CENTRAL BOARD OF SECONDARY EDUCATION

SAMPLE PAPER
CLASS 10
2024

Solutions
 Marking Scheme
Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

SECTION A : READING SKILLS (22 marks)

I Continuous text- Narrative passage 12 m
i C. It adds to the suspense in the story. 1
[The setting of the abandoned mansion and surrounding woods creates a
foreboding atmosphere that adds to the overall dread in the story.]
ii Ways the disappointment that Drishti and her friends felt after their ghost 1+1
hunt is analogous to the feeling of waking up from a dream -- (any 2)
 both involve a sense of disappointment that reality didn't live up to their
expectations.
 In both cases, they may have had high hopes for what they would
experience, only to find that it was not as exciting or satisfying as they
had hoped.
 Just as waking up from a dream can be jarring and leave us feeling let
down, Drishti’s realization that the haunted hotel was not as spooky as
she had imagined was a letdown for her and her friends.
iii A. She was too focused on finding evidence of the paranormal. 1
[Throughout the story, Drishti is fixated on finding evidence of the
paranormal in the haunted hotel. She goes in with a preconceived notion of
what she expects to find and is willing to overlook other explanations for the
strange sounds and experiences she has.]
iv After paragraph B 1
[It would be placed after paragraph 2, because Drishti and her friends have
just begun exploring. This paragraph segues into paragraph 3 , as it begins
with “Suddenly...” , indicating that something happens after “they all
quickened their pace.” The other likely paragraphs could have been 3,4 and
5 but they aren’t suitable as the apparent encounter has already taken
place.]
v Elements that classify the story as scary -- (any two) 1+1
 Suspense: The story creates a sense of unease and tension through
its use of foreshadowing, eerie descriptions, and unexplained
phenomena.
 Eerie atmosphere: The hotel setting contributes to the overall sense of
fear and dread, with its dilapidated and abandoned state.
 Supernatural elements: The story includes unexplained noises,
movements, and apparitions that suggest the presence of supernatural
forces or entities.
 Isolation: Drishti and her friends are all alone in the hotel, adding to the
sense of vulnerability and fear.
 Psychological fear: The story plays on the psychological fears of the
reader, such as the fear of the unknown, the fear of being watched or
followed, and the fear of the dark.
vi frozen with fear ( paragraph 5) 1
[The word "terrified" could have been used instead of “petrified”, in the
question to convey a sense of extreme fear, but they are not exactly the
same in meaning. "Terrified" generally means being very afraid, while
"frozen in fear" suggests being so scared that one is physically unable to
move or react. Hence, “petrified.”]
vii B. The need to be more sceptical of the supernatural. 1
[ Throughout the story, Drishti is fascinated by the supernatural and the
possibility of encountering ghosts in the haunted hotel. However, the story
reveals that many of the scary sounds and experiences there were caused

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 Marking Scheme
Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

by something as simple as faulty wiring. By the end of the story, Drishti

realizes that she needs to be more sceptical of supernatural claims and look
for more logical explanations.]
viii (Any one, from those given / similar) 1
 ...in a state of disrepair and neglect
 ...old, damaged, and possibly unsafe (just ‘old’ is not acceptable)
 ...in a state of decay
ix ...it makes assumptions about the presence or absence of ghosts unlike the 1
appropriate title ‘The Unsettling Encounter at the Abandoned Hotel’, which
accurately reflects the events of the story, indicating a spooky and unsettling
experience at an abandoned hotel.
x FALSE 1
[While Drishti and her friends did visit the abandoned hotel to investigate the
rumours of ghosts, they didn't do it to prove their existence. Their goal was
to have an exciting adventure and to prove their bravery by spending a night
in a supposedly haunted place.]
2 Non-continuous text -Tabular information 10 m
i Aryan is likely to ask many "why" questions. 1+1
Reason (any one):
 Aryan’s personal qualities include curiosity, creativity, and a love of
learning. These qualities suggest that he is likely to ask many "why"
questions in order to better understand the world around him.
 Aryan’s academic achievements and co-curricular activities
demonstrate his strong critical thinking skills, which would likely lead
him to ask thoughtful and insightful questions.
ii A. Rohit 1
[While all the house captains have different strengths and weaknesses,
Rohit may struggle the most with handling the stress of the inter-house
sports tournament due to his tendency to be overly competitive. This could
lead to added pressure and anxiety during the tournament, which could
impact his performance and ability to lead his team effectively. Sanya, Rajat,
and Ananya all have personal qualities that could help them handle the
stress of the tournament, such as compassion, perseverance, and
confidence.]
iii Justification: (any two) 1+1
 Her motto "Service before self" shows a commitment to helping others,
which is essential for promoting mental health and well-being.
 Her co-curricular activities in the social service club and drama club
demonstrate a desire to work with others and address important issues.
 Her personal qualities of compassion, organization, and responsibility
would be valuable in leading such an initiative.
 Her academic achievements and awards, such as the Best Orator
Award, demonstrate strong communication skills that are essential in
promoting mental health and well-being.
iv D. Ananya 1
[ The question is asking for an association between a house captain and
their respective co-curricular activity instrument. Rajat is associated with
music and so is likely to engage with a tabla. In order to find the house
captain that is going to engage with a paint-brush, we need to look for
someone who is associated with Art. Ananya is the only house captain in
the table that has Art as a co-curricular activity, making her the correct
answer.]

