BSEB Class 10 English 2025 Previous Year Question Paper

BSEB Class 10th Board Exam 2025

English (Compulsory) — Complete Solved Previous Year Paper

Official Pattern • 100 Objectives + All Subjective Q&A

1. Who wrote the reflective essay 'The Pace for Living'?

(A) John Lexau

(B) R.C. Hutchinson

(D) Toni Morrison

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

2. The central character in 'The Pace for Living' was an elderly corn-merchant in:

(A) A small Irish country town

(B) London city

(D) New York suburb

Correct Answer: (A) A small Irish country town
Explanation: The play featured an elderly corn-merchant living in an Irish country town.

3. Who was financially deceiving the corn-merchant?

(A) His nephew

(B) His son

(D) His attorney

Correct Answer: (A) His nephew
Explanation: His nephew was regularly cheating him out of his money.

4. The author in 'The Pace for Living' admits that he belongs to the category of:

(A) Quick thinkers

(B) Slow thinkers

(D) Radical thinkers

Correct Answer: (B) Slow thinkers
Explanation: Hutchinson self-identifies with the tribe of slow thinkers who process ideas unhurriedly.

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

(A) John Lexau

(B) Premchand

(D) Katherine Mansfield

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

6. In 'Me and the Ecology Bit', Jim urges Mr. Williams to make:

(A) A bonfire

(B) A compost pile of leaves

(D) A stone wall

Correct Answer: (B) A compost pile of leaves
Explanation: Jim advised Mr. Williams to compost dry leaves rather than burning them.

7. Mr. Johnson was preparing to drive his car to:

(A) The supermarket

(B) The post office

(D) His friend's house

Correct Answer: (B) The post office
Explanation: Mr. Johnson was driving to the post office just two blocks away.

8. The short story 'Gillu' was written by:

(A) Mahadevi Varma

(B) Sarojini Naidu

(D) Binapani Mohanty

Correct Answer: (A) Mahadevi Varma
Explanation: Mahadevi Varma wrote the touching story of the pet squirrel Gillu.

9. Who wounded the baby squirrel before Mahadevi Varma saved it?

(A) Two crows

(B) A stray dog

(D) A hawk

Correct Answer: (A) Two crows
Explanation: Two crows attacked the baby squirrel near the flowerpots.

10. Gillu would indicate his hunger by producing a soft sound of:

(A) Chik-chik

(B) Trr-trr

(D) Tweet-tweet

Correct Answer: (A) Chik-chik
Explanation: Gillu chirped "chik-chik" whenever he needed food.

11. Under which plant was Gillu's small body laid to rest?

(A) Sonjuhi creeper

(B) Jasmine creeper

(D) Hibiscus shrub

Correct Answer: (A) Sonjuhi creeper
Explanation: Mahadevi Varma buried Gillu under the roots of the Sonjuhi plant.

12. Satyajit Ray critically examined Indian cinema in:

(A) What is Wrong with Indian Films

(B) Cinema and Culture

(D) The Pace for Living

Correct Answer: (A) What is Wrong with Indian Films
Explanation: Satyajit Ray authored the critical essay 'What is Wrong with Indian Films'.

13. In Ray’s view, cinema is an art form that derives its true vitality from:

(A) Expensive technology

(B) Real life itself

(D) Heavy special effects

Correct Answer: (B) Real life itself
Explanation: Ray insists that the primary raw material of cinema is authentic life.

14. Aung San Suu Kyi is a renowned democratic leader from:

(A) Burma (Myanmar)

(B) Nepal

(D) Cambodia

Correct Answer: (A) Burma (Myanmar)
Explanation: She led the non-violent struggle for democracy in Burma.

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

(A) 1989

(B) 1991

(D) 1997

Correct Answer: (B) 1991
Explanation: She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991.

16. The acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo was read by:

(A) Her son, Alexander Aris

(B) Her husband

(D) Her political secretary

Correct Answer: (A) Her son, Alexander Aris
Explanation: Alexander Aris delivered the speech because his mother was under house arrest.

