BSEB Class 10 English 2023 Previous Year Question Paper

BSEB Class 10th Board Exam 2023

English (Compulsory) — Complete Solved Previous Year Paper

Official Pattern • 100 Objectives + All Subjective Q&A

1. In 'The Pace for Living', where did the author watch the play?

(A) London

(B) Dublin

(D) Manchester

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 the chief character in the play discussed in 'The Pace for Living'?

(A) A young lawyer

(B) An elderly corn-merchant

(D) A schoolmaster

Correct Answer: (B) An elderly corn-merchant
Explanation: The central figure was an elderly corn-merchant residing in a small Irish country town.

3. What physical condition troubled the corn-merchant?

(A) Poor eyesight

(B) A dicky (weak) heart

(D) Severe asthma

Correct Answer: (B) A dicky (weak) heart
Explanation: The author notes the corn-merchant was filled with anxieties and suffered from a weak heart.

4. Who was spending £10 on every holiday in 'The Pace for Living'?

(A) His nephew

(B) His wife

(D) His friend

Correct Answer: (B) His wife
Explanation: The corn-merchant's wife had the habit of spending £10 during holidays, adding to his financial worry.

5. In 'Me and the Ecology Bit', who was driving his car to the post office?

(A) Mr. Williams

(B) Mr. Johnson

(D) Jim’s father

Correct Answer: (B) Mr. Johnson
Explanation: Jim noticed Mr. Johnson getting into his car to drive just two blocks to the local post office.

6. Jim engages in which activity on weekends?

(A) Selling newspapers and preaching about ecology

(B) Playing professional football

(D) Repairing radios

Correct Answer: (A) Selling newspapers and preaching about ecology
Explanation: Jim combines his weekend paper route with conversations encouraging neighbors to protect the environment.

7. Who complained that compost smelled up the whole street?

(A) Mrs. Greene

(B) Mr. Williams

(D) Jim’s mother

Correct Answer: (B) Mr. Williams
Explanation: Mr. Williams objected to composting leaves, complaining that compost piles produced an unpleasant smell.

8. What kind of animal was Gillu?

(A) A cat

(B) A squirrel

(D) A rabbit

Correct Answer: (B) A squirrel
Explanation: Gillu was an orphaned baby squirrel rescued and cared for by Mahadevi Varma.

9. Where did Mahadevi Varma find the wounded baby squirrel?

(A) Near the flowerpots in the verandah

(B) On the terrace

(D) Under the staircase

Correct Answer: (A) Near the flowerpots in the verandah
Explanation: She discovered the wounded squirrel lying motionless near the verandah flowerpots.

10. According to Mahadevi Varma, what is the usual lifespan of a squirrel?

(A) About one year

(B) About two years

(D) About six years

Correct Answer: (B) About two years
Explanation: The text notes that squirrels rarely survive beyond two years of age.

11. What was Gillu’s favorite food item?

(A) Wheat bread

(B) Kaju (Cashew nuts)

(D) Boiled rice

Correct Answer: (B) Kaju (Cashew nuts)
Explanation: Gillu was fond of kaju, refusing other foods when it was withheld.

12. Satyajit Ray is internationally renowned as a:

(A) Film director

(B) Painter only

(D) Classical singer

Correct Answer: (A) Film director
Explanation: Satyajit Ray was an influential Indian filmmaker, writer, and composer.

13. In 'What is Wrong with Indian Films', Ray argues that Indian cinema needs:

(A) More Hollywood stunts

(B) Visual integrity and simplicity

(D) Complex digital animations

Correct Answer: (B) Visual integrity and simplicity
Explanation: Ray emphasized that Indian films need genuine artistic maturity drawn from everyday realities.

14. Aung San Suu Kyi was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in:

(A) 1989

(B) 1991

(D) 1995

Correct Answer: (B) 1991
Explanation: The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to her in 1991 for her non-violent struggle for democracy.

15. Aung San Suu Kyi led the movement for civil liberties in:

(A) Thailand

(B) Burma (Myanmar)

(D) Indonesia

Correct Answer: (B) Burma (Myanmar)
Explanation: She served as the prominent leader of Burma's National League for Democracy.

16. Who delivered the Nobel lecture on behalf of Aung San Suu Kyi in Oslo?

(A) Her husband

(B) Her son, Alexander Aris

(D) Her daughter

Correct Answer: (B) Her son, Alexander Aris
Explanation: Her son Alexander delivered the speech because Suu Kyi was detained under house arrest.

