CBSE Class 10 Sample Paper 2027 Solution (Marking Scheme) for English Language and Literature

FOR CBSE CLASS 10 PREPARATION

CBSE Class 10 Sample Paper
2027 Solution (Marking Scheme)
for English Language and
Literature
EXAM YEAR TYPE SUBJECT

CBSE Class 10 2027 Solutions English

Notes · Sample Papers · Previous Year Papers · Mock Tests

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE - Code No. 184
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X- (2026-27)
General Instructions: -

1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers / sample answers.
The value points are in the nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete answer. m
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3. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no marks
to be awarded.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

SECTION A: READING
Discursive Passage
1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 10

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It emphasises the overwhelming abundance and endless rows of plastic toys in 1
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II (a) the potential health hazards present in mass-produced plastic toys that 1
consumers often ignore or are unaware of.

III C Plastic bottles processed and converted into shoes 1

IV The writer's comparison reveals that consumer responsibility extends beyond mere 2
convenience and affordability. By highlighting the presence of harmful chemicals
(BPA and lead) in plastic toys alongside the safer, more sustainable materials used
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in eco-friendly toys, the writer suggests that consumers should prioritise children's
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VI (b) is correct. 1
[maintains the logical relationship of the original analogy. Just as ‘disposable trinkets
(throwaway items) end up in ‘landfills’ (waste and environmental destruction);
‘meaningful keepsakes’ end up being with ‘future generations’ (as a legacy).]

VII D. (i) F (ii) O (iii) F (iv) O (v) O 1

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VIII The author uses rhetorical questions to engage readers directly and provoke 2
thought. It is to make readers reflect on their choices. The questions encourage
critical thinking and build a persuasive argument that guides readers toward
accepting the need for eco-friendly alternatives.

Case-Based Passage
2. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 10

I become a support in people’s lives 1

II It suggests that consumers increasingly prefer digital, on-the-go content fitting 1
mobile lifestyles, rather than physical books or stationary screen-based media.

III C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false. 1

IV C. Approximately 30% of listeners spend less than one hour weekly listening to 1
audiobooks.

V The strong fiction preference (56%) indicates audiobooks are used for narrative- 2
driven content. Storytelling formats likely work better in audio where the narrator's
voice and the intricacies of the plot enhance engagement.

VI audiobooks allow individuals to consume literature while engaging in other 1
activities, eliminating the need to carve out dedicated time for conventional
reading practices.

VII user-friendly format 1

VIII Any one 1
• Audio format removes text processing barriers especially for students who
struggle with reading such as decoding words & reading sentences.
• Engagement occurs despite reading challenges when one is listening to
audiobooks.

IX Any one 1
• This title comprehensively captures all major themes of the passage as it
acknowledges the paradigm shift shown by the 67% of listeners who read more
with audiobooks.
• This title balances key ideas covered in all four paragraphs, growing popularity
of audiobooks, while identifying key benefits.

SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)

GRAMMAR (10 marks)
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.

I B. was reviewed 1

II The doctor advised/ recommended the patient to reduce his/ her/ their sugar intake 1
and exercise regularly.
III B. those 1

2

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for her regular check-up. a had 1

V Error: were Correction: was 1

VI C. must 1

VII A. what - which 1

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VIII if she was prepared for the mathematics test the following week. 1
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XII has lost 1

WRITING SKILLS (10 MARKS)
4. Format-1 Content-2 Organisation of ideas-1 Accuracy-1 1x5
=5
A. (The response may be created from the following content points)
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 Issue and context
• Insufficient recreational facilities in the colony
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• Lack of dedicated space for community activities and social gatherings
• No indoor play areas for children and youth
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• Absence of venue for cultural programs and events

 Need for Community Centre
• Essential for promoting social bonding among residents-creates sense of
belonging and colony pride
• Provides safe, organised space for multiple age groups
• Bridges gap between different families and communities