17. Toni Morrison was an acclaimed novelist from:

(A) America

(B) Britain

(D) Canada

Correct Answer: (A) America
Explanation: Toni Morrison was a prominent African-American novelist.

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

(A) Blind and wise

(B) Deaf and wealthy

(D) Cruel and arrogant

Correct Answer: (A) Blind and wise
Explanation: The old woman was blind, lived on the edge of town, and was known for wisdom.

19. In Toni Morrison’s Nobel address, the bird in hand represents:

(A) Living language

(B) Power

(D) Science

Correct Answer: (A) Living language
Explanation: Morrison uses the bird to symbolize human language and creative life.

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

(A) Baroda University

(B) Calcutta University

(D) Madras University

Correct Answer: (A) Baroda University
Explanation: Humayun Kabir delivered this lecture at Baroda University.

21. Humayun Kabir emphasizes that the distinguishing mark of Indian culture is:

(A) Underlying unity and continuity

(B) Strict military discipline

(D) Isolation from the outside world

Correct Answer: (A) Underlying unity and continuity
Explanation: India’s cultural strength lies in continuous assimilation and unity.

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

(A) Leo Tolstoy

(B) Anton Chekhov

(D) Guy de Maupassant

Correct Answer: (A) Leo Tolstoy
Explanation: Russian author Leo Tolstoy wrote this moral fable.

23. In Tolstoy's story, the two girls were celebrating:

(A) Easter

(B) Christmas

(D) Harvest Festival

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

24. Who splashed muddy water on Akoulya's new dress?

(A) Malasha

(B) Her brother

(D) A horse cart

Correct Answer: (A) Malasha
Explanation: Malasha stamped her foot in the muddy puddle, splashing Akoulya.

25. William Cowper’s celebrated poem in the syllabus is:

(A) God Made the Country

(B) Ode on Solitude

(D) The Empty Heart

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

26. Cowper declares: "God made the country, and man made the ______":

(A) Town

(B) Village

(D) Forest

Correct Answer: (A) Town
Explanation: "God made the country, and man made the town."

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

(A) Unseen and unknown

(B) Famous across nations

(D) Wealthy and honored

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

29. The poem 'Polythene Bag' was written by:

(A) Durga Prasad Panda

(B) Vidyapati

(D) Walter de la Mare

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

30. When a polythene bag is touched, it produces:

(A) A squeaky noise

(B) Melodious music

(D) Complete silence

Correct Answer: (A) A squeaky noise
Explanation: "When touched it makes a squeaky noise."

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

(A) Vidyapati

(B) Kabir

(D) Mirabai

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

32. In 'Thinner Than a Crescent', Radha is distressed by separation from:

(A) Lord Krishna

(B) Lord Rama

(D) Her village friends

Correct Answer: (A) Lord Krishna
Explanation: Radha is weeping out of longing for Krishna.

33. 'The Empty Heart' was composed by:

(A) Periasamy Thooran

(B) Subramania Bharati

(D) Puran Singh

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

34. Kalpataru granted the greedy man how many pitchers of gold?

(A) Seven

(B) Five

(D) Twelve

Correct Answer: (A) Seven
Explanation: The tree provided seven pitchers filled with gold coins.

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

(A) Half-full

(B) Completely empty

(D) Broken in half

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

36. The poem 'Koel' was composed by:

(A) Puran Singh

(B) Walter de la Mare

(D) Alexander Pope

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

37. In 'Koel', where does the bird sing its passionate song?

(A) In the mango leaves

(B) By the riverside

(D) In the wheat fields

Correct Answer: (A) In the mango leaves
Explanation: The Koel conceals itself within mango leaves and sings.

38. 'The Sleeping Porter' was written by:

(A) Laxmi Prasad Devkota

(B) Walter de la Mare

(D) Vidyapati

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

39. What was the weight carried by the sleeping porter?

(A) 54 lb

(B) 40 lb

(D) 75 lb

Correct Answer: (A) 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 head is covered by:

(A) A dirty sweat-stained cap

(B) A woolen turban

(D) A straw hat

Correct Answer: (A) A dirty sweat-stained cap
Explanation: He wears a dirty, sweat-stained cap while climbing.

