Introduction
This set is designed as a challenging English practice paper for Class 10 students preparing for board-level exams. It includes a demanding comprehension passage, high-level grammar questions, structured writing tasks, and difficult literature questions inspired by actual past papers. The purpose of this set is to help students improve accuracy, boost exam confidence, and practise interpreting texts effectively. Answers are given in a brief exam-oriented style to help students self-evaluate and revise efficiently.
Reading Section
Q1. Read the passage and answer the questions.
During the past decade, environmental awareness among students has grown significantly. Schools now include sustainability projects, recycling drives, and nature clubs to encourage eco-friendly habits. However, experts believe that awareness alone is not enough; real change requires consistent action. Many young people show enthusiasm initially but fail to maintain long-term habits. To address this, schools are focusing on hands-on learning and community-based activities that help students understand the real impact of their actions.
(a) What positive trend regarding students is mentioned?
(b) Why is awareness not enough according to experts?
(c) How are schools trying to create long-term impact?
(d) Find a word from the passage meaning “regular and continuous.”
Grammar Section
Q2. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb.
(a) She ____ (study) for the competition since last month.
(b) He said that he ____ (meet) us at the venue.
Q3. Rewrite as directed.
(a) Change to passive voice:
“The students completed the project on time.”
(b) Rewrite using “despite”:
“She was tired. She continued working.”
Q4. Choose the correct option.
(a) Neither of them ___ willing to participate.
(i) are (ii) is (iii) were
(b) The teacher objected ___ the noise.
(i) to (ii) at (iii) of
Writing Section
Q5. Article Writing (120–150 words)
Write an article on “The Importance of Reading Habits in the Digital Age.”
Q6. Story Writing (120–150 words)
Begin the story with the following line:
“When I opened the old wooden box, something unexpected caught my eye…”
Literature Section
Q7. From “The Ball Poem”
(a) What lesson does the boy learn after losing his ball?
(b) Why does the poet not offer him another ball?
Q8. From “Two Stories About Flying” (Part 1 – His First Flight)
(a) Why was the young seagull afraid to fly initially?
(b) How did he finally gather courage?
Q9. Long Answer Question (120–150 words)
“Discuss the theme of responsibility in the chapter ‘The Hundred Dresses – Part II’. Explain how Maddie’s feelings reflect the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions.”
ANSWER KEY – SET 10
Reading Answers
Q1.
(a) Students are becoming more environmentally aware.
(b) Awareness alone is not enough because real change requires consistent action.
(c) Schools are using hands-on learning and community activities.
(d) The word is “consistent.”
Grammar Answers
Q2.
(a) has been studying
(b) would meet
Q3.
(a) The project was completed on time by the students.
(b) Despite being tired, she continued working.
Q4.
(a) (ii) is
(b) (i) to
Writing Answers
Q5. Article: The Importance of Reading Habits in the Digital Age
In today’s digital age, reading habits are slowly declining as students spend more time on screens than on books. However, developing strong reading habits remains extremely important. Reading improves vocabulary, strengthens concentration, and enhances imagination. Books provide deeper understanding compared to short online content and help students think critically. Moreover, reading reduces stress and improves academic performance. While digital tools are useful, they often distract the mind. Therefore, students should create a balance by setting aside time each day for reading. Cultivating a good reading habit is an investment that benefits learning, creativity, and overall personal growth.
Q6. Story
When I opened the old wooden box, something unexpected caught my eye. Inside it lay a faded photograph of a young boy standing beside a lighthouse. Curious, I flipped it over and found a message written in shaky handwriting: “Find the truth before sunset.” My heartbeat quickened as I remembered my grandfather’s stories about a hidden treasure buried near the old lighthouse. Determined to uncover the mystery, I set out immediately. As the sun began to sink, I discovered a small metal container beneath a rock. Inside it was a map and a letter revealing my grandfather’s long-lost adventure. The box had opened the door to a secret legacy.
Literature Answers
Q7.
(a) The boy learns that losses are a part of life and must be accepted with maturity.
(b) The poet wants the boy to understand the reality of loss on his own.
Q8.
(a) The young seagull was afraid because he doubted his ability to fly and feared falling.
(b) He gathered courage when hunger pushed him to take the leap and his family encouraged him.
Q9. Long Answer
In “The Hundred Dresses – Part II,” the theme of responsibility is highlighted through Maddie’s guilt and self-reflection. After Wanda leaves the school, Maddie realises that she remained silent while others teased Wanda. Her conscience troubles her because she knows she should have spoken up. Maddie understands that being a silent observer is as wrong as participating in the cruelty. Her regret teaches an important lesson: individuals must take responsibility for their actions and their silence. Maddie resolves never to let injustice happen in front of her again, showing that responsibility means standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult.