we see the animal’s desire for freedom. Mijbil is packed in a box when the narrator has to transport it to England via a flight. Mijbil remains restless, tries to escape the box and injures itself and finally escapes the box and creates havoc on the flight. The tiger who is confined in a cage in the zoo is not its natural self because it knows that its power is restricted. It wants to snake and roar, roam around in the jungle and hunt its prey. However, the tiger remains silent and walks to and fro within the limited area of the cage.
When these animals are removed from their natural habitat, they feel stifled and want to go back. All living creatures desire freedom.

Q. In what ways does the contrast between the tiger’s natural habitat and its confinement in a concrete cell enhance the poem’s exploration of captivity and its consequences for wild animals? (A Tiger in the Zoo) [40-50 words]
Ans. The poem discusses the variation on the life of a tiger when it is free in the jungle against its confinement in a cage of a zoo. The tiger can take only a few steps because the cage is small, however, in the jungle, it snarls around houses and shows its fangs to scare villagers. When the tiger is locked in a concrete cell, its power is also restricted. It cannot show its ferociousness to the visitors, opposed to its unrestricted behaviour in the jungle where it hides behind tall grass to wait for the prey.

Also See: 

 

Poem 4 – How to Tell Wild Animals

Q. Every creature possesses a unique characteristic that defines it, and this trait is closely linked to its nature. This concept is beautifully illustrated in the poem “How to Tell Wild Animals.” Elucidate.[40-50 words]
Ans. The poem highlights the qualities of different wild animals to identify them. If one comes across an animal whose skin is yellowish brown in colour and if it roars at him so strongly that he can die out of fear, it means that he has encountered an Asian Lion. If one notices that he kills you and eats you up, then this means that you have surely seen a Bengal Tiger. While walking in a jungle if one spots an animal with spots which is fast and leaps at you, you have met a leopard. If an animal hugs you tightly, it is a bear. These few examples show how unique qualities of the animals have been highlighted by the poet for their identification.

 

Also See: 

 

Poem 5 – The Ball Poem

Q. The loss of the ball is a lesson to the boy. Elaborate. (The Ball Poem) [40-50 words]
Ans. The boy was playing with the ball. Suddenly, it rolled off and fell into the stream. The child had not experienced loss and this incident made him shake in grief. He stood motionless and felt helpless. However, the poet assured him that he could buy another ball. The poet says that this incident will teach the child to handle loss and to move on in life.  

 

Also See: 

 

Poem 6 – Amanda

Q. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
Don’t bite your nails, Amanda!
Don’t hunch your shoulders, Amanda!
Stop that slouching and sit up straight,
Amanda!
(There is a languid, emerald sea,
where the sole inhabitant is me-
a mermaid, drifting blissfully.)
(Amanda)

(i) How does the poet reinforce the contrast between what the narrator wants and what Amanda desires?
Ans. The contrast is presented through the use of imagery and tone. The narrator is realistic and practical while Amanda’s wish is imaginative.

(ii) What tone is conveyed through the repetition of Amanda’s name in the line?
(A) loving
(B) instructive
(C) indifferent
(D) playful
Ans. (B) instructive

(iii) How does the imagery of the emerald sea with the mermaid contrast with Amanda’s actions?
Ans. The emerald sea with the mermaid drifting in it peacefully is a calm scene. On the contrary, Amanda is biting her nails, slouching and hunching her shoulders. This shows that she is restless and nervous.

(iv) Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the given extract.
(A) Sitting by the pond
Waving my wand
Awaiting my dearest
I looked above and beyond
Awaiting my love
A sudden sound, fluttered the dove
The crackle stopped, as so did my heart

(B) Sitting by the pond
Holding tight to my bond
I looked above and beyond
Awaiting my love
I heard her come, a sudden sound
The crackle stopped, as so did my heart

(C) I sat beside the pond with her
Awaiting for her to come
I looked above and beyond
Awaiting my love
A sudden sound, I turned back
The crackle stopped, as so did my heart

(D) Sitting by the pond
Awaiting my love.
I looked above and beyond
A sudden scream, I looked around
Then a shadow fell and there was no sound
The crackle stopped, as so did my heart
Ans. (A)

Also See: 

 

Poem 7 – The Trees

Q. Read the given extracts and answer the questions :
I sit inside, doors open to the veranda writing long letters in which I scarcely mention the departure of the forest from the house. The night is fresh, the whole moon shines in a sky still open ….. (The Trees)

I. What atmosphere or mood is created by the language and imagery used in the above lines?
Ans. These lines create the atmosphere that the poet is indifferent towards the effort of the trees to move out of the house. It is night time and the moon is visible in the sky when the trees move out of the house into the open forest.