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Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

v Rajat the most likely to be a collaborative worker because of his personal 1

qualities of being a team player and an adaptable person.
vi ... because his drawback is procrastination which means that he may 1
struggle with completing tasks on time,
[While the other house captains may also have weaknesses or areas for
improvement, the information provided in the table specifically highlights
Aryan’s procrastination issue as a potential drawback that could affect his
overall performance.]
vii The second situation (b) aligns with Ananya's motto because she actively 1
listens to her team members and provides support, ultimately helping them
to succeed by leading through her actions and setting a positive example.
[The first situation does not align with this motto because Ananya is not
actively participating in the project herself, which is not leading by example.
The third situation also does not align with this motto because Ananya is
delegating tasks to others and not actively participating in the fundraising
effort, which is also not leading by example.]
viii D. (a) - (iii) , (b) - (iv) , (c) - (i) 1

For the visually impaired candidates

Sanya
[Since her drawback is - Can be overly self-critical at times]
SECTION B : WRITING SKILLS (22 marks)
Note : All names and addresses of places and organisations used, are fictitious.
3 Suggested response :

from: [email protected] Content - 1

to: [email protected] Organisation
Cc: [email protected] - 1 Accuracy -
date: Sept 10, 2023, 07:03 PM 1
subject: Transport Arrangements for Inter-School Dance Competition Total - 3
Dear Madam

With regards to the upcoming inter-school dance competition on

12 Sept.2023, Friday, at the mandated venue, please find it convenient to
schedule transportation for our team , from the school premises at 8.30
AM. Our school's participation is only in the senior category, with 6
students, hence, the mini-van would suffice instead of the school bus.

Warm regards.

Yours sincerely
Ratna Manjrekar, Head-Girl

4 Suggested response :
We recently chose a potted plant called the Hibiscus as a gift for our mother.
It was a small shrub with a height of about 1.5 feet. The leaves looked dark
green, shiny, and had a slightly serrated edge. The plant had several buds Content - 2
and appeared to be healthy and one large, fully blossomed deep-red flower Organisation
which had five petals and a prominent central stamen. The plant came in a - 1 Accuracy -
small clay pot with a diameter of about 10 inches .It had a simple yellow and 1
red abstract design that complemented the plant well. The soil in the pot Total - 4

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 Marking Scheme
Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

looked moist and well –draining along with being enriched with organic
matter.
5a Suggested response :
Format -1
53, Sithla Nagar Content -3
Villapuram Organisation
-2
23 July 2023 Accuracy -1
Total - 7
The Librarian
The City Library
30, Grande Avenue
Villapuram

Sir

Subject: Request for Addition of Braille and Audio Books

I am writing to request the inclusion of popular fiction and non-fiction titles in

Braille and audio books, in the City Library. I truly believe that the library
should strive to promote inclusion and accessibility for all readers, including
those with visual and other impairments.

Many readers with visual impairment are often unable to access the same
titles as others. By adding Braille and audio books to the library's collection,
we can ensure that these readers have the same access to a wide range of
books and can engage with the world of literature as fully as anyone else.

I urge you to take this matter into consideration and add Braille and audio
books to the library's collection. I believe this move will help promote
inclusion and accessibility in our community and help everyone to enjoy the
benefits of reading.

Yours sincerely

(Krishna Naidu)
Co-ordinator, NGO Chakshu
5b Suggested response :

12-A/ F, Vaikunth Towers

Wagheilly, J.P.
17 August 2023
The Governor
Bharat Ghar
Ludnaam, J.P.

Madam

Subject: Requirement of Sports Facilities to Promote Local Talent

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 Marking Scheme
Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

This is to draw your attention to the pressing need for creating and
upgrading sports facilities in our region to support the development of local
and indigenous sporting talent. Areas like Wagheilly have a vast pool of
untapped talent, and there is a pressing need to provide them with the
necessary infrastructure to help them hone their skills.

As an experienced sports scout, I can vouch for the fact that facilities like
multi-purpose indoor sports complexes, outdoor sports fields, and running
tracks with proper maintenance and lighting facilities are needed. Access to
training and fitness centres and physiotherapy clinics, scholarships,
mentorship programs, and tournaments can also promote talent and offer
opportunities for local athletes to showcase their skills and earn recognition.

