Class 10 Sample Paper 2025 English

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Practice Paper (2024-25)
CLASS - X
ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE (184)
Time Allowed : 3 hours Maximum Marks : 80
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS :
1. Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
2. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
3. The question paper contains THREE sections –
Section – A: Reading Skills
Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
Section – C: Literature Textbook
4. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part.

Section A: READING SKILLS 20 Marks

I Read the passage given below 10

1. Air pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges
of our time. It affects millions of people worldwide, contributing to health
problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and even cardiovascular diseases.
According to the World Health Organization, over 90% of the global
population breathes air that exceeds acceptable pollution levels. Urban areas,
in particular, face severe air quality issues due to vehicle emissions, industrial
activities, and construction dust. These pollutants not only harm human health
but also contribute to climate change by increasing the concentration of
greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

2 Tackling air pollution requires both government regulations and individual
action. While policies like emission control standards and clean air acts are
essential, individuals can also play a vital role. Small lifestyle changes, such
as using public transportation, carpooling, or biking instead of driving, can
significantly reduce air pollution. For example, one study found that if just
10% of a city’s population switched to public transport, air pollution levels
could be reduced by as much as 20%. This demonstrates that even modest
changes in behaviour can have a significant cumulative impact.

3. In addition to personal actions, raising awareness about the dangers of air
pollution is critical. Educational campaigns and community outreach
programs can help people understand the importance of cleaner air and
motivate them to take action. Schools, for instance, can implement eco-
friendly practices such as planting trees around the campus or encouraging
students to walk or bike to school. This not only improves air quality but also
instills a sense of environmental responsibility in young people, who are key
to the long-term fight against pollution.

4. Innovative technology also offers promising solutions. Electric vehicles
(EVs), for example, produce zero emissions, making them a cleaner
alternative to traditional petrol or diesel-powered cars. While the upfront cost
of EVs may be higher, they are more cost-effective in the long run due to
lower fuel and maintenance costs. By encouraging the adoption of electric
vehicles, governments and individuals can work together to reduce air
pollution.

5 However, critics argue that personal efforts alone are insufficient to address
the scale of the problem. Industrial emissions, they claim, are the primary
cause of air pollution, and tackling this issue requires stricter corporate
regulations. While this is true, individual actions can still lead to systemic
changes by influencing market trends and policy decisions. When people
collectively demand cleaner technologies, businesses and governments are
more likely to invest in sustainable solutions.

6 Air pollution may seem like an insurmountable challenge, but every small step
counts. Whether it’s choosing public transport, advocating for green energy,
or simply reducing one’s carbon footprint, individuals have the power to make
a difference. The fight for clean air is not just a governmental or industrial
responsibility—it’s a shared duty that begins with each of us.
Created for Academic Usage

Answer the following questions, Based on the passage above. 1X10

i. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase "affects millions of people worldwide" 1
imply about air pollution's impact?

ii Complete the following with the correct option from the two given: 1
Air pollution remains a major issue in urban areas because _______.
a) the government is not taking action to control industrial emissions.
b) vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust contribute
heavily to the pollution.
(paragraph 1)

iii Support the writer's claim that small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce 2
air pollution.
(paragraph 2)

iv. Select the option that best reflects the concept of ‘environmental 1
responsibility’ in the context of student life.
(paragraph 3)
a) A student deciding to plant trees around their school to improve air
quality.
b) A student preparing a science project on renewable energy.
c) A student driving their own vehicle to school every day.
d) A student organizing a car wash for charity.

v. State whether the following statement is True or False: 1
In paragraph 3, the passage suggests that educating younger generations can
play a key role in the long-term fight against air pollution.

vi. The writer mentions ‘electric vehicles (EVs)’ in paragraph 4. Which of the 1
following is a benefit of electric vehicles?
a) They are cheaper to purchase than regular petrol vehicles.
b) They produce zero emissions and contribute to cleaner air.
c) They increase fuel consumption and pollution.
d) They are not effective in reducing air pollution.

