BSEB Class 10 English 2024 Previous Year Question Paper

BSEB Class 10th Board Exam 2024

English (Compulsory) — Complete Solved Previous Year Paper

Official Pattern • 100 Objectives + All Subjective Q&A

1. The essay 'The Pace for Living' is written by:

(A) Toni Morrison

(B) R.C. Hutchinson

(D) John Lexau

Correct Answer: (B) R.C. Hutchinson
Explanation: The British novelist R.C. Hutchinson wrote 'The Pace for Living'.

2. Where did the author watch the play featuring an elderly corn-merchant?

(A) London

(B) Dublin

(D) Belfast

Correct Answer: (B) Dublin
Explanation: Hutchinson saw the play in Dublin, the capital of Ireland.

3. In 'The Pace for Living', the corn-merchant’s wife had a habit of spending:

(A) £5 on a holiday

(B) £10 on a holiday

(D) £50 on a holiday

Correct Answer: (B) £10 on a holiday
Explanation: The corn-merchant complained that his wife spent £10 on every holiday.

4. The author in 'The Pace for Living' identifies himself as belonging to the tribe of:

(A) Fast thinkers

(B) Modern thinkers

(D) Critical thinkers

Correct Answer: (C) Slow thinkers
Explanation: The author self-deprecatingly claims he belongs to the tribe of slow thinkers.

5. 'Me and the Ecology Bit' was authored by:

(A) John Lexau

(B) Satyajit Ray

(D) Walter de la Mare

Correct Answer: (A) John Lexau
Explanation: John Lexau is the author of 'Me and the Ecology Bit'.

6. In 'Me and the Ecology Bit', Jim asks Mr. Williams not to burn leaves because:

(A) It is bad for the air and ecology

(B) It creates too much warmth

(D) It attracts insects

Correct Answer: (A) It is bad for the air and ecology
Explanation: Jim advised composting instead of burning leaves to avoid air pollution.

7. What was Mr. Johnson about to do when Jim stopped him?

(A) Drive his car to the post office

(B) Cut down a tree

(D) Throw plastic in the river

Correct Answer: (A) Drive his car to the post office
Explanation: Mr. Johnson was starting his car for a short two-block trip to the post office.

8. In 'Gillu', who attacked the tiny baby squirrel?

(A) A cat

(B) Two crows

(D) A dog

Correct Answer: (B) Two crows
Explanation: A pair of crows poked their sharp beaks at the baby squirrel near the flowerpots.

9. What ointment was applied to Gillu’s wounds by Mahadevi Varma?

(A) Penicillin

(B) Boric acid

(D) Turmeric paste

Correct Answer: (A) Penicillin
Explanation: She cleaned Gillu's wounds with cotton wool and applied penicillin ointment.

10. Gillu would inform the author of his hunger by making a sound like:

(A) Mew-mew

(B) Chik-chik

(D) Pee-pee

Correct Answer: (B) Chik-chik
Explanation: Gillu expressed his hunger or joy with a gentle "chik-chik" tweet.

11. Under which flowering plant was Gillu buried after his death?

(A) Rose

(B) Sonjuhi creeper

(D) Marigold

Correct Answer: (B) Sonjuhi creeper
Explanation: Gillu was buried under the Sonjuhi creeper because he loved playing near it.

12. 'What is Wrong with Indian Films' was composed by:

(A) Satyajit Ray

(B) Premchand

(D) Humayun Kabir

Correct Answer: (A) Satyajit Ray
Explanation: Renowned film director Satyajit Ray wrote this essay.

13. Satyajit Ray won international fame for his debut film:

(A) Aparajito

(B) Pather Panchali

(D) Shatranj Ke Khilari

Correct Answer: (B) Pather Panchali
Explanation: Ray received worldwide acclaim for his 1955 masterpiece 'Pather Panchali'.

14. Aung San Suu Kyi is an internationally recognized pro-democracy leader from:

(A) Sri Lanka

(B) Burma (Myanmar)

(D) Cambodia

Correct Answer: (B) Burma (Myanmar)
Explanation: Aung San Suu Kyi led Burma's struggle for democratic self-determination.

15. Aung San Suu Kyi received the Nobel Peace Prize in:

(A) 1990

(B) 1991

(D) 1995

Correct Answer: (B) 1991
Explanation: She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 while detained under house arrest.

