Top Essential Questions for NCERT Class 10 English for CBSE and RBSE students : Key Exam Prep Guide

1. Literature Section:

   A. First Flight:
   – Explain the theme of courage and resilience in the poem “Fire and Ice” by Robert Frost.
   – Discuss the central idea of “A Letter to God” and how it reflects human faith and hope.
   – Analyze the character of Mrs. Packletide in “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger” and her motivations.

NCERT CLASS 10th ENGLISH – First Flight Analysis

A. Theme of Courage and Resilience in “Fire and Ice”:

Robert Frost’s “Fire and Ice” explores the destructive and regenerative forces that could bring about the end of the world. The poem delves into two opposing metaphors: fire, representing passionate destruction, and ice, symbolizing cold, all-encompassing oblivion.

• Fire: The speaker suggests that if the world were to end by fire, it would be a quick, passionate blaze, fueled by desire and hatred. This fiery end would be marked by chaos and violence, leaving behind only ashes.
• Ice: However, the speaker believes ice is a more likely harbinger of doom. A slow, creeping glaciation would signify an emotionless, indifferent end, where everything freezes and ceases to exist. This icy death would be more complete and permanent, erasing all traces of life and memory.

Courage and resilience come into play through the speaker’s acceptance of these inevitable forces. He doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the potential for destruction, but instead, views it with a stoic calm. He recognizes that regardless of whether the world ends by fire or ice, life will ultimately succumb to these powerful forces. However, the poem doesn’t end on a purely nihilistic note. The speaker finds solace in the beauty and power of nature, even in its destructive forms. He suggests that even if the world ends, the human spirit, represented by the “fire” of passion and the “ice” of resilience, will endure in some form.

B. Central Idea of “A Letter to God”:

Fenton’s “A Letter to God” revolves around a young boy’s innocent faith and hope in the face of hardship. He writes directly to God, pouring out his sorrows and anxieties about his family’s poverty and his father’s illness. Despite his circumstances, the boy never loses faith. He trusts God to provide for his family and heal his father.

The letter reflects how human faith and hope can offer solace and strength even in the most trying times. The boy’s unwavering belief in God’s goodness serves as a beacon of light amidst his struggles. He finds comfort in the idea that God is watching over him and will ultimately take care of everything. The letter also highlights the power of childhood innocence, where faith and hope remain untainted by cynicism or doubt.

C. Character Analysis of Mrs. Packletide in “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger”:

Saki’s “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger” satirizes the colonial mentality and social climbing aspirations of the British Raj. Mrs. Packletide, the central character, embodies these traits. She is obsessed with the idea of achieving social status and recognition. Her desire to shoot a tiger stems not from love of hunting, but from the perceived prestige it would bring her.

Here’s a breakdown of Mrs. Packletide’s motivations:

• Status Symbol: Shooting a tiger signifies power, wealth, and belonging to the elite hunting community. Mrs. Packletide craves this recognition and the social validation it would bring.
• Vanity: She wants to be seen as a fearless and adventurous woman, defying expectations of her gender and social class. Shooting a tiger would be a trophy, proving her “masculine” spirit and daring nature.
• One-Upmanship: Mrs. Packletide is competitive and envious of others’ achievements. Shooting a tiger would allow her to outshine her rivals and establish herself as the most daring and accomplished among them.

However, Mrs. Packletide’s motivations are ultimately exposed as shallow and self-serving. Her obsession with shooting a tiger for the sake of appearances leads to a comical and humiliating anticlimax. The story serves as a critique of colonial vanity and the pursuit of empty social status.

B. Footprints Without Feet (Supplementary Reader):

   – Describe the moral dilemma faced by the protagonist in “The Thief’s Story”.
   – How does “The Making of a Scientist” inspire young readers?
   – Discuss the main theme of “The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant.

NCERT CLASS 10th ENGLISH – Footprints Without Feet Analysis

The daily news reports of rising respiratory ailments and skyrocketing pollution levels paint a grim picture. Children are particularly vulnerable, with asthma cases on the rise. The once vibrant playgrounds now echo with coughs and wheezes, and outdoor activities have become a health risk.

B. Moral Dilemma in “The Thief’s Story”:

Hari Singh, the protagonist of “The Thief’s Story,” faces a complex moral dilemma throughout the narrative. He is a young thief, forced into his life of crime due to circumstance. However, he possesses an inherent desire for good and a yearning for a different life. This creates a constant internal conflict for him:

• Temptation vs. Morality: He continues to steal to survive, yet feels guilty about his actions. This inner struggle is evident when he steals Anil’s money but then returns it, unable to bear the weight of his guilt.
• Self-Preservation vs. Self-Improvement: He wants to learn and better himself, but his desperation for food and shelter often pulls him back into petty theft. This is seen when he initially lies to Anil about wanting to work, knowing he has no skills.
• Trust vs. Suspicion: He longs for genuine connection and trust, but his past experiences have hardened him and made him suspicious of others. This conflict surfaces when Anil offers him food and education, and Hari struggles to believe in his sincerity.

