Students must start practicing the questions from CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions Set 1 are designed as per the revised syllabus.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 1 with Solutions
Time: 3 Hours
Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions
- Please read the following instructions carefully and follow them.
- This question paper has 12 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper contains three sections.
- Section A – Reading Skills
- Section B – Writing Skills
- Section C – Grammar
- Section D – Literature
- Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question number and part thereof in your answer sheet.
- Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.
- Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.
Section A
Reading Skills (22 Marks)
Question 1.
Read the following passage carefully. (12)
1. Remote, icy, and mostly pristine, Greenland plays an outsized role in the daily weather experienced by billions of people and in the climate changes taking shape all over the planet. Think of Greenland as an open refrigerator door or thermostat for a warming world, and it’s in a region that is warming four times faster than the rest of the globe, said New York University climate scientist David Holland.
2. Locked inside are valuable, rare earth minerals needed for telecommunications, as well as uranium, billions of untapped barrels of oil, and a vast supply of natural gas that used to be inaccessible but is becoming less so. Many of the same minerals are currently being supplied mostly by an Asian country, so other countries are interested. But more than the oil, gas or minerals, there’s ice — a “ridiculous” amount, said climate scientist Eric Rignot. If that ice melts, it would reshape coastlines across the globe and potentially shift weather patterns in a dramatic manner. Greenland holds enough ice that if it all melted, the world’s seas would rise by 24 feet.
3. Since 1992, Greenland has lost about 182 billion tons of ice each year, with losses hitting 489 billion tons a year in 2019. Greenland will be a key focus point through the 21st century because of the effect its melting ice sheet will have on sea levels, said Mark Serreze, director of the National Snow and Ice Data Centre. “It will likely become a bigger contributor in the future.” That impact is perhaps unstoppable. Greenland is also changing colour as it melts from the white of ice, which reflects sunlight, heat, and energy away from the planet, to the blue and green of the ocean and land, which absorb much more energy.
4. Greenland also serves as the engine and on/off switch for a key ocean current that influences Earth’s climate in many ways, including hurricane and winter storm activity. It’s called the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation or AMOC, and it’s slowing down because more fresh water is being dumped into the ocean by melting ice in Greenland. A shutdown of the AMOC conveyor belt is a much-feared climate tipping point that could plunge Europe and parts of North America into prolonged freezes. “If this global current system were to slow substantially or even collapse altogether — as we know it has done in the past — normal temperature and precipitation patterns around the globe would change drastically,” said climate scientist Jennifer Francis of the Woodwell Climate Research Centre. “Agriculture would be derailed, ecosystems would crash and ‘normal’ weather would be a thing of the past.”
5. None of that takes into consideration the unique look of the ice-covered island that has some of the Earth’s oldest rocks. “I see it as insanely beautiful. It’s eye-watering to be there,” said Holland, who has conducted research on the ice more than 30 times since 2007. “Pieces of ice the size of the Empire State Building are just crumbling off cliffs and crashing into the ocean. Additionally, there is the beautiful wildlife, including seals and killer whales. It’s just breathtaking.”
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
(i) Why is Greenland referred to as ‘an open refrigerator door or thermostat for a warming world’? (Paragraph 1) (1)
(a) It controls global temperatures directly like a thermostat.
(b) It is warming at the same rate as the rest of the globe.
(c) It plays a critical role in influencing global weather and climate patterns.
(d) It experiences warming but has a limited influence on global weather patterns.
Answer:
(c) It plays a critical role in influencing global weather and climate patterns.
(ii) Complete the following with the correct option from those given in the brackets. (1)
In the line ‘Greenland plays an outsized role…’, the word ‘outsized’ indicates……..
(an unusually large impact or importance/a role that exceeds expectations or norms/a disproportionate influence compared to its size). (Paragraph 1)
Answer:
An unusually large impact or importance.
(iii) Give two reasons why ‘other countries’ might be interested in Greenland’s rare earth minerals and resources. Answer in 30-40 words. (Paragraph 2)
Answer:
Other countries are interested in Greenland’s rare earth minerals because they are essential for telecommunications and are currently mostly supplied by an Asian country. Additionally, Greenland holds untapped reserves of uranium, oil and natural gas, making it strategically valuable.