II. Choose the option that correctly pairs the two different meanings implied by the use of ‘open’ twice in the extract:
(A) entry point- vastness
(B) sharing a common space- great view
(C) allowing access and vision – expanse of space
(D) advantage-obstacles ahead
Ans. (C) allowing access and vision – expanse of space

III. From the provided extract, what is conspicuously absent from the long letters the speaker is writing while they sit indoors with the doors open to the veranda?
Ans. The mention of the movement of the trees from the house to the open forest is missing from the long letters.

IV. How does the poet describe the night?
1. dark
2. frightening
3. dense
4. fresh
5. bright
Select the correct option:
(A) 1 and 5
(B) Only 3
(C) 4 and 5
(D) 2 and 4
Ans. (C) 4 and 5

Q. What happens to the house when the trees move out of it? Comment. (The Trees) [40-50 words]
Ans – The house becomes silent as the fragrance of the leaves and lichens which was like a voice urging for a change can no longer be smelt.

Q. Both ‘Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ by Nelson Mandela and ‘The Trees’ by Adrienne Rich explore themes of transformation, Liberation and the power to change. Examine the commonality of themes in both the works. [100-120 words]
Ans. The themes of transformation, liberation and power to change can be seen in both these compositions.
Nelson Mandela tells us how his involvement in the country’s freedom struggle transformed a law-abiding attorney to become a criminal, that turned a family-loving husband into a man without a home, that forced a life-loving man to live like a monk. In the poem also, we see a transformation in the trees which are moving out of the house and are desperate to go out. Liberation is the key theme in Mandela’s story. Their struggle was primarily to gain freedom and equality for their countrymen. In the poem, the trees symbolically represent females who are seeking freedom from the shackles of the patriarchal society. ‘Going out’ indicates their quest for liberty. Both the compositions show that change can be brought about only through perseverance and courage. Mandela sacrificed his family and his life for the cause that he fought for. The trees also shuffled and stifled to finally break the windows, crack the walls and move out of the walls.
Both the compositions highlight the required qualities for bringing a transformation. To gain liberation from any type of binding, one has to undergo a lot of struggle.

 

Also See: 

 

Poem 9 – The Tale of Custard the Dragon

Q. Read the given extracts and answer the questions :
Belinda giggled till she shook the house,
And Blink said Weeck! Which is giggling for a mouse,
Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age,
When Custard cried for a nice safe cage.
Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound,
And Mustard growled, and they all looked around.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)

I. What inference can be drawn from the repetition of ‘suddenly, suddenly’ in the above extract?
(A) The scene shook the house
(B) It highlights the swift assault
(C) It emphasises that an unexpected noise was heard
(D) It directs our notice to Mustard’s growling
Ans. (C) It emphasises that an unexpected noise was heard

II. Despite its symbolism of captivity, what leads Custard to have a preference for staying in a cage?
Ans. Custard preferred living in a cage which is in contrast to the perception that a cage snatches one’s freedom. This is so because Custard felt that a cage was safe for him. Custard’s this feeling made the other animals think that he was a coward who cried for a safe place to hide.

III. Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the first four lines of the given extract:

(A) Through the telescope she saw a star
which she thought was very far
She stretched her hand
and felt the crumple of the sand.

(B) Through the telescope she saw a star
She stretched her hand
As it was very far
But felt the crumble of the sand.

(C) Through the telescope she saw a star
Which she thought was very far
Her hand she stretched
But felt the crumble of the sand.

(D) Through the telescope she saw a star
Which she thought was very far
Her hand she stretched afar
But felt the crumble of the sand.
Ans (A) Through the telescope she saw a star
which she thought was very far
She stretched her hand
and felt the crumple of the sand.

IV. In the given extract,
The difference between the other animals and Custard is
that Custard behaves like a ___________(coward/dragon).
Ans. coward

Q. Describe the changing reactions of Ink, Blink and Mustard to Custard’s bravado. (The Tale of Custard the Dragon) [40-50 words]
Ans. Initially when Custard cried for a safe cage, All the other animals considered him a coward. However, when they were in danger, all of them disappeared into hiding and it was Custard who faced the pirate and swallowed it. Later, when the danger was over, they resumed the old mockery and again teased Custard.