41. 'Martha' was written by:

(A) Walter de la Mare

(B) John Masefield

(D) Robert Frost

Correct Answer: (A) Walter de la Mare
Explanation: Walter de la Mare authored the nostalgic poem 'Martha'.

42. Martha narrated her stories in the:

(A) Hazel glen

(B) School corridor

(D) Church garden

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

43. Premchand wrote the classic story:

(A) January Night

(B) The Bet

(D) Sun and Moon

Correct Answer: (A) January Night
Explanation: Munshi Premchand wrote 'January Night' ('Poos Ki Raat').

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

(A) Halku’s dog

(B) Halku’s brother

(D) The village headman

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

45. How much money had Halku saved to buy a blanket?

(A) Three rupees

(B) Five rupees

(D) Two rupees

Correct Answer: (A) Three rupees
Explanation: Halku had saved three rupees to purchase a winter blanket.

46. Who took away Halku's saved three rupees?

(A) Sahna, the landlord

(B) A thief

(D) Munni’s father

Correct Answer: (A) Sahna, the landlord
Explanation: Sahna demanded the money for unpaid rent dues.

47. 'Allergy' was written by:

(A) Dr. Rana S.P. Singh

(B) John Galsworthy

(D) Katherine Mansfield

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

48. Allergens in the human body trigger excessive levels of:

(A) IgE antibodies

(B) Vitamin D

(D) Insulin

Correct Answer: (A) IgE antibodies
Explanation: Allergens provoke an overproduction of IgE antibodies.

49. 'The Bet' was written by the Russian author:

(A) Anton Chekhov

(B) Leo Tolstoy

(D) Fyodor Dostoevsky

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

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

(A) 15 years

(B) 10 years

(D) 20 years

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

51. The amount staked in 'The Bet' was:

(A) Two millions

(B) One million

(D) Five millions

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

52. 'Quality' was authored by:

(A) John Galsworthy

(B) Katherine Mansfield

(D) Binapani Mohanty

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

53. The Gessler Brothers made high quality:

(A) Leather boots

(B) Wooden chairs

(D) Clocks

Correct Answer: (A) Leather boots
Explanation: The Gessler brothers crafted durable handmade boots.

54. Katherine Mansfield wrote the short story:

(A) Sun and Moon

(B) Two Horizons

(D) Quality

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

55. 'Two Horizons' was written by:

(A) Binapani Mohanty

(B) Mahadevi Varma

(D) Arundhati Roy

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

56. 'Two Horizons' is presented in the format of:

(A) Letters between a mother and daughter

(B) A courtroom trial

(D) A travel diary

Correct Answer: (A) Letters between a mother and daughter
Explanation: The story unfolds through letters between mother and daughter.

57. 'Love Defiled' was written by:

(A) Giridhar Jha

(B) Premchand

(D) Mulk Raj Anand

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

58. The lawyer in 'The Bet' renounced the prize money because:

(A) He realized worldly wealth is transient and worthless

(B) He was terrified of the banker

(D) He lost his memory

Correct Answer: (A) He realized worldly wealth is transient and worthless
Explanation: Extensive reading convinced him to despise material pursuits.

59. Mr. Gessler died as a result of:

(A) Slow starvation

(B) Heart attack

(D) Factory fire

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

60. Who ate and destroyed Halku's entire crop in 'January Night'?

(A) Nilgais (blue bulls)

(B) Wild pigs

(D) Locust swarms

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

61. Choose the correct passive voice: "She sings a sweet song."

(A) A sweet song is sung by her.

(B) A sweet song was sung by her.

(D) A sweet song is singing by her.

Correct Answer: (A) A sweet song is sung by her.
Explanation: Simple present active converts to 'is + V3' (is sung).

62. Choose the correct passive voice: "Ravi wrote a letter."

(A) A letter was written by Ravi.

(B) A letter is written by Ravi.

