Class 10 Question Paper 2024-25 English (Half Yearly)

HALF YEARLY EXAM

QUESTION
PAPER
ORIGINAL EXAM PAPERS

HALF YEARLY EXAMINATION, 2024
2024-25
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
Time – 3:00 Hrs. Class – X M.M. : 80
Date – 14.09.2024 (Saturday)
Name of the student _______________________________________________Section _____
General Instructions:
1. The Question Paper contains THREE sections – A, B and C.
2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
• SECTION A : READING SKILLS
• SECTION B : GRAMMAR & WRITING
• SECTION C : LITERATURE
3. Read the instructions very carefully while answering.

SECTION A: READING (20 marks)
Q1. Read the passage carefully:
1. Behavioural science is a fascinating field of study that seeks to understand the
complexities of human behaviour. By delving into the factors that influence our
thoughts, feelings, and actions, behavioural sciences provide valuable insights into the
human condition. This field of study encompasses various disciplines, including
psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics, each offering a unique
perspective on human behaviour.
2. At the heart of behavioural sciences lies the quest to understand motivation, the
driving force behind human behaviour. What motivates us to act, react, or make
decisions? Is it biological, environmental, or social factors? By understanding
motivation, we can gain a deeper insight into human behaviour and develop
strategies to enhance performance, improve relationships, and promote overall well-
being. Furthermore, behavioural sciences explore the process of learning,
socialization, and cognition, providing a comprehensive understanding of human
development and functioning.
3. The applications of behavioural sciences are vast and varied. In the realm of mental
health, understanding human behaviour can inform the development of effective
interventions and therapies. In education, insights from behavioural sciences can
improve learning outcomes and teaching methods. Moreover, businesses can benefit
from behavioural sciences by enhancing organizational behaviour, decision-making,
and employee performance. Policy-makers can also leverage behavioural sciences to
inform public policy and promote positive social change.
4. Behavioural sciences offer a range of career opportunities for those passionate about
understanding human behaviour. From counselling and research to teaching and
management consulting, the applications of behavioural sciences are diverse and
rewarding. Moreover, the skills and knowledge gained through studying behavioural
sciences can enhance personal relationships, improve communication, and foster
empathy and understanding.
5. Ultimately, behavioural sciences provide a captivating lens through which to explore
the intricacies of human behaviour. By embracing the complexities and nuances of
human behaviour, we can develop innovative solutions to real-world problems,