17. Toni Morrison was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in:

(A) 1990

(B) 1993

(D) 2001

Correct Answer: (B) 1993
Explanation: Toni Morrison received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993.

18. In Morrison's story 'Once Upon a Time', the old woman was:

(A) Proud and aggressive

(B) Blind and wise

(D) Sick and helpless

Correct Answer: (B) Blind and wise
Explanation: She was an elderly African-American woman living alone, widely respected for her wisdom.

19. In Toni Morrison’s lecture, what does the bird symbolize?

(A) Language / Life

(B) Money

(D) Nature

Correct Answer: (A) Language / Life
Explanation: Morrison interprets the bird as language, whose preservation rests in human hands.

20. Humayun Kabir delivered his address on Indian culture at:

(A) Patna University

(B) Baroda University

(D) Allahabad University

Correct Answer: (B) Baroda University
Explanation: Kabir's lecture was delivered to students at Baroda University.

21. Humayun Kabir describes the core strength of Indian civilization as its:

(A) Cultural unity and continuity

(B) Rigid traditions

(D) Isolation from outside influences

Correct Answer: (A) Cultural unity and continuity
Explanation: Kabir highlights Indian culture's historical capacity to absorb diverse influences while preserving continuity.

22. 'Little Girls Wiser Than Men' was authored by:

(A) Leo Tolstoy

(B) Anton Chekhov

(D) Guy de Maupassant

Correct Answer: (A) Leo Tolstoy
Explanation: Russian author Leo Tolstoy penned this story about two young girls.

23. The two little girls featured in Tolstoy’s story were:

(A) Martha and Mary

(B) Akoulya and Malasha

(D) Sarah and Anna

Correct Answer: (B) Akoulya and Malasha
Explanation: Akoulya was the older child, and Malasha was the younger one.

24. The story 'Little Girls Wiser Than Men' takes place during the festival of:

(A) Easter

(B) Christmas

(D) Pentecost

Correct Answer: (A) Easter
Explanation: The girls wore new holiday frocks to celebrate the Easter church service.

25. In Tolstoy's story, who slapped Malasha?

(A) Akoulya’s mother

(B) Her grandmother

(D) The village priest

Correct Answer: (A) Akoulya’s mother
Explanation: Seeing mud on her daughter's dress, Akoulya's mother struck Malasha across the neck.

26. Who composed the poem 'God Made the Country'?

(A) William Cowper

(B) Alexander Pope

(D) John Keats

Correct Answer: (A) William Cowper
Explanation: English poet William Cowper wrote 'God Made the Country'.

27. According to Cowper, where can true health and virtue be found?

(A) In large towns

(B) In the countryside and groves

(D) In manufacturing hubs

Correct Answer: (B) In the countryside and groves
Explanation: Cowper states that health and virtue thrive in rural fields rather than crowded cities.

28. 'Ode on Solitude' was composed by:

(A) Alexander Pope

(B) John Dryden

(D) P.B. Shelley

Correct Answer: (A) Alexander Pope
Explanation: Alexander Pope composed 'Ode on Solitude' during his youth.

29. In 'Ode on Solitude', the poet wishes to live:

(A) Celebrated and rich

(B) Unseen and unknown

(D) As an influential merchant

Correct Answer: (B) Unseen and unknown
Explanation: The poem concludes: "Thus let me live, unseen, unknown; Thus unlamented let me die."

30. 'Polythene Bag' is a poem written by:

(A) Durga Prasad Panda

(B) Vidyapati

(D) Walter de la Mare

Correct Answer: (A) Durga Prasad Panda
Explanation: Durga Prasad Panda highlights the persistence of plastic waste in nature.

31. What happens to a polythene bag when left to itself in the ground?

(A) It dissolves quickly

(B) It never gets dissolved into the earth

(D) It absorbs moisture harmlessly

Correct Answer: (B) It never gets dissolved into the earth
Explanation: As non-biodegradable waste, it resists natural decomposition.

32. The poem 'Thinner Than a Crescent' was written by:

(A) Vidyapati

(B) Surdas

(D) Rahim

Correct Answer: (A) Vidyapati
Explanation: Vidyapati composed the Maithili verses describing Radha's emotional grief.

33. Vidyapati is a renowned poet belonging to which region?

(A) Mithila (Bihar)

(B) Bengal

(D) Punjab

Correct Answer: (A) Mithila (Bihar)
Explanation: Vidyapati is known as the classic poetic master of the Mithila region.

34. In 'Thinner Than a Crescent', Radha is grieving over her separation from:

(A) Lord Rama

(B) Lord Krishna

(D) Her village friend

Correct Answer: (B) Lord Krishna
Explanation: Radha is depicted weeping and losing weight out of longing for Krishna.

