माध्यमिक शिक्षा बोर्ड राजस्थान, अजमेर
Secondary Examination, 2026
नमूना प्रश्न-पत्र / Model Paper
विषय — अंग्रेजी / Subject: English
कक्षा— 10वीं / Class: 10th
परीक्षार्थियों के लिए सामान्य निर्देश
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO THE EXAMINEES
- Candidate must first write his/her Roll No. on the question paper compulsorily.
- All the questions are compulsory.
- Write the answer to each question in the given answer-book only.
- For questions having more than one part, the answers to those parts are to be written together in continuity.
- Write down the serial number of the question before attempting it.
- There are internal choices in Question no. 3 to 5 and 11 to 19.
परीक्षा योजना (Examination Blueprint) – 2025-2026
1. उद्देश्य हेतु अंकभार (Objective-wise Marks Distribution)
| क्र.सं. S.No. |
उद्देश्य Objective |
अंकभार Marks |
प्रतिशत Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ज्ञान (Knowledge) | 30 | 37.50% |
| 2 | अवबोध (Understanding) | 24 | 30.00% |
| 3 | ज्ञानोपयोग (Application) | 13 | 16.25% |
| 4 | कौशल (Skill) | 8 | 10.00% |
| 5 | विश्लेषण (Analysis) | 5 | 6.25% |
| योग (Total) | 80 | 100% | |
2. प्रश्नों के प्रकार वार अंकभार (Question Type-wise Distribution)
| क्र.सं. | प्रश्नों का प्रकार Question Type |
प्रश्नों की संख्या No. of Ques. |
अंक प्रति प्रश्न Marks/Ques. |
कुल अंक Total Marks |
प्रतिशत (अंकों का) % of Marks |
प्रतिशत (प्रश्नों का) % of Ques. |
समय Time (min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | बहुविकल्पात्मक (MCQ) | 18 | 1 | 18 | 22.50 | 33.33 | 36 |
| 2 | रिक्त स्थान (Fill Blanks) | 6 | 1 | 6 | 7.50 | 11.11 | 12 |
| 3 | अतिलघुत्तरात्मक (VSA) | 14 | 1 | 14 | 17.50 | 25.93 | 42 |
| 4 | लघुत्तरात्मक (SA) | 9 | 2 | 18 | 22.50 | 16.67 | 36 |
| 5 | दीर्घउत्तरीय (LA) | 4 | 3 | 12 | 15.00 | 7.41 | 24 |
| 6 | निबंधात्मक (Essay) | 3 | 4 | 12 | 15.00 | 5.55 | 45 |
| योग (Total) | 54 | 80 | 100 | 100 | 195 | ||
📝 विकल्प योजना (Choice Plan): प्रश्न संख्या 3, 4, 5, एवं 11 से 19 में आंतरिक विकल्प है।
(Internal choices in Question no. 3, 4, 5 and 11 to 19)
3. विषय वस्तु का अंकभार (Content-wise Distribution)
| क्र.सं. | विषय वस्तु (Content) | अंकभार | प्रतिशत |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Section A (Reading) – Unseen Passage -1 6 MCQ 2 अतिलघु |
8 | 10.00 |
| 2 | Unseen Passage -2 8 अतिलघु |
8 | 10.00 |
| 3 | Section B (Writing) – Letter / E-mail 1 निबंध |
4 | 5.00 |
| 4 | Short Story Writing 1 निबंध |
4 | 5.00 |
| 5 | Short writing task (verbal/visual aid) 1 निबंध |
4 | 5.00 |
| 6 | Section C (Grammar) – Tenses 4 अतिलघु |
4 | 5.00 |
| 7 | Subject Verb Concord 2 अतिलघु |
2 | 2.50 |
| 8 | Clauses (complex sentences) 2 अतिलघु |
2 | 2.50 |
| 9 | Active and Passive Voice 1 अतिलघु |
1 | 1.25 |
| 10 | Reported Speech 1 अतिलघु |
1 | 1.25 |
| 11 | Section D (Text Books) – First Flight Prose Extract 4 MCQ 2 लघु |
6 | 7.50 |
| 12 | Prose based Textual Questions 3 लघु (Any 3 of 4) |
9 | 11.25 |
| 13 | Drama Textual Question 1 दीर्घ (Any 1 of 2) |
3 | 3.75 |
| 14 | Poetry Extract 1 MCQ 2 लघु |
5 | 6.25 |
| 15 | Poetry based Textual questions 2 लघु (Any 2 of 3) + 1 दीर्घ (Any 1 of 2) |
7 | 8.75 |
| 16 | Footprint without Feet 2 लघु (Any 2 of 3) + 1 दीर्घ (Any 1 of 2) + 5 MCQ |
12 | 15.00 |
| Total | 80 | 100% | |
📝 Model Question Paper with Solutions
📚 Complete Concept: Reading Comprehension
What is Reading Comprehension?
Reading comprehension is the ability to read text, process it, and understand its meaning. It involves understanding both the literal meaning and the implied concepts behind the words.
Key Skills Required:
- Vocabulary Recognition: Understanding words and their meanings in context
- Inference: Reading between the lines to understand implied meanings
- Main Idea Identification: Finding the central theme or message
- Detail Recognition: Identifying specific facts and information
- Sequence Understanding: Following the logical order of events or ideas
- Critical Analysis: Evaluating information and forming opinions
Types of Questions:
1. Factual/Direct Questions: Answers found directly in the passage
Example: “Who is known as the father of Green Revolution?”
2. Inferential Questions: Require reading between the lines
Example: “Why did the author use the phrase…?”
