BSEB Class 10 English 2021 Previous Year Question Paper

BSEB Class 10th Board Exam 2021

English (Compulsory) — Complete Solved Previous Year Paper

Official Pattern • 100 Objectives + All Subjective Q&A

1. The author of 'The Pace for Living' saw a play in:

(A) London

(B) Dublin

(D) New York

Correct Answer: (B) Dublin
Explanation: R.C. Hutchinson mentions that he watched the play featuring the elderly corn-merchant in Dublin, Ireland.

2. Who was cheating the corn-merchant in 'The Pace for Living'?

(A) His wife

(B) His son

(D) His servant

Correct Answer: (C) His nephew
Explanation: The corn-merchant's nephew was constantly cheating him of money.

3. The author in 'The Pace for Living' enjoys cars travelling at:

(A) 40 miles an hour

(B) 60 miles an hour

(D) 100 miles an hour

Correct Answer: (C) 90 miles an hour
Explanation: Hutchinson states he enjoys rapid travel, provided he is not driving, at ninety miles an hour.

4. In 'Me and the Ecology Bit', Jim has a paper route on:

(A) Sundays

(B) Saturdays

(D) Every evening

Correct Answer: (B) Saturdays
Explanation: Jim collects money for his paper route and campaigns for ecology every Saturday.

5. Which animal made a mess of Mrs. Greene's lawn in 'Me and the Ecology Bit'?

(A) Jim’s dog

(B) A cat

(D) A cow

Correct Answer: (A) Jim’s dog
Explanation: Mrs. Greene complained that Jim’s dog dug up her lawn and tore open her plastic bags.

6. Gillu was a tiny:

(A) Squirrel

(B) Sparrow

(D) Parrot

Correct Answer: (A) Squirrel
Explanation: Gillu was an orphaned baby squirrel rescued by Mahadevi Varma.

7. The average lifespan of squirrels is approximately:

(A) One year

(B) Two years

(D) Seven years

Correct Answer: (B) Two years
Explanation: The author notes that squirrels have a short lifespan of rarely more than two years.

8. Gillu's favorite food was:

(A) Rice

(B) Bread

(D) Mango

Correct Answer: (C) Kaju (Cashews)
Explanation: Kaju was Gillu's primary staple, and when he was denied it, he refused to eat anything else.

9. Satyajit Ray delivered a lecture and wrote the essay titled:

(A) Cinema Today

(B) What is Wrong with Indian Films

(D) Indian Culture

Correct Answer: (B) What is Wrong with Indian Films
Explanation: Ray critically examined the Indian film industry in his essay 'What is Wrong with Indian Films'.

10. According to Ray, which country was the world's largest producer of films?

(A) America (Hollywood)

(B) India

(D) Japan

Correct Answer: (B) India
Explanation: Ray observed that quantitatively, India was the second/largest producer of films, but lacked qualitative maturity.

11. Aung San Suu Kyi was born in:

(A) Rangoon, Burma

(B) Bangkok

(D) Tokyo

Correct Answer: (A) Rangoon, Burma
Explanation: She was born in Rangoon (now Yangon), Burma (Myanmar).

12. Aung San Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in:

(A) 1989

(B) 1990

(D) 1992

Correct Answer: (C) 1991
Explanation: She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 for her non-violent struggle for democracy.

13. The story 'Once Upon a Time' was delivered by:

(A) Toni Morrison

(B) Alice Walker

(D) Virginia Woolf

Correct Answer: (A) Toni Morrison
Explanation: Toni Morrison delivered this allegorical speech during her 1993 Nobel Prize in Literature address.

14. In 'Once Upon a Time', the old woman was:

(A) Rich and young

(B) Blind but wise

(D) A physician

Correct Answer: (B) Blind but wise
Explanation: The old African-American woman was blind, lived on the outskirts of town, and was renowed for her wisdom.

15. Humayun Kabir delivered his speech 'The Unity of Indian Culture' at:

(A) Patna University

(B) Baroda University

(D) Calcutta University

Correct Answer: (B) Baroda University
Explanation: Kabir delivered this lecture at Baroda University, assessing India's continuous synthesis of diverse cultures.

16. The vital feature of Indian culture is its underlying:

(A) Discord

(B) Unity and continuity

(D) Uniformity

Correct Answer: (B) Unity and continuity
Explanation: Kabir emphasizes India’s power to assimilate varied races and preserve continuity.

17. 'Little Girls Wiser Than Men' was written by:

(A) Leo Tolstoy

(B) Maxim Gorky

(D) Alexander Pushkin

Correct Answer: (A) Leo Tolstoy
Explanation: Leo Tolstoy composed this fable illustrating children's forgiving nature.