35. 'The Empty Heart' was translated into English from which Indian language?

(A) Malayalam

(B) Tamil

(D) Marathi

Correct Answer: (B) Tamil
Explanation: The poem was written by Tamil poet Periasamy Thooran.

36. Who authored 'The Empty Heart'?

(A) Periasamy Thooran

(B) Subramania Bharati

(D) Thiruvalluvar

Correct Answer: (A) Periasamy Thooran
Explanation: Periasamy Thooran wrote the poem about the perils of insatiable greed.

37. How many pitchers filled with gold did the wish-yielding tree give to the greedy man?

(A) Five

(B) Seven

(D) Eleven

Correct Answer: (B) Seven
Explanation: Kalpataru fulfilled the man's request by presenting seven pitchers of gold.

38. What was the state of the eighth pitcher given to the rich man?

(A) Completely 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.

39. The poem 'Koel' was composed by:

(A) Puran Singh

(B) Toru Dutt

(D) Rabindranath Tagore

Correct Answer: (A) Puran Singh
Explanation: Puran Singh wrote the poem praising the passionate call of the Koel.

40. In 'Koel', where is the bird resting and singing?

(A) On a telephone wire

(B) Inside thick mango leaves

(D) In an open field

Correct Answer: (B) Inside thick mango leaves
Explanation: The bird conceals itself within mango leaves and sings its song.

41. 'The Sleeping Porter' was written by:

(A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota

(B) Walter de la Mare

(D) Alexander Pope

Correct Answer: (A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota
Explanation: Devkota is the prominent Nepalese poet who penned 'The Sleeping Porter'.

42. What was the weight of the load carried by the sleeping porter?

(A) 40 lb

(B) 54 lb

(D) 75 lb

Correct Answer: (B) 54 lb
Explanation: Devkota describes the porter carrying a load of 54 lb on his back.

43. In 'The Sleeping Porter', the porter’s heart is described as twittering like a:

(A) Bird

(B) Clock

(D) Bell

Correct Answer: (A) Bird
Explanation: The poem states that his exhausted heart beats like a bird.

44. 'Martha' was written by:

(A) Walter de la Mare

(B) John Keats

(D) Lord Tennyson

Correct Answer: (A) Walter de la Mare
Explanation: Walter de la Mare is renowned for writing 'Martha'.

45. What color were Martha’s eyes?

(A) Hazel

(B) Jet black

(D) Dark blue

Correct Answer: (A) Hazel
Explanation: The poem describes Martha’s eyes as clear and hazel.

46. Halku is the lead character in which short story?

(A) The Bet

(B) January Night (Poos Ki Raat)

(D) Two Horizons

Correct Answer: (B) January Night (Poos Ki Raat)
Explanation: Premchand’s short story portrays Halku's struggle against poverty and cold.

47. What was the name of Halku’s wife in 'January Night'?

(A) Munni

(B) Radha

(D) Champa

Correct Answer: (A) Munni
Explanation: Munni was Halku's wife, who urged him to pay off his debts.

48. Jabra was Halku’s loyal:

(A) Bull

(B) Dog

(D) Horse

Correct Answer: (B) Dog
Explanation: Jabra was Halku's dog, who accompanied him to the fields.

49. Halku gave his three saved rupees to:

(A) His nephew

(B) Sahna the landlord

(D) The village doctor

Correct Answer: (B) Sahna the landlord
Explanation: Halku handed his savings to the landlord to prevent further humiliation.

50. Who ruined Halku’s crop in the field?

(A) Locusts

(B) Nilgais (wild cattle)

(D) Thieves

Correct Answer: (B) Nilgais (wild cattle)
Explanation: A herd of nilgais ate and trampled Halku's field during the night.

51. 'Allergy' was written by:

(A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh

(B) Premchand

(D) John Galsworthy

Correct Answer: (A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh
Explanation: Dr. Rana S.P. Singh authored the medical text explaining allergic reactions.

52. During an allergic reaction, the immune system produces excess:

(A) IgE antibodies

(B) Red blood cells

(D) Hemoglobin

Correct Answer: (A) IgE antibodies
Explanation: Allergens prompt the immune system to produce high levels of IgE antibodies.

53. The author of the story 'The Bet' is:

(A) Anton Chekhov

(B) Leo Tolstoy

(D) O. Henry

Correct Answer: (A) Anton Chekhov
Explanation: Russian dramatist Anton Chekhov wrote the moral story 'The Bet'.

