No.

of pages - 16 (M)
PRE-BOARD EXAMINATION (2023-24)
CLASS : X
SUBJECT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE (184)
Time Allowed : 3 hours Maximum Marks : 80

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. This question paper contains THREE SECTIONS – READING, WRITING &

GRAMMAR and LITERATURE.

* Section A – Reading 20 marks.

* Section B – Writing Skill and Grammar – 20 marks.

* Section C – Literature – 40 marks.

2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part and question.

*******

SECTION-A (READING SKILLS) (20 MARKS)

Reading Comprehension Through Unseen Passages

1. Read the following text. (10)

(I) Meditation is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to improve
mental and physical health. It is a practice that involves focusing or clearing your
mind using a combination of mental and physical techniques.

(II) There are many different types of meditation, each with its own unique benefits.
Some people use meditation to relax, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve their
overall well- being. Others use meditation to improve their focus and
concentration, or to develop greater self-awareness.

(III) In recent years, modern science has begun to study the effects of meditation on the
brain and body. Researchers have found that meditation can have a number of
positive benefits, including the following. Reduced symptoms of anxiety,
depression, and PTSD; improved cognitive function, including attention, memory,
and decision-making; reduced stress levels and improved emotional regulation;
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 improved sleep quality; reduced pain and inflammation; improved cardiovascular
health and Increased compassion and empathy.

(IV) Meditation is a relatively simple practice that can be done by anyone, regardless of
age, fitness level, or religious beliefs. It is a safe and effective way to improve your
mental and physical health. Here are some of the different types of meditation:
Mindfulness meditation: This type of meditation involves paying attention to the
present moment without judgment. You may focus on your breath, your bodily
sensations, or your thoughts and feelings; Mantra meditation: This type of
meditation involves repeating a word or phrase over and over again. This can help
to focus your mind and quiet your thoughts; Movement meditation: This type of
meditation involves focusing on your breath or body movements. Examples
include yoga, tai chi, and qi gong; Transcendental meditation: This type of
meditation involves repeating a mantra for 20 minutes twice a day.

(V) If you are new to meditation, there are a few things you can do to get started: Find
a quiet place where you will not be disturbed; Sit in a comfortable position, either
on the floor or in a chair; Close your eyes and focus on your breath; When your
mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath; Start with short meditation
sessions and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.

(VI) Meditation is a skill that takes practice to learn. Don’t be discouraged if you find it
difficult at first. Just keep practicing and you will eventually see the benefits.

Answer the following questions based on the passage above.

(i) The above passage mainly talks about______. (1)

A. Meditation- a means of living life

B. Meditation-a guide to our life

C. Meditation- it’s benefits and techniques

D. Meditation- The only way of salvation

(ii) “Meditation is a relatively simple practice that can be done by anyone”. Why can
meditation be practiced by anyone? (1)

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(iii) Imagine you have decided to start meditating from today. Which 2 practices of
meditation would you like to start with and how? Answer in about 40 words. (2)

(iv) Which of the following words is an antonym of ‘empathy’ as used in para III? (1)

A. sympathy

B. cruelty

C. humbleness

D. ecstasy

(v) Using information solely from the passage, provide two distinct reasons to
complete the sentence appropriately. (1)

Everyone needs to start meditating because_____.

(vi) “In recent years, modern science has begun to study the effects of meditation on
the brain and body.” Explain in about 40 words. (2)

(vii) Select the option that shows the correct relationship between (1) and (2).

(1) Meditation is a simple practice that can be done by everyone.

(2) Meditation is not necessary in life.

A. (2) is a contradiction of (1)

B. (2) is independent of (1)

C. (2) is an example of (1)

D. (2) is the cause of (1)

(viii) Below are statements from some people. Identify two statements that could be true
in light of the above passage. (1)

A. “I react so impulsively! I think I need to start meditating.

B. “It’s quite a task to meditate, I am quitting.!!

C. “I feel so liberated whenever I meditate! It feels so relaxing!”

D. “Today I meditated for 2 hours. I think my blood pressure has increased!
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2. Read the following text. (10)

(I) The health and wellness packaged food market is a rapidly growing industry, with
a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% for the period 2022-
2030. This growth is being driven by a number of factors as mentioned below :

(II) - Increasing awareness of the health benefits of healthy food. Consumers are
becoming more aware of the link between unhealthy eating and chronic
diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. This is leading to a
growing demand for healthy food options, both packaged and unpackaged.