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improve our personal and professional lives, and promote a deeper understanding of
ourselves and others. As we continue to navigate the complexities of human
behaviour, the insights and applications of behavioural sciences will remain invaluable
in shaping our understanding of the human experience.
Answer the questions that follow:
i. Observe the following two statements: 1
1. Behavioural sciences seek to comprehend the complexities of human behaviour.
2. Assessment is the focal point in behavioural sciences.
Now state which of the following is appropriate:
a) 1 is true, 2 is false
b) 1 is the cause, 2 is the consequence
c) Both statements are true
d) 2 is the cause, 1 is the consequence
ii. State whether True or False: 1
For those passionate about understanding human behaviour, the subject offers a limited
scope of career opportunity.
iii. Apart from gaining a deeper insight into human behaviour, how can we benefit from 2
understanding motivation?
iv. Applying behavioural science insights in education can lead to ______________________. 1
v. Behavioural sciences explore the factors that influence human _____________________. 1
A) Biological and physical wellbeing B) Environment and biosphere
C) Thoughts, feelings, and actions D) Culture and society
vi. How can embracing the complexities of human behavior lead to personal growth and 2
improved relationships in your own life?
vii. Identify the odd pair: 1
a) education :learning outcomes b) mental health :effective interventions
c) business : employee abhorrence d) Policy-making :social transformation
viii. Which of the following words means the same as ‘influence situations’? 1
a) Realm b) Leverage c) Encompass d) Delve
Q2. Read the passage carefully:
1. Over 80% of fatalities in road accidents in India happened due to speeding and
dangerous driving, a comparative analysis of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)
data since 2014 shows. While this carelessness corroborates the popular perception
of how people drive on the road in a country where getting a driving licence is often
said to be too easy, experts said most of the fatal accidents are recorded by police
under speeding and dangerous driving categories in the FIR as there are no other
provisions in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for such offences.
2. According to the latest NCRB report on accidental deaths, 83.2% of road fatalities
were on account of these two types of violations and the rest 16.8% of fatalities were
due to reasons including drunk driving, bad weather conditions and mechanical
defect. In 2014, when such causes of fatal crashes were first compiled, 89.4% of the
deaths were due to speeding and dangerous or careless driving as per the police
records, and this was the highest ever.
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3. “We face a host of challenges ranging from poor system of issuing driving licences to
almost zero scientific investigation of fatal crashes, which are provided in the law.
Most of our national highways and state highways, which pass through villages, have
no pedestrian crossings. On the top of this, in all fatal cases, police automatically
registers them under section 279 (negligent driving resulting death) of the IPC,” said
safety expert Rohit Baluja, who has been a regular guest faculty at Indian Police
Academy, Hyderabad.
4. Confirming this, traffic adviser in Punjab government, Navdeep Asija said, “In case of
all fatal accidents, the provisions of IPC are slapped. In IPC, any crime or offence has
to be lodged against a human being and hence there cannot be any charge against a
road, vehicle or any other object. That’s why police data may not indicate the exact
reason of crashes. But it is also a fact that violation of traffic rules is rampant on roads
and only electronic surveillance can put a check on them,” he added.

5. Baluja said there is a need to define what is dangerous driving and the norms for
fixing speed limits. “In Delhi, the speed limit is same across major roads; residential
areas and markets during day lean time and night as well have the same norms. No
authorities are held responsible for deficiencies on their part,” he pointed out.
Though the amended Motor Vehicle Act has included a provision to hold road owning
agencies, contractors and consultants in case of fatal accidents due to faulty road
construction or design, the government is yet to notify the process for this.
(Source: Times of India)
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions.
i. Based on your understanding of the passage, choose the option that lists accurate existing 1
speed limit rules in Delhi.
1. Different speed limits for major roads and residential areas.
2. Same speed limit for major roads and residential areas.
3. Same speed limit during day lean time and night.
a) Only 1 b) Both 1 & 2 c) Both 2 & 3 d) Only 2
ii. According to the latest NCRB report, what percentage of fatalities occurred due to 1
miscellaneous reasons?
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iii. Choose the option that lists statement that is NOT TRUE 1
(a) Police data may not indicate the exact reason of crashes.
(b) Fatal accidents may occur due to faulty road construction.
(c) Violation of traffic rules is hardly observed on roads.
(d) IPC stands for Indian Penal Code.
iv. As per the amended Motor Vehicle Act, who are to be held responsible for fatal road 2
accidents? What has been the government’s stance in this regard so far?
v. In the line “…… the norms for fixing speed” (para 5), the word “norm” DOES NOT refer to: 1
(a) a model (b) a standard (c) usual (d) exception
vi. Imagine that you are an important official in the Ministry of Road Transport. What 2
measures would you take so that the expert Rohit Baluja does not find any more
problems in the system? (Answer in about 40 words)
vii. According to data given in the diagram, which year has witnessed the second highest 1
number of deaths due to rash driving?
viii. Which word in para 4 is similar in meaning to ‘observation’? 1
SECTION B: WRITING & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
Note : All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment
purpose.
Q3. A. You are a teacher at a reputed school in the city. The following bar graph shows 5
a comparative analysis of students’ performance in different subjects in the terminal
exam. Write an analytical paragraph on the variation in the performances of students in
about 100-120 words.

1st term
2nd term

OR
B. The graph given below shows how people buy music. Write a paragraph based on the
analysis of the given data in about 100-120 words.