16. The Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech on Suu Kyi’s behalf was delivered by:

(A) Her son, Alexander Aris

(B) Her husband, Michael Aris

(D) Her personal physician

Correct Answer: (A) Her son, Alexander Aris
Explanation: Alexander Aris delivered the Nobel acceptance speech in Oslo.

17. Toni Morrison was the first African-American woman to win the Nobel Prize in:

(A) Peace

(B) Literature

(D) Economics

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

18. In 'Once Upon a Time', the old woman lived in a small house outside:

(A) The capital city

(B) Town

(D) The university

Correct Answer: (B) Town
Explanation: She lived alone in a modest home situated outside town.

19. In Toni Morrison’s lecture, the bird held in the hands of the youths stands for:

(A) Language

(B) Weapon

(D) Religion

Correct Answer: (A) Language
Explanation: Morrison uses the bird as a metaphor for living language.

20. Humayun Kabir delivered his address 'The Unity of Indian Culture' at:

(A) Baroda University

(B) Patna University

(D) Aligarh Muslim University

Correct Answer: (A) Baroda University
Explanation: The speech was delivered to students and faculty at Baroda University.

21. According to Humayun Kabir, what makes Indian civilization unique?

(A) Its continuous spirit of unity and cultural assimilation

(B) Complete military dominance

(D) Strict uniformity of dialect

Correct Answer: (A) Its continuous spirit of unity and cultural assimilation
Explanation: Kabir notes India’s ability to assimilate various cultures into a continuous tradition.

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

(A) Leo Tolstoy

(B) Anton Chekhov

(D) Walter de la Mare

Correct Answer: (A) Leo Tolstoy
Explanation: Russian writer Leo Tolstoy penned this story about two children.

23. In 'Little Girls Wiser Than Men', the two girls had been dressed in new frocks for:

(A) Easter

(B) Christmas

(D) New Year

Correct Answer: (A) Easter
Explanation: The two Russian village girls wore new holiday frocks to celebrate Easter.

24. What were the names of the two young girls in Tolstoy's story?

(A) Akoulya and Malasha

(B) Mary and Martha

(D) Sita and Gita

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

25. William Cowper’s poem is:

(A) God Made the Country

(B) Ode on Solitude

(D) Koel

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

26. In 'God Made the Country', Cowper claims that health and virtue are least threatened in:

(A) Crowded towns

(B) Fields and groves (villages)

(D) Commercial harbors

Correct Answer: (B) Fields and groves (villages)
Explanation: The poet argues that nature and rural life nurture health and moral virtues.

27. 'Ode on Solitude' was composed by:

(A) Alexander Pope

(B) William Cowper

(D) P.B. Shelley

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

28. A happy man in Pope's 'Ode on Solitude' is satisfied with:

(A) Extensive overseas empires

(B) A few paternal acres of inherited land

(D) Military titles

Correct Answer: (B) A few paternal acres of inherited land
Explanation: The poem opens: "Happy the man, whose wish and care / A few paternal acres bound."

29. 'Polythene Bag' was composed by the Odia poet:

(A) Durga Prasad Panda

(B) Vidyapati

(D) Sitakant Mahapatra

Correct Answer: (A) Durga Prasad Panda
Explanation: Durga Prasad Panda wrote 'Polythene Bag'.

30. When burnt, what does a polythene bag give off?

(A) Sweet fragrance

(B) A pungent smell

(D) Golden sparkles

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

31. 'Thinner Than a Crescent' is composed by:

(A) Vidyapati

(B) Kabir

(D) Surdas

Correct Answer: (A) Vidyapati
Explanation: Maithili poet Vidyapati wrote 'Thinner Than a Crescent'.

32. In 'Thinner Than a Crescent', Radha is grieving over the absence of:

(A) Lord Rama

(B) Lord Krishna

(D) Her village friends

Correct Answer: (B) Lord Krishna
Explanation: Radha is pining for Krishna, growing thinner each day.

33. 'The Empty Heart' was authored by:

(A) Periasamy Thooran

(B) Subramania Bharati

(D) Sarojini Naidu

Correct Answer: (A) Periasamy Thooran
Explanation: Tamil poet Periasamy Thooran wrote 'The Empty Heart'.