3. Vocabulary Questions: Testing word meanings
Example: “Find a word that means ‘change'”
4. Global Questions: About the entire passage
Example: “What is the main idea of this passage?”
Strategy to Solve:
- First Reading: Read the passage once quickly to get the general idea
- Read Questions: Go through all questions to know what to look for
- Second Reading: Read carefully, highlighting or noting key points
- Answer Direct Questions First: Start with factual questions
- Use Context Clues: For vocabulary questions, check surrounding words
- Check Your Answers: Verify each answer against the passage
💡 Pro Tip: Always answer in complete sentences for descriptive questions. For MCQs, eliminate obviously wrong options first, then choose from remaining options.
The Green Revolution in India
The green revolution was a period of agricultural transformation in India that began in the 1960s. It introduced high yielding varieties of seeds, modern irrigation techniques and chemical fertilizers to increase food production. Mr. M.S. Swaminathan, known as the father of India’s Green Revolution, played a crucial role in this transformation. The movement primarily focused on wheat and rice cultivation in states like Punjab, Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh.
As a result, India became self-sufficient in food grain production by the 1970s ending its dependence on food imports. Wheat production increased from 11 million tonnes in 1960 to 73 million tonnes by 2006. However, the Green Revolution had some negative effects including depletion of ground water, soil degradation and increased regional inequality. Small and marginal farmers in rain-fed areas did not benefit equally. Despite its limitations, the Green Revolution saved millions from starvation and remains a significant milestone in India’s agricultural history.
-
Who is known as the father of India’s Green Revolution? (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (C) Dr. M.S. SwaminathanExplanation: The passage clearly states that “Mr. M.S. Swaminathan, known as the father of India’s Green Revolution, played a crucial role in this transformation.” He was instrumental in introducing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice that revolutionized Indian agriculture.
-
Which crops were primarily focused on during the Green Revolution?
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (B) Wheat and riceExplanation: The passage mentions that “The movement primarily focused on wheat and rice cultivation in states like Punjab, Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh.” These two staple crops were chosen because they were the most important food grains for India’s population.
-
When did India become self-sufficient in food grain production?
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (A) 1970sExplanation: The passage states, “As a result, India became self-sufficient in food grain production by the 1970s ending its dependence on food imports.” This was approximately a decade after the Green Revolution began in the 1960s.
-
What was one of the negative effects of the Green Revolution?
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (C) Depletion of ground waterExplanation: The passage mentions several negative effects: “However, the Green Revolution had some negative effects including depletion of ground water, soil degradation and increased regional inequality.” Excessive irrigation for high-yielding crops led to the depletion of groundwater resources.
-
Which states were the main beneficiaries of the Green Revolution?
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (B) Punjab, HaryanaExplanation: The passage explicitly states that the Green Revolution “primarily focused on wheat and rice cultivation in states like Punjab, Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh.” These states had better irrigation facilities and infrastructure to support the new agricultural techniques.
-
By 2006, what was India’s wheat production?
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (A) 73 million tonnesExplanation: The passage provides specific figures: “Wheat production increased from 11 million tonnes in 1960 to 73 million tonnes by 2006.” This represents a massive increase of more than 6 times the original production, demonstrating the remarkable success of the Green Revolution.
-
Find a word from the passage that means the same as ‘conversion’ or ‘change’.
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (B) TransformationExplanation: The word “transformation” appears in the passage: “a period of agricultural transformation” and “played a crucial role in this transformation.” Transformation means a complete change in form or appearance, which is synonymous with ‘conversion’ or ‘change’.
-
Find a word from the passage that means the opposite of ‘dependence’.
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationCorrect Answer: (A) Self-sufficientExplanation: The passage states: “India became self-sufficient in food grain production by the 1970s ending its dependence on food imports.” Here, self-sufficient (being able to meet one’s own needs without external help) is directly contrasted with ‘dependence’ (relying on others), making it the perfect antonym.
Tourism in India: Opportunities and Challenges
Tourism has emerged as one of India’s fastest growing industries, contributing significantly to the national economy while simultaneously influencing the country’s cultural fabric. This sector presents both tremendous opportunities and considerable challenges that require thoughtful consideration. India’s rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, diverse landscape and spiritual traditions attract millions of domestic and international tourists annually. Tourism generates employment for guides, hotel workers, artisans and transporters particularly benefitting local communities near tourist destinations. Foreign tourists bring valuable foreign exchange, strengthening Indian economy. The industry also promotes cultural exchange, helping preserve traditional arts, crafts and festivals. States like Rajasthan, Kerala and Goa have prospered through tourism, developing better infrastructure and facilities.
However uncontrolled tourism has serious drawbacks. Popular sites like the Taj Mahal and hill stations face environmental degradation due to overcrowding and pollution. The commercialization of culture sometimes leads to the loss of authentic traditions as performances become mere entertainment for tourists. Local communities may experience rising costs of living as prices inflate in tourist areas. Additionally, some historical sites suffer damage from irresponsible tourist behaviour. The gap between tourist-focused development and local needs can create resentment among residents.
Sustainable tourism is the solution that balances economic benefits with cultural and environmental preservation. This includes limiting visitor numbers at sensitive sites, promoting responsible tourist behaviour, ensuring local communities benefit fairly from tourism revenue and investing in heritage conservation. Eco-tourism and rural tourism initiatives can distribute benefits more widely while maintaining cultural authenticity and environmental integrity.
-
How does tourism benefit local communities?
