1

1. The growing preference for indigenous craft items is a welcome trend in today’s globalised world, where
mass-produced goods often dominate markets. These handcrafted products, rooted in the cultural and
artistic traditions of their regions, offer more than just aesthetic appeal. They symbolise sustainability,
support local economies, and preserve heritage of diverse communities.
2. One of the primary reasons for choosing indigenous crafts is their eco-friendliness. Unlike factory-made
products, most traditional crafts are created using natural, locally sourced materials. Artisans often employ
time-tested methods that minimise waste and avoid harmful industrial processes. For example, pottery
made from local clay, handwoven textiles using organic dyes, and bamboo-based crafts all have a much
lower environmental footprint compared to their machine-made counterparts. By opting for these items,
consumers indirectly contribute to reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices.
3. Supporting indigenous crafts also strengthens local economies. Many artisans depend solely on their
craft for livelihood, often working in small communities where opportunities for other forms of
employment are limited. When people purchase their products, it provides a direct income to these
artisans, empowering them and encouraging their craftsmanship. Initiatives like fair trade further ensure
that artisans receive fair wages, fostering economic stability within their communities.
4. Moreover, indigenous craft items help preserve cultural heritage. Every handcrafted product carries a
story—a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and skills passed down through generations. In India, whether
it’s paintings, terracotta jewellery, sculptures, athangudi tiles, mud work frames or many others, each item
reflects the unique identity of its region. By choosing these crafts, people not only appreciate the artistry
but also help keep these traditions alive in an era where cultural homogenisation threatens diversity.
5. In addition to their economic and cultural value, indigenous crafts add a personal touch to homes and
wardrobes. Unlike mass-produced items, which often lack individuality, handcrafted products are unique.
Each piece bears the imprint of the artisan’s effort, creativity, and dedication, making it special for the
buyer.
6. However, the preference for indigenous crafts requires sustained efforts to thrive. Governments,
organisations, and consumers all have roles to play. Policies that promote local craftsmanship, provide
training to artisans, and create global platforms for showcasing their work can boost the visibility and
demand for these products. Consumers, too, must actively seek out and invest in handmade crafts rather
than opting for cheaper, factory-made alternatives. Choosing indigenous craft items is a meaningful step
toward a more sustainable and culturally enriched world. Created for academic usage / 403 words
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I. Why is the growing preference for indigenous craft items described as a ‘welcome trend’ in paragraph 1?
1
II. According to paragraph 1, the indigenous craft items have all of the following qualities EXCEPT being: 1
A. handcrafted products C. aesthetic in appeal
B. rooted in artistic traditions D. easily accessible

III. Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. 1
The usage of locally sourced materials makes the indigenous crafts ________ (traditional / eco-friendly).
(Para 2)
IV. Select the option that is True from (a)-(c) given for what the phrase, ‘time-tested methods’ suggests in
para 2. 1
A. Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective over generations
B. Artisans use outdated practices that are no longer relevant in today's commercial markets.
C. Artisans follow techniques that prioritise speed and mass production over craftsmanship.
V. Complete the analogy by selecting one of the two correct options (a), (b)
fair trade: fair wages:: _______ : _______ (Paragraph 3) 1
(a) employment: job security (b) mass production : reduced prices
VI. Why is supporting indigenous crafts considered an effective way to improve the economic conditions of
small communities? (Paragraph 3) 2
VII. What are the main ideas of paragraph 4 and paragraph 5? 1
i) Choosing indigenous crafts helps preserve cultural heritage
ii) Handcrafted products lack individuality.
iii) Indigenous crafts reflect the artisan’s creativity.
iv) Indigenous crafts promote uniformity by erasing regional differences in artistic traditions.
v) Cultural homogenisation encourages people to choose indigenous crafts over mass-produced goods.
Select the correct option.

VIII. Why is it important for consumers to take an active role alongside government and organisations in
sustaining indigenous crafts? (Paragraph 6) 2
2. Read the following passage.
1. A recent study conducted across two age groups—students aged 10–12 and 13–16— explored their
preferences for ballpoint and micro-tip pens for various writing activities such as note-taking, examinations,
and personal writing. The study aimed to understand trends in writing habits and the factors influencing
pen selection among students.
2. The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes. Among students aged
10–12, 65% preferred ballpoint pens for note-taking, citing ease of use and affordability as key factors.
However, 35% opted for micro-tip pens, valuing their precision and smooth writing. For examinations,
ballpoint pens were the overwhelming choice, with 78% favouring them for their speed and reliability,
while 22% stuck with micro-tip pens, appreciating their fine control.
3. In the 13–16 age group, preferences shifted slightly. For note-taking, 60% favoured microtip pens,
highlighting their ability to produce neat, legible notes, while 40% continued to use ballpoint pens. During
examinations, however, 70% still relied on ballpoint pens, indicating their consistency under time
constraints. When it came to personal writing, such as journalling or creative tasks, 58% in this group chose
micro-tip pens, appreciating the aesthetic appeal of finer lines, while 42% stuck with ballpoint pens for
their convenience.