34. Kalpataru granted the rich man how many pots of gold?

(A) Five

(B) Seven

(D) Ten

Correct Answer: (B) Seven
Explanation: The wish-granting tree presented seven pitchers of gold to the man.

35. The eighth pitcher given to the rich man was:

(A) Full of jewels

(B) Half-full of gold

(D) Filled with water

Correct Answer: (B) Half-full of gold
Explanation: The eighth pitcher was half-full, obsessing the man until his death.

36. The poem 'Koel' was composed by:

(A) Puran Singh

(B) Alexander Pope

(D) Durga Prasad Panda

Correct Answer: (A) Puran Singh
Explanation: Puran Singh wrote 'Koel', celebrating the cuckoo's longing song.

37. In 'Koel', the bird hides among the leaves of which tree?

(A) Neem

(B) Mango

(D) Peepal

Correct Answer: (B) Mango
Explanation: The Koel conceals itself within mango leaves and sings its song.

38. 'The Sleeping Porter' was written by:

(A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota

(B) Walter de la Mare

(D) John Lexau

Correct Answer: (A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota
Explanation: Nepalese poet Laxmi Prasad Devkota authored 'The Sleeping Porter'.

39. The load carried by the sleeping porter weighed:

(A) 40 lb

(B) 54 lb

(D) 80 lb

Correct Answer: (B) 54 lb
Explanation: The poem states: "A 54 lb load on his back, his bones flesh-less."

40. In 'The Sleeping Porter', the porter’s cap was:

(A) Clean and white

(B) Dirty and sweat-stained

(D) Brand new

Correct Answer: (B) Dirty and sweat-stained
Explanation: Devkota describes the porter wearing a soiled, sweat-stained cap.

41. 'Martha' was written by:

(A) Walter de la Mare

(B) William Cowper

(D) Toni Morrison

Correct Answer: (A) Walter de la Mare
Explanation: Walter de la Mare wrote 'Martha'.

42. Martha narrated her stories in the:

(A) City plaza

(B) Hazel glen

(D) Churchyard

Correct Answer: (B) Hazel glen
Explanation: Martha gathered children in the hazel glen to narrate tales.

43. Halku was a poor tenant farmer in Premchand’s short story:

(A) The Bet

(B) January Night (Poos Ki Raat)

(D) Two Horizons

Correct Answer: (B) January Night (Poos Ki Raat)
Explanation: Halku is the protagonist of Premchand's 'January Night'.

44. In 'January Night', who was Jabra?

(A) Halku’s son

(B) Halku’s pet dog

(D) The landlord

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

45. Halku had saved three rupees to purchase:

(A) A blanket

(B) New clothes for Munni

(D) Medicine

Correct Answer: (A) A blanket
Explanation: Halku saved three rupees to buy a blanket for the winter cold.

46. The money Halku saved for a blanket was demanded by:

(A) Sahna, the landlord

(B) His brother

(D) A tax collector

Correct Answer: (A) Sahna, the landlord
Explanation: Sahna demanded payment for outstanding rent arrears.

47. 'Allergy' was written by:

(A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh

(B) John Galsworthy

(D) Premchand

Correct Answer: (A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh
Explanation: Dr. Rana S.P. Singh authored the essay 'Allergy'.

48. An allergy occurs due to a hypersensitive reaction of the body’s:

(A) Digestive system

(B) Immune system

(D) Skeletal framework

Correct Answer: (B) Immune system
Explanation: Allergies stem from the immune system overreacting to allergens.

49. Anton Chekhov was a prominent writer from:

(A) Russia

(B) France

(D) England

Correct Answer: (A) Russia
Explanation: Anton Chekhov was a renowned Russian playwright and short-story writer.

50. In 'The Bet', the confinement period was agreed for:

(A) 5 years

(B) 10 years

(D) 20 years

Correct Answer: (C) 15 years
Explanation: The bet stipulated fifteen years of solitary confinement.

51. The bet in Chekhov’s story was struck between a banker and a:

(A) Doctor

(B) Lawyer

(D) Journalist

Correct Answer: (B) Lawyer
Explanation: The bet was arranged between the wealthy banker and a young lawyer.