54. In 'The Bet', the confinement duration was set for:

(A) 5 years

(B) 10 years

(D) 20 years

Correct Answer: (C) 15 years
Explanation: The agreement stipulated that the lawyer would remain confined for fifteen years.

55. How much money was staked by the banker in 'The Bet'?

(A) One million

(B) Two millions

(D) Five hundred thousand

Correct Answer: (B) Two millions
Explanation: The banker bet two million rubles against the lawyer's freedom.

56. 'Quality' is a story authored by:

(A) John Galsworthy

(B) Katherine Mansfield

(D) Anton Chekhov

Correct Answer: (A) John Galsworthy
Explanation: John Galsworthy wrote the story about the bootmaker Mr. Gessler.

57. Mr. Gessler was an artisan who crafted:

(A) Tailored suits

(B) Quality leather boots

(D) Watches

Correct Answer: (B) Quality leather boots
Explanation: Mr. Gessler was dedicated to making durable, custom-fit leather boots.

58. The author of 'Sun and Moon' is:

(A) Katherine Mansfield

(B) Virginia Woolf

(D) Anita Desai

Correct Answer: (A) Katherine Mansfield
Explanation: Katherine Mansfield composed the story exploring children's perspectives during an adult party.

59. 'Two Horizons' was written by:

(A) Binapani Mohanty

(B) Mahadevi Varma

(D) Amrita Pritam

Correct Answer: (A) Binapani Mohanty
Explanation: Binapani Mohanty wrote the story structured around letters between a mother and daughter.

60. 'Love Defiled' was written by:

(A) Giridhar Jha

(B) R.K. Narayan

(D) Ruskin Bond

Correct Answer: (A) Giridhar Jha
Explanation: Giridhar Jha wrote 'Love Defiled', detailing compromise and relationships.

61. Choose the correct passive voice: "The cat killed the mouse."

(A) The mouse was killed by the cat.

(B) The mouse is killed by the cat.

(D) The mouse was kill by the cat.

Correct Answer: (A) The mouse was killed by the cat.
Explanation: Simple past active 'killed' converts to 'was + V3' in the passive voice.

62. Choose the correct passive voice: "She likes music."

(A) Music is liked by her.

(B) Music was liked by her.

(D) Music is liking by her.

Correct Answer: (A) Music is liked by her.
Explanation: Simple present tense passive structure is 'is + V3' (is liked).

63. Choose the correct passive voice: "They are digging a well."

(A) A well was being dug by them.

(B) A well is being dug by them.

(D) A well is dug by them.

Correct Answer: (B) A well is being dug by them.
Explanation: Present continuous active changes to 'is/are + being + V3' (is being dug).

64. Choose the correct passive voice: "Post this letter."

(A) Let this letter be posted.

(B) This letter is posted.

(D) You post this letter.

Correct Answer: (A) Let this letter be posted.
Explanation: Imperative sentences use 'Let + object + be + past participle'.

65. Choose the correct active voice: "A song was sung by Lata."

(A) Lata sang a song.

(B) Lata sings a song.

(D) Lata had sung a song.

Correct Answer: (A) Lata sang a song.
Explanation: 'Was sung' converts back to the simple past active form 'sang'.

66. Choose the correct passive voice: "Who broke this mirror?"

(A) By whom was this mirror broken?

(B) By whom is this mirror broken?

(D) By who this mirror broke?

Correct Answer: (A) By whom was this mirror broken?
Explanation: 'Who' becomes 'By whom', followed by aux + subject + past participle.

67. Choose the correct passive voice: "He has finished the work."

(A) The work was finished by him.

(B) The work has been finished by him.

(D) The work is finished by him.

Correct Answer: (B) The work has been finished by him.
Explanation: Present perfect passive uses 'has been + V3' (has been finished).

68. Choose the correct active voice: "The tree was cut down by the woodcutter."

(A) The woodcutter cut down the tree.

(B) The woodcutter cuts down the tree.

(D) The woodcutter is cutting the tree.

Correct Answer: (A) The woodcutter cut down the tree.
Explanation: 'Was cut' changes back to simple past 'cut' in the active voice.

69. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "I work hard."

(A) He said that he worked hard.

(B) He said that he works hard.

(D) He said he had worked hard.

Correct Answer: (A) He said that he worked hard.
Explanation: Simple present tense shifts to simple past when reporting with 'said'.

70. Choose the correct indirect speech: The teacher said, "The earth moves round the sun."

(A) The teacher said that the earth moved round the sun.

