Class 10 Sample Paper 2025 English (Mid Term)

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Mid Term Sample Paper 2025-26
-- AGLASEM --

PRACTICE PAPER -- MID-TERM

SUBJECT - ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE - Code No. 184

CLASS-X- (2025-26)

Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions: Read the instructions carefully and follow them:

1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.

2. The question paper contains THREE sections – Section – A: Reading Skills Section – B:
Grammar and Creative Writing Skills Section – C: Literature Textbook

3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part.

SECTION A READING SKILLS (20 marks)

1. Read the following passage. 10

I. In today's world, the media plays a crucial role in shaping the way people think, act,
and respond to various situations. From newspapers and television to the internet and
social media platforms, media has become an inseparable part of modern life. It
informs, educates, entertains, and influences public opinion like never before.

II. One of the most important roles of media is to keep the public informed. News channels,
websites, and newspapers bring updates on national and international events to people
within minutes. This allows citizens to stay aware of what is happening around them
and to make informed decisions. Whether it is an election, a natural disaster, or a
government policy, the media ensures that people are not left in the dark.

III. Apart from providing news, the media also educates the masses. It spreads awareness
about important issues such as health, education, environment, and social justice. For
instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, media played a vital role in sharing safety
guidelines, promoting vaccination, and countering misinformation.

IV. Entertainment is another key function of media. Through movies, music, sports, and

talk shows, media provides people with a way to relax and enjoy their free time. In fact,
the entertainment industry relies heavily on media to reach audiences worldwide.

V. However, the media is not without its flaws. In recent years, concerns have been raised
about biased reporting, sensationalism, and the spread of fake news. Sometimes, media

outlets may focus more on gaining attention and viewers rather than presenting the
truth. Social media, in particular, has made it easy for false information to spread
rapidly, leading to confusion and sometimes even panic.

VI. Despite these challenges, the role of media in a democratic society remains vital. A free
and responsible media holds power to account, exposes corruption, and gives voice to
the voiceless. When used properly, media can be a powerful tool for change and
development.

VII. In conclusion, the media is a double-edged sword. It can either serve the public with
truth and integrity or mislead them for profit. It is the responsibility of both media
professionals and the public to ensure that media serves the greater good of society.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above

i. What are the main roles of media in modern society? Answer in about 40
words 2

ii. The media helps people make informed decisions by: 1
a) Entertaining them
b) Providing news and updates
c) Creating confusion
d) Spreading rumour

iii. Find a word from the passage which mean the following: 1

The act of giving wrong information (Paragraph 3)

iv. Complete the following suitably: 1
A major problem with social media is _________________

v. Select the option that is True from (a)–(c) for what the phrase ‘a double-
edged sword’ suggests in the last paragraph of the passage. 1

A. Media always benefits society regardless of how it is used.
B. Media has both positive and negative effects depending on how it is used.
C. Media can only harm society if it is not properly regulated.

vi. Complete the analogy by selecting the correct option (a) or (b):
media : awareness :: _______ : _______

(a) education : knowledge (b) entertainment : misinformation

vii. Why is a free and responsible media important in a democracy? 2
viii. What is a key danger of sensationalism in media? 1

2. Read the following passage. 10

I. Health experts are raising alarms over the rising trend of energy drink consumption
among adolescents. Issues such as sleep disorders, anxiety, obesity, and even heart
problems are becoming increasingly common as youngsters develop a dependence on
caffeine and sugar-laden beverages.

II. Two years ago, some YouTubers introduced an energy drink. Despite not being
officially launched in India at the time, it quickly gained popularity among young
people, with some paying as much as ₹1,500 for a can in the black market. Now
available for around ₹250, Prime’s success reflects a growing thirst for quick energy
boosts among teens, who often end up consuming one drink after another, becoming
trapped in an unhealthy cycle.

III. While an occasional drink may not cause harm, experts warn that excessive intake can
have serious consequences. In teenagers, it can raise heart rate, cause sugar crashes,
and disrupt hormone function, increasing the risk of long-term health issues. A 250ml
cola has about 22mg of caffeine, whereas most energy drinks contain 80mg or more.
Prime Energy tops the list with 106mg of caffeine per 250ml, significantly higher than
a cappuccino’s 75mg. According to health guidelines, children under 12 should avoid
caffeine completely, while those aged 12–18 should limit intake to 100mg per day.

IV. Several countries have implemented strict regulations. Lithuania banned the sale of
energy drinks to minors in 2014, followed by Latvia and Poland. Sweden, Turkey,
Hungary, Denmark, and Uruguay have also imposed bans or restrictions. Despite this,
global consumption remains high, partly because energy drinks are marketed as
performance boosters.