(iv) What does Eric Rignot mean by ‘ridiculous’ in the phrase ‘a ridiculous amount’? (Paragraph 2) (1)
Select the correct option to complete the answer.
It means that the ice is ___________________
(a) unnecessary and excessive.
(b) vast and overwhelming in quantity.
(c) beyond what scientists can measure.
(d) challenging to fully comprehend.
Answer:
(b) vast and overwhelming in quantity.
(v) Complete the following with the appropriate option. (1)
The phrase ‘Locked inside’ brings up the imagery of a ___________________ (Paragraph 2)
(a) vault, emphasising security and value.
(b) box, symbolising concealment and mystery.
(c) room, highlighting stored abundance.
(d) warehouse, showcasing accessibility and volume.
Answer:
(a) vault, emphasising security and value.
(vi) What would be the most suitable title for paragraph 3? (1)
(a) Greenland’s Changing Climate and Ecosystem
(b) The Rising Sea Levels and Climate Impact of Greenland
(c) Greenland’s Ice Melt: A Threat to Global Energy Balance
(d) Greenland’s Melting Ice: A Growing Concern for the 21st Century
Answer:
(d) Greenland’s Melting Ice: A Growing Concern for the 21st Century
(vii) Which phrase from paragraph 4 bears evidence to the fact that Greenland plays a critical role in controlling the AMOC?
Answer:
‘Greenland also serves as the engine and on/off switch for a key ocean current’
(viii) Fill in the blank by choosing the appropriate option from those given in the brackets.
Paragraph 4 includes a ___________________ (viewpoint/warning/speculation) by Jennifer Francis. (2)
Answer:
Warning
(ix) Why does Plolland describe Greenland as ‘eye-watering’? Answer in 30-40 words. (Paragraph 5) (2)
Answer:
By calling Greenland ‘eye-watering/Holland conveys how its raw, majestic beauty stuns the observer. The term reflects a deep emotional reaction to the island’s ice formations and vivid wildlife, making it a place of unforgettable natural wonder.
Question 2.
Read the following passage.
Answer the following questions, based on your reading of the above information.
(i) Why is the tag ‘A Hub for Livestock Trading’ suitable for the Nagaur fair instead of ‘Colourful Celebrations’?
Answer:
The tag ‘A Hub for Livestock Trading’ is more suitable because the primary purpose of the Nagaur Fair is the large-scale trading of animals like bullocks, camels, and horses. Although colourful elements exist, trade is the central focus.
(ii) Complete the following with the correct option.
The Nagaur Fair is held ___________________
(a) quarterly
(b) once in two years
(c) annually
(d) twice in a year
Answer:
(c) annually
(iii) State which of the following is True.
(a) Chand Baori is referred to as ‘Abha Nagri’.
(b) Chand Baori is a recent construction.
(c) Chand Baori is an ancient stepwell.
Answer:
(c) Chand Baori is an ancient stepwell.
(iv) What does the writer wish to convey by stating that the Abhaneri Festival ‘has gained immense popularity among tourists’?
Answer:
The writer implies that the Abhaneri Festival attracts a large number of visitors from across the world due to its unique cultural performances and historic appeal.
(v) What might be the most likely reason for the lavish decorations of animals at the Nagaur Fair? (1)
(a) To celebrate the cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
(b) To attract buyers and showcase the animals for trading.
(c) To compete for the best-decorated animal.
(d) To honour the animals as part of a religious ritual.
Answer:
(b) To attract buyers and showcase the animals for trading.
(vi) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option from those given in the brackets. (1)
The Mirchi Bazaar is most likely an attraction at the Nagaur Fair because it provides a platform for ___________________ (tourists and organisers/farmers and traders) to display an essential spice.