4. These findings point to the importance of understanding age-specific preferences and task requirements,
enabling manufacturers to innovate products. Manufacturers could further explore incorporating hybrid
features, such as pens offering the speed of ballpoint pens with the precision of micro-tip pens, to cater to
a wider range of student preferences. Created for
academic usage / 250 words
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
I. Why did the study most likely focus on the two specific age groups of 10–12 and 13–16? (Para 1)
This is so because these age groups ____. 1
A. represent the largest population of growing students.
B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
C. were the easiest to survey across various schools.
D. have a natural preference for ballpoint pens.
II. Identify the phrase in paragraph 1 that conveys the writer's reference to the patterns or preferences
observed in how students use pens for various writing tasks. 1
III. Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. (Paragraph 2)
1
Geetha, aged 11, wishes to complete her practical file neatly, ensuring her work is legible and appealing.
She is most likely to choose a micro-tip pen for this task because the ________ (speed / precision) offered
by this type of pen helps produce tidy work.
IV. What does the writer mean by ‘affordability’ while citing the high percentage of ball point pen usage?
(Para 2) 1
V. Complete the following with the correct option.
When the writer says ‘distinct patterns’ in the line ‘The results revealed distinct patterns based on age
groups and writing purposes,’ of paragraph 3, s/he means that _______. 1
A. students in both age groups use pens in the same way for all the listed purposes.
B. the preferences for pens varied according to the students' age and the type of writing task.
C. only micro-tip pens were popular across all writing tasks in the 13-16 age group.
D. students of all age groups preferred ballpoint pens for completing creative writing tasks.
VI. Complete the following appropriately.
The one likely reason why more than 40% of students still chose ballpoint pens for creative tasks, even
though micro-tip pens are better suited for such activities is ____________. (Paragraph 3) 1
VII. How are ‘aesthetic appeal’ and ‘finer lines’ connected? (Paragraph 3) 1
VIII. Elaborate how hybrid features in pens would lead to a commercially viable product. (Paragraph 4) 2
IX Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. (Paragraph 4) 1
Understanding age-specific preferences helps manufacturers design products that cater to the unique
needs of different age groups, ensuring their products are both ________ as well as appealing.

SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)

GRAMMAR 10
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.
I. Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket for the given portion of a market
research:
The special subscriptions of newspapers are well _____(illustrate), to make reading interesting for school
students. 1
II. Identify the error and write the correction in the given sentence from a life skills’ book.
The road to success is not the bed of roses. 1

III. Fill in the blank with the correct form of verb given in the brackets.
I’m so happy to see my plants again! They _____ (grow) so much since I last saw them. 1
IV. Read the given statement.
They said to the guide, “We’d love to come here again next year.”
Report it correctly by completing the following.
They told the guide that _____. 1
V. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the conclusion of a letter of placing order.
There would be no compromise _________the quality of items supplied. 1
A. regards C. regardless
B. regard D. regarding

VI. Report the following by completing the sentence correctly.

"Don't try mending the trousers yourself," she warned him.
She warned him _____. 1
VII. Complete the given opinion by filling the blank with correct option.
The experience of watching the movie left me _____ grateful for knowing the importance of being
empathetic to others. 1
A. having felt B. feeling C. felt D. feels
VIII. The given question has an error. Select the option that correctly identifies the error and the correction.
Which kind of person does something like that? 1

IX. Report the following question.

She said to her sister, “Are you joining us for lunch today?” 1
 X. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in the brackets.
Everyone is saying that Farhana’s chances are bright in the upcoming tournament and she ______ (must /
may) become the youngest football player ever. 1
XI. Fill in the blank to complete the sentence in a teacher’s diary by choosing the correct option.
_____ student in the class submitted their assignment on time.
A. All B. One C. Every D. A 1
XII. Choose the correct option to fill the blank.
I looked inside the bucket and saw there was ______water in it, so they had to add more to use.
A. little B. any C. few D. least