 Benefits for Children and Youth
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a • Venue for community meetings and discussions
• Space for cultural programs and celebrations
• Fitness and yoga classes
• Social events to reduce isolation among senior citizens

 Appeal to RWA Secretary
• Request for action and timely implementation
• Call for cooperation from all residents and authorities
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• Urgency of meeting this fundamental community need
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OR
B. The response may be created from the following value points:
 Issue and context
• Open burning of hospital/biomedical waste — used syringes, bandages
and other disposed items— in public spaces
• Domestic garbage burnt on roadsides, open plots, and near residential
areas
• Practice widespread, frequent, and largely unchecked in the city

 Health Implications
• Release of toxic gases in the air, soil and groundwater contamination from
chemical residue and ash
• Causes respiratory diseases — asthma, bronchitis, chronic lung damage
• Spread of infectious diseases from unprocessed biomedical waste
• Particularly harmful to children, elderly, and pregnant women

 Scientific Waste Disposal Practices
• Strict enforcement of biomedical waste disposal protocols in all hospitals
and clinics
• Colour-coded bin system for segregation — biomedical, recyclable, and
organic waste
• Regular and timely municipal collection of domestic waste to discourage
open burning
 Public Awareness
• Awareness campaigns in hospitals, schools, and residential colonies
about responsible waste disposal
• Involvement of Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in local monitoring
• Media campaigns highlighting health and environmental dangers of open
burning

 Appeal to Editor and Authorities
• Request the newspaper to amplify the issue and reach a wider audience
• Urge civic authorities — Municipal Corporation and Pollution Control
Board — to act swiftly
• Appeal to citizens to act responsibly and report violations
5. Content - 2 Organisation of ideas - 2 Accuracy - 1 1x5
=5
Analytical paragraph writing should NOT be confused with writing a description of given elements
or writing a summary.
It requires examining the given elements closely and sharing inputs based on given stimulant.
It carries no title or heading.
A. Suggested Response:

The student study desk organiser is an excellent purchase for students who are
academically focused and like to keep things organised. Firstly, its multi-
compartment storage with dedicated slots for books, stationery, and devices
keeps the study space organised and clutter-free, helping one focus better on
studies. Secondly, the eco-friendly bamboo wood construction shows
environmental responsibility, making it a sustainable choice. Moreover,
adjustable shelves allow storage space customisation for different-sized items.
The compact design is perfect for small rooms. Additionally, the anti-slip base

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prevents the organiser from sliding on smooth surfaces, ensuring

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stability. Furthermore, the natural wood and light oak finishes
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quality and excellent value for money, making this organiser
and a smart investment for students.

OR
B. Suggested Response:

Accepting the Debate Club presidency offers Vikram significant opportunities to
develop leadership and public speaking skills while building a strong network of
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peers. The recognition gained at competitions and mentorship from experienced
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debaters could strengthen his university applications in future. However, these
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benefits are offset by some challenges. The 5–7-hour weekly commitment s e
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directly conflicts with board examination preparation, risking academic decline
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and burnout. Additionally, managing team conflicts and handling criticism
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demands substantial emotional effort. While collaborating with other clubs
presents growth opportunities, it results in limited time available for personal
interests and recreational activities. Consequently, Vikram should accept this
position only if he can establish robust time management strategies and prioritise
academic commitments. With proper planning, the benefits of leadership
development and personal growth likely outweigh the challenges.
SECTION D: LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)
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Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two.
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A. Prose (The Proposal)
I (a) is correct
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[Natalya's words demonstrate genuine surprise and curiosity, not mockery. Her
1

sincere compliment "Though I must say you look better…" and straightforward
questions show she is simply trying to understand why he's dressed formally.]