(D) A letter wrote by Ravi.

Correct Answer: (A) A letter was written by Ravi.
Explanation: Simple past active 'wrote' converts to 'was + V3' (was written).

63. Choose the correct passive voice: "They are playing hockey."

(A) Hockey is being played by them.

(B) Hockey was played by them.

(D) Hockey is played by them.

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

64. Choose the correct passive voice: "Shut the window."

(A) Let the window be shut.

(B) The window should shut.

(D) Let shut the window.

Correct Answer: (A) Let the window be shut.
Explanation: Imperatives use 'Let + object + be + past participle'.

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

(A) Mohan killed the snake.

(B) Mohan kills the snake.

(D) Mohan was killing the snake.

Correct Answer: (A) Mohan killed the snake.
Explanation: 'Was killed' converts back to simple past 'killed'.

66. 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 Ramayana written?

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

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

(A) The task has been finished by him.

(B) The task was finished by him.

(D) The task had finished by him.

Correct Answer: (A) The task has been finished by him.
Explanation: Present perfect passive uses 'has/have + been + V3'.

68. Choose the correct active voice: "The match was won by our team."

(A) Our team won the match.

(B) Our team wins the match.

(D) Our team had won the match.

Correct Answer: (A) Our team won the match.
Explanation: 'Was won' converts back to simple past 'won'.

69. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "I am an honest boy."

(A) He said that he was an honest boy.

(B) He said that he is an honest boy.

(D) He said he had been honest boy.

Correct Answer: (A) He said that he was an honest boy.
Explanation: Present 'am' shifts to past 'was' with a past reporting verb.

70. Choose the correct indirect speech: The teacher said, "The sun gives us light."

(A) The teacher said that the sun gives us light.

(B) The teacher said that the sun gave us light.

(D) The teacher says sun gives us light.

Correct Answer: (A) The teacher said that the sun gives us light.
Explanation: Universal facts remain in simple present tense in indirect 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 where you live.

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

72. Choose the correct indirect speech: Father said to me, "Work hard."

(A) Father advised me to work hard.

(B) Father told me work hard.

(D) Father asked that I work hard.

Correct Answer: (A) Father advised me to work hard.
Explanation: Imperatives use 'advised/ordered... to + base verb'.

73. Choose the correct indirect speech: She said, "May you live long!"

(A) She prayed that I might live long.

(B) She wished that I may live long.

(D) She exclaimed I will live long.

Correct Answer: (A) She prayed that I might live long.
Explanation: Optative sentences use 'prayed/wished that + subject + might + V1'.

74. Choose the correct direct speech: He said that he was going to Patna.

(A) He said, "I am going to Patna."

(B) He said, "I was going to Patna."

(D) He said, "He is going to Patna."

Correct Answer: (A) He said, "I am going to Patna."
Explanation: Past continuous in indirect speech reverses to present continuous.

75. Choose the correct indirect speech: He said, "Hurrah! We won the trophy."

(A) He exclaimed with joy that they had won the trophy.

(B) He exclaimed with sorrow that they won trophy.

(D) He told with joy they win trophy.

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

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

(A) Mohan says that he is ready.

(B) Mohan says that he was ready.

(D) Mohan told he is ready.

Correct Answer: (A) Mohan says that he is ready.
Explanation: Present reporting verbs preserve the reported verb's tense.

77. The principal was pleased ______ his conduct. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) with

(B) at

(D) for

Correct Answer: (A) with
Explanation: Pleased with someone's behavior/conduct is standard usage.

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

(A) to

(B) with

(D) on

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

79. She died ______ cholera. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) of

(B) from

(D) with

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

80. The child fell ______ the swimming pool. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) into

(B) in

(D) on

Correct Answer: (A) into
Explanation: Movement into a body of water takes 'into'.

81. Listen ______ what your parents advise. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) to

(B) at

(D) for

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

82. He has lived here ______ Monday last. (Choose correct preposition)

(A) since

(B) for

(D) by

Correct Answer: (A) since
Explanation: A point in time takes 'since'.