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationTourism generates employment for guides, hotel workers, artisans and transporters, particularly benefitting local communities near tourist destinations.Explanation: The passage mentions multiple ways tourism benefits locals: it creates jobs in various sectors (hospitality, transportation, handicrafts), brings economic opportunities, and helps preserve traditional arts and crafts. Local communities near tourist destinations directly benefit from increased economic activity and employment opportunities created by the tourism industry.
-
Name two Indian states that have prospered through tourism.
(1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationRajasthan and Kerala (or Goa – any two of these three)Explanation: The passage specifically mentions: “States like Rajasthan, Kerala and Goa have prospered through tourism, developing better infrastructure and facilities.” These states are famous for:
- Rajasthan: Historical forts, palaces, and desert tourism
- Kerala: Backwaters, ayurveda, and natural beauty
- Goa: Beaches, Portuguese heritage, and nightlife
-
What environmental problem is faced by popular tourist places like the Taj Mahal? (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationEnvironmental degradation due to overcrowding and pollution.Explanation: The passage states: “Popular sites like the Taj Mahal and hill stations face environmental degradation due to overcrowding and pollution.” This includes air pollution from vehicles, litter, damage to natural surroundings, and wear and tear on historical structures. The Taj Mahal specifically faces threats from air pollution that causes yellowing of its marble surface.
-
How can commercialization of culture affect traditional practices? (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationIt leads to the loss of authentic traditions as performances become mere entertainment for tourists.Explanation: The passage warns that “The commercialization of culture sometimes leads to the loss of authentic traditions as performances become mere entertainment for tourists.” When cultural practices are modified or simplified to appeal to tourists, they lose their original meaning, significance, and authenticity. Traditional rituals, dances, and crafts may be reduced to superficial shows, disconnecting them from their cultural and spiritual roots.
-
What economic problem do local residents face in tourist areas? (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationRising costs of living as prices inflate in tourist areas.Explanation: The passage mentions: “Local communities may experience rising costs of living as prices inflate in tourist areas.” When tourism develops in an area, demand increases for goods, services, and real estate. This drives up prices of basic necessities, making it difficult for local residents to afford housing, food, and other essentials in their own neighborhoods. This phenomenon is known as “tourism gentrification.”
-
What is sustainable tourism according to the passage? (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationTourism that balances economic benefits with cultural and environmental preservation.Explanation: The passage defines sustainable tourism as “the solution that balances economic benefits with cultural and environmental preservation.” It includes practices such as:
- Limiting visitor numbers at sensitive sites
- Promoting responsible tourist behaviour
- Ensuring local communities benefit fairly from tourism revenue
- Investing in heritage conservation
- Supporting eco-tourism and rural tourism initiatives
-
Write a similar word (synonym) from the passage: ‘Damage’ or ‘decline’ (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationDegradationExplanation: The word “degradation” appears in the passage: “environmental degradation due to overcrowding and pollution.” Degradation means the process of deteriorating or declining in quality, which is synonymous with damage or decline. It refers to the deterioration of environmental or physical conditions.
-
Write the opposite word (antonym) from the passage: ‘Destruction’ (1 Mark)
Answer & ExplanationPreservation / ConservationExplanation: The words “preservation” and “conservation” appear in the passage: “cultural and environmental preservation” and “investing in heritage conservation.” Both words mean protecting something from harm or decay, which is the opposite of destruction. Preservation means keeping something in its original state, while conservation means protecting from loss or depletion.
✍️ Complete Concept: Writing Skills
1. Letter Writing (Formal & Informal)
Format Structure:
- Sender’s Address: Top left/right (for informal) or left (for formal)
- Date: Below sender’s address
- Receiver’s Address: Left side (for formal letters only)
- Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam (formal), Dear Father/Friend (informal)
- Subject: Only in formal letters (brief and to the point)
- Body: 3 paragraphs (Introduction, Main content, Conclusion)
- Complimentary Close: Yours sincerely/faithfully (formal), Yours affectionately (informal)
- Signature: Your name
2. E-mail Writing
Format Structure:
- To: Recipient’s email address
- Subject: Clear, brief, and specific (most important part)
- Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam or Respected Sir/Madam
- Body: Concise paragraphs stating purpose clearly
- Closing: Thank you, Regards, Yours sincerely
- Signature: Name, designation (if any), contact details
3. Story Writing
Key Elements:
- Title: Catchy and relevant to the story
- Beginning: Introduce characters and setting
- Middle: Develop the plot with conflict/problem
- Climax: The turning point of the story
- End: Resolution and conclusion
- Moral: The lesson learned from the story
4. Paragraph/Article Writing
Structure:
- Title/Heading: Clear and relevant
- Introduction: Opening sentence introducing the topic
- Body: 2-3 paragraphs developing main points with examples
- Conclusion: Summary or call to action
✅ General Writing Tips:
- Use simple, clear language
- Maintain proper paragraph structure
- Check grammar, spelling, and punctuation
- Write legibly with proper spacing
- Stay within the word limit
- Use connecting words (moreover, however, therefore, etc.)
Government Hostel,
Bikaner, Rajasthan
3rd December, 2025
Respected Father,
I hope this letter finds you and mother in the best of health and spirits. I am writing to seek your permission for an important educational opportunity that has arisen at school.
Our school is organizing a five-day educational historical tour to Delhi and Agra during the winter break. The tour will cover important historical monuments including the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Taj Mahal, and Agra Fort. Our history teacher Mrs. Sharma and two other teachers will accompany us throughout the trip.
This tour will greatly help us understand the Mughal architecture and Indian history that we study in our textbooks. The total cost is ₹5,000 which includes travel, accommodation, food, and entry fees. The tour will be from 15th to 19th December.