Q. Discuss how the writers use language to create humour in the poem The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ and the play “The Proposal”. [100-120 words]
Ans. We see the use of playful language and whimsical imagery in ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’. The poet Odgen Nash is famous for his humorous writing style. In this poem also he uses rhyme, irony and a poetic license to alter the words which is aimed to create lyrical effect and humour. Comparing Belinda’s bravery to a barrel full of bears is also humorous. The poet compares Custard’s attack on the pirate to that of a robin bird who attacks a worm. This is also amusing. The writer uses witty dialogue and situational irony in ‘The Proposal’. The play is a farce, a comic, dramatic work. The use of adjectives like ‘gypsies’, ‘land-grabber’, ‘pettifogger’, ‘guzzling gambler’ create humour. The extent of argument by both the parties over trivial matters, overlooking the matrimony creates drama.
Thus, in both the lessons the writers have used unique ways of writing to make the work humorous.

 

Also See: 

 

Footprints without Feet Book Lessons

 

Chapter 2 – The Thief’s Story

Q. How do Anil’s initial reaction to Hari Singh’s cooking and his subsequent actions reflect Anil’s evolving relationship with Hari Singh? (The Thief’s Story) [40-50 words]
Ans. When Anil hires Hari to cook, the first meal itself indicated that Hari had lied about his cooking skills. Anil asked Hari to leave immediately because he had hired him to cook only. However, Hari hung around and pleased Anil so that he kept him. Anil taught Hari to cook and even ignored the minor thefts that he did when he bought the supplies for the kitchen. Hari’s habit of stealing took the better of him and although he returned Anil’s money from where he had taken it, Anil knew about all that he did. Anil did not react and overlooked Hari’s actions not because he was not bothered but because that was the way to Hari’s self-improvement.

Q. Hari’s character evolves from being deceitful and opportunistic to remorseful and seeking redemption.
In the light of the above information, describe how his decision to return the money signifies a moral awakening in him and a newfound appreciation for Anil’s kindness and mentorship. (The Thief’s Story) [100-120 words]
Ans. Hari was a seasoned thief who enjoyed his work. He was smart and changed his name frequently to evade the police. In Anil, he found an employer who helped him grow, taught him to cook, and even educated him. However, Hari’s habit took the better of him and he committed theft at Anil’s house too. Soon after the crime, he lamented losing a great mentor and so, he decided to return Anil’s money. More than the stolen money, Hari realized the importance of Anil’s mentorship. Now Hari was aiming to get an education and lead a better life. Thus, we see the moral awakening in Hari which is fuelled by Anil’s kindness and mentorship.

Q. How did Hari Singh meet Anil? Why did Anil forgive Hari Singh and promise to pay him regularly? (The Thief’s Story) [100-120 words]
Ans. Hari Singh was fifteen when he met Anil when Anil was watching a wrestling match. Hari was an experienced thief. Hari flattered Anil because he liked his kind and easy-going personality. Hari expressed his desire to work for Anil and Anil promised to feed him in return for Hari’s job of cooking meals. After the first meal cooked by Hari, Anil realized that Hari couldn’t cook but on seeing his eagerness to live there, Anil allowed him. He even promised to teach him how to cook, how to read and write and overlooked the petty thefts that Hari did everyday from the money that Anil gave for buying groceries. He did so because he was a kind and easy-going man. He wanted to evoke Hari’s conscience so that he had a moral awakening and realize his mistakes.

Also See: 

 

Chapter 3 – The Midnight Visitor

Q. Read the following extracts and answer the questions:
“It’s not my balcony,” Ausable said with extreme irritation. “It belongs to the next apartment.” He glanced explanatorily at Fowler. “You see,” he said, “this room used to be part of a large unit, and the next room-through that door there-used to be the living room. It had the balcony, which extends under my window now. You can get onto it from the empty room two doors down and somebody did, last month. The management promised to block it off. But they haven’t.” (The Midnight Visitor)

(i) What was the management supposed to do regarding the balcony?
Ans. It was supposed to block the way from the empty room two doors down to the balcony which extended upto the window of Ausable’s room.