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

(A) by

(B) with

(D) on

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

84. Distribute the mangoes ______ the three 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) 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) 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.

88. 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.

89. 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.

90. 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.

91. 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.

92. 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.

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

(A) wins

(B) win

(D) are winning

Correct Answer: (A) wins
Explanation: The compound subject functions as a singular concept, taking 'wins'.

94. Either you or he ______ mistaken. (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 ______ present in the class. (Choose correct verb)

(A) was

(B) were

(D) have been

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

96. We ______ respect our elders. (Choose correct modal)

(A) should / ought to

(B) can

(D) might

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

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 east.

Correct Answer: (A) The Sun rises in the east.
Explanation: Universal daily facts take simple present tense with 'The'.

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

(A) Honesty is the best policy.

(B) Honesty was best policy.

(D) Honesty is best policy.

Correct Answer: (A) Honesty is the best policy.
Explanation: Proverbs use '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 swimming.

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

100. Choose the correct translation: "पटना बिहार की राजधानी है।"

(A) Patna is the capital of Bihar.

(B) Patna was the capital of Bihar.

(D) Patna is capital Bihar.

Correct Answer: (A) Patna is the capital of Bihar.
Explanation: Present geographical fact uses simple present 'is'.

Passage 1 (Story Based)

An old merchant had four sons who constantly quarreled among themselves. Despite his best efforts, they refused to live in peace and unity. As the merchant grew frail, he worried about the future of his family and property. One afternoon, he summoned all four sons to his bedside and handed them a bundle of dry wooden sticks tied tightly with twine. He challenged each son in turn to break the bundle in half using their bare hands. Each young man tried with all his strength, but none could snap the tightly bound bundle. The old father then untied the cord and gave a single stick to each son, telling them to break it. Without any difficulty, each boy snapped his stick in two. The father looked at them and said, "Remember, my sons: as long as you remain united together, no enemy can harm you. But if you divide and quarrel, you will be broken as easily as these single sticks."

Q1. Why was the old merchant deeply worried about his sons?

Ans: He was worried because his four sons constantly quarreled with one another and refused to live together in peace.

Q2. What initial challenge did the father set for his sons?

Ans: He challenged each son to snap a bundle of dry sticks tied tightly together using only their bare hands.

Q3. What happened when the bundle was untied and single sticks were given?

Ans: When untied, each son was able to snap his individual stick easily without any effort.

Q4. What moral truth did the merchant teach through this exercise?

Ans: He taught them that unity provides strength and protection against adversity, while division leads to weakness ("United we stand, divided we fall").

Passage 2 (Story Based)

One bright morning in ancient Kapilavastu, young Prince Siddhartha was strolling through the palace gardens when a wounded swan fell out of the sky and landed at his feet. An arrow was lodged deeply in its white wing. Filled with compassion, Siddhartha picked up the trembling bird, gently removed the barbed arrow, cleansed the wound with cool water, and wrapped it with healing herbs. A moment later, his cousin Devadatta rushed into the garden carrying a bow. Devadatta demanded the bird, claiming that he had shot it down and therefore owned it by right of hunt. Siddhartha refused to surrender the swan, arguing that he had saved its life. The dispute was brought before the royal assembly of ministers. After listening to both princes, the chief judge ruled: "A creature belongs to the one who protects its life, not to the one who attempts to destroy it." The swan was given to Siddhartha, who nursed it until it flew away freely.

Q1. What did Prince Siddhartha find while strolling in the palace gardens?

Ans: He found a wounded white swan that had fallen from the sky with an arrow piercing its wing.

Q2. How did Siddhartha care for the injured swan?

Ans: He removed the arrow, cleaned the bleeding wound with cool water, and applied soothing herbal remedies to heal the bird.

Q3. What claim did Devadatta make to demand the swan?

Ans: Devadatta claimed ownership of the swan because he had shot it down with his arrow during a hunt.

Q4. What was the judgment delivered by the royal assembly?

Ans: The assembly judged that life belongs to the one who preserves and protects it, rather than to the one who seeks to destroy it.

