Class 10 English (Language & Literature): CBSE (Official) Sample Question Paper (2023-24) | CBSE Sample Papers For Class 10 PDF Download

 Page 1


1 of 13 
 
 
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER (2023-24) 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184) 
CLASS-X  
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                       Maximum Marks: 80 
     General Instructions: 
1. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, GRAMMAR & WRITING and LITERATURE. 
2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part. 
SECTION A : READING SKILLS (20 marks) 
Reading Comprehension Through Unseen Passages 
1.  Read the following text. 10 m 
(1) 
 
As a high school student, studying poetry can be a rollercoaster ride. This journey is punctuated by 
moments of profound appreciation for simpler pieces and intermittent frustration with more 
complex works. Let's be real here - some poems are just plain confusing and no amount of re-reading 
seems to help decipher the intended meaning. The puzzlement that results from such instances can 
be both vexing and demotivating. If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a 
better option. One is led to ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
(2) 
Conversely, some pieces resonate with the reader's soul.  stirring feelings of warmth, happiness, and 
connection to the world. Often, these compositions centre on themes that are universally 
understood, such as love, nature, or faith. Being able to actually understand what the poet is trying 
to say can feel like a little victory and is a welcome relief after grappling with more perplexing poetry. 
(3) 
Then there are poems that are emotionally charged; the ones that make the reader curl up in a ball 
and cry or jump up and down with joy. One is left in awe of the poet's ability to convey emotion 
through words. Let’s not forget the downright weird poems. These are the ones that defy 
categorization and leave the reader to their own devices in attempting to interpret meaning. The 
author's use of figurative language and unconventional imagery can create a sense of bewilderment 
that is either intriguing or off-putting. Regardless, the reader can appreciate the uniqueness of the 
work.  
(4) 
Despite the wide range of emotions and reactions that come with studying poetry, it can be a 
rewarding pursuit. Not only does reading poetry allow one to appreciate the artistic beauty of the 
written word but also enables one to develop crucial critical thinking and analytical skills. The process 
of unlocking a poem's meaning can feel like cracking a code or solving a puzzle but the sense of 
accomplishment derived from mastering a challenging piece can be deeply gratifying. Finally, 
impressing an English teacher with a well-analysed poem can be a source of pride and validation.  
(5) 
Overall, studying poetry is like a box of mixed chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. 
But whether it's complex, emotional, simple, or just downright weird, there's always something to 
be gained from the experience. So, let's applaud all the poets out there, for making us laugh, cry, 
scratch our heads, and occasionally feel like a genius. 
Created for academic usage/ 414 words 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
Page 2


1 of 13 
 
 
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER (2023-24) 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184) 
CLASS-X  
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                       Maximum Marks: 80 
     General Instructions: 
1. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, GRAMMAR & WRITING and LITERATURE. 
2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part. 
SECTION A : READING SKILLS (20 marks) 
Reading Comprehension Through Unseen Passages 
1.  Read the following text. 10 m 
(1) 
 
As a high school student, studying poetry can be a rollercoaster ride. This journey is punctuated by 
moments of profound appreciation for simpler pieces and intermittent frustration with more 
complex works. Let's be real here - some poems are just plain confusing and no amount of re-reading 
seems to help decipher the intended meaning. The puzzlement that results from such instances can 
be both vexing and demotivating. If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a 
better option. One is led to ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
(2) 
Conversely, some pieces resonate with the reader's soul.  stirring feelings of warmth, happiness, and 
connection to the world. Often, these compositions centre on themes that are universally 
understood, such as love, nature, or faith. Being able to actually understand what the poet is trying 
to say can feel like a little victory and is a welcome relief after grappling with more perplexing poetry. 
(3) 
Then there are poems that are emotionally charged; the ones that make the reader curl up in a ball 
and cry or jump up and down with joy. One is left in awe of the poet's ability to convey emotion 
through words. Let’s not forget the downright weird poems. These are the ones that defy 
categorization and leave the reader to their own devices in attempting to interpret meaning. The 
author's use of figurative language and unconventional imagery can create a sense of bewilderment 
that is either intriguing or off-putting. Regardless, the reader can appreciate the uniqueness of the 
work.  
(4) 
Despite the wide range of emotions and reactions that come with studying poetry, it can be a 
rewarding pursuit. Not only does reading poetry allow one to appreciate the artistic beauty of the 
written word but also enables one to develop crucial critical thinking and analytical skills. The process 
of unlocking a poem's meaning can feel like cracking a code or solving a puzzle but the sense of 
accomplishment derived from mastering a challenging piece can be deeply gratifying. Finally, 
impressing an English teacher with a well-analysed poem can be a source of pride and validation.  
(5) 
Overall, studying poetry is like a box of mixed chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. 
But whether it's complex, emotional, simple, or just downright weird, there's always something to 
be gained from the experience. So, let's applaud all the poets out there, for making us laugh, cry, 
scratch our heads, and occasionally feel like a genius. 
Created for academic usage/ 414 words 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
2 of 13 
 