52. 'Quality' is a short story about the German shoemakers:

(A) Gessler Brothers

(B) Smith Brothers

(D) Grimm Brothers

Correct Answer: (A) Gessler Brothers
Explanation: The story follows the dedicated German bootmaker Mr. Gessler.

53. John Galsworthy was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in:

(A) 1930

(B) 1932

(D) 1940

Correct Answer: (B) 1932
Explanation: English author John Galsworthy received the Nobel Prize in 1932.

54. In Katherine Mansfield’s story, who were Sun and Moon?

(A) Two celestial bodies

(B) Two young siblings

(D) Servants in the household

Correct Answer: (B) Two young siblings
Explanation: Sun was the young boy and Moon was his little sister.

55. 'Two Horizons' was written by:

(A) Binapani Mohanty

(B) Mahadevi Varma

(D) Anita Desai

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

56. 'Two Horizons' is told through letters exchanged between:

(A) A father and his son

(B) A mother and her daughter

(D) Two school friends

Correct Answer: (B) A mother and her daughter
Explanation: The narrative unfolds through the correspondence of a daughter and mother.

57. The author of 'Love Defiled' is:

(A) Giridhar Jha

(B) Premchand

(D) Ruskin Bond

Correct Answer: (A) Giridhar Jha
Explanation: Giridhar Jha wrote 'Love Defiled'.

58. The lawyer in 'The Bet' renounced the prize money by leaving his room:

(A) Five minutes before the time expired

(B) One year earlier

(D) Two days later

Correct Answer: (A) Five minutes before the time expired
Explanation: He intentionally walked out five minutes early to forfeit the millions.

59. Mr. Gessler died of:

(A) Heart failure

(B) Slow starvation

(D) An accident

Correct Answer: (B) Slow starvation
Explanation: Gessler spent his remaining money on leather, dying of slow starvation.

60. Who grazed and ruined Halku’s field during the cold night?

(A) Stray goats

(B) A herd of Nilgais (blue bulls)

(D) Swarm of locusts

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

61. Choose the correct passive voice: "The boys are flying kites."

(A) Kites are flown by the boys.

(B) Kites are being flown by the boys.

(D) Kites have been flown by the boys.

Correct Answer: (B) Kites are being flown by the boys.
Explanation: Present continuous uses 'is/are + being + V3' (are being flown).

62. Choose the correct passive voice: "He wrote an interesting novel."

(A) An interesting novel was written by him.

(B) An interesting novel is written by him.

(D) An interesting novel wrote by him.

Correct Answer: (A) An interesting novel was written by him.
Explanation: Simple past active 'wrote' converts to 'was + V3' (was written).

63. Choose the correct passive voice: "They have repaired the bridge."

(A) The bridge is repaired by them.

(B) The bridge was repaired by them.

(D) The bridge had repaired by them.

Correct Answer: (C) The bridge has been repaired by them.
Explanation: Present perfect passive uses 'has/have + been + V3'.

64. Choose the correct passive voice: "Switch off the fan."

(A) Let the fan be switched off.

(B) You switch off fan.

(D) Fan is switched off.

Correct Answer: (A) Let the fan be switched off.
Explanation: Imperatives use 'Let + object + be + past participle'.

65. Choose the correct active voice: "The glass was broken by Rahul."

(A) Rahul broke the glass.

(B) Rahul breaks the glass.

(D) Rahul is breaking the glass.

Correct Answer: (A) Rahul broke the glass.
Explanation: 'Was broken' converts back to simple past 'broke'.

66. Choose the correct passive voice: "Who painted this picture?"

(A) By whom was this picture painted?

(B) By whom is this picture painted?

(D) By who was this picture paint?

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

67. Choose the correct passive voice: "We should help the poor."

(A) The poor should be helped by us.

(B) The poor must helped by us.

(D) The poor will be helped by us.

Correct Answer: (A) The poor should be helped by us.
Explanation: Modal passive structure: 'modal + be + past participle' (should be helped).

68. Choose the correct active voice: "A letter is being written by Anita."

(A) Anita writes a letter.

(B) Anita is writing a letter.

(D) Anita has written a letter.

Correct Answer: (B) Anita is writing a letter.
Explanation: 'Is being written' converts to present continuous 'is writing'.

69. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "I have completed my homework."

(A) He said that he had completed his homework.

(B) He said that he has completed his homework.

(D) He said that he completed his homework.