(B) The teacher said that the earth moves round the sun.

(D) The teacher says earth is moving round sun.

Correct Answer: (B) The teacher said that the earth moves round the sun.
Explanation: Universal facts remain in the simple present tense in indirect speech.

71. Choose the correct indirect speech: Sita said to Mohan, "Are you unwell?"

(A) Sita asked Mohan if he was unwell.

(B) Sita told Mohan that he is unwell.

(D) Sita said to Mohan if you are unwell.

Correct Answer: (A) Sita asked Mohan if he was unwell.
Explanation: Yes/No questions take 'if/whether' followed by assertive word order.

72. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said to me, "What are you doing?"

(A) He asked me what I was doing.

(B) He asked me what was I doing.

(D) He inquired me what are you doing.

Correct Answer: (A) He asked me what I was doing.
Explanation: Wh-questions change to assertive word order: question word + subject + verb.

73. Choose the correct indirect speech: Mother said to me, "Help your younger brother."

(A) Mother advised me to help my younger brother.

(B) Mother told me help my brother.

(D) Mother asked that I help brother.

Correct Answer: (A) Mother advised me to help my younger brother.
Explanation: Imperative sentences use an appropriate reporting verb with 'to + infinitive'.

74. Choose the correct direct speech: She asked me why I was crying.

(A) She said to me, "Why are you crying?"

(B) She said to me, "Why were you crying?"

(D) She asked, "Why am I crying?"

Correct Answer: (A) She said to me, "Why are you crying?"
Explanation: Past continuous reverses to present continuous interrogative form.

75. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "Bravo! You have played well."

(A) He applauded him saying that he had played well.

(B) He exclaimed with sorrow that he played well.

(D) He said that you played well.

Correct Answer: (A) He applauded him saying that he had played well.
Explanation: 'Bravo' implies approval; reporting verb 'applauded... saying that' fits best.

76. Choose the correct indirect speech: She says, "I am ready."

(A) She says that she is ready.

(B) She says that she was ready.

(D) She tells that she was ready.

Correct Answer: (A) She says that she is ready.
Explanation: Present reporting verbs ('says') do not trigger a tense change in indirect speech.

77. The police are looking ______ the matter. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) into

(B) after

(D) on

Correct Answer: (A) into
Explanation: 'Look into' means to investigate a situation or problem.

78. She is very good ______ Mathematics. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) at

(B) in

(D) with

Correct Answer: (A) at
Explanation: Proficiency in a discipline takes 'good at'.

79. He died ______ cancer. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) of

(B) from

(D) with

Correct Answer: (A) of
Explanation: Dying from a disease takes the preposition 'of'.

80. You should listen ______ the advice of elders. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) at

(D) on

Correct Answer: (A) to
Explanation: The verb 'listen' is followed by 'to'.

81. He jumped ______ the river to save the drowning boy. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) into

(B) in

(D) over

Correct Answer: (A) into
Explanation: Motion toward the inside of a body of water takes 'into'.

82. He has been living in Patna ______ 2015. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) since

(B) for

(D) in

Correct Answer: (A) since
Explanation: A specific starting year takes 'since' with the perfect continuous tense.

83. You must abide ______ school discipline. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) by

(B) with

(D) to

Correct Answer: (A) by
Explanation: The idiom 'abide by' means to comply with established rules.

84. Divide these sweets ______ the children. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) among

(B) between

(D) with

Correct Answer: (A) among
Explanation: Distribution among more than two individuals takes 'among'.

85. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Committee

(B) Commitee

(D) Comite

Correct Answer: (A) Committee
Explanation: Contains double 'm', double 't', and double 'e': C-o-m-m-i-t-t-e-e.

86. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Accommodation

(B) Acommodation

(D) Acomodation

Correct Answer: (A) Accommodation
Explanation: Contains double 'c' and double 'm': A-c-c-o-m-m-o-d-a-t-i-o-n.

87. 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.

88. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Separate

(B) Seperate

(D) Sepparate

Correct Answer: (A) Separate
Explanation: The correct spelling is S-e-p-a-r-a-t-e.

89. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Privilege

(B) Privilage

(D) Prevelege

Correct Answer: (A) Privilege
Explanation: The correct spelling is P-r-i-v-i-l-e-g-e.

90. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Grammar

(B) Grammer

(D) Graamar

Correct Answer: (A) Grammar
Explanation: The correct spelling ends in '-ar': G-r-a-m-m-a-r.

91. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Occurrence

(B) Occurence

(D) Occurrance

Correct Answer: (A) Occurrence
Explanation: Double 'c' and double 'r': O-c-c-u-r-r-e-n-c-e.

92. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Necessary

(B) Neccessary

(D) Necasary

Correct Answer: (A) Necessary
Explanation: Single 'c' and double 's': N-e-c-e-s-s-a-r-y.

93. Slow and steady ______ the race. (Choose correct verb)

(A) wins

(B) win

(D) are winning

Correct Answer: (A) wins
Explanation: The phrase 'Slow and steady' functions as a singular concept, taking 'wins'.

94. Either Mohan or his friends ______ broken the glass. (Choose correct verb)

(A) have

(B) has

(D) is

Correct Answer: (A) have
Explanation: With 'either... or', the verb agrees with the nearer subject ('friends' -> 'have').

95. We ______ help the needy. (Choose correct modal auxiliary)

(A) should

(B) may

(D) can

Correct Answer: (A) should
Explanation: Moral obligation or duty is expressed with 'should'.

96. 'The Arabian Nights' ______ an entertaining book. (Choose correct verb)

(A) is

(B) are

(D) have been

Correct Answer: (A) is
Explanation: Book titles with plural forms still take a singular verb ('is').

97. Choose the correct translation: "राम एक आज्ञाकारी पुत्र है।"

(A) Ram is an obedient son.

(B) Ram was an obedient son.

(D) Ram has an obedient son.

Correct Answer: (A) Ram is an obedient son.
Explanation: Uses 'an' before the vowel-sounding adjective 'obedient'.

98. Choose the correct translation: "हमें अपने देश से प्रेम करना चाहिए।"

(A) We should love our country.

(B) We can love our country.

(D) We may love our country.

Correct Answer: (A) We should love our country.
Explanation: Moral duty ('चाहिए') is expressed using 'should + base verb'.

99. Choose the correct translation: "दरवाजा बंद करो।"

(A) Shut the door.

(B) Shuts the door.

(D) You shut door.

Correct Answer: (A) Shut the door.
Explanation: Imperative sentences begin directly with the base form of the verb.

100. Choose the correct translation: "मेरे स्टेशन पहुँचने से पहले गाड़ी खुल चुकी थी।"

(A) The train had started before I reached the station.

(B) The train started before I had reached the station.

(D) Train starts before I reach station.

Correct Answer: (A) The train had started before I reached the station.
Explanation: For earlier actions in past sequence: past perfect ('had started') + 'before' + simple past ('reached').

Passage 1 (Story Based)

A mighty lion was sleeping peacefully beneath the shade of a large banyan tree in the jungle. A tiny mouse, playing nearby, accidentally ran across the lion's nose, waking him up. Furious at being disturbed, the lion trapped the trembling mouse under his heavy paw and prepared to crush it. The little mouse squeaked desperately, "Forgive me, O King! If you spare my life, I promise I will repay your kindness one day." Amused by the idea that a helpless creature could ever help him, the lion laughed and let the mouse go. A few weeks later, the lion fell into a hunter’s strong rope net. His roars of distress echoed through the forest. Hearing the cries, the tiny mouse arrived, quickly gnawed through the thick cords with its sharp teeth, and freed the lion. From that day on, the two remained loyal friends.

Q1. Why was the lion angry with the little mouse?

Ans: The lion was angry because the mouse ran across his nose while playing, disturbing his sleep.

Q2. What promise did the mouse make to save its life?

Ans: The mouse promised that if the lion spared its life, it would find a way to repay the kindness in the future.

Q3. How did the lion get trapped later on?

Ans: The lion was trapped in the forest by a hunter’s heavy rope net and was unable to escape.

Q4. How did the tiny mouse rescue the mighty lion?

Ans: Hearing the lion's roars, the mouse arrived and used its sharp teeth to chew through the ropes, setting the lion free.

Passage 2 (Story Based)

Long ago, there lived a wealthy king named Midas who possessed immense riches but still craved more gold. One day, a mysterious stranger appeared and offered him a wish. Midas wished that everything he touched would turn into pure gold. The stranger granted the wish and disappeared. Delighted, Midas touched an oak twig, an apple from a tree, and a stone; all immediately turned into solid gold. He was overjoyed with his newfound power. However, when he sat down to eat, the bread and wine turned to hard gold the moment they touched his lips, leaving him unable to eat or drink. Shortly after, his young daughter ran into the room to comfort him. As he hugged her, she turned into a cold, lifeless golden statue. Horrified by his greed, Midas wept bitterly and begged the heavens to take away the golden touch.

Q1. What wish did King Midas ask from the stranger?