Ultimately, Hari’s journey through this moral dilemma remains unresolved. He makes small steps towards a better life, like learning to read and write, but the story leaves his future uncertain. This allows the reader to contemplate the choices he makes and the challenges he faces in seeking redemption.

C. Inspiration in “The Making of a Scientist”:

“The Making of a Scientist” by Madame Curie serves as a powerful source of inspiration for young readers, particularly those interested in science and STEM fields. Here’s how:

• Overcoming Obstacles: Madame Curie’s story highlights the perseverance required for scientific pursuit. Her struggles with poverty, gender discrimination, and limited resources demonstrate that success in science doesn’t come easy. This can inspire young readers to face their own challenges with determination.
• Dedication and Passion: The story showcases Curie’s unwavering dedication to her research. Her tireless efforts and relentless pursuit of knowledge can inspire young readers to find their own passion and devote themselves to it wholeheartedly.
• Scientific Achievement: Curie’s groundbreaking discoveries serve as a reminder of the transformative power of scientific research. This can inspire young readers to dream big and contribute to scientific advancements that benefit humanity.
• Role Model for Women: As a pioneer in a field dominated by men, Madame Curie offers a powerful role model for young girls interested in science. Her story challenges gender stereotypes and demonstrates that women can achieve remarkable things in STEM fields.

D. Main Theme of “The Necklace”:

Guy de Maupassant’s “The Necklace” explores a complex theme of materialism vs. reality. Mathilde Loisel, the protagonist, is consumed by desire for wealth and social status. She obsesses over a borrowed necklace, symbolizing the life of luxury she craves.

• Destructive Desire: Mathilde’s fixation on material possessions ultimately leads to her downfall. Her obsession with the necklace ruins her marriage, drives her to debt, and forces her to live a life of deceit and hardship.
• Illusions vs. Truth: The borrowed necklace represents an illusion of wealth and happiness. Its loss exposes the harsh reality of Mathilde’s circumstances and the emptiness of her materialistic aspirations.
• Lessons Learned: Through Mathilde’s experience, the story offers a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing material possessions over genuine happiness and contentment. It emphasizes the importance of valuing relationships, personal integrity, and living within one’s means.

2. Writing Skills:

   – Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper expressing your concern about the rising levels of air pollution in your city.
   – Draft a report on a ‘Cleanliness Drive’ organized by your school
   – Write an essay on ‘The Impact of Social Media on Youth’.

Class Tenth English NCERT – Writing Skills:

1. Letter to the Editor:

To the Editor,

I am writing to express my deep concern about the alarming levels of air pollution plaguing our city. The smog hanging over our streets is not just an eyesore, it’s a serious health hazard impacting the lives of every resident.

The causes of this crisis are manifold – rampant industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and the burning of fossil fuels. However, the responsibility to address this issue lies not only with the authorities, but also with each individual. We must adopt sustainable practices like carpooling, opting for public transportation, and reducing our dependence on single-use plastics.

Therefore, I urge the city administration to implement stricter emission regulations for industries, invest in cleaner public transport infrastructure, and promote afforestation initiatives. Additionally, creating awareness campaigns that encourage responsible waste disposal and energy consumption is crucial.

As a concerned citizen, I believe that tackling air pollution demands collective action. We need to work together, hand-in-hand, to reclaim the clear skies our city once boasted. Let us prioritize clean air and create a healthier future for generations to come.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

2. Report on Cleanliness Drive:

Report on Cleanliness Drive Organized by [School Name]

On [Date], our school organized a Cleanliness Drive under the theme “[Theme of the Drive]”. The initiative aimed to promote environmental awareness and encourage responsible waste disposal among students.

The drive began with an inspiring speech by the Principal, highlighting the importance of cleanliness and its impact on our health and environment. Students from all classes were divided into groups and assigned specific areas of the school premises. They enthusiastically collected litter, segregated waste into recyclable and non-recyclable categories, and cleaned classrooms, playgrounds, and gardens.

The drive also included informative sessions on composting, recycling techniques, and the harmful effects of plastic pollution. Students actively participated in these sessions, asking questions and sharing their own ideas on sustainable practices.