Correct Answer: (A) He said that he had completed his homework.
Explanation: Present perfect changes to past perfect with a past reporting verb.

70. Choose the correct indirect speech: The teacher said, "Water boils at 100°C."

(A) The teacher said that water boiled at 100°C.

(B) The teacher said that water boils at 100°C.

(D) The teacher says water is boiling at 100°C.

Correct Answer: (B) The teacher said that water boils at 100°C.
Explanation: Scientific facts retain simple present tense in indirect speech.

71. Choose the correct indirect speech: Mother said to me, "Where are you going?"

(A) Mother asked me where I was going.

(B) Mother asked me where was I going.

(D) Mother asked where are you going.

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

72. Choose the correct indirect speech: Rohan said to me, "Do you play football?"

(A) Rohan asked me if I played football.

(B) Rohan asked me that did I play football.

(D) Rohan asked whether do I play football.

Correct Answer: (A) Rohan asked me if I played football.
Explanation: Yes/No questions take 'if' followed by assertive past tense.

73. Choose the correct indirect speech: The doctor said to the patient, "Take this medicine regularly."

(A) The doctor advised the patient to take that medicine regularly.

(B) The doctor ordered the patient take medicine regularly.

(D) The doctor requested patient taking that medicine.

Correct Answer: (A) The doctor advised the patient to take that medicine regularly.
Explanation: Medical recommendations use 'advised... to + base verb'; 'this' changes to 'that'.

74. Choose the correct direct speech: He asked me what my name was.

(A) He said to me, "What is your name?"

(B) He said to me, "What was your name?"

(D) He said, "What is my name?"

Correct Answer: (A) He said to me, "What is your name?"
Explanation: The indirect question reverses to direct present interrogative form.

75. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "Alas! I have lost my purse."

(A) He exclaimed with sorrow that he had lost his purse.

(B) He cried with joy that he lost his purse.

(D) He said that he had lost his purse.

Correct Answer: (A) He exclaimed with sorrow that he had lost his purse.
Explanation: 'Alas' indicates grief; reporting verb becomes 'exclaimed with sorrow'.

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

(A) She says that she is happy.

(B) She says that she was happy.

(D) She told that she was happy.

Correct Answer: (A) She says that she is happy.
Explanation: Present reporting verbs preserve the reported verb's tense.

77. She is fond ______ classical music. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) of

(B) for

(D) with

Correct Answer: (A) of
Explanation: The adjective 'fond' takes the fixed preposition 'of'.

78. The cat jumped ______ the kitchen counter. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) onto / upon

(B) into

(D) at

Correct Answer: (A) onto / upon
Explanation: Movement to an elevated surface takes 'onto' or 'upon'.

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

(A) of

(B) from

(D) by

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

80. The frog jumped ______ the deep well. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) into

(B) in

(D) on

Correct Answer: (A) into
Explanation: Movement into an enclosed space takes 'into'.

81. You should always listen ______ the instructions. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) on

(D) at

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

82. He has been suffering from fever ______ three days. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) for

(B) since

(D) in

Correct Answer: (A) for
Explanation: A duration of time ('three days') takes 'for'.

83. He is senior ______ me in service. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) than

(D) with

Correct Answer: (A) to
Explanation: Comparative adjectives ending in '-ior' take 'to' rather than 'than'.

84. Distribute these notebooks ______ the two students. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) between

(B) among

(D) with

Correct Answer: (A) between
Explanation: Division between two entities takes 'between'.

85. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Lieutenant

(B) Leutenant

(D) Liutenant

Correct Answer: (A) Lieutenant
Explanation: The military rank is spelt L-i-e-u-t-e-n-a-n-t.

86. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Environment

(B) Enviroment

(D) Environmant

Correct Answer: (A) Environment
Explanation: Contains 'n' after 'r': E-n-v-i-r-o-n-m-e-n-t.

87. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Necessary

(B) Neccessary

(D) Necassary

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

88. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Separate

(B) Seperate

(D) Sepparate

Correct Answer: (A) Separate
Explanation: Spelt with '-par-': 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: Spelt with two 'i's: 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: Ends in '-ar': G-r-a-m-m-a-r.

91. Choose the correctly spelt word:

(A) Maintenance

(B) Maintanance

(D) Maintenence

Correct Answer: (A) Maintenance
Explanation: The noun form is spelt M-a-i-n-t-e-n-a-n-c-e.