18. The story 'Little Girls Wiser Than Men' is set during the festival of:

(A) Christmas

(B) Easter

(D) Thanksgiving

Correct Answer: (B) Easter
Explanation: The girls wore new dresses tailored especially for the Easter church service.

19. William Cowper’s poem is:

(A) Ode on Solitude

(B) God Made the Country

(D) Martha

Correct Answer: (B) God Made the Country
Explanation: William Cowper composed the classic poem 'God Made the Country'.

20. According to Cowper, health and virtue can be found in:

(A) Towns

(B) Cities

(D) Factories

Correct Answer: (C) Villages
Explanation: Cowper emphasizes that true health and innocent virtue thrive exclusively in rural village life.

21. Alexander Pope wrote:

(A) The Solitary Reaper

(B) Ode on Solitude

(D) Koel

Correct Answer: (B) Ode on Solitude
Explanation: Alexander Pope composed 'Ode on Solitude' at an early age.

22. Pope’s happy man gets his clothes from his:

(A) Fields

(B) Flocks

(D) Trees

Correct Answer: (B) Flocks
Explanation: "Whose flocks supply him with attire" means sheep provide wool for his garments.

23. The poem 'Polythene Bag' is written by:

(A) Durga Prasad Panda

(B) Vidyapati

(D) Walter de la Mare

Correct Answer: (A) Durga Prasad Panda
Explanation: Durga Prasad Panda wrote this poem on non-biodegradable waste.

24. When burnt, a polythene bag gives out a:

(A) Sweet fragrance

(B) Pungent smell

(D) Soothing smoke

Correct Answer: (B) Pungent smell
Explanation: "When burnt it exudes a pungent smell."

25. In 'Thinner Than a Crescent', Radha is grieving for:

(A) Rama

(B) Krishna

(D) Her friend

Correct Answer: (B) Krishna
Explanation: Radha is pining for Lord Krishna, causing her health to decline rapidly.

26. Vidyapati is a renowned poet of:

(A) Maithili

(B) Bhojpuri

(D) Bengali

Correct Answer: (A) Maithili
Explanation: Vidyapati is known as *Maithil Kokil* (the cuckoo of Mithila).

27. 'The Empty Heart' is translated from which language?

(A) Telugu

(B) Tamil

(D) Malayalam

Correct Answer: (B) Tamil
Explanation: Periasamy Thooran wrote the poem originally in Tamil.

28. The tree in 'The Empty Heart' was:

(A) Banyan tree

(B) Kalpataru (Wish-yielding tree)

(D) Neem tree

Correct Answer: (B) Kalpataru (Wish-yielding tree)
Explanation: Kalpataru granted the rich man his wish for wealth.

29. The eighth pot given to the greedy man was:

(A) Empty

(B) Half-full

(D) Broken

Correct Answer: (B) Half-full
Explanation: The eighth pitcher was half-full, obsessing the man until he died trying to fill it.

30. 'Koel' was composed by:

(A) Puran Singh

(B) Vidyapati

(D) Cowper

Correct Answer: (A) Puran Singh
Explanation: Puran Singh wrote the poem 'Koel' describing its fiery song of longing.

31. What is the color of the Koel bird?

(A) Green

(B) Black

(D) Brown

Correct Answer: (B) Black
Explanation: The poem addresses the bird as "black bird" concealed within mango leaves.

32. 'The Sleeping Porter' was written by:

(A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota

(B) Walter de la Mare

(D) Toni Morrison

Correct Answer: (A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota
Explanation: Devkota is the renowned Nepali poet who wrote this work.

33. What load did the porter carry on his back?

(A) 25 lb

(B) 54 lb

(D) 90 lb

Correct Answer: (B) 54 lb
Explanation: Devkota explicitly mentions the porter carrying a burden of 54 pounds.

34. Martha had clear:

(A) Blue eyes

(B) Hazel eyes

(D) Green eyes

Correct Answer: (B) Hazel eyes
Explanation: "Her eyes were hazel and clear, and she would tell her stories in the hazel glen."

35. Who is the author of 'Martha'?

(A) Walter de la Mare

(B) William Cowper

(D) Puran Singh

Correct Answer: (A) Walter de la Mare
Explanation: Walter de la Mare is the poet of 'Martha'.

36. Munni was Halku’s:

(A) Sister

(B) Daughter

(D) Mother

Correct Answer: (C) Wife
Explanation: Munni was Halku's wife in Premchand's short story 'January Night'.

37. Halku’s pet dog was:

(A) Tommy

(B) Jabra

(D) Kalu

Correct Answer: (B) Jabra
Explanation: Jabra was the loyal dog who slept alongside Halku in the field.