- Rising demand for plant-based food products. Plant-based foods are

becoming increasingly popular, due to their perceived health benefits and
environmental sustainability. This trend is reflected in the health and
wellness packaged food market, where plant-based products such as tofu,
tempeh, and plant-based milk and yogurt are gaining traction.

- New product development in various food manufacturing. Food

manufacturers are constantly developing new and innovative healthy food
products. This is helping to expand the range of healthy food options
available to consumers and making it easier for them to make healthy
choices.

The following table shows the increase in the sales of health and wellness
packaged food over the years.

Packaged food category 2019 2030

1. Organic and natural foods 20% 40%

2. Plant based foods 12% 25%

3. Low-fat and low sugar foods 2% 60%

4. Dietary supplements 5% 12%

5. Functional foods 10% 18%

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(III) One of the main drivers of growth in the health and wellness packaged food
market is the growing demand for organic and natural products. Consumers are
becoming more concerned about the ingredients used in their food and are actively
seeking out products that are made with natural and organic ingredients. This trend
is reflected in the growing popularity of health and wellness packaged food
products that are free from additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors.

(IV) Another factor contributing to the growth of the health and wellness packaged food
market is the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. The global rise in obesity,
diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases has prompted consumers to take a more
proactive approach to their health and wellness. This has led to an increased
demand for healthy food options that are low in sugar, fat, and salt. The health and
wellness packaged food market is a diverse and growing industry. It includes a
wide range of products, such as: Organic and natural foods; Plant-based foods;
Low-fat and low-sugar foods; Functional foods; Dietary supplements.

(V) The health and wellness packaged food market is a thriving industry with a bright
future. The growing awareness of the health benefits of healthy food, the rising
demand for plant- based food products, and the increasing prevalence of chronic
diseases are all driving growth in this market. The market is expected to continue
to grow in the coming years, with the organic sector leading the way.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:

(i) Which of these pieces of information can be confirmed by reading the passage? (1)

(I) The cause of rise in sales of health and wellness packaged food

(II) The consequence of rise in sales of health and wellness packaged food

(III) The choices available in health and wellness packaged food

(IV) The cause of decline in sales of health and wellness packaged food
A. Only (1)

B. Only (IV)
C. Only (1) and (III)

D. Only (III) and (IV)

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(ii) Fill in the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets. (1)

Based on the passage, the health and wellness packaged food market has ______
(declined/rose) because people have to started to think that (health/taste) ______ is
also important.

(iii) Imagine that you have to buy some healthy food items. Explain to your parents
why would you prefer these food items. Keep the following points in mind.
Answer about 40 words. (2)

(1) The health and wellness of an individual.

(2) The taste of an individual.

(iv) Study the given table to identify the packaged food category which shows
maximum rise in sales. (1)

(v) Why has the writer stated the following line in the passage? Give a reason. (1)

“The market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, with the organic
sector leading the way.”

(vi) Complete the sentence based on information from the passage.

The health and wellness packaged food market is a diverse and growing industry
as it includes_____. (1)

(vii) “Consumers are becoming more concerned about the ingredients used in their
food”. (2)

Justify the above statement in about 40 words.

(viii) Which one of the following words can correctly replace, ‘thriving’ in para V. (1)

A. Declining

B. Flourishing

C. Happening

D. Widening

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 SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)

GRAMMAR

3. Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed. (1x10)

(i) Two friends, Sana and Shreen, are discussing their upcoming plan of action.
Report Shreen’s question. (1)

Sana: “I have already completed my homework given yesterday.”

Shreen: “Are you sure? Don’t forget to recheck it.”

(ii) Fill in the blanks with the correct option. (1)

The girl shouted at me,” _____ the window”. Later she _____ help her with the
task.

A. shut; requested me to

B. shuts; requests them to

C. shutting; requests them to

D. shut; requested them to

(iii) Read the given sentences from a story carefully. Identify the error and supply the
correction. (1)

At sunset, the villagers go looking for the boy who hadn’t returned with his sheep.
When they went up the hill, they found him weeping.

Error Correction

(iv) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket. (1)

Excited about his newly-earned powers, Midas started _____ (touch) all kinds of
things, turning each item into pure gold.

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(v) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the sentence below. (1)

The farmer said, “I will provide you with a bundle of sticks. Separate ______
(this/each/all/many) stick, and then break into two.

(vi) Complete the reporting of Manya’s instructions to Krishika by filling the blank
with the correct option. (1)

Manya said, “After eating your lunch go to the mechanic and get the car repaired”.

Manya instructed Krishika that _____________ and get the car repaired.