92. 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.

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

(A) is

(B) are

(D) have been

Correct Answer: (A) is
Explanation: Functions as a single food concept, taking singular verb 'is'.

94. Either you or he ______ to blame. (Choose correct verb)

(A) is

(B) are

(D) have

Correct Answer: (A) is
Explanation: In 'either... or', the verb agrees with the closer subject ('he' -> 'is').

95. Each of the boys ______ awarded a medal. (Choose correct verb)

(A) was

(B) were

(D) have been

Correct Answer: (A) was
Explanation: 'Each' takes a singular verb ('was').

96. We ______ obey the laws of the nation. (Choose correct modal)

(A) ought to / must

(B) can

(D) might

Correct Answer: (A) ought to / must
Explanation: Moral obligation or civic duty takes 'ought to' or 'must'.

97. Choose the correct translation: "सूर्य पूरब में उगता है।"

(A) The Sun rises in the east.

(B) The Sun rose in the east.

(D) Sun rises in east.

Correct Answer: (A) The Sun rises in the east.
Explanation: Natural facts are stated in simple present tense with 'The'.

98. Choose the correct translation: "ईमानदारी सबसे अच्छी नीति है।"

(A) Honesty is the best policy.

(B) Honesty was the best policy.

(D) Honesty is best policy.

Correct Answer: (A) Honesty is the best policy.
Explanation: The proverb requires 'the' before superlative 'best'.

99. Choose the correct translation: "मुझे तैरना आता है।"

(A) I know how to swim.

(B) I can swimming.

(D) I am swim.

Correct Answer: (A) I know how to swim.
Explanation: Knowing a practical skill uses 'know how to + base verb'.

100. Choose the correct translation: "पेड़ हमारे सच्चे मित्र हैं।"

(A) Trees are our true friends.

(B) Trees were our true friends.

(D) Trees have our true friends.

Correct Answer: (A) Trees are our true friends.
Explanation: Plural subject 'Trees' takes 'are'.

Passage 1 (Story Based)

King Robert Bruce of Scotland was defeated six times by the English army. Disheartened and despairing, he fled into the wild highlands and sought refuge inside a cold, dark cave. While lying on the damp ground, wondering whether to abandon the struggle for his country, his attention was drawn to a tiny spider weaving its web from one rocky ledge to another. The spider tried six consecutive times to cast its thread across the wide gap, falling each time. Yet it did not give up. On the seventh attempt, the spider swung with renewed vigor and successfully anchored its silk strand to the opposite wall. Watching this, Bruce leaped to his feet with renewed hope. He realized that perseverance was the key to success. He gathered his scattered soldiers once more, fought courageously, and won independence for Scotland.

Q1. Why was King Robert Bruce hiding inside a dark cave?

Ans: He was hiding because he had been defeated six times by the English army and was fleeing from his enemies in despair.

Q2. What caught the king’s attention while he was lying in the cave?

Ans: His attention was caught by a tiny spider attempting to cast a thread across a gap in the cave to build its web.

Q3. What happened on the spider’s seventh attempt?

Ans: On its seventh try, the spider succeeded in anchoring its thread to the opposite rocky wall.

Q4. What lesson did King Robert Bruce learn from the spider?

Ans: He learned that persistence and courage can overcome repeated failures, inspiring him to rally his army and win Scottish independence.

Passage 2 (Story Based)

In a peaceful village near a forest, a shepherd boy watched over a flock of sheep. Feeling bored, he decided to play a trick on the hardworking villagers. He ran toward the fields crying loudly, "Wolf! Wolf! A wolf is attacking the sheep!" The villagers dropped their farming implements and ran to help him, only to find the boy laughing at their expense. He repeated this prank a few days later, fooling the villagers a second time. However, one evening, a hungry wolf emerged from the forest and attacked the flock. Terrified, the boy screamed, "Wolf! Please help me!" But the villagers assumed it was another practical joke and ignored his calls. The wolf killed several sheep and scattered the flock, leaving the boy weeping over the consequences of his dishonesty.

Q1. Why did the shepherd boy cry "Wolf!" the first time?

Ans: He cried "Wolf!" simply out of boredom, wanting to trick the villagers for his own amusement.