II C. demonstrates his anxiety and emotional turmoil. 1

III Any one 1
• is nervous/ anxious about proposing to her and wants to establish his
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worthiness and family credentials to gain her approval
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• hopes to impress her by demonstrating his respect and his right intentions
through formal address and family connections.
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The stage directions significantly enhance the dramatic tension
• [excited] reveals Lomov's emotional state despite his formal
2

a the gap between his outward composure and inner agitation, creating
dramatic irony.
• [aside] allows readers/audience to understand Lomov's private thoughts,
making his anxiety visible and relatable, while emphasising his nervousness
through this interjection about it being cold.

OR
B. Prose (Bholi)
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I extremely scared and anxious/ nervous and apprehensive 1

II C. giving readers a peek into Bholi’s thoughts 1
[The author uses the narrative technique of internal monologue. This technique
allows readers to directly access Bholi's thoughts, emotions, and fears—
providing a glimpse into her psychological state.]

III Despite her stammer, Bholi is able to say her full name after receiving 2
encouragement from the teacher. It shows that anxiety and the fear of being
judged are the primary obstacles-which are psychological. By addressing Bholi's
emotional state through compassion and reassurance, the teacher enables Bholi
to overcome the problem of stammering.

IV hope and hesitation 1

7. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. 5

A. Poetry (Amanda)

I Amanda’s physical appearance and health 1
OR
immediate consequences of Amanda’s choices

II B. Amanda is defiant and the speaker feels disrespected and ignored. 1

III request 1

IV The repetition of 'Amanda' emphasises the speaker's frustration and creates an 2
insistent, nagging quality. The exclamation marks convey urgency, exasperation,
and emotional intensity. Together, they establish a tone of frustrated concern and
create a mood of tension and conflict between the speaker and Amanda.
OR

B. Poetry (The Trees)

I sense of immediacy/ urgency 1

II C. unsteady and uncertain, breaking through all obstacles 1

III fundamental or inevitable 1

IV This sensory progression reflects the transformation process—chaos begins 2
with sound of the glass breaking, intensifies through struggle shown by
movement of trees stumbling forward, concludes in supreme beauty of flashing
moonlight. Engaging multiple senses immerses readers emotionally in the
experience rather than merely informing them.
8. Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. 4x
3=12
Content – 2 Expression – 1 Accuracy – Deduct up to 1 mark from overall

I Fog arrives silently like a cat's quiet footfall, settles, observes, then departs 3
without disruption. The comparison gives fog feline qualities — mysterious, aloof,
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and intensely observant — transforming an ordinary natural phenomenon into

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non-living elements of nature, leaving a lasting impression
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The comic descriptions serve dual purposes — Mijbil's
and playful mischief is humorous and entertains readers, while the absurd
frustration 3

guesses of Londoners and the labourer's indignant reaction critique human
arrogance. People's insistence on fitting Mijbil into predetermined categories like
‘rat’ critiques human arrogance and disconnection from the natural world.

III The hailstorm is a turning point that tests Lencho's faith. It destroys his crops 3
and creates his crisis, but it also becomes the catalyst for demonstrating both
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reveals character and creates opportunities for human connection and kindness.
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Today's culture often judges people by superficial traits—appearance, social 3
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showing that true character emerges through actions under pressure, not
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outward appearance or shallow traits. The poem challenges modern tendencies
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to form instant judgments about people's worth based on limited information.
These legends humanise tea's history beyond mere facts and dates. They add 3
cultural richness and show how different civilizations—Chinese and Indian—
value tea spiritually and medically. Including legends demonstrates that tea's
significance isn't purely commercial; it holds deep cultural meaning. The legends
also make the narrative more engaging and memorable for readers.

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9. Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2x
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Content – 2 Expression – 1 Accuracy – Deduct up to 1 mark from overall
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I g la calculated charm and deception. His final
Initially, Hari manipulates Anil through 3
smile is genuine and spontaneous,a requiring no effort. This contrast
demonstrates authentic change—Hari moves from viewing relationships as
opportunities for exploitation to valuing genuine human connection. The
effortless smile suggests his change has been internalised, and is not merely a
behavioural compliance.