vii List any two points that could be included in a message to policymakers 2
about the importance of reducing air pollution.
(paragraph 5)

viii Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given: 1
In the phrase "individual actions can still lead to systemic changes," the
word ‘systemic’ refers to _______.
a) changes within small communities only.
b) changes that affect the entire system or society.
c) short-term changes that are not long-lasting.
d) changes that only apply to a specific industry.
(paragraph 5)

II Read the passage given below 10

(1) India’s push towards renewable energy has led to the rapid adoption of
solar power in rural areas. A recent survey showed that nearly 35% of rural
households now have access to solar energy, either through rooftop solar
panels or community solar grids. Solar energy has brought electricity to areas
that were previously off the grid, enabling them to power homes, schools, and
small businesses.

(2) The impact of solar energy on rural development has been substantial.
Nearly 50% of rural households that use solar power have reported a
significant reduction in their energy costs, allowing them to invest in other
essential needs such as education and healthcare. Additionally, solar-powered
irrigation systems have boosted agricultural productivity, helping farmers
reduce their dependency on unreliable monsoon rains.

(3) Despite these benefits, challenges remain. Around 30% of rural areas still
lack the infrastructure needed to support large-scale solar installations.
Moreover, the initial cost of installing solar panels remains high for many
households, though government subsidies and financing options have made it
more affordable.

(4) Government initiatives have played a critical role in promoting solar
energy in rural areas. Nearly 65% of the surveyed households received
financial support from government schemes aimed at increasing the adoption
of renewable energy. This, combined with efforts to raise awareness about the
environmental benefits of solar power, has made it an increasingly attractive
option for rural communities.

(5) Solar energy is not only providing a sustainable source of electricity but is
also fostering economic growth in rural India. With continued support from
both the government and private sector, it has the potential to transform rural
electrification and promote sustainable development.
Created for Academic Usage

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above

i In paragraph 1, what does the phrase "previously off the grid" indicate about 1
rural areas before the adoption of solar power?

a) Rural areas had limited access to renewable energy sources.
b) Rural areas did not have access to electricity services.
c) Rural areas had access to electricity, but it was unreliable.
d) Rural areas were over-dependent on traditional power sources.

ii Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below 1
Assertion: Solar energy has significantly reduced energy costs in rural
households.
Reason: Government initiatives have provided financial support to
households for installing solar power systems.
a) Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct
explanation of the assertion.
b) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct
explanation of the assertion.
c) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
d) The assertion is false, but the reason is true.

iii Identify the word in paragraph 2 that suggests solar energy has improved the 1
financial situation of rural households.

iv How have government initiatives contributed to the adoption of solar energy 1
in rural India?

v Complete the following with the correct percentage: 1
In Rajesh’s village, most households received financial support to install
solar panels. The percentage of households receiving such support is ____.

vi What does the high percentage of rural households reporting reduced energy 1
costs suggest about the impact of solar energy on rural development?

vii Complete the sentence suitably: 1
The challenges of high installation costs for solar panels highlight the need
for _______.

viii Complete the following with a suitable reason: 1
The writer likely believes that solar energy can transform rural electrification
because _______.

ix In the context of the last paragraph, explain the significance of solar energy 2
in promoting sustainable development in rural India.

SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
III SECTION B - GRAMMAR 10

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

i. Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the sentence: 1

Dear Mr. Williams
We are pleased to inform you that your application for the new position
_______.
A. will be approved
B. will have approved
C. has been approved
D. had been approved

ii Read the given sentence from a company update. Identify the error and supply 1
the correction:

The sales team has worked tireless to achieve this year's targets.

Use the given format for your response.

Error Correction

iii Priya asked the following question to her colleague, Sushant: 1
"Do you think the budget is sufficient for the new campaign?"
Report Priya’s question correctly.

iv Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete the formal 1
notice:
Attention all employees,
Please note that the annual meeting will begin at 9.00 AM sharp; _________
(that/ this/ those) should be communicated to all departments.

v Read Alok’s reply to his manager, regarding the delayed project submission: 1
"I’m sorry for the delay, I’ll send the report by the end of the day."