V. However, scientific evidence shows they harm mental and physical health, affecting
behaviour, sleep, and focus. For example, a 16-year-old girl who consumed three to
four cans daily for a year needed medical intervention for withdrawal symptoms,
including headaches, mood swings, and insomnia.

VI. Experts stress the need for awareness, regulation, and moderation. Energy drinks may
offer a temporary boost, but their long-term effects can be harmful, especially for
growing teens. Responsible consumption, backed by education and parental guidance,
is the key to preventing this ticking health time bomb.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

i. Why do health experts most likely warn against excessive consumption of
energy drinks among teenagers? (Paragraph 1) 1

This is so because these drinks ____.
A. are the cheapest source of refreshment for students.
B. can cause serious physical and mental health issues in young people.
C. have been approved as performance enhancers by medical bodies.
D. are an essential part of a healthy diet.

ii. Identify the phrase in paragraph 2 that conveys the writer’s reference to how
Prime became popular even before it officially launched in India. 1

iii. Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the
brackets. (Paragraph 3) 1
A 14-year-old wants to stay alert for late-night studying and drinks an energy
drink. This is risky because the ________ (high caffeine content / low sugar
content) can lead to disturbed sleep and health problems.

iv. What does the writer mean by ‘trapped in an unhealthy cycle’ in paragraph
2? 1

v. Complete the following with the correct option. 1

When the writer says ‘significantly higher’ in the line ‘Prime Energy tops the list
with 106mg of caffeine per 250ml, significantly higher than a cappuccino’s 75mg’
(Paragraph 3), s/he means that _______.
A. Prime Energy contains slightly more caffeine than cappuccino.
B. Prime Energy’s caffeine content is much more than cappuccino.
C. Cappuccino has twice the caffeine of Prime Energy.
D. Prime Energy is only marginally stronger than cappuccino.

vi. Complete the following appropriately. 1
One likely reason why countries like Lithuania and Poland banned energy drinks
for minors is _____________________. (Paragraph 4)

vii. How are ‘performance boosters’ and ‘marketing strategies’ connected?
(Paragraph 5) 1

viii. Elaborate how parental guidance can help reduce the harmful effects of
energy drink consumption among teenagers. (Paragraph 6) 2

ix. Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. (Paragraph 6) 1
Experts stress the need for awareness, regulation, and ________ to control
excessive energy drink use among teens.

SECTION B:

WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)

GRAMMAR 10

3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.

i. Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in brackets for the given
sentence from a sports magazine: 1
The athlete’s determination was clearly _______ (admire) by the crowd.

ii. Identify the error and write the correction in the given sentence from a health
brochure: 1
Drinking enough water is essential to maintain a good heath.
Use the given format:

Error Correction

iii. Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb given in the brackets. 1
We _______ (plan) this picnic for weeks, and I’m glad it’s finally happening.

iv. Report the following: 1
She said to me, “I will help you with your homework.”
Complete the sentence:
She told me that ______.

v. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the ending of an email
to a supplier: 1
We hope the products will be delivered ______ the agreed date.
A. on
B. to
C. for
D. at

vi. Report the following command: 1
“Please send me the photos by evening,” Riya requested.
Riya requested ______.

vii. Complete the given sentence by filling the blank with the correct option: 1

The teacher looked ______ pleased with the students’ performance in the test.
A. truly
B. true
C. truth

D. truthfully

viii. The given sentence has an error. Select the option that correctly identifies the error
and the correction: 1
My brother enjoy playing cricket every weekend.

No. Error Correction
A. enjoy enjoys
B. My Me
C. weekend weekends
D. playing played

ix. Report the following question: 1
He said to her, “Can you help me carry this box?”

x. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in the brackets: 1
The manager said he ______ (will / may) review the project by next week.

xi. Fill in the blank to complete the sentence from a class register: 1
Only ______ students were absent during the science practical.
A. a few
B. little
C. few
D. less

xii. Choose the correct option to fill the blank: 1
I was surprised to see there were ______ chairs left in the hall after the guests
arrived.
A. no
B. some
C. any
D. much

WRITING

NOTE: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created
for assessment purpose.

4. As Riya, the Head of the Technology Club in your school, you strongly believe in the
importance of integrating digital learning tools in schools located in underprivileged urban
areas around your city. Write a letter to the Education Secretary of your city, in about 120

words, highlighting the benefits of digital education and suggesting the need to introduce
smart classrooms and computer training in these schools.