Ans: King Midas wished that everything he touched would instantly turn into solid gold.

Q2. What happened when Midas tried to eat his food?

Ans: The bread and wine turned into hard gold as soon as they touched his lips, preventing him from eating or drinking.

Q3. What tragedy made Midas realize his grave mistake?

Ans: When his loving daughter hugged him, she immediately turned into a lifeless golden statue, showing him the danger of his wish.

Q4. What is the moral of the story of King Midas?

Ans: The moral is that excessive greed leads to misery, and love, health, and family matter far more than wealth.

Poetry Comprehension

"Thus let me live, unseen, unknown;
Thus unlamented let me die;
Steal from the world, and not a stone
Tell where I lie.

Sound sleep by night; study and ease
Together mixt, sweet recreation,
And innocence, which most does please
With meditation."

Q1. How does the poet desire to live his life?

Ans: The poet wishes to live a simple, peaceful life, unseen and unknown by the wider public.

Q2. What wish does the poet express regarding his death and grave?

Ans: He wants to pass away quietly without grief from crowds, wishing that not even an engraved stone marks his burial place.

Q3. What elements contribute to a balanced, contented day according to these lines?

Ans: A good night's rest, a mix of study and leisure, simple recreation, and quiet meditation provide lasting contentment.

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

Ans: These lines are taken from 'Ode on Solitude' by Alexander Pope.

1. Why did the author in 'The Pace for Living' consider himself a slow thinker?

Ans: R.C. Hutchinson considered himself a slow thinker because his thoughts moved at an unhurried pace. He often came up with witty responses hours after a conversation had ended, making him feel out of sync with modern conversational speed.

2. Why does Jim find it difficult to get people to support ecology in 'Me and the Ecology Bit'?

Ans: Jim found it difficult because although his neighbors agreed on the general need to protect the environment, they were unwilling to change their own daily habits—such as reducing car use or separating compostable waste.

3. How did Mahadevi Varma know that Gillu was feeling unwell on his final day?

Ans: On his last day, Gillu refused to touch his favorite cashews, did not run around the room, and his paws felt icy to the touch. Despite her efforts to warm him with an electric heater, his condition continued to deteriorate.

4. What criticism did Satyajit Ray level against Indian cinema in his essay?

Ans: Ray criticized the tendency of Indian filmmakers to imitate Hollywood conventions, including out-of-place musical interludes and exaggerated melodrama, urging them to draw from the authentic realities of Indian life instead.

5. What message did Alexander Aris share in Oslo while accepting the Nobel Peace Prize?

Ans: Alexander Aris emphasized that the honor was shared with all people of Burma fighting non-violently for basic democratic rights and freedom from military oppression, reflecting his mother's ongoing commitment to the cause.

6. How did Akoulya and Malasha reconcile after their initial dispute?

Ans: After their disagreement over the splashed dress, the two girls moved past their frustration. They began digging a small stream in the mud with chips of wood, playing together while the adults around them continued shouting.

7. Why did Halku feel a strange relief after his field was destroyed in 'January Night'?

Ans: Although the loss of his crop left him financially ruined, Halku felt a sense of relief knowing he would no longer have to spend bitterly cold winter nights out in the open field trying to guard the harvest.

8. What lesson does Periasamy Thooran convey in 'The Empty Heart'?

Ans: The poem warns against unrestrained greed. Despite receiving seven full pitchers of gold, the man became consumed by the need to fill an eighth, half-full pot, ultimately ruining his health and dying unfulfilled.

1. Importance of Discipline

Discipline is fundamental to personal development and steady achievement. In student life, it means maintaining punctuality, following school guidelines, and completing tasks on schedule. Without discipline, talent often goes unfulfilled in disorganization. Self-control and respect for rules help young individuals handle future professional responsibilities, paving the way toward dependable citizenship and balanced personal growth.

2. Clean India Mission (Swachh Bharat)

The Clean India Mission is a nationwide initiative aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene across cities and villages. Proper waste management, avoiding litter in public places, and maintaining clean community areas help reduce infectious illnesses and protect local water sources. Consistent cleanliness habits in schools and neighborhoods support both public health and civic pride.

3. A Visit to a Historical Place

Last winter, I visited the ancient ruins of Nalanda University in Bihar. Walking through the surviving red-brick monasteries and assembly halls gave me a sense of the region's rich intellectual past. Centuries ago, thousands of scholars from across Asia gathered here to study philosophy, astronomy, and languages. Visiting historical sites offers perspective on how culture and ideas developed over generations.