I assure you that I will follow all safety guidelines and remain in constant touch with you. This experience will broaden my knowledge and understanding of our rich cultural heritage. I earnestly request you to grant me permission for this educational tour.
Please convey my regards to mother and love to younger brother.
Your obedient son/daughter,
Radheshyam/Radhika
- Start with sender’s address (top right) and date
- Use appropriate salutation (Respected Father/Dear Father)
- Mention the purpose clearly in the first paragraph
- Provide necessary details (dates, costs, accompaniment)
- Give reassurances about safety
- Use formal and respectful language
- End with appropriate closing (Your obedient son/daughter)
- Sign your name
To: principalgsssksg@gmail.com
Subject: Request for Study Certificate for Scholarship Application
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am Nehal/Neha, a student of Class 10th (Roll No. _____) studying in your esteemed institution. I am writing this email to request you to kindly issue me a study certificate at your earliest convenience.
I am applying for the Chief Minister’s Merit Scholarship Scheme, and a study certificate from the school is one of the mandatory documents required for the application process. The last date for submitting the application is 20th December, 2025.
I have been a regular and sincere student of this school since Class 6th, maintaining good academic records and actively participating in co-curricular activities. This scholarship will greatly help me continue my higher education and reduce the financial burden on my family.
I would be extremely grateful if you could issue the study certificate at the earliest so that I can complete my scholarship application on time. I am ready to provide any additional information or documents if required.
Thank you for your kind consideration and support.
Yours sincerely,
Nehal/Neha
Class 10th, Roll No. _____
Contact: +91-__________
- Write a clear and specific subject line
- Begin with appropriate salutation
- State your identity and class clearly
- Mention the purpose of email in the first paragraph
- Provide relevant details and deadline
- Use formal and professional language
- Be polite and respectful throughout
- Include your contact details at the end
- Use proper email format with “To:” and “Subject:” fields
🐝 A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed 🕊️
One hot summer day, a little bee flew near a river to drink water. While drinking, she slipped and fell into the flowing water. The strong current carried her away and she struggled desperately to save herself. A kind dove sitting on a nearby tree branch noticed the bee’s distress. Without wasting a moment, the dove plucked a large leaf and dropped it near the drowning bee. The bee quickly climbed onto the leaf and floated safely to the shore.
A few days later, a hunter came to the forest with his gun. He saw the same beautiful dove sitting on a tree and aimed his gun to shoot her. Just then, the bee recognized her savior and flew quickly to the hunter. She stung him sharply on his hand. The hunter cried out in pain and his gun fell to the ground with a loud noise. Hearing the noise, the dove flew away to safety. The bee felt happy that she could repay the dove’s kindness.
📝 Moral:
One good turn deserves another. / A friend in need is a friend indeed.
- Title: Should be catchy and relevant to the story
- Introduction: Set the scene and introduce characters
- Body: Develop the plot following the given outline
- Conclusion: End with proper resolution
- Moral: Clearly state the lesson learned
- Use simple past tense for narration
- Keep it within word limit (100 words ≈ 10-12 lines)
- Make it interesting with descriptive words
🐻 The Two Friends and the Bear 🌳
Two friends, Ram and Shyam, were walking through a dense forest. They promised to stand by each other in times of danger. Suddenly, a huge bear appeared on their path. Ram, who was quick and athletic, immediately climbed up a nearby tree and saved himself, completely forgetting about his friend.
Shyam couldn’t climb trees and had no way to escape. Remembering that bears don’t touch dead bodies, he quickly lay down on the ground, held his breath, and pretended to be dead. The bear came closer, sniffed his face and ears carefully, and thinking him dead, walked away into the forest. When the danger passed, Ram climbed down from the tree and asked curiously, “What did the bear whisper in your ear?” Shyam replied sadly, “The bear advised me never to trust friends who abandon you in times of trouble.”
📝 Moral:
A friend in need is a friend indeed. / True friends never abandon each other in difficult times.
🇮🇳 Campaign for a Clean India 🧹
The ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’ or ‘Clean India Campaign’ is a nationwide cleanliness drive launched by our Prime Minister to make India clean and hygienic. Cleanliness is everyone’s responsibility, not just the government’s or municipal workers’. We must keep our homes, streets, and public places free from litter and waste. Proper waste disposal and segregation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste are essential practices. We should avoid using plastic bags and opt for eco-friendly alternatives. Regular cleaning drives, planting trees, and maintaining public toilets contribute to a green and healthy India. Every citizen must take a pledge to neither litter nor let others litter. A clean India means a healthy India, leading to a prosperous nation where everyone can live with dignity and pride. Let us join hands to make our country cleaner, greener, and more beautiful for future generations.
- Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea
- Supporting Details: Provide relevant information and examples
- Unity: All sentences should relate to the main topic
- Coherence: Use connecting words (moreover, furthermore, however, etc.)
- Concluding Sentence: Summarize or give a final thought
- Maintain word limit (100 words ≈ 10-12 lines)
- Use proper grammar and punctuation
🏭 The Growing Menace of Air Pollution 🌫️
Air pollution has become one of the most serious environmental challenges facing humanity today. The image shows industrial chimneys releasing thick, dark smoke into the atmosphere, symbolizing how factories and industries are major contributors to air pollution. Vehicle emissions, burning of fossil fuels, crop burning, and construction dust add to this problem. Polluted air contains harmful gases like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter that cause respiratory diseases, asthma, and even cancer. Children and elderly people are most vulnerable to its effects. Air pollution also contributes to global warming and climate change. To combat this menace, we must adopt clean energy sources, use public transport, plant more trees, and implement strict emission norms for industries. Every individual must take responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint. Clean air is our fundamental right, and we must act now before it’s too late to save our planet.
⏰ Tenses
What are Tenses?
Tenses show the time of an action or state. English has three main time frames (Present, Past, Future) with four aspects each (Simple, Continuous, Perfect, Perfect Continuous), making 12 tenses in total.
| Tense | Formula | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Present | S + V1/V1+s/es | He reads books. |
| Present Continuous | S + is/am/are + V-ing | He is reading. |
| Present Perfect | S + has/have + V3 | He has read the book. |
| Present Perfect Continuous | S + has/have + been + V-ing | He has been reading since morning. |
| Simple Past | S + V2 | He read the book yesterday. |
| Past Continuous | S + was/were + V-ing | He was reading at 5 PM. |
| Past Perfect | S + had + V3 | He had read before I came. |
| Past Perfect Continuous | S + had + been + V-ing | He had been reading for hours. |
| Simple Future | S + will/shall + V1 | He will read tomorrow. |
| Future Continuous | S + will be + V-ing | He will be reading at 5 PM. |
| Future Perfect | S + will have + V3 | He will have read by evening. |
| Future Perfect Continuous | S + will have been + V-ing | He will have been reading for 2 hours. |
🔗 Subject-Verb Concord (Agreement)
What is Subject-Verb Concord?
The verb must agree with its subject in number (singular/plural) and person (first/second/third).
Key Rules:
- Singular subjects take singular verbs: The boy plays cricket.
- Plural subjects take plural verbs: The boys play cricket.
- Each, Every, Either, Neither + Singular verb: Each student has a book.
- Both, Few, Many, Several + Plural verb: Many students have passed.
- Either…or / Neither…nor: Verb agrees with nearest subject
→ Neither Ram nor his friends are coming. (friends is nearest) - Collective nouns (team, family, committee): Usually singular
→ The team is playing well. - Some, All, Most, None: Depends on noun that follows
→ Some of the water is spilled. (uncountable)
→ Some of the students are absent. (countable) - Subjects joined by ‘and’: Plural verb
→ Ram and Shyam are friends.
🔀 Combining Sentences
Complex and Compound Sentences
| Conjunction Type | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| so…that | Result/Consequence | It was so hot that I fainted. |
| too…to | Excessive degree | He is too weak to walk. |
| who/which/that | Relative clause | The boy who came is my friend. |
| although/though | Contrast | Although he is rich, he is unhappy. |
| if/unless | Condition | I will go if you come. |
| when/while | Time | I was sleeping when he called. |
🔄 Active and Passive Voice
What is Voice?
Voice shows whether the subject performs the action (Active) or receives the action (Passive).
Conversion Formula:
Passive: Object + be verb + V3 + by + Subject
| Tense | Active Voice | Passive Voice |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Present | He writes a letter. | A letter is written by him. |
| Simple Past | He wrote a letter. | A letter was written by him. |
| Simple Future | He will write a letter. | A letter will be written by him. |
| Present Continuous | He is writing a letter. | A letter is being written by him. |
| Present Perfect | He has written a letter. | A letter has been written by him. |
💬 Reported Speech (Direct to Indirect)
What is Reported Speech?
Reported Speech (Indirect Speech) is used to report what someone said without using their exact words.
Key Changes in Indirect Speech:
- Remove quotation marks
- Change reporting verbs:
- said to → told (statements)
- said to → asked (questions)
- said to → requested/ordered/advised (commands)
- Change pronouns according to sense
- Backshift tenses (if reporting verb is past):
Direct Speech Indirect Speech Simple Present Simple Past Present Continuous Past Continuous Present Perfect Past Perfect Simple Past Past Perfect will would can could - Change time and place words:
now → thentoday → that daytomorrow → the next dayyesterday → the previous dayhere → therethis → that
Types of Sentences:
2. Interrogative (WH): She said, “Where are you going?” → She asked where I was going.
3. Interrogative (Yes/No): He said, “Are you ready?” → He asked if I was ready.
4. Imperative: She said, “Close the door.” → She told me to close the door.
💡 Pro Tips for Grammar:
- Always identify the subject and verb first
- Look for time indicators (since, for, ago, tomorrow, etc.) to identify tenses
- Pay attention to singular/plural agreement in Subject-Verb Concord
- In Passive Voice, focus on the object becoming the subject
- In Reported Speech, change tenses systematically – don’t skip steps
- Practice converting between Active-Passive and Direct-Indirect daily
- The teacher _________ (explain) the lesson before the bell rang.
- I _________ (not see) such a beautiful painting in my life.
- Rajni _________ (work) in this company since 2015.
- By next year, Suresh _________ (complete) his tenth class.
-
had explainedTense: Past Perfect Tense
Explanation: This sentence describes an action (explaining) that was completed before another action in the past (bell rang). We use Past Perfect Tense (had + past participle) to show which action happened first. The teacher explained the lesson BEFORE the bell rang, so we use “had explained.”
Formula: Subject + had + V3 (past participle) -
have not seen / haven’t seenTense: Present Perfect Tense (Negative)
Explanation: The phrase “in my life” indicates an experience (or lack of it) from the past up to the present moment. Present Perfect Tense is used for life experiences. Since it’s negative, we use “have not seen” or its contraction “haven’t seen.”