(ii) Which of the following was the reason that irritated Ausable also about the balcony?
(A) its size and layout
(B) its location relative to his apartment
(C) its accessibility from the neighbouring unit
(D) its maintenance by the apartment management
Ans. (C) its accessibility from the neighbouring unit

(iii) How does Ausable’s detailed explanation of the balcony’s history and current accessibility contribute to the atmosphere of suspense or tension in the story? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans. It aroused the curiosity of the people who listened to Ausable. They got confused which acted as a deterrent to their plans.

(iv) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets.
The reference to ‘last month’ and ‘now’ adds to a sense of _______(reconciliation / mystery).
Ans. reconciliation

Q. Fowler’s disappointment arose when he laid eyes on Ausable. Rationalise the statement. (The Midnight Visitor) [40-50 words]
Ans. On seeing Ausable, Fowler was disappointed because he did not fit the description of a secret agent. Fowler felt let down on seeing Ausable who was fat and spoke in an American accent. Ausable took him through the musty corridor of a gloomy French hotel while Fowler had imagined mysterious figures, pistols, drungs in the wine, etc.

 

 

Also See: 

 

Chapter 4 – A Question of Trust

Q. The unexpected encounter with the voice in the doorway affects Horace’s burglary attempt. Elaborate. (A Question of Trust) [40-50 words]
Ans. Horace robbed a safe every year and made a detailed investigation before the theft. He had done a recee of Shotover Grange too but to his dismay, he was welcomed by a human voice in addition to Sherry, the dog. Once the woman was there, his plan got disrupted. Finally, Horace opened the safe for her so that she was pleased and did not call the police. After a few days, when the police arrest him, he realizes that the woman was also a thief who took his help in breaking the safe, took all the jewels and got him trapped as his fingerprints were all over the place.

 

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Chapter 5 – Footprints without Feet

Q. Griffin was a lawless person even though he was a brilliant scientist. Discuss. (Footprints without Feet) [100-120 words]
Ans. Griffin is a mad scientist who uses his scientific advancement for the wrong reasons. He becomes invisible and then sets the landlord’s house on fire. He escapes and only the muddy footprints are visible. Then he enters a closed store, looking for warmth, sleeps through the night and on being discovered, hits the storekeeper. Then he again steals things like props from a theatre store. Griffin is an anti-social and anti-law. He wants to escape the city and his search for solitude takes him to the village of Iping. There also, his irritant nature leads him to hit people and enter into fights. Finally, the policeman Jaffers is called in to catch the invisible man who creates a lot of ruckus.

 

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Chapter 6 – The Making of a Scientist

Q. Books play a significant role in shaping the personality of a person. In what way did a book cause a significant shift in Richard Ebright’s life? (The Making of a Scientist) [40-50 words]
Ans. Richard’s mother gave him a book about butterflies’ migration – The Travels of Monarch X by Dr. Urquhart from University of Toronto. That book told how monarch butterflies migrated to Central America and it opened the mind of young Ebright. With the book, Richard made contact with Dr. Urquhart. He was instructed by Dr. Urquhart to research butterfly migration patterns. Thus the book ignited his interest in scientific research.

Q. What was the role of Ebright’s mother in his life? (The Making of a Scientist) [100-120 words]
Ans. Richard H Ebright’s mother was a gentle and kind lady who encouraged and inspired Ebright’s interest in learning. It was she who laid the foundation of his success as a scientist. After her husband’s death, her son, who was studying in the third grade, became her life. She encouraged her son’s keen interest in learning. She understood that her son had a curious and bright mind. She recognised his son’s scientific temper, so she made sure that her son had everything that he needed. She took him on trips and bought him telescopes, microscopes, cameras, mounting material and all other equipment. She was his only companion before Richard started going to school. When Richard’s school started it was she who encouraged him to make friends. She would invite his friends to their house. She would sit with him at night. Even when Richard did not have any work to do, his mother made sure that she found something to engage her son. It was she who got him the book “The Travels of Monarch X” and opened the world of science for him. She knew that her son had a passion and did all things possible to fulfil them. This support, guidance, care and concern of Ebright’s mother made him into the prodigal and successful scientist.