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."

Q1. Who created the country and who created the town, according to the poet?

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

Q2. Which two gifts abound in rural fields and groves?

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

Q3. What type of fatigue is experienced by city dwellers in chariots?

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

Q4. Identify the poem and the poet of the given lines.

Ans: The poem is 'God Made the Country' and the poet is William Cowper.

1. How does modern life create difficulties for slow thinkers according to R.C. Hutchinson?

Ans: In 'The Pace for Living', Hutchinson explains that modern society prioritizes rapid mental reflexes, speed, and immediate responses. Slow thinkers find themselves disadvantaged in competitive jobs and fast-paced social situations that leave little time for reflection.

2. What did Jim tell Mrs. Greene about recycling newspapers in 'Me and the Ecology Bit'?

Ans: Jim urged Mrs. Greene to stack and bundle her old newspapers so they could be recycled into fresh paper, rather than discarding them in the trash, which wastes resources and damages the environment.

3. How did Gillu behave while Mahadevi Varma was writing at her desk?

Ans: Gillu sat quietly near her desk, observing her movements with curiosity. To draw her attention, he would playfully scamper up the window curtains or gently tug at her writing materials before darting back to his basket.

4. What major shortcoming of Indian cinema did Satyajit Ray highlight?

Ans: Ray pointed out that Indian filmmakers often relied on superficial melodrama, out-of-place musical numbers, and borrowed Hollywood conventions, instead of drawing inspiration from authentic, everyday Indian experiences.

5. What was the central message of Alexander Aris’s Nobel acceptance speech?

Ans: Alexander emphasized that the Nobel Peace Prize was an honor shared with all people of Burma who continued to struggle non-violently for democratic freedoms, human rights, and self-determination under oppressive rule.

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

Ans: The two young girls are seen as wiser because they quickly let go of their quarrel, cooperating to dig a channel in the mud, while the adults around them continued arguing and nursing grudges.

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

Ans: Although losing his crop left him financially ruined, Halku felt relieved that 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. Digital India and Students

The Digital India initiative has made educational resources far more accessible to students across the country. Through high-speed internet, smartphones, and government portals, learners in rural areas can access digital libraries, video lectures, and scholarship information. While digital learning offers valuable flexibility, students must balance screen time with offline reading and outdoor activities to protect their well-being.

2. Health is Wealth

Good health is the foundation of a productive and meaningful life. Without physical and mental well-being, material wealth and success cannot be fully enjoyed. Maintaining regular exercise, eating balanced meals, drinking clean water, and getting adequate rest help prevent lifestyle diseases. Investing time in personal health equips students to handle academic responsibilities and daily challenges effectively.

3. The Problem of Unemployment

Unemployment is a pressing socioeconomic challenge that affects millions of young people. The gap between theoretical education and practical job skills, along with rapid population growth, makes finding stable employment difficult. Addressing this issue requires expanding vocational training, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting small-scale industries so graduates can build independent, productive careers.

4. My Favorite Festival (Chhath Puja)

Chhath Puja is my favorite festival, widely celebrated across Bihar with deep devotion. Dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, the festival emphasizes cleanliness, gratitude to nature, and communal harmony. Devotees observe strict fasts, prepare traditional delicacies like thekua, and gather at riverbanks at sunset and sunrise to offer prayers. The atmosphere brings families and communities together in shared celebration.

5. Women Empowerment in Bihar

Women empowerment in Bihar has advanced significantly through targeted educational and social initiatives. Policies like bicycle distribution schemes, reservations in local bodies, and financial support for higher education have helped more young women complete their schooling and pursue careers. Empowering women strengthens households, improves community health, and supports sustainable social development across the state.

(i) Notice Writing: Inter-School Science Fair

Zila School, Darbhanga

NOTICE

Ref No: ZSD/SCI/2025/11 Date: 15th January 2025

ANNUAL SCIENCE & INNOVATION FAIR

All students from Classes 8 to 10 are hereby informed that the school is organizing an Inter-School Science & Innovation Fair on 30th January 2025 in the School Auditorium from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Students may participate individually or in pairs to present working models on renewable energy, robotics, waste recycling, or smart agriculture. Interested students should register their project ideas with the Science Teacher by 22nd January 2025.