OR

As Aarav, the School Captain of Sunrise Public School, you are concerned about the rising
cases of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges faced by students of all age groups. Write a
letter to the editor of a national daily in about 120 words, stressing the urgent need to promote
mental health awareness in schools. Highlight the challenges students face and propose
practical solutions to support their emotional well-being.

5. You are Rohan, and you need to select an assistant from Neha, Aditya, and Sameer.

Neha: Neha is extremely organised, with strong skills in budgeting, scheduling, and
maintaining records. She prefers to work behind the scenes but ensures that every task is
completed on time. She is not as comfortable pitching ideas in front of clients.

Aditya: Aditya is outgoing and confident, with experience in handling public relations and
media. He is persuasive in client meetings but can be inconsistent with meeting deadlines and
managing documents.

Sameer: Sameer is detail-oriented and skilled in market research and analytics. He ensures
accuracy in reports and data but can be hesitant when quick decisions are required in high-
pressure situations.

Based on the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate, analyse the given information and
write an analytical paragraph, in about 100-120 words, and decide who would be the best
assistant for Rohan for the product launch. Consider complementary skills, ability to meet
project demands, and teamwork potential.

OR

You are the Head of your school’s Environment Club. Two people, Mr. Anil Kumar and Ms.
Pooja Singh, have written to you to say they would like to be guest speakers for your Save
Nature programme. Read what they wrote:

Excerpt 1:

I have been working as an environmental science teacher for 12 years. I have helped many
schools start tree-planting drives and waste recycling projects. I also guide students on how to
reduce plastic use and keep their surroundings clean. I believe my talk can give your club
members practical ideas to protect nature.

Best regards,

Mr. Anil Kumar

Excerpt 2:

I am a wildlife photographer and have travelled to many forests in India. I take pictures of
animals and birds and talk about how to save them. I have given talks in schools to make

students aware of the importance of protecting animals and their homes. My stories and
photos will inspire students to care for nature.

Yours sincerely,

Ms. Pooja Singh

Analyse the given information and write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words, justifying
which guest speaker would be a better choice. Consider factors such as experience, relevance
to the topic, and audience engagement.

SECTION C

LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)

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

A. Not a leaf remained on the trees. The corn was totally destroyed. The flowers were
gone from the plants. Lencho’s soul was filled with sadness. When the storm had
passed, he stood in the middle of the field and said to his sons, “A plague of locusts
would have left more than this. The hail has left nothing. This year we will have no
corn.’’
That night was a sorrowful one.
“All our work, for nothing.”
“There’s no one who can help us.”
“We’ll all go hungry this year.”
(A Letter to God)
I. Contradict the view that Lencho remained hopeful after the storm. 2
II. Which of the following statements best explains the family’s emotional state after the
storm? 1
a) They were calm and optimistic about finding alternate food sources.
b) They were worried but began searching for another field.
c) They were devastated and felt helpless about their situation.
d) They decided to move to a new village immediately.
III. What can be inferred about Lencho's relationship with farming from this extract? 1
IV. Categorise the following phrases into ‘natural destruction’ and ‘emotional reaction’: 1
i) “Not a leaf remained on the trees”
ii) “All our work, for nothing.”

iii) “The corn was totally destroyed.”
iv) “There’s no one who can help us.”

No. Natural Destruction Emotional Reaction

A i, iii ii, iv

B ii, iv i, iii

C i, ii iii, iv

D iii, iv i, ii

OR
B. Later, he patted me on the head and said never mind, he’d teach me to cook. He also
taught me to write my name and said he would soon teach me to write whole sentences
and to add numbers. I was grateful. I knew that once I could write like an educated man
there would be no limit to what I could achieve.
It was quite pleasant working for Anil. I made the tea in the morning and then would
take my time buying the day’s supplies, usually making a profit of about a rupee a day.
I think he knew I made a little money this way but he did not seem to mind. (The
Thief’s Story)

I. What does the phrase “he patted me on the head and said never mind” reveal
about Anil’s character? 1
a) He was disappointed but unwilling to show it.
b) He was encouraging and forgiving.
c) He was firm and authoritative.
d) He was indifferent to the narrator’s mistakes.