38. Halku went to his field in the freezing month of:

(A) Asadh

(B) Poos (January)

(D) Baisakh

Correct Answer: (B) Poos (January)
Explanation: The original Hindi title is 'Poos Ki Raat' (a cold January night).

39. 'Allergy' was written by:

(A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh

(B) Premchand

(D) Giridhar Jha

Correct Answer: (A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh
Explanation: Dr. Rana S.P. Singh authored the story explaining the mechanisms of allergies.

40. The bet between the banker and lawyer in Chekhov's story lasted:

(A) 5 years

(B) 10 years

(D) 20 years

Correct Answer: (C) 15 years
Explanation: The confinement was agreed for a period of fifteen years.

41. The stake amount in 'The Bet' was:

(A) Two millions

(B) One million

(D) Five hundred thousand

Correct Answer: (A) Two millions
Explanation: The banker staked two million rubles.

42. How many minutes before the designated time did the lawyer walk out in 'The Bet'?

(A) Five minutes

(B) Ten minutes

(D) Half an hour

Correct Answer: (A) Five minutes
Explanation: He deliberately left 5 minutes early to renounce worldly riches and the prize money.

43. The author of 'Quality' is:

(A) John Galsworthy

(B) Katherine Mansfield

(D) Leo Tolstoy

Correct Answer: (A) John Galsworthy
Explanation: Nobel laureate John Galsworthy wrote the short story 'Quality'.

44. Mr. Gessler was a:

(A) Tailor

(B) Bootmaker

(D) Goldsmith

Correct Answer: (B) Bootmaker
Explanation: Mr. Gessler was an artisan who crafted bespoke leather boots.

45. Katherine Mansfield wrote the short story:

(A) Quality

(B) Sun and Moon

(D) Love Defiled

Correct Answer: (B) Sun and Moon
Explanation: Katherine Mansfield composed 'Sun and Moon'.

46. 'Two Horizons' was written by:

(A) Binapani Mohanty

(B) Giridhar Jha

(D) Anita Desai

Correct Answer: (A) Binapani Mohanty
Explanation: Renowned Odia writer Binapani Mohanty wrote 'Two Horizons'.

47. 'Love Defiled' was written by:

(A) Giridhar Jha

(B) Premchand

(D) R.K. Narayan

Correct Answer: (A) Giridhar Jha
Explanation: Giridhar Jha is the author of 'Love Defiled'.

48. In 'The Pace for Living', the fast pace of modern life puts an undue strain on:

(A) The nervous system

(B) The legs

(D) The lungs

Correct Answer: (A) The nervous system
Explanation: Hutchinson argues that excessive speed places immense pressure on human nerves and minds.

49. Mr. Johnson in 'Me and the Ecology Bit' was trying to drive his car to:

(A) The cinema

(B) The post office

(D) The market

Correct Answer: (B) The post office
Explanation: Jim told Mr. Johnson that the post office was only two blocks away and he should walk instead.

50. Who attacked Gillu before he was rescued?

(A) Two cats

(B) Two crows

(D) An eagle

Correct Answer: (B) Two crows
Explanation: A pair of crows were poking their beaks into the wounded squirrel at the verandah.

51. According to Satyajit Ray, our film directors need to look at:

(A) Indian life itself

(B) Hollywood models

(D) Antique mythology only

Correct Answer: (A) Indian life itself
Explanation: Ray emphasizes that authentic Indian daily life provides the true creative material.

52. Aung San Suu Kyi was struggling for:

(A) Autocracy

(B) Democracy

(D) Monarchy

Correct Answer: (B) Democracy
Explanation: She championed the nonviolent movement for democracy in Burma.

53. In 'Once Upon a Time', the bird in the children’s hand represents:

(A) Money

(B) Language / Life

(D) Faith

Correct Answer: (B) Language / Life
Explanation: Toni Morrison views language as a living thing whose protection rests with the young generation.

54. In 'Little Girls Wiser Than Men', who splashed mud on Akoulya’s new frock?

(A) Malasha

(B) Her brother

(D) Her mother

Correct Answer: (A) Malasha
Explanation: Malasha stamped her foot in the muddy puddle, unintentionally splashing water on Akoulya's new dress.

55. In 'God Made the Country', who sweetens the countryside's quiet life?

(A) Nature and birds

(B) Factory sirens

(D) Electric lights

Correct Answer: (A) Nature and birds
Explanation: Cowper writes that singing birds and tranquil groves provide peace that artificial towns lack.