By investing in sports and promoting local talent, we can create a culture of

excellence and inspire the youth to take up sports as a career. I hope you
my suggestions would be taken into consideration and would add towards
helping create a city that promotes sports and the growth of local and
indigenous sporting talent.

Yours sincerely

Biren Shukla
Sports Scout
6a Suggested response :

Choosing Your Travel Style: The Benefits and Drawbacks of

Solo and Group Travel
-by Hema Joseph, X-C

Travelling is one of life's greatest pleasures, and the way we prefer to travelFormat -1
varies from person to person. Some prefer solo travel, while others enjoy Content -3
travelling in a group. Each preference has its advantages and Organisation
disadvantages. -3
Accuracy -1
Solo travel allows for complete independence and the freedom to choose Total - 8
the itinerary and pace. It also provides an opportunity for self-discovery and
personal growth. However, solo travel can be lonely, especially during meal
times and at night. Besides this, it can be more expensive, as
accommodation and transportation costs are not shared.
Travelling in a group can be a great way to meet new people and make
friends. It is also less expensive, as costs are shared among the group.
However, group travel requires more planning and coordination, and
sometimes compromises must be made. Additionally, some people may feel
restricted by the group's itinerary and activities.

Factors that influence travel preferences include personality type, budget,

destination, and the purpose of travel. Extroverts may prefer group travel,
while introverts may opt for solo travel. Budget constraints may make group
travel more feasible, while adventure destinations may be better suited for
solo travel.

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Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

Ultimately, the decision to travel solo or in a group is a personal one. Both

options have their pros and cons, and travellers should weigh them carefully
before embarking on their journey.
6b Suggested response :
Space Tourism: Balancing Opportunity and Responsibility
- by Jagmeet Singh, X-D

Space tourism, the idea of sending tourists into space for a few minutes or
days, is becoming a reality. However, the opportunities and challenges of
space tourism are complex, and ethical considerations need to be taken into
account.
One opportunity of space tourism is that it could inspire the next generation
of scientists and engineers, providing a new way to get people interested in
space exploration. However, space tourism also presents many challenges,
including the potential impact on the environment. Space debris is already
a major problem, and increased space traffic from tourism could exacerbate
this issue.
What also causes concern is that it could contribute to the commodification
of space, turning it into a playground for the rich rather than a shared
resource for all humanity. There is also the question of putting paying
tourists at risk for the sake of leisure activities.
As we move ahead with this exciting new industry, we must remain mindful
of the impact on our planet, our society, and the future of space exploration.
SECTION C : GRAMMAR (10 marks)
7A Gap-fill 1x3
Time travel (i) could [MODAL/ possibility] become a reality in the near future, (ii) allowing [TENSE]
human beings to experience the thrill of travelling back or forward in time . However, (iii) many
[DETERMINER] challenges must be overcome, such as ensuring safety and affordability for all
potential time-travellers.
7B Omission: (½ for word before and after + ½ for omission) ; No credit ,if 1 (½ + ½) x 4
either word before or after is missing or these words are completely missing.
No. Text Word Omission Word
before after
i sleep deficit a common problem among deficit is a
teenagers today, with many staying up late
ii to use electronic devices. This lead to This can lead
iii difficulty in concentrating, mood swings, even swings and even
iv It's important for teens to prioritize sleep prioritize their sleep
to ensure their overall health and well-being.

7C Reordering & Transformation 1x3

i HYDROLOGICAL RESOURCES REFER TO WATER RESOURCES, WHICH ARE VITAL
TO HUMAN, ANIMAL, AND PLANT SURVIVAL. [Relative Clause-modifies "Hydrological
resources"]
ii ...if she usually offered that advice
iii …she wanted to capture the complete scene…
SECTION D : LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (26 marks)
8 Reference to Context 4+4=8
8 (A) i Complex relationship with nature, experiencing both admiration and fear towards its power

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 Marking Scheme
Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