Formula: Subject + has/have + not + V3 (past participle) -
has been workingTense: Present Perfect Continuous Tense
Explanation: The word “since” followed by a specific time (2015) indicates an action that started in the past and is still continuing. This requires Present Perfect Continuous Tense. Rajni started working in 2015 and is STILL working there.
Formula: Subject + has/have + been + V-ing (present participle)
Note: “has worked” (Present Perfect) is also acceptable but Continuous form emphasizes ongoing nature. -
will have completedTense: Future Perfect Tense
Explanation: The phrase “By next year” indicates a future time by which an action will be completed. Future Perfect Tense is used to express an action that will be finished by a certain time in the future. Suresh will finish his tenth class BEFORE next year arrives.
Formula: Subject + will have + V3 (past participle)
- Since/For: Present Perfect / Present Perfect Continuous
- Before/After (past): Past Perfect
- By (future time): Future Perfect
- In my life/Ever/Never: Present Perfect
- Already/Yet/Just: Present Perfect
- Each of the students _________ (has/have) submitted the assignment.
- Neither Ramesh nor his friends _________ (know/knows) the correct answer.
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hasRule: Subject-Verb Concord with “Each”
Explanation: When “Each” is the subject or part of the subject, we always use a SINGULAR verb. Even though “students” is plural, “each” emphasizes individuality, so we treat it as singular.
Structure: Each + of + plural noun → Singular verb (has, is, does)
Examples:- Each of the boys has a pen.
- Each of the girls is intelligent.
-
knowRule: Subject-Verb Concord with “Neither…nor”
Explanation: When two subjects are joined by “Neither…nor” or “Either…or,” the verb agrees with the subject NEAREST to it. Here, “friends” (plural) is nearest to the verb, so we use “know” (plural verb), not “knows.”
Formula: Neither A nor B → Verb agrees with B
Examples:- Neither the teacher nor the students are present.
- Neither the students nor the teacher is present.
- Each, Every, Either, Neither: Always SINGULAR verb
- Both, Few, Many, Several: Always PLURAL verb
- Either…or / Neither…nor: Verb agrees with nearest subject
- Collective nouns (team, family): Usually SINGULAR
- Some, All, Most: Depends on the noun that follows
- He was very tired. He could not walk any further. (so….that)
- The boy is my best friend. He won the first prize. (who)
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He was so tired that he could not walk any further.Structure: Sentence showing Result/Consequence
Pattern: Subject + verb + so + adjective/adverb + that + result clause
Explanation: “So…that” is used to show cause and effect or degree and result. The first sentence gives the cause (being very tired) and the second gives the result (couldn’t walk). We use “so” before the adjective “tired” and “that” before the result.
Alternative: He was too tired to walk any further. (using “too…to”)
More Examples:- The question was so difficult that I couldn’t solve it.
- She spoke so softly that I couldn’t hear her.
-
The boy who won the first prize is my best friend.Structure: Relative Clause (Adjective Clause)
Pattern: Main clause + who/which/that + additional information
Explanation: “Who” is a relative pronoun used to join two sentences about the same person. It replaces the repeated noun (the boy/he). “Who” is used for people, “which” for things, and “that” for both. The relative clause “who won the first prize” gives additional information about “the boy.”
More Examples:- The girl who is wearing a red dress is my sister.
- The book which is on the table belongs to me.
- So…that: Shows result/consequence
- Too…to: Shows excessive degree preventing action
- Who/Which/That: Relative pronouns for additional information
- Although/Though: Shows contrast
- If/Unless: Shows condition
- When/While: Shows time relationship
Active Voice: The teacher praised the students for their hard work.
| Component | Active Voice | Passive Voice |
|---|---|---|
| Subject | The teacher | The students |
| Verb | praised (V2) | were praised (was/were + V3) |
| Object | the students | by the teacher |
• Active: Subject + V2 + Object
• Passive: Object + was/were + V3 + by + Subject
Step-by-Step Conversion:
- Identify the object of active sentence → “the students” (becomes subject)
- Use appropriate form of “be” verb → “were” (plural past)
- Convert main verb to past participle → “praised” (V3)
- Add “by” + original subject → “by the teacher”
- Keep other elements → “for their hard work” (unchanged)
- Active: She writes a letter. → Passive: A letter is written by her.
- Active: They built this house. → Passive: This house was built by them.
Direct Speech: The manager said to the employee, “Why have you not submitted the report yet?”
Changes Made:
| Element | Direct Speech | Indirect Speech |
|---|---|---|
| Reporting Verb | said to | asked (for questions) |
| Quotation Marks | “…” | Removed |
| Question Word | Why | why (lowercase, acts as conjunction) |
| Auxiliary | have | had (changed to past perfect) |
| Pronoun | you | he (according to employee) |
| Sentence Type | Interrogative (?) | Assertive (.) |
- Change “said to” → “asked” or “inquired”
- Remove quotation marks and question mark
- Use question word (why) as a conjunction
- Change sentence to assertive order (Subject + Verb)
- Change tenses according to rules:
- Present Perfect → Past Perfect
- Simple Present → Simple Past
- Change pronouns according to sense
- Direct: He said, “Where are you going?”
Indirect: He asked where I was going. - Direct: She said to me, “When will you come?”
Indirect: She asked me when I would come.
📚 Complete Concept: Textbook Questions (Prose, Poetry & Supplementary Reader)
📖 Prose Comprehension
What is Prose?
Prose is ordinary written or spoken language without metrical structure (unlike poetry). Textbook prose includes stories, essays, biographies, and articles.