Answer:
farmers and traders
(vii) If the Nagaur Fair highlights trading as its primary focus, what does the Abhaneri Festival most likely focus on? (1)
(a) Promoting local agriculture
(b) Encouraging community interaction
(c) Celebrating historical heritage
(d) Showcasing regional culture
Answer:
(d) Showcasing regional culture
(viii) What might be the most likely reason why the Nagaur Fair spans across four days while the Abhaneri Festival ends in two days? (2)
Answer:
The Nagaur Fair involves large-scale livestock trading, which requires more time for inspections, discussions and transactions. In contrast, the Abhaneri Festival is centred around cultural performances, which can be easily conducted over a shorter duration.
Section B
Writing Skills (22 Marks)
All the names and addresses used in the questions are fictitious. Resemblance, if any, is purely coincidental.
Question 3.
Write an application, in not more than 50 words, requesting permission to use the school transport to attend a tree plantation volunteering event. You are Lakshit Pandey, Class X-C, Vice-President, Ecology Club. (1 × 3 = 3)
Answer:
The Principal
XYZ Public School
New Delhi-112233
2nd August, 20XX
Subject: Request for permission to use school transport
Sir/Madam,
I, Lakshit Pandey of Class X-C and Vice-President of the Ecology Club, request permission to use the school transport on Saturday to attend a tree plantation volunteering event. Kindly grant your approval.
Thanking you,
Yours Sincerely
Lakshit Pandey
X-C
Vice-President, Ecology Club
Question 4.
Write a factual description of your favourite gadget in not more than 100 words, highlighting its key features and functionalities. (1 × 4 = 4)
Answer:
My favourite gadget is my smartwatch. Compact yet powerful, it keeps me connected and organised throughout the day. It displays notifications, tracks steps, heart rate, and sleep, and even reminds me to stay active. The waterproof design makes it ideal for outdoor use. I can make calls, control music, and set alarms directly from the watch. Its GPS feature helps during travel or running. The long-lasting battery and touchscreen interface make it both functional and stylish. Whether for fitness, time management, or quick connectivity, my smartwatch is an essential companion I rely on every day.
Question 5.
Attempt any one of the two, (A) or (B), in 120 words. (1 × 7 = 7)
A. The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to technology, such as the internet and digital devices, and those who do not. This disparity has significantly impacted education, especially for students from marginalised segments, by limiting their ability to access online resources and virtual classes. As Sakshi Tripathi, 120 Kailash Nagar, Batanpur, write a letter to the editor of a national daily highlighting the issue, its effects on students and teachers, and suggesting practical measures to bridge this gap. Use your own ideas along with those from MCB Unit 2: Education, to write this letter.
Or
B. India is home to a rich geological heritage, with unique landforms and rock formations like the Lonar Crater, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, etc., that hold immense scientific, educational and cultural value. However, these sites often face neglect, vandalism and lack of proper conservation efforts. As Tanush of 63, Lajpat Nagar, Agra, write a letter to the editor of a national daily highlighting the importance of preserving India’s geological heritage, die challenges it faces, and suggesting measures to protect and promote these natural treasures. Use your own ideas along with those from MCB Unit 4 E: Environment – Geological Heritage, to write this letter.
Answer:
A. 120, Kailash Nagar
Batanpur – 110075
6th August, 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
New Delhi -110001
Subject: Bridging the Digital Divide in Education
Sir/Madam
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw your attention to a pressing issue in the education sector – the growing digital divide. The gap between students who have access to technology and those who do not has widened post-pandemic and continues to affect learning outcomes.
While online education has become the norm, many students from marginalised communities are unable to afford smartphones, laptops or internet connections. This has led to loss of continuity in their studies, poor academic performance and high dropout rates.
To bridge this divide, the government and private sectors must collaborate. Affordable internet services, subsidised devices for underprivileged students and the establishment of community digital learning centres can ensure inclusive education. Additionally, digital literacy workshops for both students and teachers can improve participation and confidence.
I urge you to highlight this in your newspaper and advocate for the same.