ii Depths of the earth where it is hot and dark

iii Represents a fleeting moment of connection with nature
iv thankless
8 (B) i Antony uses vivid and evocative descriptions of the wounds inflicted on Caesar by his
assassins, in order to stir up emotions in his audience and to create a sense of horror and
outrage.
ii The mantle represents Caesar's power and authority, and serves as a symbol of the leader's
ability to inspire loyalty and devotion in his followers.
iii emotive and urgent [as he seeks to move his audience to tears and to evoke a sense of
shared grief and loss]
iv Antony's reference to the Nervii, whom Caesar defeated in battle, highlights Caesar's skill
as a military leader and his ability to conquer even the most formidable enemies.
8 (C) i “every Sunday”
ii kindness/ generosity
iii (Any one)
 Nicola was taken aback by Jacopo's request and needed a moment to process it.
 Nicola was hesitant to accept help from the narrator, possibly due to pride or a desire
to be self-sufficient.
 A moment of awkwardness or tension as the brothers considered the offer and the
potential implications of accepting it.
iv (Any one)
 a car ride would be more efficient and less tiring than cycling for 30 kilometres
 an opportunity to experience something different and more comfortable
9 Short Answer Questions (five of six) 2x5=10
To be marked for Content & Organisation. Up to 1 mark can be deducted for Accuracy.
Suggested responses:
i It is highly effective as it emphasizes the idea that even the greatest accomplishments of
human beings will eventually crumble and disappear, leaving behind only the inevitable
march of time. By emphasizing this theme, Ozymandias serves as a powerful reminder of
the fleeting nature of human existence and the futility of pursuing power and glory at the
expense of more meaningful pursuits.
ii The metaphor of a false friend is used in The Letter to describe the winter cold, which is
depicted as a treacherous and sneaky force that gradually extends its sway over all things.
Like a false friend, the cold initially seems harmless and even welcoming, as it lulls its victims
into a false sense of security with its "caressing smiles." However, as the metaphor suggests,
the cold is not a friend at all, but rather a deceiver who ultimately seeks to harm and control
its victims.
iii Elsie Brown's writing style in A Shady Plot is characterized by its light and humorous tone.
The story is written in the first person point of view of the protagonist, John Hallock. Brown's
writing is concise and clear, with a good use of dialogue and description to create vivid
scenes and characters. She uses irony and satire to poke fun at the publishing industry and
its practices. Overall, her writing style effectively conveys the story's humour and underlying
message, making it an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
iv Through Patol Babu’s character, Satyajit Ray highlights the plight of the struggling actors
who often go unnoticed and the difficulties they face in getting even small roles. Patol Babu's
dedication to his craft and his ability to turn even a minor role into a memorable one is a
testament to the hard work and determination of many such individuals in the industry.
v Michael is expressing his enthusiasm for the capabilities of modern technology, such as
computers, to help him experience and understand historical events and settings in a more
immersive way. He is suggesting that as technology advances and becomes more futuristic,
it can allow people to have more vivid and realistic experiences that bring the past to life.
This could include using virtual reality technology to explore historical sites or playing

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Communicative English
2023-24
Class - X

interactive games that simulate historical events. Michael sees technology as a tool that can
enhance our understanding and appreciation of the past.
vi (Answer can be woven using a couple of the given points)
Stanley Houghton's primary purpose in employing irony in The Dear Departed is-
 to satirize the societal values and behaviours of his time, particularly the greed and
materialism of the middle class
 expose the hypocrisy and moral bankruptcy of characters like the Slaters and the
Jordans, who prioritize money and possessions over family and morality.
 allow the audience to see the absurdity and superficiality of these characters' values and
beliefs, and to question the larger societal values that have led to such behaviour.
 criticize the materialistic and self-centred attitudes that were prevalent in his time, and to
call for a return to more genuine and compassionate values.
10 Long Answer Question (one of two) 8
Content - 4, Organisation -3 & Accuracy - 1
(A) (Answer can be woven along the following lines)
Their greed can be distinguished:
 Motivation: The frog's greed is motivated by a desire for personal gain and success,
whereas Abel's children are motivated by a desire for material possessions and
inheritance.
 Actions: The frog takes advantage of the nightingale's talent and exploits her, while
Abel's children scheme to acquire their father's belongings through deception.
 Relationship: The frog and the nightingale have a business relationship, while Abel's
children have a familial relationship with their father.
 Consequences: The consequences of the frog's greed result in the nightingale's
demise, while the consequences of Abel's children's greed result in a family dispute and
moral dilemma.
(accept any other rational variation)
(B) (Answer can be woven along the following lines)
The advice might include the following points:
 The mariner would advise Mrs. Packletide to consider the consequences of her
actions. In the poem, the mariner kills an albatross and brings a curse upon himself
and his crew. He learns the hard way that there are often unintended consequences
to our actions.
 He would also advise Mrs. Packletide to respect the creatures she encounters. In the
poem, the mariner does appreciate the beauty of the albatross. He might encourage
Mrs. Packletide to see the tiger as a majestic creature that deserves to be appreciated
and respected, rather than simply a trophy to be mounted on her wall.
 Additionally, the mariner might encourage Mrs. Packletide to think about the value of
life. He might caution Mrs. Packletide against taking life lightly, and encourage her to
consider the value of the tiger's life before taking it.
 Finally, the mariner might advise Mrs. Packletide to be mindful of her impact on the
world around her. In the poem, the mariner's actions have far-reaching consequences,
affecting not just himself and his crew. He might encourage Mrs. Packletide to think
about how her actions affect the world around her, and to strive to make a positive
impact rather than a negative one.