56. What does a polythene bag never do when buried in the earth?

(A) Dissolve or decompose

(B) Smell bad

(D) Retain dust

Correct Answer: (A) Dissolve or decompose
Explanation: It does not dissolve or decay in the soil because it is non-biodegradable.

57. Vidyapati compares Radha's physical form to a:

(A) Full moon

(B) Crescent moon

(D) Lotus stem

Correct Answer: (B) Crescent moon
Explanation: Pining away in grief, she is described as "thinner than a crescent" in the sky.

58. The sleeping porter's heart is beating like a:

(A) Bird

(B) Drum

(D) Bell

Correct Answer: (A) Bird
Explanation: Devkota writes that his heart twitters like a bird due to intense physical exertion.

59. What destroyed Halku’s crop in 'January Night'?

(A) Heavy rain

(B) Nilgais (Wild cattle)

(D) Fire

Correct Answer: (B) Nilgais (Wild cattle)
Explanation: A herd of nilgais grazed the entire standing field while Halku stayed huddled near his fire.

60. How much money did Halku save to buy a blanket?

(A) Two rupees

(B) Three rupees

(D) Ten rupees

Correct Answer: (B) Three rupees
Explanation: Halku had painstakingly saved three rupees, which he handed over to Sahna the landlord.

61. Choose the correct passive voice: "She helps the poor."

(A) The poor are helped by her.

(B) The poor is helped by her.

(D) The poor have helped by her.

Correct Answer: (A) The poor are helped by her.
Explanation: 'The poor' is plural; simple present passive uses 'are + V3'.

62. Choose the correct passive voice: "Ramesh loves Sita."

(A) Sita is loved by Ramesh.

(B) Sita was loved by Ramesh.

(D) Sita is being loved by Ramesh.

Correct Answer: (A) Sita is loved by Ramesh.
Explanation: Active simple present (loves) converts to 'is + V3' (is loved).

63. Choose the correct passive voice: "The boy broke the glass."

(A) The glass was broken by the boy.

(B) The glass is broken by the boy.

(D) The glass has been broken by the boy.

Correct Answer: (A) The glass was broken by the boy.
Explanation: Past simple active (broke) converts to 'was + V3' (was broken).

64. Choose the correct passive voice: "He is singing a song."

(A) A song was sung by him.

(B) A song is being sung by him.

(D) A song is sung by him.

Correct Answer: (B) A song is being sung by him.
Explanation: Present continuous active changes to 'is/are + being + V3'.

65. Choose the correct passive voice: "Do this work."

(A) Let this work be done.

(B) This work can do.

(D) Let this work do.

Correct Answer: (A) Let this work be done.
Explanation: Imperative active pattern becomes 'Let + object + be + V3'.

66. Choose the correct active voice: "The snake was killed by Mohan."

(A) Mohan kills the snake.

(B) Mohan killed the snake.

(D) Mohan was killing the snake.

Correct Answer: (B) Mohan killed the snake.
Explanation: 'Was killed' reverses into simple past active form 'killed'.

67. Choose the correct passive voice: "Who wrote the Ramayana?"

(A) By whom was the Ramayana written?

(B) By whom is the Ramayana written?

(D) By who was the Ramayana written?

Correct Answer: (A) By whom was the Ramayana written?
Explanation: 'Who' becomes 'By whom', followed by aux 'was' + subject + V3 'written'.

68. Choose the correct active voice: "A letter has been written by me."

(A) I wrote a letter.

(B) I have written a letter.

(D) I had written a letter.

Correct Answer: (B) I have written a letter.
Explanation: 'Has been written' reverses to present perfect active 'have written'.

69. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "I am reading a book."

(A) He said that he was reading a book.

(B) He said that I was reading a book.

(D) He said that he had read a book.

Correct Answer: (A) He said that he was reading a book.
Explanation: Present continuous changes to past continuous with a past reporting verb.

70. Choose the correct indirect speech: The teacher said, "Two and two make four."

(A) The teacher said that two and two made four.

(B) The teacher said that two and two make four.

(D) The teacher asked that two and two make four.

Correct Answer: (B) The teacher said that two and two make four.
Explanation: Mathematical truths and universal facts do not change tense in reported speech.

71. Choose the correct indirect speech: Sita said to me, "Where do you live?"

(A) Sita asked me where I lived.

(B) Sita asked me where did I live.

(D) Sita asked me where you lived.

Correct Answer: (A) Sita asked me where I lived.
Explanation: Reported wh-interrogatives take assertive word order: conjunction + subject + verb.

72. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said to me, "Please give me your pen."

(A) He requested me to give him my pen.

(B) He ordered me to give him my pen.

(D) He asked me that I give pen.