Thanking you,
Yours Sincerely
Sakshi Tripathi
Or
B. 63, Lajpat Nagar
Agra – 282001
6th August, 20XX
The Editor
The Hindu
New Delhi – 110001
Subject: Need for Preserving India’s Geological Heritage
Sir/Madam
Through the columns of your respected newspaper, I wish to raise awareness about the urgent need to preserve India’s geological heritage, which includes unique formations like the Lonar Crater Lake, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters and the Himalayan fold mountains. These sites are not only natural wonders but also hold great scientific, educational and cultural significance.
Unfortunately, many such sites face neglect, encroachment and vandalism, while others are degraded by pollution and unregulated tourism. The lack of public awareness and conservation policies has further worsened the situation.
There is a pressing need for strong preservation laws, regular scientific documentation and community-led protection initiatives. Schools and colleges should organise educational tours to such sites and the government must designate them as Geo-Heritage Sites with clear signage and security.
Promoting our geological heritage will deepen national pride and support eco-tourism. I urge concerned authorities to act before these treasures are lost forever.
Thanking You
Yours Sincerely
Tanush
Question 6.
Attempt any one of the two, (A) or (B), in 150 words. (1 × 8 = 8)
A. Imagine you are Vitthal K of class X. Write an article for your school magazine on the topic ‘Achieving Holistic Wellness: The Key to a Happy Life,’ emphasising the role of physical health, mental well-being and positive lifestyle habits and natural remedies. Explain how these factors contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life, and suggest practical steps for incorporating them into daily routines. You may use your own ideas along with the given cues and your reading of MCB Unit 1: Health and Wellness.
holistic wellness – key aspects – simple habits can improve overall wellness – actionable ways needed to integrate wellness into everyday routines.
Or
B. You are Kadambari Rao, Class X. Write an article on the topic ‘Space Travel: Accessible Tourism or a Risky Adventure?’ highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of making space travel available to the general public. Discuss whether space tourism should be pursued considering its environmental impact, safety concerns and accessibility. Conclude with your opinion on whether it is a step forward or a risk not worth taking. You may use your own ideas along with the given cues and your reading of the MCB Unit 3: Science.
Potential Benefits – Challenges and Concerns: Environmental impact of frequent rocket launches (carbon emissions, pollution); accessibility opportunities creating inequalities; safety risks – Key Considerations: Should resources be focused on improving conditions on Earth instead?
Answer:
A. Achieving Holistic Wellness: The Key to a Happy Life
By Vitthal K, Class X
In today’s fast-paced world, holistic wellness is essential for a balanced and fulfilling life. It goes beyond just physical fitness and includes mental well-being, emotional balance and healthy lifestyle habits.
Physical activities like walking, yoga or sports helps to maintain energy and strength. Equally important is mental health – stress management, mindfulness and adequate sleep play an important role. Following a nutritious diet and breathing exercises can prevent illness and boost immunity.
To incorporate wellness into daily routines, start with small but consistent actions- maintain a sleep schedule, take digital breaks, stay hydrated and practice gratitude. Limiting junk food, spending time in nature and having open conversations about feelings are simple yet powerful steps. True happiness lies in overall well-being, not just physical health. Holistic wellness is not a luxury but a lifelong necessity for a peaceful and productive life.
Or
B. Space Travel: Accessible Tourism or a Risky Adventure?
By Kadambari Rao, Class X
Space tourism is no longer a dream, it’s becoming a real possibility. It offers thrilling experiences and boosts scientific interest but is it truly beneficial?
On the positive side, space travel can inspire innovation, create new jobs and open new frontiers of exploration. However, there are major challenges – rocket launches cause carbon emissions, polluting the upper atmosphere. Safety risks are also significant and technical failures can be fatal. Moreover, only the ultra-rich can currently afford such travel, creating widening inequalities.
Critics argue that with so many problems on Earth like poverty, climate change and healthcare crises, spending billions on space tourism seems unjustified. Instead, that money could improve life on our own planet. While space exploration is valuable for research, turning it into a luxury experience raises ethical and environmental concerns. Until it becomes safe, sustainable and inclusive, space tourism may remain more of a risky adventure than a progressive step forward.
Section C
Grammar (10 Marks)
Question 7.