WRITING
NOTE: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for assessment
purpose.
4A. As Vaibhav, the Club in-charge of your school’s Ecology Club, you strongly believe in the importance of
starting Eco-Clubs in schools in the rural areas surrounding your city to promote the preservation and
conservation of nature. Write a letter to the Education Secretary of your city, in about 120 words,
highlighting the significance of ecological awareness and suggesting the need to establish EcoClubs in these
schools. 5
OR
4B. As Amitha, the Vice Head Girl of Vidya Mandir, you are aware of the increasing prevalence of cyber-
attacks and unauthorised exploitation of systems, networks, and technologies affecting individuals across
all demographics. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily in about 120 words, stressing the urgent
need to promote digital security among all age groups. Highlight the challenges posed by cyber threats and
propose practical solutions to address this growing issue. 5
5A. You are the President of the Debate Society in your school. Two guest speakers --Mr. Rajan Sharma and
Ms. Meera Kapoor, have written to express their interest in participating in your upcoming debate
competition. Below are excerpts from their letters. 5

Excerpt 1
...I am thrilled to express my interest in participating as a guest speaker at your school's debate competition. With
over 10 years of experience as a public speaker and debate coach, I have guided numerous students to success in
national-level competitions. My approach focuses on encouraging critical thinking and fostering a passion for
debating. I have previously spoken at various schools and universities, often receiving positive feedback for my
engaging sessions and practical insights. I believe my experience and knowledge can inspire and empower your
students to excel in debating.
Best regards
Mr. Rajan Sharma

Excerpt 2:
...It would be a privilege to participate as a guest speaker at your school's upcoming debate competition. I have
participated in international debate forums and have won accolades for my arguments on global and social issues.
My strength lies in connecting with young audiences and making debates relevant to real-world scenarios. I also
emphasise how debating can improve public speaking, confidence, and interpersonal skills. I look forward to
sharing my journey and experiences with your students to inspire them to use debating as a tool for personal
growth.
Yours sincerely
Ms. Meera Kapoor
Analyse the information in a paragraph, justifying which guest speaker would be a better choice. Consider
factors such as experience, relevance to the topic, and audience engagement.
OR
5B. Jaspreet, class X, is known for her creativity, excellent communication skills, and ability to think outside
the box. However, she sometimes struggles with time management and prefers collaborative efforts over
working solo. She has been assigned an art-integrated project presentation and must choose a partner
from Sunaina, Tabassum, and Alice. Below are the profiles of the three candidates. 5

Sunaina: Sunaina is highly disciplined and excels in meeting deadlines. She is known for her strong
organisational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently. However, she is slightly reserved and
prefers working in structured, predictable environments.

Tabassum: Tabassum is enthusiastic and spontaneous, with a talent for generating unique ideas. She is an
excellent artist and thrives in creative settings. However, she occasionally struggles to stay focused on tasks
and complete them on time.

Alice: Alice is confident and articulate, with a flair for delivering polished presentations. She is detail-
oriented and ensures that the final product is of high quality. However, she sometimes prefers to take
control and may overlook collaborative efforts.

Based on the features of each candidate, analyse and decide who would be the best partner for Jaspreet.
Consider aspects such as complementary strengths, teamwork, and the project's requirements.