Correct Answer: (A) He requested me to give him my pen.
Explanation: 'Please' conveys a request; uses 'requested + object + to + V1'.

73. Choose the correct indirect speech: Mother said, "Don't go outside."

(A) Mother forbade me to go outside.

(B) Mother told me not going outside.

(D) Mother asked not to went outside.

Correct Answer: (A) Mother forbade me to go outside.
Explanation: 'Forbade' means ordered not to; hence followed directly by 'to + V1'.

74. Choose the correct direct speech: He asked me if I was going to school.

(A) He said to me, "Are you going to school?"

(B) He said to me, "Were you going to school?"

(D) He said, "Is he going to school?"

Correct Answer: (A) He said to me, "Are you going to school?"
Explanation: Direct interrogative reverses past continuous back into present continuous.

75. Choose the correct indirect speech: Mohan said, "Hurrah! We won the match."

(A) Mohan exclaimed with joy that they had won the match.

(B) Mohan exclaimed with sorrow that they won the match.

(D) Mohan said hurrah they had won the match.

Correct Answer: (A) Mohan exclaimed with joy that they had won the match.
Explanation: 'Hurrah' indicates joy; simple past (won) shifts to past perfect (had won).

76. Choose the correct indirect speech: He says, "I work hard."

(A) He says that he works hard.

(B) He says that he worked hard.

(D) He told that he works hard.

Correct Answer: (A) He says that he works hard.
Explanation: A present-tense reporting verb ('says') preserves the reported verb's tense.

77. You must abide ______ the rules. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) by

(B) with

(D) on

Correct Answer: (A) by
Explanation: The phrasal verb 'abide by' means to accept and comply with a rule.

78. He is addicted ______ smoking. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) with

(D) for

Correct Answer: (A) to
Explanation: The adjective 'addicted' takes the fixed preposition 'to'.

79. Don't laugh ______ the poor. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) on

(B) at

(D) for

Correct Answer: (B) at
Explanation: The verb 'laugh' takes 'at' when meaning to mock or ridicule.

80. The property was divided ______ the two brothers.

(A) among

(B) between

(D) in

Correct Answer: (B) between
Explanation: 'Between' is used when distributing or separating across two parties.

81. I agree ______ your proposal. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) with

(D) on

Correct Answer: (A) to
Explanation: One agrees 'with' a person, but agrees 'to' a proposal or plan.

82. The cat jumped ______ the table. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) onto / upon

(B) into

(D) at

Correct Answer: (A) onto / upon
Explanation: Movement terminating on top of an elevated surface uses 'onto' or 'upon'.

83. He prevented me ______ going there. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) from

(D) by

Correct Answer: (B) from
Explanation: The verb 'prevent' is paired with 'from + gerund (-ing)'.

84. What is the time ______ your watch? (Choose correct preposition)

(A) in

(B) by

(D) with

Correct Answer: (B) by
Explanation: Standard English idiom is 'What is the time by your watch?'.

85. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Government

(B) Goverment

(D) Governmant

Correct Answer: (A) Government
Explanation: The letter 'n' follows 'r': G-o-v-e-r-n-m-e-n-t.

86. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Environment

(B) Enviroment

(D) Environmant

Correct Answer: (A) Environment
Explanation: The correct spelling is E-n-v-i-r-o-n-m-e-n-t.

87. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Maintanance

(B) Maintenance

(D) Maintenence

Correct Answer: (B) Maintenance
Explanation: Derived from maintain, the noun is spelt M-a-i-n-t-e-n-a-n-c-e.

88. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Conscience

(B) Consciense

(D) Conscince

Correct Answer: (A) Conscience
Explanation: The word is spelt C-o-n-s-c-i-e-n-c-e.

89. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Receive

(B) Recieve

(D) Receve

Correct Answer: (A) Receive
Explanation: Follows the rule 'i before e except after c': R-e-c-e-i-v-e.

90. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Beautiful

(B) Beautifull

(D) Beautefull

Correct Answer: (A) Beautiful
Explanation: Suffix '-ful' takes a single 'l': B-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l.

91. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Millennium

(B) Millenium

(D) Milenium

Correct Answer: (A) Millennium
Explanation: It takes double 'l' and double 'n': M-i-l-l-e-n-n-i-u-m.

92. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Psychology

(B) Phsychology

(D) Psycholagy

Correct Answer: (A) Psychology
Explanation: Begins with silent 'p': P-s-y-c-h-o-l-o-g-y.

93. Bread and butter ______ wholesome food. (Choose correct verb)

(A) is

(B) are

(D) have

Correct Answer: (A) is
Explanation: 'Bread and butter' represents a single unit or meal, requiring a singular verb.