Fill in the blanks (i) – (iii) with the appropriate option from those in the brackets. (3 × 1 = 3)
Therapeutic gardens are a public health measure and key to Singapore’s aim of (i) ___________________ (become/becoming/will becoming) one of the world’s top wellness destinations. In a tourism sense, wellness often (ii) ___________________ (had referred/refers/referring) merely to spa treatments but Singapore’s approach is more scientific. Singapore now (iii) ___________________ (have view/has viewed/views) Therapeutic gardens as a forward-thinking tourism strategy.
Answer:
(i) becoming
(ii) refers
(iii) views
Question 8.
In the following paragraph, one word has been omitted in each line. In your answer sheets, remember to write the missing word along with the word that comes before and after it, as shown below. The first one has been done as an example. (4 × 1 = 4)
Answer:
| S. No. | Word Before | Omission | Word After |
| (i) | We | Should | Reduce |
| (ii) | Is | The | Only |
| (iii) | Small | Can | Make |
| (iv) | We | Must | Act |
Question 9.
Do as directed. (1 + 2 = 3)
(i) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence. (1)
Ravi Priya! Tell me about Odisha. I’ve always been curious about your state’s culture and traditions.
Priya (i) for our/in the Eastern/is a beautiful/state/temple architecture/rich heritage, part of India/and we are known/vibrant festivals/Odisha/and exquisite.
(ii) Report the conversation given below by filling in the blanks to complete the following paragraph.
Aanya Hey, Rohan! Did you hear about the discovery in space discovery announcement yesterday?
Rohan, I heard about finding a planet with water vapour in its atmosphere!
Anya asked Rohan (a) ___________________ Rohan exclaimed (b) ___________________ in its atmosphere. Then, Aanya added that the new planet was in the ‘habitable zone’ with life-supporting conditions.
Answer:
(i) Odisha is a beautiful state in the Eastern part of India, and we are known for our rich heritage, vibrant festivals, and exquisite temple architecture. (There should be a slash between ‘heritage’ and ‘part of India’.)
(ii) (a) if he had heard about the discovery in space announcement the previous day.
(b) that he had heard about finding a planet with water vapour.
Section D
Literature Textbook (26 Marks)
Question 10.
Read the given extract and answer the questions briefly for any two extracts, of the three, given. (2 × 4 = 8)
A. “I thought you picked fruit for a living,” I said. “We do many things, sir,” Nicola answered seriously. He glanced at us hopefully. “Often we show visitors through the town … to Juliet’s tomb … and other places of interest.”
Alright, “I smiled. “You take us along.”
As we made the rounds, my interest was again provoked by their remarkable demeanour. They were childish enough and in many ways quite artless. Jacopo was as lively as a squirrel. Nicola’s smile was steady and engaging. Yet in both these boyish faces there was a seriousness which was far beyond their years. (Two Gentlemen of Verona)
(i) What might have been the most likely tone of the statement in ‘I thought you picked fruit for a living…’? (1)
(ii) Why did Nicola glance hopefully at the narrator?
(iii) What does the boys’ willingness to engage in multiple tasks reveal about their attitude toward life?
(iv) What does the narrator’s growing interest in the boys suggest about his perception of them? (1)
Answer:
A. (i) The tone is likely to be one of surprise or curiosity, as the narrator is intrigued to learn that the boys do more than just pick fruits.
(ii) Nicola glanced hopefully at the narrator because he was hoping the narrator would hire them as guides to earn some money.
(iii) The boys’ willingness to do multiple tasks reveals their resourceful and hardworking nature. Their attitude toward life is one of responsibility and perseverance. They are ready to do whatever it takes to survive and support their cause.
(iv) The narrator’s growing interest suggests he is looking past their young age and simple appearance. He is starting to see the maturity and seriousness that lie beneath their boyish exterior, which sparks his curiosity.