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Chapter 7 – The Necklace

Q. Read the given extracts and answer the questions :
“He was silent, stupefied, in dismay, at the sight of his wife weeping. He stammered, “What is the matter? What is the matter?” By a violent effort, she had controlled her vexation and responded in a calm voice, wiping her moist cheeks, “Nothing. Only I have no dress and consequently I cannot go to this affair. Give your card to some colleague whose wife is better fitted out than I.” He was grieved, but answered, “Let us see, Matilda. How much would a suitable costume cost, something that would serve for their occasions, something very simple?” She reflected for some seconds thinking of a sum that could ask for without bringing with it an immediate refusal and a frightened exclamation from the economical clerk.” (The Necklace)

I. What can we infer about Matilda’s emotions and financial situation based on her husband’s reaction and her response to not having a dress for the affair?
Ans. Matilda is disappointed for not having the right dress for the party. Her husband is shocked at ther reaction because he had expected the opposite. He does not have the means to buy her a new dress but for the sake of her happiness, he asks the approximate cost so that he can plan to arrange funds for it.

II. Which of the following is NOT a reason for Matilda’s distress in the extract?
(A) She has no suitable dress for the affair.
(B) She is upset about her husband’s reaction.
(C) She is worried about the cost of a suitable costume.
(D) The card did not bear her name.
Ans. (D) The card did not bear her name.

III. What did Matilda suggest that her husband do with the card?
Ans. She suggested that he pass it on to a colleague whose wife was more suitable for the party than her.

IV. In the given extract what does the term ‘economic clerk’ imply?
Ans. It implies one who has limited income and is on a budget.

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Chapter 8 – Bholi

Q. Bholi is sent to school for an uncommon reason, leading to a distinctive twist in her story. Elucidate. [40-50 words]
Ans. Bholi’s mother refused the father’s wish of sending the girls to school. However, she offered to send Bholi because Bholi had meagre chances of getting married with the ugly face and lack of sense. The mother thought that it was better that the teachers at the school worry about her future and share the parents’ burden. Thus, the unwanted Bholi was sent to school where her teacher proved to be the one whose affection and kindness proved to be a gamechanger for Bholi.

Q. Discuss how Bholi evolves through the story. What are the qualities that contribute to her transformation from a timid girl to a confident young woman? (Bholi) [100-120 words]
Ans. Bholi’s character develops from a simpleton who stammers, is unkept and not taken care of into a confident, independent woman.
Initially, we see that Bholi is an unwanted girl child who is disliked by her mother. They family considers the fourth daughter as a burden. She is not bathed, her hair is messy and she wears old clothes of the elder siblings.
Bholi’s life changes when her father attends the inauguration of a school in the village and he is directed to send his daughter to school. The first day of school marks the turning point in Bholi’s life. Bholi is bathed, her hair is oiled and combed which makes her feel special. Then when her father takes her out of the house she is reluctant because she feels that just like the family sold their cow and it was sent away, perhaps Bholi too was being sent away.
At school, Bholi’s initial reluctance and stammering were laughed at but her teacher made her feel comfortable. The affection of the teacher gave confidence and gradually, Bholi turns out to be a well-educated, confident woman. Her name, Sulekha suits her personality. Bholi can take her decisions and refuses to marry a greedy old man. She vouches to live with her parents and serve them.
Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding one’s voice.

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Chapter 9 – The Book that Saved the Earth

Q. “The Book that saved the Earth” communicates the idea that misinterpretation of cultural disparities among different groups can lead to misunderstandings and disputes. From the play, discuss methods to prevent such confusion and conflicts, ensuring the preservation of peace and harmony. (The Book that saved the Earth) [100-120 words]
Ans. The aliens from Mars fail to decode the purpose of the books in a library. Thus we see lack of understanding of different cultures. One way to prevent this is to educate people about other cultures and practices. In the play, the Martians could have done prior research and got knowledge about the practices of humans on Earth. Then they would prevent the mistake of thinking them to be sandwiches or communication devices. Promoting open-mindedness and curiosity is better than jumping to wrong conclusions. The Martians could have tried to understand Earthly systems rather than deducting things in a hurry.
Respect and willingness to adopt are required if one wants to understand other cultures and systems.

Q. The play, The Book that Saved the Earth’, uses humour and misunderstandings between the Martians and Earthlings to explore the themes of perception and cultural differences. Comment. [40-50 words]
Ans. The play shows lack of knowledge and a stubbornness in the conduct of the Martians. The leader is so adamant that he wrongly interprets books to be sandwiches or communication devices. The cultural difference cannot be covered up by the Martians because there is a sense of superiority in the Martians.

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