SECTION D
LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)
6. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. 5
A. He just felt a bit dizzy Then he flapped his wings once and he soared upwards. “Ga, ga, ga, Ga, ga, ga,
Gaw-col-ah,” his mother swooped past him, her wings making a loud noise. He answered her with another
scream. Then his father flew over him screaming. He saw his two brothers and his sister flying around him
curvetting and banking and soaring and diving. Then he completely forgot that he had not always been able
to fly, and commended himself to dive and soar and curve, shrieking shrilly. (Two Stories About Flying - First
Flight)
I. Contradict the view that the young seagull celebrated his maiden flight alone. 2
II. Which of the following statements best explains the young seagull’s experience as he starts flying? 1
a) The young seagull immediately mastered flying and was no longer afraid.
b) The young seagull gradually gained confidence and joined his family in the air.
III. What can be inferred about the young seagull’s emotional state after flying with his family? 1
IV. Read the following sound and movement words.
i) flapped ii) shrieking iii) swooped iv) soared v) screaming
Select the option that correctly categorises (i) –(v) into sound and movement words.
B. Historian: ...You haven’t heard about the Martian invasion of 2040? Tsk, tsk. What do they teach children
nowadays? Well, you know, the invasion never really happened, because a single book stopped it. What
was the book, you ask? A noble encyclopaedia? A tome about rockets and missiles? A secret file from outer
space? No, it was none of those. It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope and show you what
happened many centuries ago, in 2040. (She turns on projector, and points it left. Spotlight on Historian
goes out...) (The Book That saved the Earth)
I. What does the pause indicated by the dash in the line ‘It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope
and show you’ convey? 1
i) a sense of impatience and frustration
ii) a point of suspense and anticipation
iii) a moment of confusion and hesitation
iv) a sudden shift to lightheartedness
v) a reflective moment of deep thought
A. i, ii, v B. Only ii C. iii and iv D. Only v
II How do the stage directions, such as ‘Historian turns on projector’ and ‘Spotlight on Historian goes out,’
contribute to the atmosphere and understanding of the scene in this part of the play? 2
III. Select the option that correctly completes the following.
The Historian dismisses the noble encyclopaedia and rockets because she wants to _____ . 1
a) convey the importance of scientific knowledge and military power in stopping the invasion.
b) stress the surprising and unexpected nature of the book that stopped the invasion.
IV. What emotion is the Historian most likely conveying with the phrase ‘Tsk, tsk’? 1
7. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. 5
A. He is learning, well behind his desperate eyes,
The epistemology of loss, how to stand up
Knowing what every man must one day know
And most know many days, how to stand up. (The Ball Poem)
I. What emotions are most appropriately conveyed by the phrase ‘desperate eyes’ and ‘epistemology of
loss’?
i) despair ii) anger iii) frustration iv) confusion v) helplessness
Select the correct option. 1
A. i, iii B. i, iv, v C. ii, iii, iv D. iv, v
II. What does the phrase ‘how to stand up’ suggest about the boy’s emotional growth? 2
III Which phrase from the extract conveys the poet's idea that loss is universal? 1
IV. Fill in the blank with a phrase to suitably complete the sentence.
The loss of his ball symbolises _______ in life. 1
OR
B. Or if some time when roaming round,
A noble wild beast greets you,
With black stripes on a yellow ground,
Just notice if he eats you.
This simple rule may help you learn
The Bengal Tiger to discern. (How to tell Wild Animals)
I. What does the poet imply by referring to the Bengal Tiger as a ‘noble wild beast’? 1
A. The tiger is majestic and dignified despite its ferocity.
B. The tiger is kind and considerate toward humans.
C. The tiger has a royal lineage and should be revered.
D. The tiger is a symbol of fear and destruction.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘ground’ in the line ‘With black stripes on a yellow ground’ refers to _____. 1
III. How does the poet use humour in the description of the Bengal Tiger? 2
IV. Identify the phrase in the poem that is advisory in nature. 1
8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions, in about 50 words each. 4x3=12
I. Otters are known for their peculiar behavioural traits. Support this statement with reference to any two
traits mentioned in ‘Mijbil the Otter.’ 3
II. How does the use of repetition in the poem ‘Amanda!’ highlight the speaker's expectations and
Amanda's responses? 3
III .How can Nelson Mandela’s vision of ‘liberating both the oppressed and the oppressor’ be applied in
modern-day societies to address issues of inequality and discrimination? (Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to
Freedom) 3
IV. How does the line ‘and then moves on’ reflect the transient nature of the fog thereby contributing to
the poem's deeper message about life's impermanence? (Fog) 3
V. How does Chubukov’s reaction to Lomov’s marriage proposal reflect his priorities and values? (The
Proposal) 3
9. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2x3=6
I. How does ‘The Necklace’ illustrate the significance of honesty as the key element for leading a happy and
stress-free life? 3
II. Briefly evaluate the validity of the adage ‘Values are caught, not taught’, in the context of the
relationship between Anil and Hari Singh in ‘The Thief’s Story’. 3
III. Griffin’s experiences moments of comfort and normalcy while being invisible.
How do these fleeting moments impact his sense of identity and his actions throughout 'Footprints
Without Feet'? 3
10 Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words 1 x 6
A. How does literature like ‘The Baker from Goa,’ ‘Coorg,’ and ‘Tea from Assam’ contribute to promoting
tourism and raising awareness about regional cultures and traditions? 6
OR
B. The poems, ‘The Trees’ and ‘A Tiger in the Zoo’ resonate the theme of importance of freedom and the
desire to break free from any kind of dominance. Examine. 6
11 Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 1 x 6
A. How does the author use the narrative technique of misdirection in 'The Midnight Visitor', to enhance
the suspense and the story’s unexpected ending? 6
OR
B. Comment critically on the role of the Surgery in the ‘The Triumph of Surgery’. 6