B. “My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look upon my works, ye Mighty and despair!”
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away. (Ozymandias)
(i) How does the phrase ‘king of kings’ reflect Ozymandias’ perception of himself? (1)
(ii) What does the line ‘Look upon my works, ye Mighty and despair!’ imply about Ozymandias’ intentions for future rulers? (1)
(iii) How does the imagery of ‘boundless and bare’ and Tone and level sands’ challenge Ozymandias’ boast? (1)
(iv) What message does the phrase ‘Nothing beside remains’ convey about human ambition? (1)
Answer:
(i) The phrase ‘king of kings’ reflects Ozymandias’s perception of himself as the supreme ruler. He sees himself as being above all other monarchs and believes his power is absolute and unmatched, showcasing his pride and arrogance.
(ii) It implies that Ozymandias wanted future rulers to feel inferior and awed by his achievements, believing his power and legacy were unmatched.
(iii) The imagery emphasises the complete ruin and desolation surrounding the statue, contradicting his boastful claims of greatness and showing that nothing of his empire remains.
(iv) The phrase ‘Nothing beside remains’ conveys a powerful message about human ambition that all power and glory, no matter how great, are ultimately transient and temporary. Time will inevitably overcome and erase all human achievements, reducing even the most colossal monuments to dust.
C. Mrs. Jordan, What bureau was that, Father?
Abel, why, my bureau is the one I bought
Mrs. Jordan (pointing to the bureau) was it that one, Father?
Abel Ah, that’s it. What’s it doing here? Eh?
(A pause. The clock on the mantelpiece strikes six. Everyone looks at it.)
Drat me if that isn’t my clock too! What the devil’s been going on in this house? (A slight pause.)
Ben, well, I’ll be hanged.
Mrs. Jordan, I’ll tell you what’s been going on in this house. Father, Nothing short of robbery.
Mrs. Slater, be quiet, Elizabeth.
Mrs. Jordan (rising), I’ll not be quiet. Oh, I call it double-faced.
Henry Now now, Elizabeth.
Mrs. Jordan and you, too. Are you such a poor creature that you must do every dirty thing she tells you?
Mrs. Slater (rising) Remember where you are, Elizabeth.
Henry (rising) Come, come. No quarrelling. (The Dear Departed)
(i) What does the dialogue between Mrs. Jordan and Mrs. Slater reveal about their relationship? (1)
(ii) What is Mrs. Jordan implying about Henry when she says, “And you, too. Are you such a poor creature that you must do every dirty thing she tells you?” (1)
(iii) How does Mrs. Jordan’s accusation of ‘robbery’ impact the atmosphere of the scene in the extract? (1)
(iv) What does Abel’s reaction to finding his possessions in the living room suggest about his awareness of his daughters’ intentions? (1)
Answer:
(i) It reveals a strained and hostile relationship filled with jealousy, mistrust, and competition, especially over their father’s belongings.
(ii) She implies that Henry is weak-willed and easily manipulated by his wife, Mrs. Slater, into doing unethical things. He lacks the strength to stand up to anything.
(iii) Mrs. Jordan’s accusation of ‘robbery’ immediately heightens the tension and hostility in the scene. The atmosphere shifts from quiet suspicion to open conflict. It escalates the argument and brings the hidden greed and deceit to the surface.
(iv) Abel’s reaction – his surprise and confusion suggest that he is completely unaware of his daughters’ intentions. He has no idea that they have been fighting over his possessions, not caring about him at all.
Question 11.
Answer any five of the following six questions in about 30-40 words each. (5 × 2 = 10)
(i) Support the view that the villagers were active participants in supporting Mrs. Packletide’s ambition in the story ‘Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger? (2)
Answer:
The villagers were active participants by helping Mrs. Packletide in every possible way to ensure her hunt was a success. They set up a platform for her, provided a goat as bait, and even ensured the tiger stayed in a convenient location. Their actions demonstrate their full support for her ambition, driven by the lure of a monetary reward.
(ii) Explain briefly how the story ‘Patol Babu’ portrays the conflict between material rewards and self-satisfaction. (2)
Answer:
The story highlights the conflict between Patol Babu’s small financial reward and his profound sense of artistic self-satisfaction. Despite being paid a small sum, he finds immense joy and fulfillment in delivering his single, well-rehearsed line perfectly. For him, the integrity of his performance is a greater reward than the money, showing that true satisfaction comes from his craft, not material gain.