II. How does the narrator’s relationship with Anil influence his aspirations and
behaviour? Support your answer with evidence from the extract. 2

III. Complete the sentence appropriately: 1
The narrator suspects that Anil was aware of the profit he made, yet Anil didn’t react
because _______.
a) he respected the narrator’s survival instincts
b) he hoped trust would change the narrator

IV. Identify the two contrasting tones in the narrator’s actions and thoughts as seen in
the extract. 1

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

A. But he’s locked in a concrete cell
His strength behind bars
Stalking the length of his cage

Ignoring visitors. (A Tiger in the Zoo)

I. What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the phrases ‘locked in a concrete
cell’ and ‘his strength behind bars’? 1
i) helplessness
ii) rage
iii) frustration
iv) boredom
v) captivity
Select the correct option.
A. i, iii, v
B. ii, iv
C. i, ii, iv
D. iii, v

II. How do the lines ‘stalking the length of his cage / ignoring visitors’ reflect the tiger’s state
of mind? 2
III. Which phrase from the extract highlights the contrast between the tiger’s strength and his
current condition? 1
IV. Fill in the blank with a suitable phrase to complete the sentence. 1
The phrase “locked in a concrete cell” symbolises the tiger’s ________ from its natural
habitat.
OR
B. The true Chameleon is small,
A lizard sort of thing;
He hasn’t any ears at all,
And not a single wing.
If there is nothing on the tree,
’Tis the chameleon you see. (How to tell Wild Animals)

I. What does the poet convey through the lines ‘If there is nothing on the tree, ’Tis
the chameleon you see’? 1
i) The chameleon is hard to detect due to its size and colour.
ii) The chameleon can vanish entirely from sight.
iii) The poet is mocking the chameleon’s invisibility.
iv) The chameleon is easy to identify because it hides well.
v) The poet finds chameleons fascinating due to their stillness.
Select the correct option.
A. i, ii
B. i, iii

C. ii, v
D. i, iv

II. Complete the following sentence appropriately: 1
The poet compares the chameleon to a lizard sort of thing to emphasise ________.

III. How does the poet use humour to describe the chameleon in the extract? 2

IV. Which line from the extract can be seen as an ironic observation on the chameleon’s
ability to camouflage? 1

8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions, in about 50 words each. 4x3=12

I. How does the mother seagull's approach reflect an understanding of fear and motivation in
helping her young one take flight? Support your answer with reference to her actions. (Two
Stories About Flying – His First Flight)
II. In what ways does the ball symbolise loss and personal growth in the boy’s life? Discuss
how the poet uses this simple incident to convey a universal life lesson. (The Ball Poem)
III. How does the metaphor ‘a deep and lasting wound’ reflect the emotional and societal
damage caused by apartheid, according to Mandela? Explain the significance of this
comparison in the context of South Africa’s struggle for freedom. (Nelson Mandela – Long
Walk to Freedom)
IV. What does the tiger’s act of ignoring visitors suggest about his emotional state and the
poet’s commentary on captivity? Support your answer with reference to the poem. (A Tiger in
the Zoo)
V. Contrast Rajvir’s excitement with Pranjal’s indifference as they travel through the tea
plantations. What does this reveal about their backgrounds and perspectives? (Glimpses of
India – Tea from Assam)

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

I. How does James Herriot use the bond between Mrs. Pumphrey and Tricki to reflect
societal attitudes towards pet ownership and the often-misunderstood
responsibilities of caregiving? Support your answer with reference to the story A
Triumph of Surgery.

II. How does Ausable’s calm presence of mind and clever use of his surroundings help
him outsmart Max and resolve a potentially dangerous situation? Illustrate with
reference to The Midnight Visitor.
III. How does the sudden voice in the doorway change the course of Horace Danby’s
burglary attempt in A Question of Trust? Discuss how this moment reveals his

personality and decision-making under pressure.

10. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words 1x6

A. Compare how Lencho in ‘A Letter to God’ and the boy in ‘The Ball Poem’ cope with
loss. What do their responses reveal about their beliefs and emotional maturity?

B. How do both poems, ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’ and ‘How to tell Wild Animals’, present
wild animals differently—one with humour and the other with empathy? What effect
does the tone have on the reader?

11. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 1 x 6
A. Anil never preached honesty to Hari Singh, yet his actions influenced the young thief’s
conscience. Analyze how Anil’s behaviour and attitude fostered transformation in Hari Singh.
What does this suggest about the power of trust and empathy in changing someone’s character?
(The Thief’s Story)

B. Griffin’s scientific brilliance is overshadowed by his misuse of knowledge and disregard for
morality. Discuss how the chapter Footprints Without Feet reflects the consequences of
scientific advancement when separated from ethical responsibility. Support your answer with
relevant textual evidence.

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Study Materials
Notes

Model Papers Class 6 Notes

Sample Papers Class 7 Notes
Half Yearly Sample Papers Class 8 Notes

Class 9 Notes
Important Resources
Class 10 Notes
Periodic Table
Class 11 Notes
Writing Skills / Formats

Maps of India / World Class 12 Notes

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