Q2. How did the villagers respond to his cries?

Ans: The villagers dropped their work and ran to the pasture to rescue the flock from danger.

Q3. Why did no one come to help when the wolf actually attacked?

Ans: The villagers believed he was playing another trick on them, so they ignored his calls for help.

Q4. What is the central moral of the story?

Ans: The moral is that people do not trust habitual liars, even when they finally tell the truth.

Poetry Comprehension

"A 54 lb load on his back,
his bones flesh-less,
dull embers in his eyes,
a dirty sweat-stained cap on his head,
he climbs the snow-clad cliff,
in the winter cold."

Q1. What was the weight of the load carried by the porter?

Ans: The porter was carrying a heavy load weighing 54 pounds on his back.

Q2. How does the poet describe the physical condition of the porter?

Ans: He is described as thin and worn down ("bones flesh-less"), with weary eyes and a sweat-stained cap.

Q3. What kind of weather and terrain was the porter facing?

Ans: He was climbing steep, snow-covered cliffs in freezing winter temperatures.

Q4. Name the poem and the poet of the above lines.

Ans: The poem is 'The Sleeping Porter' and the poet is Laxmi Prasad Devkota.

1. What does R.C. Hutchinson illustrate through the character of the corn-merchant?

Ans: Hutchinson illustrates the strain that modern life places on ordinary individuals. The corn-merchant's anxiety over money, family expenses, and rapid social changes highlights the difficulties faced by those who prefer an unhurried pace.

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

Ans: Jim finds that while his neighbors readily agree that environmental protection is important, they are reluctant to make personal adjustments—such as walking short distances or composting organic waste.

3. How did Gillu show his affection toward Mahadevi Varma when she was injured?

Ans: When the author was hospitalized following a car accident, Gillu grew subdued and refused to eat his favorite cashews. Upon her return, he gently stroked her hair with his paws to comfort her.

4. What does Satyajit Ray identify as the primary raw material of cinema?

Ans: Satyajit Ray states that the primary raw material of cinema is life itself. He encouraged Indian filmmakers to look directly at the real experiences and everyday challenges of ordinary people.

5. What does the parable of the old blind woman emphasize in 'Once Upon a Time'?

Ans: Toni Morrison’s parable emphasizes that language is a living, vulnerable entity. By telling the visitors that the bird's fate rested in their hands, the woman highlighted personal responsibility for preserving cultural expression.

6. Why are Akoulya and Malasha considered wiser than the adults in Tolstoy's story?

Ans: The two young girls are called wiser because they moved past their argument almost immediately, cooperating to dig a channel in the mud, while their parents continued shouting and brawling.

7. Why was Halku reluctant to give his savings to the landlord in 'January Night'?

Ans: Halku had saved those three rupees over several months to buy a blanket for the winter cold. Giving the money to Sahna meant facing freezing nights in the fields without any protection.

8. What led to the demise of the greedy man in 'The Empty Heart'?

Ans: Although the wishing tree granted him seven full pitchers of gold, the man became consumed by the need to fill a half-full eighth pot, ultimately starving himself and dying from exhaustion.

1. My Aim in Life

Having a clear aim provides focus and direction. My goal is to become a dedicated teacher. Teaching offers the opportunity to share knowledge, encourage young minds, and build strong character in future generations. By working patiently with students from diverse backgrounds, I hope to support educational growth in rural areas and contribute meaningfully to society.

2. Value of Time

Time is an irreplaceable resource that must be managed thoughtfully. Lost money can be re-earned and lost health can often be restored, but a moment passed cannot be retrieved. For students, practicing good time management helps avoid last-minute stress, improves academic performance, and builds reliable personal discipline for the future.

3. A Village Fair

A village fair is a lively celebration of rural life, usually held during seasonal festivals. Stalls offer traditional sweets, handmade clay toys, and household tools, while folk musicians and rides entertain families from surrounding areas. The fair serves as a social gathering where neighbors connect, trade local goods, and celebrate shared traditions.

4. Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution remains a significant threat to global health. Industrial waste, vehicle exhaust, and improper plastic disposal have contaminated air, water, and soil systems. Addressing this crisis requires consistent everyday actions, including planting trees, conserving water, recycling waste, and reducing our dependence on single-use items.