 
i Which of the following statements best describes the author's attitude towards studying 
poetry? 
A. Finds poetry to be a frustrating and meaningless endeavor. 
B. Believes that the emotional rollercoaster of studying poetry is not worth the effort. 
C. Recognizes the challenges of studying poetry but also acknowledges the rewards it 
offers. 
D. Feels that poetry is too obscure and abstract for the average person to appreciate. 
1 
ii What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph (1)? Rationalise your response 
in about 40 words. 
If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a better option. One is led to 
ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
2 
iii Complete the sentence appropriately. 
The author's use of vivid imagery in the paragraph (3), such as "curl up in a ball and cry" and 
"jump up and down with joy", greatly affects the reader because ____________. 
1 
iv The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (a)-(e) 
below, identify two sets of antonyms: 
 
 
 
1 
v Complete the sentence appropriately. 
We can say that the author's tone becomes more neutral and objective when discussing weird 
poems, compared to other types of poetry because __________.  
1 
vi Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, how studying poetry can 
be like exploring a new city. 
2 
vii What is the message conveyed by Hina's experience, in the following case? 
  
Hina spends hours trying to analyze a poem for her assignment and finally feels a sense of 
accomplishment and pride, once she understands. 
 
A. Only those with natural talent for poetry should engage with it. 
B. Persistence makes studying poetry a rewarding pursuit.  
C. Study of poetry is guaranteed to impress others. 
D. The efforts of studying poetry is inversely proportional to the rewards gained. 
1 
viii State whether the following lines display an example of a simple / complex / emotionally 
charged / downright weird , poem. 
 
The sun rises in the east, 
A new day begins, a fresh start. 
Birds chirp, nature wakes up, 
A peaceful feeling in my heart. 
1 
2.  Read the following text. 10 m  
 
(1) 
Reduction  in  green  areas  has  caused  various  environmental problems.  People squeezed  between  
concrete  structures  are looking  for  various  ways  to meet their  longing for  green. One  of  the 
ways to do so, is vertical  gardens  and green  walls.  Vertical gardening is a unique method of 
            (a) intriguing and off-putting                       (b) deciphering and interpreting              
                        (c) appreciate and applaud       (d) simple and challenging 
                                                  (e) emotions and feelings 
Page 3


1 of 13 
 
 
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER (2023-24) 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184) 
CLASS-X  
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                       Maximum Marks: 80 
     General Instructions: 
1. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, GRAMMAR & WRITING and LITERATURE. 
2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part. 
SECTION A : READING SKILLS (20 marks) 
Reading Comprehension Through Unseen Passages 
1.  Read the following text. 10 m 
(1) 
 