The Cleanliness Drive concluded with a rewarding ceremony where students who demonstrated exceptional effort were recognized. The atmosphere throughout the day was one of collaboration and enthusiasm, with students taking pride in making a positive contribution to their school environment.

This initiative not only helped clean the school premises but also instilled in students a sense of responsibility towards their surroundings. It served as a valuable lesson in environmental awareness and encouraged them to adopt sustainable habits in their daily lives.

3.Essay on “The Impact of Social Media on Youth”:

The Impact of Social Media on Youth:

Social media has become an undeniable force in shaping the lives of today’s youth. Its influence on communication, self-esteem, and mental health has sparked both praise and concern. While it offers undeniable benefits, the potential downsides necessitate a critical examination of its impact.

On the positive side, social media provides young people with a platform to connect with peers, express themselves creatively, and access a wealth of information and educational resources. It fosters communities around shared interests, facilitates global communication, and empowers young voices to be heard. Additionally, social media can be a powerful tool for learning, collaboration, and social activism, driving positive change and raising awareness on critical issues.

However, the constant connectivity and curated online personas can lead to feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Social media comparison can be detrimental to self-esteem, fostering anxieties about appearance, popularity, and achievement. Cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content can have negative psychological effects, leading to depression and anxiety. Furthermore, the addictive nature of social media can disrupt sleep patterns, affect focus, and hinder academic performance.

Therefore, it is crucial to navigate the world of social media with caution and awareness. Open communication between parents and children, setting healthy boundaries on screen time, and promoting responsible online behavior are essential. Encouraging critical thinking skills, fostering real-world connections, and engaging in offline activities are crucial to counterbalance the influence of social media.

In conclusion, the impact of social media on youth is complex and multifaceted. While it offers undeniable benefits, it is crucial to be mindful of its potential downsides and encourage responsible use. By fostering healthy digital habits and promoting a balanced approach, we can ensure that social media serves as a tool for empowerment and positive connection rather than a source of harm.

3. Grammar:

   – Fill in the blanks with appropriate modal verbs.
   – Edit the given passage for grammatical accuracy.
   – Rearrange the jumbled words to form meaningful sentences.
   – Transform the sentences as directed (e.g., Active to Passive Voice).

Enhancing English Grammar Skills for Class 10 Students: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:
Grammar is the backbone of effective communication in the English language. For Class 10 students, mastering grammar is not just crucial for academic success in English, but it also lays a solid foundation for future studies and professional communication.

1. Mastering Modal Verbs:
Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express necessity, possibility, permission, or obligation. Understanding and using modal verbs correctly can significantly enhance the clarity of expression in English.

Exercise: Fill in the Blanks with Appropriate Modal Verbs

• Example: You _ (must, can) submit your assignment by tomorrow.
• Answer: must

2. Editing for Grammatical Accuracy:
Editing is a crucial skill that involves identifying and correcting grammatical errors, ensuring that the text is fluent and error-free.

Exercise: Edit the Given Passage for Grammatical Accuracy

• Original: “He go to school every day. He do his homeworks regularly.”
• Edited: “He goes to school every day. He does his homework regularly.”

3. Jumbled Words to Meaningful Sentences:
This exercise enhances a student’s understanding of sentence structure and syntax.

Exercise: Rearrange the Jumbled Words to Form Meaningful Sentences

• Jumbled: “library the in reading I am”
• Answer: “I am reading in the library.”

4. Active to Passive Voice Transformation:
Understanding the difference between active and passive voice is fundamental in English grammar. The ability to transform sentences between these two voices is a valuable skill.

Exercise: Transform the Sentences as Directed

• Active: “The teacher explained the lesson.”
• Passive: “The lesson was explained by the teacher.”

Conclusion:
Regular practice of these grammar exercises will not only prepare Class 10 students for their exams but also enhance their overall command of the English language. It is essential to approach grammar with a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn and improve continuously.

Unveiling the Unseen: Mastering Comprehension

Comprehension questions based on unseen passages can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can turn them into opportunities to showcase your reading skills and understanding. Here’s your guide to conquering the unseen:

Step 1: Embrace the First Read:

• Read the passage once at a normal pace. Don’t get bogged down by unfamiliar words or complex sentences. Focus on getting the gist of the story, poem, or argument.

Step 2: Dive Deeper with the Second Read:

• Go back and reread the passage carefully. This time, pay attention to details, such as character names, specific events, and key points. Underline important information or make margin notes.

Step 3: Answer Time:

• Now, tackle the comprehension questions! Read each question carefully and identify the information you need to find in the passage. Look for keywords or phrases that match the question.

Step 4: Think Beyond the Literal:

• Some questions go beyond simple recall and require inference or critical thinking. Analyze the information you gathered and draw conclusions based on the context. Don’t be afraid to interpret and make connections.