Adarsh Kumar
President, Science Club
Class 10 'A'

(ii) Report Writing: Republic Day Celebration

REPUBLIC DAY CELEBRATIONS AT HIGH SCHOOL, PATNA

By: Neha Sharma, Student Reporter | Patna | 27th January 2025

The 76th Republic Day was celebrated at Government High School, Gardanibagh, Patna, with patriotic fervor and enthusiasm on 26th January 2025. The entire school grounds were decorated with tricolor flags and floral arrangements.

The Principal unfurled the National Flag at 8:30 AM, followed by the singing of the National Anthem by the school choir. NCC cadets and Scouts presented a crisp march-past. Students then performed patriotic songs, traditional folk dances, and short dramatic skits honoring freedom fighters. The Principal addressed the gathering, urging students to uphold constitutional values and contribute to community development. The celebration concluded with the distribution of sweets.

(iii) Message Writing: Telephonic Message from Uncle

MESSAGE

Date: 12th February 2025 Time: 05:30 PM

Dear Mother,

Uncle Rajesh called from Ranchi while you were visiting our neighbors. He informed that he will be arriving in Patna tomorrow morning by the Janshatabdi Express at around 10:30 AM for a medical consultation. He requested that Father or I meet him at the railway station platform.

I am heading to coaching class and will be back home by 7:30 PM.

Kunal

(iv) Application Writing: Application for Upgraded Computer Lab

To,
The Headmaster,
Patna Collegiate School, Patna.

Date: 8th February 2025
Subject: Request for upgrading the computer laboratory facilities.

Respected Sir,

Most respectfully, I beg to submit on behalf of the students of Class 10 that our school computer laboratory currently has a limited number of functional computers. Several systems are outdated or running slowly, making it difficult for all students to complete practical exercises during computer science periods.

Given the growing importance of digital skills and coding in our curriculum, upgraded computers and reliable internet access would greatly enhance our learning experience.

We therefore request you to arrange for the repair and addition of computer systems in our laboratory as soon as possible.

Thanking you.

Yours obediently,
Vikram Singh
Class Representative, Class 10 'B'
Roll No. 07

(v) Letter Writing: Letter to Younger Brother Advising Healthy Study Habits

Hostel No. 4, Rajendra Academy,
Muzaffarpur.
Date: 18th March 2025

My dear Rohit,

I received Father's letter yesterday and was concerned to learn that your test scores have slipped recently, mainly due to excessive screen time on mobile gaming.

While mobile devices are useful for studying, spending hours on online games and social media can drain your concentration and disrupt your sleep. I strongly advise you to set clear limits: keep your phone aside during study hours, establish a regular daily schedule, and spend more time reading textbooks and playing outdoor games with friends.

Developing steady study habits now will make a big difference in your upcoming exams. I have full confidence that you can turn things around. Write to me soon about your progress.

Your loving elder brother,
Sameer

(vi) Speech Writing: Importance of Reading Newspapers in School Assembly

TOPIC: THE IMPORTANCE OF READING NEWSPAPERS

Respected Principal, teachers, and my fellow students,
A warm good morning to everyone present here today. I stand before you to speak briefly on: The Habit of Reading Newspapers.

In an age dominated by quick digital headlines and social media updates, reading a daily newspaper remains one of the best habits a student can develop. Newspapers provide comprehensive, verified coverage of national and international news, scientific developments, and sports events. They help us stay informed about key issues affecting our society.

For students, reading editorial pages regularly enriches vocabulary, sharpens grammar, and improves analytical thinking skills necessary for board examinations and competitive tests. Setting aside twenty minutes each morning to read the newspaper broadens our perspectives and helps us become well-informed citizens. Let us make newspaper reading a part of our daily routine. Thank you!

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BSEB 10 English PYQs 2025