II The story weaves multiple ironies—Matilda sacrifices everything to replace a 3
worthless necklace; ten years of poverty transform her into the very 'common
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reveals that her suffering was entirely needless. The writer uses irony to critique
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materialism and expose how vanity leads to self-inflicted tragedy.
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Removing his gloves tells us that Horace has abandoned 3
a protocol due to emotional manipulation. He's so eager to please the lady and be
released that he forgets basic safety procedures. This action reveals his
desperation, vulnerability, and how the young lady exploited his fear of prison.
His loss of caution suggests he's emotionally compromised—no longer thinking
like a criminal but like a desperate man seeking escape.

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10. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6

Content – 3 Expression – 2 Accuracy – 1

A. • Both Valli in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ and the young seagull in ‘His First Flight’ 6
are protagonists who undergo significant personal transformation.
• However, they undergo transformation through contrasting catalysts. The
seagull's change is driven by acute biological necessity—prolonged hunger
and family isolation force instinctive action, overriding fear. His catalyst is
external and involuntary: starvation compels the desperate dive, revealing
dormant flying ability.
• Unlike the seagull's straightforward hunger, Valli's motivation includes
curiosity and yearning for experience. She has observed the bus with
fascination, longing for the independence and an opportunity to discover it
represents. This internal yearning—for dignity, independence, and
experience beyond prescribed domestic limits—acts as a catalyst in her
transformation.
• However, both catalysts function identically: forcing protagonists towards
liberating suppressed potential, and demonstrating that transformation
requires catalysts powerful enough to overcome fear and unwillingness,
whether biological desperation or independence.

OR
B. • Both poems show that important learning can happen instantly, not slowly 6
over time. When the ball falls into the water, the boy understands loss's
permanence quickly. When snow falls on the speaker, the mood shift happens
immediately. In both poems, one powerful moment seems to teach everything
at once.
• Berryman suggests the boy will remember this moment's lesson forever. One
lost ball teaches him about loss, and responsibility—lessons that shape the
rest of his life. Frost's speaker also shows lasting change: the dust of snow
doesn't just make them feel better for a few minutes; it transforms how they
see their day. The moment is quick, but its effect lasts.
• The boy in ‘The Ball Poem’ doesn't think through loss step-by-step; he feels
it deeply in one moment. The speaker in ‘Dust of Snow’ doesn't reason about
beauty; they experience it directly.
11. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6
Content – 3 Expression – 2 Accuracy – 1

A. • The balcony symbolises the power of narrative to create reality. It exists only 6
in language—in Ausable's detailed description and Max's belief—yet it
becomes more ‘real’ than the room itself because characters act upon it.
Ausable constructs the balcony's existence through plausible details:
explaining the building's history, describing access routes, mentioning
previous intrusions.
• The non-existent balcony reveals the story's focus on truth versus perception.
Max accepts the balcony's existence because Ausable's account aligns with
what Max expects to find in a hotel in Paris.
• Ultimately, the balcony represents the triumph of storytelling over material
facts. Ausable understands that controlling the narrative gives absolute
power: the fictional balcony becomes more consequential than any physical
barrier.
OR

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c. oB. • Think-Tank represents the danger of absolute power combined
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his genius.
When corrected, he claims he knew it and is never wrong. This pattern reveals
that his intelligence becomes useless without humility.
• His absolute authority amplifies this flaw dangerously. As no one challenges
him, Think-Tank never receives honest feedback. His space crew's fearful
obedience prevents reality-check. Consequently, his errors escalate: nursery
rhymes become military threats, and paranoia replaces reasoning.
• By the climax, these combined flaws—arrogance plus refusal to acknowledge
mistakes—drive catastrophic decisions. Seeing Humpty Dumpty's image, he
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panics completely, ordering Mars's evacuation. Think-Tank's character
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demonstrates that unchecked power combined with arrogance and
foolishness creates destructive leadership. His massive brain becomes a
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