A. after eating your lunch, she ought to go to the mechanic.

B. after eating her lunch, she should go to the mechanic.

C. after finishing her lunch, go the mechanic.

D. after finishing the lunch, Krishika has to go to the mechanic.

(vii) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the given
line, from a survey. (1)

The survey also found that there was 75 women teachers to every 100 male ones
across institutes in the country.

Option no. Error Correction

A. was were

B. in on

C. found find

D. the a

(viii) Fill in the blank with the correct option. (1)

Between the devil and the deep blue sea, I will _____ my red and luscious
strawberry.

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 A. eats

B. eating

C. to cat

D. eat

(ix) Identify the error and supply the correction for the following statement. (1)

Students can bring the Identity Card and Hall Ticket during the examinations
without fail.

Error Correction

(x) Fill in the blank with the correct option. (1)

Rajan: “Hey. What are you doing this Diwali?”

Sukriti : “I am not sure. I think my friends ____________ me.”
A. will visit
B. is visiting

C. has visited
D. was visiting

(xi) Complete the following quote by filling in the blank with the correct option. (1)

“If your dreams don’t _____ you, they are too small.
A. scared
B. scares

C. scare

D. scaring

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 (xii) Identify the error and supply the correction for the given fact. (1)
The family of snakes called vipers includes some of the most poisonous snakes on
the world.

Error Correction

WRITING (10 marks)

Note: All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment
purposes.

4. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B. (5)

A. You are Radhika/Raju, a resident of SFS Society, Pitampura New Delhi.

Recently you came across many e-rickshaws driving rashly on the roads occupying
all the road space. Commuters are facing a lot of problem due to this. Write a letter
to the editor of a newspaper highlighting this problem and suggesting some
remedy for it in about 120 words.

OR
B. You are Sandhya/Sandeep, a resident of GHS Flats, Mayur Kung. There is an
outbreak of dengue fever in your area with a report of 70 new cases. Write a letter
to the District Magistrate of your area, highlighting the problem and requesting to
take measures to contain the spread, in about 120 words.

5. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B. (5)

A. Read the following excerpt from a magazine:
Children who learn about the hard work, time, and care that goes into growing
food will understand the importance of farmers and the need to protect our planet.
In today’s world, gardening should be prioritized over sports, music, and dance in
all schools because it creates environmental stewards and outdoor learning
laboratories that benefit children and communities for years to come.

Write an analytical paragraph in not more than 120 words to analyse the given
argument. You could think about what alternative explanations might weaken the
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 given conclusion and include rationale and evidence that would strengthen/
counter the given argument.

OR

B. You asked people about the time they spend on various activities in a week. The
given table shows the analytics of the different answers you received. Write an
analytical paragraph for a research project in 100-120 words. (5)

ACTIVITIES TIME SPENT

WORK 40%

FAMILY 5%

EATING 5%

SLEEP 30%

HOBBIES 5%

HOUSEHOLD CHORES 5%

FRIENDS 5%

OTHERS 5%

SECTION C : LITERATURE TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY

READING TEXT (40 marks)

6. Read the two given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two. (5)

A. I get along pretty well with all my teachers. There are nine of them, seven men and
two women. Mr Keesing, the old fogey who teaches Maths, was annoyed with me
for ages because I talked so much. After several warnings, he assigned me extra
homework. An essay on the subject, “A Chatterbox”. A chatterbox what can you
write about that? I’d worry about that later, I decided. I jotted down the title in my
notebook, tucked it in my bag and tried to keep quiet.

(From the Diary of Anne Frank)

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 (i) Anne says “Mr Keesing, the old fogey who teaches Maths, was annoyed
with me for ages”. What does she mean by this sentence? (1)

(ii) Based on the extract, describe why was Mr. Keesing annoyed with Anne and
how did he punish her? Answer in 40 words. (2)

(iii) Provide a line/phrase from the extract that justifies why the following
statement is FALSE. (1)

All the nine teachers who taught Anne liked her.

(iv) Mention one word that can correctly replace ‘jotted in the below sentence
from the extract. (1)

.. I jotted down the title in my notebook, tucked it in my bag and tried to

keep quiet

OR

B. Satisfied that her guest was an eccentric scientist, and in view of the fact that he
had paid her in advance, Mrs. Hall was prepared to excuse his strange habits and
irritable temper. But the stolen money did not last long, and presently Griffin had
to admit that he had no more ready cash. He pretended, however, that he was
expecting a cheque to arrive at any moment.