Bonus Tips:

• Manage your time: Allocate a specific amount of time for each question to avoid rushing.
• Eliminate distractors: Find a quiet space to focus and avoid multitasking.
• Use context clues: Unfamiliar words can be understood by looking at the surrounding sentences.
• Don’t get stuck: If you’re unsure about an answer, move on and come back to it later.

Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you encounter unseen passages, the more confident you’ll become in mastering them.

Ready for a Challenge?

Here’s an example of an unseen passage with comprehension questions to test your skills:

Passage:

The old lighthouse keeper, weathered and wise as the cliffs he stood upon, gazed out at the churning sea. He had spent a lifetime tending the beacon, its powerful light guiding countless ships through treacherous waters. But tonight, an unsettling silence hung in the air. The usually rhythmic waves crashed against the rocks with muted fury, and the wind, usually a boisterous companion, was eerily still.

Questions:

1. Where does the story take place?
2. What is the occupation of the main character?
3. What is the mood of the passage?
4. What evidence suggests that something unusual is happening?
5. Why do you think the lighthouse keeper is gazing out at the sea?

Answers to Unseen Passage Comprehension Questions:

1. Where does the story take place?

The story takes place at a lighthouse, likely situated on a cliff overlooking the sea.

2. What is the occupation of the main character?

The main character is an old lighthouse keeper.

3. What is the mood of the passage?

The mood is unsettling and ominous. The silence, stillness, and unusual behavior of the sea create a sense of tension and foreboding.

4. What evidence suggests that something unusual is happening?

• The uncharacteristic silence of the waves and wind.
• The muted fury with which the waves crash against the rocks suggests a suppressed intensity.
• The lighthouse keeper’s unsettled gaze towards the sea further amplifies the sense of something amiss.

5. Why do you think the lighthouse keeper is gazing out at the sea?

The keeper’s gaze might be driven by several reasons:

• Professional vigilance: As a lighthouse keeper, he is responsible for monitoring the sea and ensuring the safety of ships. The unusual silence might have triggered his alertness.
• Personal curiosity: The stillness and eeriness might have aroused his curiosity, prompting him to investigate further.
• Intuition or premonition: He might be experiencing a gut feeling or a sense of impending danger, drawing him towards the sea.

5. Poetry Appreciation:

   – Interpret the poem “Dust of Snow” and discuss how nature can change one’s mood.
   – Explain the use of metaphors in the poem “The Snake Trying”.

Poetry Appreciation: Delving into Dust and Snakes

1. “Dust of Snow” by Robert Frost:

This seemingly simple poem about a crow dropping snow on the speaker’s head packs a powerful punch. Let’s unpack its meaning:

Interpretation:

• Initial Annoyance: The speaker is initially irritated by the sudden shower of snow, calling it “grievous injury.” His reaction reflects feelings of disruption and unwelcome intrusion.
• Shifting Perspective: However, the poem unfolds through the act of looking. Observing the delicate beauty of the “feathering snow” and its transformative effect on the bareness of the cedar bough evokes a sense of awe and wonder.
• Nature’s Renewal: The final line, “And I could have sworn I saw his coat/Brush the cold off with delight,” suggests a reconciliation with the unexpected. The speaker imagines the crow taking pleasure in the act of renewing the bough, highlighting nature’s playful and restorative power.

Nature’s Mood-Shifting Power:

The poem beautifully illustrates how nature can drastically alter our emotional state. From initial annoyance, the speaker ultimately experiences a sense of appreciation and delight, demonstrating the interconnectedness of our moods with the natural world.

2. “The Snake Trying” by W.S. Merwin:

Metaphors take center stage in this poem, allowing us to experience the snake’s struggle through vivid imagery:

Metaphors:

• “Coiled rope”: This metaphor emphasizes the snake’s strength and potential for power, but also hints at its confinement and restricted movement.
• “Whip of grass”: The grass becomes an obstacle, a force challenging the snake’s attempts to move forward.
• “Sun a hand”: The sun is personified as a powerful entity, both warming the snake and potentially obstructing its vision.
• “Trying”: This repeated word highlights the snake’s persistent effort and underscores the difficulty of its journey.

Explanation:

These metaphors contribute to the poem’s central theme of perseverance. The snake’s determination to move forward despite physical limitations and external challenges creates a compelling image of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Appreciating Poetry:

Remember, poetry is often open to interpretation, and your unique perspective adds value to the experience. Embrace the imagery, analyze the diction, and explore the emotions evoked by the poem. By actively engaging with these elements, you deepen your understanding and appreciation of the poet’s craft.