4. Value of Books

Books are a lasting source of knowledge and personal reflection. They introduce readers to new ideas, historical events, and different ways of thinking without requiring travel. Regular reading develops vocabulary, strengthens focus, and encourages independent thinking. Building a steady habit of reading offers practical guidance and lifelong learning.

5. Environmental Protection

Environmental protection is essential to preserving the natural resources that sustain life. Deforestation, unmanaged industrial waste, and high vehicle emissions continue to threaten clean air, soil, and freshwater supplies. Everyday practices—such as conserving water, minimizing plastic use, and planting trees—help reduce environmental strain and protect ecosystems for future generations.

(i) Notice Writing: Annual Sports Meet

Zila School, Purnea

NOTICE

Ref No: ZSP/2023/18 Date: 12th January 2023

ANNUAL ATHLETICS & SPORTS MEET 2023

All students are hereby informed that our school is organizing its Annual Sports Meet on 28th January 2023 on the school playground. Events will include track races, long jump, shot put, and inter-house relay matches.

Interested participants should submit their names to the Physical Education Teacher by 20th January 2023. Preliminary selections will take place on 22nd January.

Aditya Raj
Sports Secretary
Class 10 'A'

(ii) Report Writing: Science Exhibition in School

SCIENCE EXHIBITION AT HIGH SCHOOL, PATNA

By: Manish Kumar, Student Editor | Patna | 15th February 2023

A Science Exhibition was organized at High School, Gardanibagh, Patna, on 14th February 2023. The event was inaugurated by the District Education Officer at 10:00 AM.

Students from Classes 8 to 10 displayed more than fifty working models covering renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, robotics, and organic farming. A working model on solar-powered drip irrigation presented by Class 10 students won first prize. The Chief Guest commended the participants for applying scientific concepts to practical environmental challenges. The event concluded with an awards ceremony and a brief speech by the Principal.

(iii) Message Writing: Telephonic Message for a Friend

MESSAGE

Date: 18th March 2023 Time: 04:30 PM

Dear Vivek,

Your friend Sanjay called while you were out at coaching. He wanted to inform you that our group study session for Science has been moved to his house tomorrow at 9:00 AM instead of 11:00 AM. He also requested that you bring your sample question paper booklet.

I am heading to the market and will return by 6:30 PM.

Alok

(iv) Application Writing: Application for Leave of Absence

To,
The Headmaster,
Rajendra High School, Chhapra.

Date: 22nd February 2023
Subject: Application for four days' leave of absence.

Respected Sir,

I am a student of Class 10th 'B' in your school. I am writing to inform you that I have contracted viral fever and have been advised by our family physician to rest at home for four days, from 23rd February to 26th February 2023, to fully recover.

I kindly request you to grant me leave of absence for these dates. I have attached the doctor's prescription for your reference, and I will ensure I catch up on missed classwork upon my return.

Thanking you.

Yours obediently,
Rohit Verma
Class: 10 'B', Roll No: 19

(v) Letter Writing: Informal Letter to Father Regarding Exam Preparation

Hostel Room No. 08,
Netarhat Public School, Ranchi.
Date: 5th January 2023

Respected Father,

I received your letter yesterday and was glad to know that everyone at home is doing well. In your letter, you inquired about my preparations for the upcoming Class 10 Matriculation Board Examinations.

I am writing to share that my revision is progressing steadily. I have completed my review of Mathematics and Science and am currently solving past five years' board papers under timed conditions. My teachers have been reviewing our weekly tests, and my scores have remained consistent. I am spending extra time on English grammar and Sanskrit writing to strengthen my overall preparation.

Please convey my respects to Mother and warm regards to little Priya. I am keeping to a regular schedule and taking care of my health as you advised.

Your loving son,
Aman

(vi) Speech Writing: Cleanliness and Hygiene in Morning Assembly

TOPIC: CLEANLINESS AND HYGIENE

Respected Principal, teachers, and my fellow students,
Good morning to everyone present. Today, I would like to speak briefly on the importance of maintaining daily cleanliness and personal hygiene.

As the familiar saying goes, "Cleanliness is next to godliness." Keeping our surroundings clean is not just an aesthetic matter; it directly impacts community health. Practicing basic habits—such as washing our hands before meals, using bins for waste disposal, and avoiding plastic litter—helps curb the spread of common illnesses.

A clean and orderly classroom environment also makes it easier to focus and study effectively. Let us take responsibility for keeping our desks, corridors, and home spaces clean, setting a constructive example for others in our community. Thank you!

Menu

BSEB 10 English PYQs 2023