(Footprints without Feet)

(i) Which of these best describes Mrs. Hall’s feelings in the starting of the
extract? (1)

A. She was elated to have a guest

B. She was perplexed about the guest

C. She was depressed that the guest came

D. She was angry with the guest

(ii) State one observation about Mrs. Hall that you inferred from the above
extract. (1)

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 (iii) How did Griffin made Mrs. Hall feel that he would continue to pay the rent?
Answer in 40 Words. (2)

(iv) Which of the following words mean the same as ‘eccentric’ in the line
below? (1)

“Satisfied that her guest was an eccentric scientist” .....

A. handsome

B. intelligent
C. weird

D. common

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

A. He stalks in his vivid stripes

The few steps of his cage,

On pads of velvet quiet,

In his quiet rage

(A Tiger in the Zoo)

(i) Fill in the blank to complete the sentence. (1)

The speaker describes the tiger’s rage as ‘quiet rage’ to show_____.

(ii) Why are the tiger’s steps described as “few”? Answer in about 40 words. (2)

(iii) Which of these explains the meaning of “He stalks in his vivid stripes”. (1)

A. The tiger is walking and following someone with stripes.

B. The tiger is walking up and down and has stripes

C. The tiger wants to walk up and down to follow someone with stripes.

D. The tiger is walking up and down and wearing some colouful

stripes.

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 (iv) What does the poet mean by “pads of velvet quiet”? Answer in one
sentence. (1)

OR

B. And no one buys a ball back. Money is external.

He is learning, well behind his desperate eyes,

The epistemology of loss, how to stand up

Knowing what every man must one day know

And most know many days, how to stand up.

(The Ball Poem)

(i) Complete the conversation with what the boy would most likely say.
Answer in one sentence. (1)

Mother. Don’t cry, child. You have other balls too.

Boy: ___________________

(ii) Which of the following words best describes the meaning of the word,
“desperate” in the above stanza (1)

A. Cheerful

B. Composed

C. Yearning

D. Gloomy
(iii) The speaker says, “Money is external”. What do you think this phrase
means? Answer in one sentence. (1)

(iv) Based on the extract, why do you think “every man must one day know how
to stand up? Answer in about 40 words. (2)

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8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions in about 40-50 words. (4x3=12)

(i) Amanda imagines herself to be Rapunzel, yet would not like to do what all she did.
Identify and state the reasons for her decision. (3)

(ii) “Grieving and lamentation cannot avoid death and decay in this world” What did
the Buddha say in this regard? Elaborate. (The Sermon at Benares) (3)

(iii) “The poem ‘Fog’ is a short poem but has a deep meaning attached to it.” Elucidate
with reference to the poem, ‘Fog”. (3)

(iv) Nelson Mandela in his inaugural speech used these two words ‘an extraordinary
human disaster’ and “so glorious a human achievement”. What did he mean by
that? Explain. (Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom) (3)

(v) “The sight of the food maddened him” How was the young seagull compelled to
fly? Elaborate. (Two Stories about Flying: First Flight) (3)

9. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. (2x3=6)

(i) ‘In what ways does Think-Tank misinterpret innocent nursery rhymes as a threat to
the Martians? Explain (The Book that Saved the Earth) (3)

(ii) Mr. Loisel was a caring, accommodating and helpful husband who tried to please
his ambitious wife within his limited means. Justify the statement with reference to
the lesson, ‘Necklace’. (3)

(iii) “Richard Ebright was a successful scientist who gave a new theory of cells to the
world.” Elucidate with reference to the lesson, ‘The Making of a Scientist. (3)

10. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 100-120 words. (1x6=6)

A. You have been asked to prepare a speech on the topic, ‘Parents are the ultimate
role models for children’?”. Prepare a draft for the speech in not more than 120
words, with reference to the texts “His First Flight” and “Amanda”. (6)
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 OR

B. Imagine that Lencho from, “A Letter to God met the pilot from, “The Black
Aeroplane. They discussed about how God/Super power helped them in their
difficult situations and led their way when all other hopes were lost. Create this
conversation in not more than 120 words. (6)

11. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. (1x6=6)

A. Although Bholi never got the deserved love, care and acceptance from her family,
she was ready to reciprocate like all daughters in Indian society.” Discuss the
character of Bholi in the light of the above-mentioned statement. (6)

OR

B. Imagine that Anil from ‘A Thief’s Story’, reflects upon his behaviour, learns from
his mistakes, and writes a diary entry about the consequences of his robbery. Write
this diary entry as Hari Singh in about 120 words. (6)

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