As a high school student, studying poetry can be a rollercoaster ride. This journey is punctuated by 
moments of profound appreciation for simpler pieces and intermittent frustration with more 
complex works. Let's be real here - some poems are just plain confusing and no amount of re-reading 
seems to help decipher the intended meaning. The puzzlement that results from such instances can 
be both vexing and demotivating. If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a 
better option. One is led to ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
(2) 
Conversely, some pieces resonate with the reader's soul.  stirring feelings of warmth, happiness, and 
connection to the world. Often, these compositions centre on themes that are universally 
understood, such as love, nature, or faith. Being able to actually understand what the poet is trying 
to say can feel like a little victory and is a welcome relief after grappling with more perplexing poetry. 
(3) 
Then there are poems that are emotionally charged; the ones that make the reader curl up in a ball 
and cry or jump up and down with joy. One is left in awe of the poet's ability to convey emotion 
through words. Let’s not forget the downright weird poems. These are the ones that defy 
categorization and leave the reader to their own devices in attempting to interpret meaning. The 
author's use of figurative language and unconventional imagery can create a sense of bewilderment 
that is either intriguing or off-putting. Regardless, the reader can appreciate the uniqueness of the 
work.  
(4) 
Despite the wide range of emotions and reactions that come with studying poetry, it can be a 
rewarding pursuit. Not only does reading poetry allow one to appreciate the artistic beauty of the 
written word but also enables one to develop crucial critical thinking and analytical skills. The process 
of unlocking a poem's meaning can feel like cracking a code or solving a puzzle but the sense of 
accomplishment derived from mastering a challenging piece can be deeply gratifying. Finally, 
impressing an English teacher with a well-analysed poem can be a source of pride and validation.  
(5) 
Overall, studying poetry is like a box of mixed chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. 
But whether it's complex, emotional, simple, or just downright weird, there's always something to 
be gained from the experience. So, let's applaud all the poets out there, for making us laugh, cry, 
scratch our heads, and occasionally feel like a genius. 
Created for academic usage/ 414 words 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
2 of 13 
 
 
i Which of the following statements best describes the author's attitude towards studying 
poetry? 
A. Finds poetry to be a frustrating and meaningless endeavor. 
B. Believes that the emotional rollercoaster of studying poetry is not worth the effort. 
C. Recognizes the challenges of studying poetry but also acknowledges the rewards it 
offers. 
D. Feels that poetry is too obscure and abstract for the average person to appreciate. 
1 
ii What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph (1)? Rationalise your response 
in about 40 words. 
If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a better option. One is led to 
ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
2 
iii Complete the sentence appropriately. 
The author's use of vivid imagery in the paragraph (3), such as "curl up in a ball and cry" and 
"jump up and down with joy", greatly affects the reader because ____________. 
1 
iv The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (a)-(e) 
below, identify two sets of antonyms: 
 
 
 
1 
v Complete the sentence appropriately. 
We can say that the author's tone becomes more neutral and objective when discussing weird 
poems, compared to other types of poetry because __________.  
1 
vi Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, how studying poetry can 
be like exploring a new city. 
2 
vii What is the message conveyed by Hina's experience, in the following case? 
  
Hina spends hours trying to analyze a poem for her assignment and finally feels a sense of 
accomplishment and pride, once she understands. 
 
A. Only those with natural talent for poetry should engage with it. 
B. Persistence makes studying poetry a rewarding pursuit.  
C. Study of poetry is guaranteed to impress others. 
D. The efforts of studying poetry is inversely proportional to the rewards gained. 
1 
viii State whether the following lines display an example of a simple / complex / emotionally 
charged / downright weird , poem. 
 
The sun rises in the east, 
A new day begins, a fresh start. 
Birds chirp, nature wakes up, 
A peaceful feeling in my heart. 
1 
2.  Read the following text. 10 m  
 
(1) 
Reduction  in  green  areas  has  caused  various  environmental problems.  People squeezed  between  
concrete  structures  are looking  for  various  ways  to meet their  longing for  green. One  of  the 
ways to do so, is vertical  gardens  and green  walls.  Vertical gardening is a unique method of 
            (a) intriguing and off-putting                       (b) deciphering and interpreting              
                        (c) appreciate and applaud       (d) simple and challenging 
                                                  (e) emotions and feelings 
3 of 13 
 
 
gardening where plants are grown in a vertical position or upward, rather than in the traditional 
method of planting them on the ground.  
 