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Q4. (A) As Ganesh Bhatt/Soha Ahmed, a student of Ujjwal Academy, Old City, Patna, write a 5
letter to the Superintendent of Police complaining about the problem of traffic
congestion during the school hours near your school.(In about 120 words)
OR
(B) India’s performance in the recent Paris Olympic has not been satisfactory. It is
surprising that a nation of such a huge population has not been able to produce a
good number of athletes, the excessive popularity of cricket may be a cause. Write a
letter to the editor of an English daily expressing your views on the subject. You are
Gagan/Garima. (In about 120 words)
GRAMMAR:
Q5. Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks as directed. 10x1=10
i. If Batman ____________ in time, he would have saved Harvey Dent. (Use the verb ‘arrive’
in accordance with the tense)
ii. Neither Savitri nor her brothers ______________ (was/were/is/has been) held responsible
for the mishap.
iii. Identify the error and supply correction for the given sentence from a commercial
company’s current marketing strategy.
While I was studying rigorously for the exam, notwithstanding my best efforts to stay
focused, I would get tired and lost concentration if I didn't take regular breaks.
Error Correction

iv. Fill in the blank with a direct speech:
Eugene told August that the latter had left the keys at the former’s house.
Eugene said to August, “_____________________________ house.”
v. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct alternative:
Surendra is not as busy as ____________. (me/Mohan’s/I am/mine)
vi. Fill the blank by choosing the correct alternative:
The plan for the party ________________ before I arrived here.
a) had cancelled b) were cancelled c) is cancelled d) had been cancelled
vii. Fill in the blank with an appropriate form of ‘be’ verb :
The secretary and assistant manager ___________ absent today. You may visit tomorrow.
viii. Find the error and supply correction for the given sentence which may be used in a letter
of enquiry:
I would also like to know if you offered any special discount for students who may be
interested in your course.
Error Correction

ix. Fill in the blank with a suitable modal verb:
Extreme rain ___________ cause the river to flood the village. Fortunately it stopped after
two days, and we all heaved a sigh of relief. (can / could / shall / may)
x. What is the correct alternative for the given sentence:

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Piya is one of the most intelligent girls and she will do far better this time.
a) Having one of the most intelligent girls, Piya will do far better this time.
b) Being the most intelligent girl, Piya would do far better this time.
c) Being one of the most intelligent girls, Piya will do far better this time.
d) Although Piya will do far better this time since she is one of the most intelligent girls.
xi. Turn into indirect speech:
Mustaq said to Joe and Che, “When shall we three meet again?”
xii. Complete the given narrative, by filling the blank with the correct option.
The experience of playing well in the Ranji left me _____________ ecstatic for knowing the
importance of being consistent and aggressive.
a) feeling b) having felt c) felt d) feels
SECTION C : LITERATURE TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY READING TEXT (40 marks)
Q6. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given:
A. “It is from these comrades in the struggle that I learned the meaning of courage. Time and
again, I have seen men and women risk and give their lives for an idea. I have seen men
stand up to attacks and torture without breaking, showing a strength and resilience that
defies the imagination. I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the
triumph over it.
The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear. No one
is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his
religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to
love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”
i. Which struggle does the speaker mention here? 1
ii. Mention any two names of the ‘comrades in the struggle’. 1
iii. Hatred is an enemy to communal harmony. Express your views in about 40 words taking 2
cue from Mandela’s opinion on the contrasting ideas of love and hatred.
iv. Which among the following words means the same as conquer: 1
a) succumb b) vanquish c) postpone d) liberate
OR
B. “When I reached the station I did not stop at the ticket office (I had never bought a ticket
in my life) but dashed straight to the platform. The Lucknow Express was just moving out.
The train had still to pick up speed and I should have been able to jump into one of the
carriages, but I hesitated — for some reason I can’t explain — and I lost the chance to get
away.”
i. Which of the following is a probable a reason for Hari to hesitate: 1
a) He remembered that he had left the money at Anil’s place.
b) He forgot to turn off the stove at home.
c) He had an ethical dilemma.
d) Both b & c
ii. What is your impression about the speaker when he says (in parentheses) that he had 1