94. Neither of the two boys ______ passed. (Choose correct verb)

(A) has

(B) have

(D) were

Correct Answer: (A) has
Explanation: 'Neither' as a distributive subject takes a singular verb ('has passed').

95. One of the students ______ absent today. (Choose correct verb)

(A) is

(B) are

(D) have been

Correct Answer: (A) is
Explanation: The true subject is 'One', requiring a singular verb ('is absent').

96. You ______ respect your teachers. (Choose correct modal auxiliary)

(A) should

(B) can

(D) may

Correct Answer: (A) should
Explanation: Moral advice and duty are conveyed using 'should'.

97. Choose the correct translation: "पेड़ से पत्ते गिरते हैं।"

(A) Leaves fall from the tree.

(B) Leaves fell from the tree.

(D) Leaf falls from the tree.

Correct Answer: (A) Leaves fall from the tree.
Explanation: Simple present tense with plural subject 'leaves' uses base form 'fall'.

98. Choose the correct translation: "भारत एक महान देश है।"

(A) India was a great country.

(B) India is a great country.

(D) India has a great country.

Correct Answer: (B) India is a great country.
Explanation: Proper country nouns typically do not take 'the'; simple present 'is' is correct.

99. Choose the correct translation: "क्या आप अंग्रेजी बोलते हैं?"

(A) Do you speak English?

(B) Are you speak English?

(D) Have you speak English?

Correct Answer: (A) Do you speak English?
Explanation: Simple present interrogative structure: 'Do + subject (you) + base verb (speak)?'.

100. Choose the correct translation: "वह दो घंटे से पढ़ रहा है।"

(A) He has been reading for two hours.

(B) He is reading for two hours.

(D) He has read since two hours.

Correct Answer: (A) He has been reading for two hours.
Explanation: Continuing action with a duration uses Present Perfect Continuous: 'has been + V-ing + for'.

Passage 1 (Story Based)

The Queen of Sheba heard of King Solomon's great wisdom and decided to test him with a difficult puzzle. She visited his court carrying two bouquets of flowers, one in each hand. To the naked eye, the two bunches appeared identical in size, vibrant color, and beauty. However, one was made of genuine, living flowers picked from a royal garden, while the other was artificially crafted from silk and wax by skilled artisans. Standing at a distance, she challenged King Solomon to identify the real flowers without touching or smelling them. The courtiers were puzzled, as no distinction could be seen. Solomon calmly ordered the windows of the palace hall to be opened wide. Within moments, bees flew in from the garden and settled on the real bouquet, completely ignoring the artificial one. Solomon smiled and correctly named the real flowers, proving his wisdom.

Q1. Why did the Queen of Sheba visit King Solomon's court?

Ans: The Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon to test his renowned wisdom with a puzzle.

Q2. What was the challenge presented by the Queen?

Ans: The challenge was to identify which of the two visually identical bouquets of flowers was real, without touching or smelling them from a distance.

Q3. How did King Solomon solve the mystery?

Ans: Solomon ordered the hall windows opened; bees flew into the room and landed on the genuine flowers, revealing the answer.

Q4. What trait of King Solomon is highlighted in the story?

Ans: The story highlights Solomon's keen observation, practical intelligence, and sharp problem-solving ability.

Passage 2 (Story Based)

An honest woodcutter was cutting firewood near the bank of a deep river. Suddenly, his iron axe slipped from his sweaty palms and fell into the deep water. Devastated because the axe was his sole source of livelihood, he sat by the riverbank and wept bitterly. Moved by his grief, the River Spirit emerged from the water and asked why he was crying. Hearing his plight, the Spirit dived into the depths and returned with a brilliant golden axe. The woodcutter shook his head and said, "This is not mine." The Spirit dived again and brought up a silver axe, which the woodcutter also refused. Finally, the Spirit brought up the rusty iron axe. Overjoyed, the woodcutter exclaimed, "Yes, this is my axe!" Delighted by his honesty, the River Spirit gifted him both the gold and silver axes alongside his original iron tool.

Q1. Why was the woodcutter weeping on the riverbank?

Ans: He was weeping because his iron axe had fallen into the river, leaving him without his only means of livelihood.

Q2. Which axe did the River Spirit bring out first?

Ans: The River Spirit first brought out a brilliant axe made of solid gold.

Q3. Why did the woodcutter refuse the golden and silver axes?

Ans: He refused them because they did not belong to him, and he refused to claim what was not his.

Q4. How did the River Spirit reward the woodcutter's honesty?

Ans: The River Spirit rewarded him by gifting him all three axes—the golden axe, the silver axe, and his own iron axe.