(iii) How does the mood shift throughout the story, ‘The Letter’? (2)
Answer:
The story begins with a mood of loneliness and regret as Ali waits for news from his daughter. It gradually shifts to sympathy and realisation when the postmaster understands Ali’s pain, ending on a poignant, emotional note. It ends on a tragic note after Ali’s death.
(iv) How does the author use technology as a plot device in the story ‘Virtually True’? (2)
Answer:
Technology, especially virtual reality games, is used as a tool to connect the real and virtual worlds. It drives the plot by allowing the narrator to interact with Sebastian Shultz and ultimately help save him digitally. In this way, technology blurs the line between virtual and real ends.
(v) What role does the bog’s audience play in the downfall of the nightingale in the poem ‘The Frog and the Nightingale’? (2)
Answer:
The bog’s audience plays a crucial role in the nightingale’s downfall by enabling the frog’s manipulation. The audience’s fickle praise and constant criticism confuse and pressure the nightingale. She loses her confidence and individuality, making her vulnerable to the frog’s manipulation, which eventually leads to her death.
(vi) How does the structure of a Shakespearean sonnet enhance the impact of the poem, ‘Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments’? (2)
Answer:
The Shakespearean sonnet’s structure — three quatrains followed by a rhymed couplet allows the poet to build a logical argument. Each quatrain adds a new point about the power of verse, and the final couplet delivers a strong, conclusive message about poetry’s lasting impact.
Question 12.
Answer any one of the following two questions in about 150 words. (1 × 8 = 8)
(i) Discuss how the supernatural is portrayed in the drama excerpts ‘Julius Caesar’ and ‘A Shady Plot’ and examine how these portrayals serve to influence the characters’ actions and the progression of the plot in each work.
Or
(ii) Both poems, ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ and ‘Snake’, depict the killing or harm of an innocent creature. Compare how the poets use these actions to reflect on human guilt and morality.
Answer:
(i) In both ‘Julius Caesar’ and ‘A Shady Plot’, the supernatural plays a significant role, though portrayed in contrasting tones – one serious and ominous, the other light-hearted and humorous. In Julius Caesar, the supernatural elements like strange omens, unnatural occurrences, and Caesar’s ghost create a sense of foreboding. The Soothsayer’s warning and Calpurnia’s prophetic dream influence the characters’ decisions, especially Caesar’s temporary hesitation and later, Brutus’s guilt. The supernatural heightens tension and drives the tragic progression of events, contributing to Caesar’s downfall and Brutus’s inner turmoil.
On the other hand, in ‘A Shady Plot’, the supernatural is treated humorously. The ghost of Helen appears to plead for better treatment of ghosts in literature. Her presence triggers a chain of comic misunderstandings and directly influences John Hallock’s behaviour and his relationship with his wife. Thus, while both texts use the supernatural to move the plot forward, Julius Caesar uses it to evoke tragedy and fate, whereas A Shady Plot uses it to create humour and satirical commentary on writers and relationships.
Or
(ii) In both ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner’ by Samuel Taylor Coleridge and ‘Snake’ by DH Lawrence, the poets explore the theme of guilt and moral conflict that follows the harm of an innocent creature. In ‘The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,’ the Mariner kills the albatross, a symbol of nature and divine guidance. This impulsive act leads to a curse upon the ship and its crew, symbolising the consequences of violating the natural order. The Mariner suffers intense guilt and isolation until he learns to respect all living things. His punishment is spiritual and moral, showing that redemption only comes through remorse and transformation.
In ‘Snake’, the speaker throws a log at a harmless snake after admiring its beauty and grace. Influenced by societal teachings, he reacts in fear and later feels deep shame. The poem reflects an internal moral struggle between instinctual admiration and learned prejudice. The speaker recognises that his action was cowardly and regrets betraying his true feelings. Thus, both poets use the harm of an innocent creature to explore themes of guilt, conscience, and the moral responsibility humans have towards nature. While Coleridge presents a dramatic, supernatural consequence, Lawrence offers a psychological and introspective reflection on morality.