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never purchased a ticket in his life?
iii. Identify the correct order in terms of chronological sequence: 1
1. I hesitated for a reason I couldn’t explain, instead of jumping into one of the carriages.
2. I dashed straight to the platform without stopping at the ticket office.
3. I reached the station.
4. I lost the chance to get away as the train picked up speed and left the station.
5. I saw the Lucknow Express moving out of the station.
a) 43215 b) 15324 c) 31245 d) 32514
iv. Describe how Ruskin Bond creates the climax in this part of the text. Is he successful in 2
building the suspense here? Justify in about 40 words.
Q7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given:
A. “He should be lurking in shadow,
Sliding through long grass
Near the water hole
Where plump deer pass.”
i. What among the following the tiger is NOT supposed to do: 1
a) Hide itself in shadow b) Skim along the long grass
c) Disturb the hunter d) Follow the rotund preys
ii. The ideal situation for the tiger has been juxtaposed to a realistic situation. Describe the 2
reality and its impact on the tiger. (In about 40 words)
iii. Identify the rhyming scheme used in the extract. 1
iv. Which word in the extract means the opposite of ‘exposed’? 1
OR
B. “Though to distinguish beasts of prey
A novice might nonplus,
The Crocodile you always may
Tell from the Hyena thus:
Hyenas come with merry smiles;
But if they weep, they are crocodiles.”
i. How is poetic licence used by the poet in the line “A novice might nonplus”? 2
ii. Identify the correct pair: 1
a) Crocodile : Smile b) Hyena : Frown c) Hyena : Tear d) None of these
iii. Which among the following words means the same as ‘discern’? 1
a) Merry b) Weep c) Distinguish d) Nonplus
iv. Which word in the extract is the antonym of the word expert? 1
Q8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions in about 40-50 words. 4x3=12
i. What prompted Anne Frank to start writing a diary?
ii. Which two human traits evoked the vision of Hell in Frost? Refer to the following lines
of another poem titled ‘The Second Coming’ and illustrate:

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“Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;”
iii. Did Lencho try to find out who had sent the money? Why/ Why not?
iv. The seagull believed that his wings would not support him during a flight. What does
this tell us about the seagull’s character?
v. How can one identify a bear according to the poet Carolyn Wells?
Q9. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions in about 40-50 words. 2x3=6
i. The goodwill of Anil is the sole factor responsible for the transformation of Hari Singh.
Do you agree? Justify.
ii. Horace Danby was good and respectable – but not completely honest.” Why do you
think this description is apt for Horace?
iii. Why does James Herriot say that ‘Lunch became a ceremonial occasion with two
glasses of wine before and several during the meal’?
Q10. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words: 6x1=6
i. Adolescence is a time in which one experiences everything more intensely. We see
Anne Frank struggling, and also being unable to voice her internal conflict. Describe
her struggles in your own words. Also comment upon the universality of such a
struggle.
OR
ii. Imagine you lost something you considered extremely precious. Describe your
experience and feelings with reference to the ‘epistemology of loss’ as is revealed in
‘The Ball Poem’.
Q11. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words: 6x1=6
i. Appearance can be highly deceptive. Describe how Fowler is duped by the appearance
of Ausable as is revealed in the story ‘The Midnight Visitor’.
OR
ii. Imagine that Mrs. Pumphrey meets Dr. Herriot once again after Tricky’s recovery. Do
you think Dr. Herriot will now blurt out the truth? Write a conversation between the
two with reference to the ‘treatment’ received by the dog.

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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

Books and Solutions

NCERT Books
NCERT Book Solutions
HC Verma Chapter Wise Solutions
RD Sharma Solutions
CGBSE Solutions