Types of Questions in Prose:
- Extract-Based MCQs: Multiple choice questions from given passages
- Read the extract carefully before attempting questions
- Underline key words in the passage
- Match each option with the passage content
- Short Answer Questions (20-30 words): Brief, focused answers
- Start directly with the answer (no need for introduction)
- Use 2-3 sentences maximum
- Include one specific detail from the text
- Long Answer Questions (60-80 words): Detailed, explanatory answers
- Write 5-6 sentences with clear beginning and ending
- Provide examples and details from the text
- Show understanding of themes and character motivations
- Character Sketch: Describe personality, qualities, and role
- Physical appearance (if given)
- Personality traits with examples
- Actions and their significance
- Relationship with other characters
🎭 Poetry Analysis
What is Poetry?
Poetry is literary work in which feelings and ideas are expressed through rhythm, imagery, and figurative language.
Key Elements to Identify in Poetry:
| Element | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Theme | Central idea or message | Freedom, nature, courage |
| Imagery | Vivid descriptions appealing to senses | “Golden daffodils dancing” |
| Rhyme Scheme | Pattern of rhyming words | AABB, ABAB, ABCB |
| Simile | Comparison using ‘like’ or ‘as’ | “Fast as a tiger” |
| Metaphor | Direct comparison (is, are, was) | “Life is a journey” |
| Personification | Giving human qualities to non-human | “Trees whispered secrets” |
| Alliteration | Repetition of initial consonant sounds | “Peter Piper picked” |
| Tone | Poet’s attitude or mood | Happy, sad, angry, hopeful |
How to Answer Poetry Questions:
- For Extract Questions: Read the extract 2-3 times before answering
- For Theme/Message: Identify the main idea and explain what the poet wants to convey
- For Literary Devices: Quote the line and name the device used
- For Interpretation: Explain what specific lines mean in simple words
👣 Supplementary Reader (Footprints without Feet)
What is Supplementary Reading?
Supplementary readers contain additional stories that complement the main textbook. They often have moral lessons and interesting plot twists.
Common Question Types:
- Plot-Based Questions: What happened in the story? (sequence of events)
- Character Analysis: Describe a character’s personality, motivations, and actions
- Theme Questions: What is the moral or message of the story?
- Critical Thinking: Was the character right in doing so? What would you do?
- Inference Questions: Why did the character act this way?
🎯 Strategy to Answer Textbook Questions
6-Step Approach:
- Read the chapter/poem thoroughly at least twice before exams
- Make short notes of key events, characters, and themes
- Understand, don’t memorize – focus on meaning, not word-by-word
- Practice NCERT questions from the textbook first
- For MCQs: Eliminate obviously wrong options first
- For descriptive answers: Use your own words to explain concepts
Word Limit Guidelines:
- 20-30 words: 2-3 sentences (approximately 2-3 lines)
- 40-50 words: 3-4 sentences (approximately 4-5 lines)
- 60-80 words: 5-6 sentences (approximately 6-8 lines)
- 100-120 words: 8-10 sentences (approximately 10-12 lines)
📝 Important Literary Terms
💡 Pro Tips for Textbook Questions:
- Always read the question carefully – understand what is being asked
- Use simple, clear language – avoid unnecessarily complex words
- Quote directly from text when possible (especially for poetry)
- For character questions, give examples of their actions
- In poetry, explain the meaning before analyzing literary devices
- Practice writing answers within time limits before exams
- Remember: Understanding the text is more important than memorizing answers
That is when I joined the African National Congress, and that is when the hunger for my own freedom became the greater hunger for the freedom of my people. It was this desire for the freedom of my people to live their lives with dignity and self-respect that animated my life, that transformed a frightened young man into a bold one, that drove a law-abiding attorney to become a criminal, that turned a family-loving husband into a man without a home, that forced a life-loving man to live life a monk. I am no more virtuous or self-sacrificing than the next man, but I found that I could not even enjoy the poor and limited freedom I was allowed when I knew my people were not free. Freedom is indivisible; the chains on anyone of my people were the chains on all of them, the chains on all of my people were the chains on me.
(v) What qualities did the speaker want his people to live with? (1 Mark)
(vi) What comparison did the speaker use to explain shared suffering? (1 Mark)
(i) Which organization did the speaker join?
(ii) What did the speaker know about his people?
(iii) What did the speaker’s hunger for personal freedom turn into?
(iv) How did the desire for freedom change the speaker?
(v) What qualities did the speaker want his people to live with?
(vi) What comparison did the speaker use to explain shared suffering?
The following Sunday Lencho came a bit earlier than usual to ask if there was a letter for him. It was the postman himself who handed the letter to him while the postmaster, experiencing the contentment of a man who has performed a good deed, looked on from his office. Lencho showed not the slightest surprise on seeing the money; such was his confidence – but he became angry when he counted the money. God could not have made a mistake, nor could he have denied Lencho what he had requested. Immediately, Lencho went up to the window to ask for paper and ink. On the public writing table, he started to write, with much wrinkling of his brow, caused by the effort he had to make to express his ideas. When he finished, he went to the window to buy a stamp which he licked and then affixed to the envelope with a blow of his fist.
(v) Where did Lencho go immediately after counting the money? (1 Mark)
(vi) Why did Lencho wrinkle his brow while writing the letter? (1 Mark)
(i) Who handed the letter to Lencho?
(ii) Where did Lencho go for a paper?
(iii) Who could not have made a mistake?
(iv) When did Lencho come to the post office?
(v) Where did Lencho go immediately after counting the money?
(vi) Why did Lencho wrinkle his brow while writing the letter?