Report Alok’s reply by completing the following sentence correctly:
Alok apologized for not having sent the report earlier and said _________.

vi Identify and correct the error in the given line from an official announcement: 1

The team members needs to attend the mandatory training session.

Option no. Error Correction

A members member

B needs need

C attend attending

D mandatory required

vii Complete the given event announcement by selecting the correct option to 1
fill in the blank:

Exciting news! Our school choir has successfully ________ a spot in the
finals of the national competition.
A. securing
B. secured
C. will secure
D. had secure

viii Detect the error and supply the correction for the given observation by a 1
student:

That couldn’t be my brother’s shoes. They are too small.

Use the given format for your response.
Error Correction

ix Report the dialogue between a customer and a shopkeeper, by completing 1
the sentence:
Customer: Do you have this item in blue?
Shopkeeper: Yes, we do, and it is available in all sizes.

The customer asked if they had the item in blue, to which the shopkeeper
responded_______________.

x Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from an office 1
memo:
The manager __________ consult the team before making major changes.
A. should
B. will
C. must
D. might

xi Complete the given sentence about the excitement of a group of tourists, by 1
selecting the correct option:
The project team __________ enthusiastic about the new challenge.
A. were
B. are
C. is
D. was

xii Report the conversation about technology between a teacher and a student: 1
Teacher: "What impact do you think technology has on our communication
skills?"
Student: "I think it has both positive and negative effects on
communication."

Report the student’s response by completing the following:
The student remarked that technology __________.

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

4.A You are Sneha Rao, a resident of Goa. Write a letter in about 120 words to the 5
Tourism Department, highlighting the problem of littering on beaches and
suggesting measures such as more dustbins and stricter penalties for violators
to keep the beaches clean.

OR

4.B You are Rajat Singh from Jaipur, Rajasthan. Write a letter in about 120 words
to the Head of the Parks and Garden Department, highlighting the poor
maintenance of the community park in your locality. Request the delegation
of a team to upkeep and repair park equipment regularly.

5.A Read the product details on a label for a noise-cancelling headset: 5

PREMIUM NOISE-CANCELLING HEADSET
1. Advanced noise-cancellation technology
2. High-quality audio with deep bass and clear treble
3. Lightweight design with soft, cushioned ear pads
4. Wireless connectivity with long battery life
5. Built-in microphone for hands-free calls
6. Available in various sleek colours

Now, analyse why this headset would be a beneficial purchase. Write the
analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as sound quality,
comfort, convenience, and style.

OR

5.B Read the given details of a wellness centre being developed in your locality:
● A spa with natural therapies and massages.
● A meditation hall with calming interiors and soothing music
● A gym equipped with cardio and strength training machine
● An outdoor garden area with space for yoga and tai chi classes
● Nutrition and wellness counseling rooms
● A juice bar serving healthy beverages and snacks

Analyze the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words
about the suitability of this wellness centre for promoting health and
relaxation.
Focus on factors such as accessibility, range of services, and its contribution
to mental and physical well–being.

SECTION C : LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)
6. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two,
given.

A Read the given extracts and answer any one of the two questions given below: 5
The Buddha said, ‘The life of mortals in this world is troubled and brief and
combined with pain. For there is not any means by which those that have
been born can avoid dying; after reaching old age there is death; of such a
nature are living beings. As ripe fruits are early in danger of falling, so
mortals when born are always in danger of death. As all earthen vessels
made by the potter end in being broken, so is the life of mortals. Both young
and adult, both those who are fools and those who are wise, all fall into the
power of death; all are subject to death.

i What is the tone of Buddha in the lines given below? 1
“The life of mortals in this world is troubled and brief and
combined with pain. For there is not any means by which those
that have been born can avoid dying; after reaching old age there
is death; of such a nature are living beings.”
a. Pessimistic
b. Optimistic
c. Informative
d. Joyful

ii How does the author’s use of various figures of speech enhance the narrative 1
technique in the paragraph?

iii Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. 1

The use of the word ‘brief’ means _____ (short / big), in the
extract.

iv How does Buddha explain the concept of life and death to Kisa Gotami? 2

OR

B New clothes had never been made for Bholi. The old dresses of her sisters
were passed on to her. No one cared to mend or wash her clothes. But today
she was lucky to receive a clean dress which had shrunk after many
washings and no longer fitted Champa. She was even bathed and oil was
rubbed into her dry and matted hair. Only then did she begin to believe that
she was being taken to a place better than her home!

i What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on 1
Bholi?
She was even bathed and oil was rubbed into her dry and matted hair.
Choose the most suitable option.
A. disheartens
B. comforts
C. energises
D. confuses

ii How does the mention of dresses help build the background of Bholi’s 1
personality in the extract?

iii Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. 1

The phrase “she begin to believe that she was being taken to a place better
than her home” Indicates that Bholi was __________ (pampered/neglected)
by her family.

iv How was the day mentioned in the extract in contrast with other days as 2
mentioned in the story?

7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, 5
given.

A. But up jumped Custard, snorting like an engine,
Clashed his tail like irons in a dungeon,
With a clatter and a clank and a jangling squirm,
He went at the pirate like a robin at a worm.

i What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to use words like ‘clatter’, 1
‘clank’ and ‘jangling’?

ii Fill the blank with appropriate words: 1
The Custard jumped up suggesting that he is ____________________.

iii a. How does the poet contrast the personality of Custard throughout the 2
poem

iv The rhyme scheme of the above stanza is:
a. aabb
b. abab
c. abbb
d. aaab

OR

B. (I am an orphan, roaming the street.
I pattern soft dust with my hushed, bare feet.
The silence is golden, the freedom is sweet.)

i Examine the portrayal of Amanda in the given lines. 1

ii Complete the following suitably. 1
The words ‘silence is golden’ imply that _________.

iii What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘I am an orphan, 2
roaming the street.’?

iv What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? 1
Select the correct option
1. Urgency 2. Imagination 3. Uncertainty 4. mystery 5. Aggression
A. 1 and 4
B. Only 2
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 4 and 5

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

i Maxwell had a unique relationship with his pet, Mijbil. Justify this citing
examples from the lesson, ‘Mijbil the Otter’

ii The poem ‘The Trees’ states that in the conflict between man and nature,
man has caused much harm to nature. Justify the statement.

iii The people and surroundings are a great book to learn. Valli in the lesson
‘Madam Rides The Bus’ learns a lot from others. Elaborate with instances
from the lesson.

iv Summarize the role of teacher-student relationship, class atmosphere and
discipline in the lesson, ‘From the Diary of Anne Frank’.

v Assess the importance for everyone to experience loss and to stand up after it.
(The Ball Poem)

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

i How did Dr Urquhart contribute significantly to Ebright’s growth as a
scientist?

ii Justify the statement, “excess of everything is bad” with reference to the
lesson, ‘Triumph of Surgery”

iii Why did Griffin leave London and came to live in the village of Iping? How
was he received there?

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

A Both the poems, Fog and The Tale of Custard the Dragon have contrasting
lengths but both leave a deep impact on readers. Examine the differences and
similarities between the two.

OR

B Both the lessons, From the Diary of Anne Frank and Madam Rides the Bus
talk about young girls caving their way through various difficulties and
problems that come across them and do something unique. Examine the
similarities and differences between them.

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

A Evaluate how Ausable’s character is in total contrast with his appearance
and he turns out to be a smart, quick witted and intelligent detective unlike
Fowler’s expectations.

OR

B Evaluate how Matilda’s character in Necklace is greedy, prideful and vain.
Also how she is oblivious to the fact that her greed and deception are what
finally sealed her fate.

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