5. Patriotism

Patriotism is genuine love and responsibility toward one's country. It goes beyond slogans and ceremonies; it is reflected in upholding laws, protecting public property, helping fellow citizens, and working toward social progress. True patriots serve their nation with honesty, humility, and dedication in their daily lives.

(i) Notice Writing: Inter-School Painting Competition

Government High School, Muzaffarpur

NOTICE

Ref No: GHSM/ART/2024/09 Date: 10th January 2024

INTER-SCHOOL PAINTING COMPETITION

All students from Classes 8 to 10 are hereby informed that our school is organizing an Inter-School Painting Competition on 24th January 2024 in the School Arts Hall from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The theme for the competition is: "Clean Earth, Green Earth."

Participants must bring their own colors and brushes; drawing sheets will be provided by the school. Interested candidates should register their names with the Art Teacher by 18th January 2024.

Sunita Kumari
Secretary, Fine Arts Club
Class 10 'A'

(ii) Report Writing: Road Safety Awareness Week

OBSERVANCE OF ROAD SAFETY AWARENESS WEEK

By: Rakesh Ranjan, Student Reporter | Patna | 20th January 2024

Patna Collegiate School organized a week-long Road Safety Awareness campaign from 12th to 18th January 2024. The program aimed to educate students on traffic rules, helmet safety, and responsible pedestrian habits.

The Traffic Superintendent of Police inaugurated the event and gave an informative presentation on preventing road accidents. Throughout the week, students participated in poster-making contests, traffic drills, and street plays near major intersections. Student volunteers distributed informational pamphlets to motorists. The campaign concluded with a pledge taken by all students to follow traffic regulations diligently.

(iii) Message Writing: Telephonic Message for Father

MESSAGE

Date: 15th February 2024 Time: 06:15 PM

Respected Papa,

Your colleague Mr. Verma called while you were out for your evening walk. He mentioned that tomorrow's staff committee meeting has been moved to 9:30 AM instead of 11:00 AM. He requested that you bring the annual accounts file along with you.

I have placed the file on your study desk.

Aditya

(iv) Application Writing: Application for Sports Equipment

To,
The Headmaster,
Zila School, Gaya.

Date: 2nd February 2024
Subject: Request for additional sports equipment.

Respected Sir,

Most respectfully, I beg to submit on behalf of the students of Class 10 that our school sports store currently lacks adequate cricket, volleyball, and football gear. Several footballs and bats are worn out, and we do not have enough equipment for regular practice during games periods.

With upcoming district-level inter-school tournaments next month, regular practice is essential for our school teams to perform well.

I therefore request you to arrange new sports equipment for our school store at your earliest convenience.

Thanking you.

Yours obediently,
Pankaj Kumar
Sports Captain, Class 10 'B'
Roll No. 12

(v) Letter Writing: Letter Congratulating a Friend on Board Exam Success

Station Road, Buxar,
Bihar.
Date: 5th April 2024

Dear Saurav,

I was delighted to learn today that you secured 94% marks and a first-division rank in the BSEB Matriculation Board Examination 2024. Please accept my warmest congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

Your consistent hard work, discipline, and commitment throughout the year have truly paid off. Your parents and teachers must be very proud of your results. I am confident that you will continue to perform just as well in your Intermediate studies.

Please convey my respects to Uncle and Aunty, and give my warm wishes to your younger brother. I look forward to meeting up and celebrating when I visit next week.

Yours sincerely,
Manish

(vi) Speech Writing: Benefits of Yoga and Health in Morning Assembly

TOPIC: BENEFITS OF YOGA AND HEALTH

Respected Principal, respected teachers, and my fellow students,
A warm good morning to everyone present here. Today, I would like to speak briefly on: The Benefits of Yoga for Student Health.

In our daily student lives, we often face academic pressure and long hours of sedentary study. Yoga is a time-tested practice that supports both physical health and mental calm. Practicing simple asanas and breathing exercises helps improve posture, enhances blood circulation, and strengthens the immune system.

Equally important, pranayama and meditation calm an overactive mind, improve memory retention, and build concentration needed for exams. Setting aside just fifteen to twenty minutes each morning for yoga can help us stay balanced, energetic, and focused. Let us make yoga a regular part of our daily routine. Thank you!

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BSEB 10 English PYQs 2024