Poetry Comprehension

"God made the country, and man made the town.
What wonder then that health and virtue, gifts
That can alone make sweet the bitter draught
That life holds out to all, should most abound
And least be threaten’d in the fields and groves?
Possess ye therefore, ye who, borne about
In chariots and sedans, know no fatigue
But that of idleness, and taste no scenes
But such as art contrives, possess ye still
Your element; there only can ye shine."

Q1. According to the poet, who made the country and who made the town?

Ans: According to William Cowper, God created the countryside, whereas human beings built the artificial towns.

Q2. What two valuable gifts abound in the rural fields and groves?

Ans: Good health and moral virtue are the two precious gifts that abound in the rural fields and groves.

Q3. What kind of fatigue do city dwellers experience?

Ans: City dwellers experience the fatigue of idleness, living in luxury without meaningful physical labor.

Q4. Name the poem and poet from which these lines are taken.

Ans: These lines are taken from the poem 'God Made the Country' by William Cowper.

1. What does the writer say about his own mind in 'The Pace for Living'?

Ans: In 'The Pace for Living', R.C. Hutchinson remarks that he belongs to the tribe of "slow thinkers." He acknowledges that his mind operates slowly and finds it hard to keep pace with the rapid speed and witty banter of modern life.

2. What did Jim tell Mr. Johnson regarding his car in 'Me and the Ecology Bit'?

Ans: Jim advised Mr. Johnson not to drive his car just to reach the post office, which was only two blocks away. He explained that walking would provide good exercise, save petrol, and reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

3. What signs indicated that Gillu was near the end of his life?

Ans: On his final day, Gillu stopped eating his favorite kaju, did not play or venture outside, and his paws turned cold. Despite the author warming him with a heater, he clung tightly to her finger until he passed away at dawn.

4. What is the primary raw material of cinema according to Satyajit Ray?

Ans: Satyajit Ray states that the primary raw material of cinema is life itself. He believed cinema should reflect the authentic, everyday experiences of ordinary people rather than imitating foreign formulas and synthetic spectacles.

5. What did the old blind woman reply to the mischievous young visitors in 'Once Upon a Time'?

Ans: When the youths asked whether the bird in their hands was alive or dead, she answered, "I do not know whether the bird you are holding is dead or alive, but a thing is in your hands." This emphasized that responsibility for its fate rested entirely with them.

6. How did Akoulya and Malasha resolve their quarrel in Tolstoy's story?

Ans: After their initial disagreement over the splashed dress, the girls forgot their anger. They used wood chips to dig a small canal in the mud and laughed together, demonstrating forgiveness while the adults around them continued arguing.

7. What happens when a polythene bag is left buried underground?

Ans: In the poem 'Polythene Bag', the author explains that a buried polythene bag never dissolves or decomposes. It remains intact, polluting the soil and quietly emitting harmful toxins into the environment.

8. Why did the lawyer in Anton Chekhov's story forfeit the two million rubles?

Ans: During his fifteen years of solitary confinement, the lawyer read hundreds of books and came to realize that worldly wealth, material luxuries, and transient pleasures are empty. To demonstrate his contempt for money, he walked out of his room five minutes before the agreed time.

1. Cleanliness (Swachhata)

Cleanliness is fundamental to personal health and a strong society. Maintaining clean surroundings helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports mental focus, and preserves the environment. Practicing good hygiene—such as washing hands, disposing of garbage properly, and avoiding single-use plastics—contributes to public health. Taking responsibility for cleanliness at home, school, and in public spaces is a civic duty that improves everyday quality of life.

2. Online Education

Online education has transformed contemporary learning by making resources accessible from home through digital devices. It allows students to learn at their own pace, access high-quality lectures, and explore a wider range of study materials. However, excessive screen time and the absence of face-to-face peer interaction can pose challenges. When balanced with regular offline routines and hands-on practice, online education serves as a valuable tool for modern students.

3. Value of Games and Sports

Games and sports are essential for a student's physical and mental development. Regular physical activity strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular fitness, and relieves academic stress. Participation in team sports teaches cooperation, leadership, resilience, and respect for rules. A healthy mind resides in a healthy body, and making sports a regular part of daily life builds the discipline needed to handle future challenges.

4. Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Rapid industrialization, vehicle emissions, and unregulated waste disposal have contaminated our air, water, and soil. This has contributed to respiratory illnesses, changing weather patterns, and the loss of natural habitats. Protecting the environment requires conscious collective effort, such as planting trees, reducing vehicle emissions, conserving water, and properly recycling waste.