(i) Why does Anne want to keep a diary? (From the Diary of Anne Frank)
(ii) In what way, did the family help the young seagull during its first flight? (His First Flight)
(iii) What are the elders in Goa nostalgic about? (A Baker from Goa)
(iv) Why was the otter named ‘Maxwell’s Otter’? (Mijbil the Otter)
(i) Why does Anne want to keep a diary?
(ii) In what way, did the family help the young seagull during its first flight?
(iii) What are the elders in Goa nostalgic about?
(iv) Why was the otter named ‘Maxwell’s Otter’?
(i) What is known about the first sermon of Buddha? (The Sermon at Benares)
(i) What is known about the first sermon of Buddha?
- Location: Benares (Sarnath)
- Main teaching: Universal nature of suffering and death
- Message: Accept reality, don’t grieve excessively
- Path to peace through understanding
- Also known as “setting in motion the wheel of dharma”
(ii) Describe the popular legends that explain the discovery of tea. (Tea from Assam)
(ii) Describe the popular legends that explain the discovery of tea.
- Chinese Legend: Emperor, boiling water, tea leaves fell accidentally, pleasant drink
- Indian Legend: Bodhidharma (Buddhist monk), meditation, cut eyelids, tea plants grew from eyelids, refreshing leaves
- Both stories show accidental discovery
- Tea’s energizing properties recognized early
(i) What is Lomov’s claim about the Oxen Meadows? (The Proposal)
(i) What is Lomov’s claim about the Oxen Meadows?
- Oxen Meadows belong to Lomov’s family
- His aunt’s grandmother gave it to Chubukov’s ancestors for temporary free use
- 40 years of use made peasants feel like owners
- Claims he has documents as proof
- Legal ownership always with his family
(ii) Write the character sketch of Natalya. (The Proposal)
(ii) Write the character sketch of Natalya.
- Physical: 25 years old, unmarried
- Personality: Quarrelsome, short-tempered, argumentative, stubborn
- Materialistic: Values property and wealth
- Emotional: Hysterical when upset, desperate to marry
- Actions: Fights over petty issues, quickly changes mind when marriage is at stake
writing long letters
in which I scarcely mention the departure
of the forest from the house.
The night is fresh, the whole moon shines
in the sky still open.
(ii) What is the poetess doing? (2 Marks)
(iii) How is the sky? (2 Marks)
(i) Where does the poetess sit?
(ii) What is the poetess doing?
(iii) How is the sky?
And he held in his teeth a cutlass bright,
His beard was black, one leg was wood;
It was clear that the pirate meant no good.
(ii) What was unusual about the pirate’s leg? (2 Marks)
(iii) What does the poet suggest about the pirate’s intention? (2 Marks)
(i) What does the pirate hold in his teeth?
(ii) What was unusual about the pirate’s leg?
(iii) What does the poet suggest about the pirate’s intention?
(i) How does the tiger spend its life inside the zoo? (A Tiger in the Zoo)
(ii) Why does the poet say that no one will be sad? (For Anne Gregory)
(iii) What does the poet say the boy is learning from the loss of the ball? (The Ball Poem)
(i) How does the tiger spend its life inside the zoo?
(ii) Why does the poet say that no one will be sad?
(iii) What does the poet say the boy is learning from the loss of the ball?
(i) What characteristics of the Bengal Tiger are described by the poet? (How to Tell Wild Animals)
(i) What characteristics of the Bengal Tiger are described by the poet?
- Black stripes on yellow coat (distinctive marking)
- Noble and majestic beast
- Found in jungles of the east
- Loud roar
- Dangerous and fearsome predator
- Humorous description (if it eats you, you’ll know it’s a tiger)
(ii) Why does Amanda moody most of the time? (Amanda!)
(ii) Why does Amanda moody most of the time?
- Constant instructions and nagging from parents
- Feels controlled and restricted
- Lack of freedom
- Escapes into imagination (mermaid, orphan, Rapunzel)
- Desires solitude and independence
- Moodiness as silent rebellion
- Gap between child’s desires and parental expectations
(i) Who tried to invade the earth in twenty first century? (The Book That Saved the Earth)
(ii) Why do Bholi’s parents accept Bishambhar’s marriage proposal? (Bholi)
(iii) Why is Mrs. Pumphrey worried about Tricki? (A Triumph of Surgery)
(i) Who tried to invade the earth in twenty first century?
(ii) Why do Bholi’s parents accept Bishambhar’s marriage proposal?
(iii) Why is Mrs. Pumphrey worried about Tricki?
(i) Describe Anil’s life style. How does he make money? (The Thief’s Story)
(i) Describe Anil’s life style. How does he make money?
- Simple and carefree lifestyle
- Struggling writer
- Makes money by writing articles for magazines
- Irregular and unpredictable income
- Sometimes borrows, sometimes lends
- Kind, generous, and trusting nature
- Passionate about writing, not materialistic
(ii) How are Max and Ausable different from each other? (The Midnight Visitor)
(ii) How are Max and Ausable different from each other?
- Max: Slender, typical spy appearance, armed, crafty, fits romantic spy image
- Ausable: Fat, sloppy, American accent, doesn’t look like a spy
- Intelligence: Ausable is smarter despite appearance
- Methods: Max uses gun and threats; Ausable uses intelligence
- Outcome: Ausable’s clever fabrication about balcony defeats Max
(i) What discovery did Griffin make?
(ii) What was the first collection that started Ebright’s scientific journey?
(iii) What was Horace Dauby’s profession?
(iv) What does Matilda borrow for the ball?
(v) What does Bholi aspire to become after refusing to marry Bishambhar?
Very bast
English class 10th desk work