5. An Ideal Student

An ideal student is defined by discipline, curiosity, and sound moral values. Rather than focusing solely on memorization, an ideal student seeks a genuine understanding of subjects and treats teachers, elders, and peers with respect. Balancing academic studies with sports and social service helps develop well-rounded habits. Through punctuality, humility, and persistence, an ideal student sets a positive example and prepares to contribute meaningfully to society.

(i) Notice Writing: Inter-School Debate Competition

Patna High School, Patna

NOTICE

Ref No: PHS/2021/14 Date: 15th January 2021

INTER-SCHOOL DEBATE COMPETITION

All students from Classes 9 and 10 are hereby informed that an Inter-School Debate Competition will be held on 28th January 2021 in the School Auditorium from 10:00 AM onwards. The topic for the debate is: "Online Education Cannot Replace Classroom Teaching."

Interested students are requested to submit their names to their respective English teachers by 22nd January 2021 for the preliminary selection round.

Suresh Roy
Cultural Secretary
Class 10 'A'

(ii) Report Writing: Blood Donation Camp

BLOOD DONATION CAMP AT ZILA SCHOOL

By: Ankit Kumar, Student Reporter | Muzaffarpur | 10th February 2021

A voluntary Blood Donation Camp was organized at Zila School, Muzaffarpur, on 9th February 2021 in collaboration with the Red Cross Society. The camp was formally inaugurated by the Civil Surgeon of the district at 9:30 AM.

A team of six doctors and nurses set up a clean, well-equipped clinic in the school auditorium. Teachers, senior students aged 18 and above, and local residents participated actively in the initiative. Over 110 units of blood were collected by afternoon. Each donor received a health certificate, juice, and fruits. The Chief Medical Officer praised the school's initiative, noting that voluntary donation helps save lives during emergencies. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the Principal.

(iii) Message Writing: Telephonic Message for Brother

MESSAGE

Date: 5th March 2021 Time: 05:15 PM

Dear Rohit,

Your friend Amit rang up while you were out playing cricket. He informed that the Mathematics coaching class scheduled for tomorrow morning at 7:00 AM has been rescheduled to 4:00 PM due to the teacher's personal engagement. He also asked you to bring his geometry notebook to class tomorrow.

I am heading to the market for household groceries and will return by 7:00 PM.

Manish

(iv) Application Writing: Application for Full Fee Concession

To,
The Headmaster,
Raj High School, Darbhanga.

Date: 18th March 2021
Subject: Application for grant of full fee concession.

Respected Sir,

Most respectfully, I beg to state that I am a regular student of Class 10th 'A' in your school. My father is a small shopkeeper whose income has fallen sharply due to prolonged business disruptions. With four school-going children to care for, my family is facing significant financial hardship and cannot afford my tuition fees.

I have consistently performed well in academics, securing the first position in my class in the previous examinations. I have also represented the school in district-level debate competitions.

I therefore request you to grant me a full fee concession for this academic session so that I may continue my studies without interruption.

Thanking you.

Yours obediently,
Manoj Mishra
Class 10, Section 'A'
Roll No. 05

(v) Letter Writing: Informal Letter to Mother from Hostel

Room No. 24, Boys' Hostel,
Netarhat Residential School, Ranchi.
Date: 8th February 2021

My dearest Mother,

I received your affectionate letter yesterday and was relieved to know that everyone at home is doing well. Please do not worry about my health or diet here in the hostel. The food served in the mess is nutritious, and I make sure to drink a glass of warm milk every evening as you advised.

Our teachers are covering the revision syllabus thoroughly ahead of our upcoming Board Examinations. I have drawn up a structured study schedule, waking up early at 5:00 AM to review Mathematics and Science formulas. In our recent mock tests, I secured 92% marks, which has boosted my confidence.

Please convey my respects to Father and give my love to little Sonu. I will return home as soon as my examinations conclude next month.

Your loving son,
Ashok

(vi) Speech Writing: Save Water, Save Earth

TOPIC: SAVE WATER, SAVE EARTH

Respected Principal, honorable teachers, and dear friends,
A warm good morning to one and all. Today, I stand before you to speak on an urgent topic that directly concerns our future: "Save Water, Save Earth."

Water is essential for all living beings. While nearly seventy percent of our planet's surface is covered with water, less than one percent is accessible freshwater suitable for drinking and agriculture. Due to industrial pollution, deforestation, and unchecked wastage, underground water tables are depleting at an alarming rate across our towns and villages.

If we do not change our habits now, future generations will face acute water shortages. Simple everyday actions matter: turning off taps while brushing, repairing pipeline leaks, and harvesting rainwater at home and school. Remember, every drop conserved today secures life for tomorrow. Let us pledge to use water responsibly. Thank you!

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BSEB 10 English PYQs 2021