(2) 
The  purpose of  vertical  gardens and  green  walls, which  arises from the studies  of different 
disciplines  (landscape  architects,  architects, engineers,  etc.),  is to close the cold image of concrete 
and increase the visual value. In these systems, nature and structures are integrated, and thus, urban  
areas  and  the  desired  environment  have become  intertwined. 
 
(3) 
Vertical  garden  case studies often show that , though functionality should be in the foreground, 
when vertical gardens are planned, they are  generally made  as  aesthetic  elements  in the  city's  
underpasses  and  city squares, and decorative elements in residences, without seeking functionality.  
 
(4) 
Experts  support that the visual quality and evaluation of landscape architecture is determined  based 
on  the satisfaction of  the  users. Hence, a survey questionnaire was prepared for residents of varied 
age groups from of a metropolitan city . The given Table 1, displays these responses: 
 Table 1 - Total number of participants : 400 
No. Survey statements Strongly 
agree 
Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly  
disagree 
Vertical gardens- 
1 improve quality of life of people 
in urban areas 
191 138 43 9 19 
2 reduce noise pollution 128 164 77 25 6 
3 increase air quality -indoors and 
outdoors 
172 147 51 28 2 
4 reduce energy and water 
consumption 
58 47 125 68 2 
5 positively impact global warming 114 144 106 30 6 
6 have a relaxing and calming 
effect 
161 177 44 7 11 
7 cost too much 86 107 152 42 13 
8 make plants look beautiful 195 139 44 6 16 
9 add naturalness to the environs 135 173 55 25 12 
10 are among the determining 
factor to visiting a place 
59 133 141 54 13 
11 are inconvenient indoors 9 84 123 126 48 
12 can be applied in every place 71 132 97 77 23 
13 have a functional feature 81 207 100 10 2 
14 distract drivers 34 101 106 131 28 
15 funds are best used for social 
issues 
57 72 100 130 41 
 
 
(5) 
The study acknowledged that vertical gardening has the potential to transform urban spaces into 
green, sustainable areas, and further research should explore the impact of vertical gardening on the 
environment and human well-being. 
Page 4


1 of 13 
 
 
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER (2023-24) 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184) 
CLASS-X  
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                       Maximum Marks: 80 
     General Instructions: 
1. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, GRAMMAR & WRITING and LITERATURE. 
2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part. 
SECTION A : READING SKILLS (20 marks) 
Reading Comprehension Through Unseen Passages 
1.  Read the following text. 10 m 
(1) 
 
As a high school student, studying poetry can be a rollercoaster ride. This journey is punctuated by 
moments of profound appreciation for simpler pieces and intermittent frustration with more 
complex works. Let's be real here - some poems are just plain confusing and no amount of re-reading 
seems to help decipher the intended meaning. The puzzlement that results from such instances can 
be both vexing and demotivating. If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a 
better option. One is led to ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
(2) 
Conversely, some pieces resonate with the reader's soul.  stirring feelings of warmth, happiness, and 
connection to the world. Often, these compositions centre on themes that are universally 
understood, such as love, nature, or faith. Being able to actually understand what the poet is trying 
to say can feel like a little victory and is a welcome relief after grappling with more perplexing poetry. 
(3) 
Then there are poems that are emotionally charged; the ones that make the reader curl up in a ball 
and cry or jump up and down with joy. One is left in awe of the poet's ability to convey emotion 
through words. Let’s not forget the downright weird poems. These are the ones that defy 
categorization and leave the reader to their own devices in attempting to interpret meaning. The 
author's use of figurative language and unconventional imagery can create a sense of bewilderment 
that is either intriguing or off-putting. Regardless, the reader can appreciate the uniqueness of the 
work.  
(4) 
Despite the wide range of emotions and reactions that come with studying poetry, it can be a 
rewarding pursuit. Not only does reading poetry allow one to appreciate the artistic beauty of the 
written word but also enables one to develop crucial critical thinking and analytical skills. The process 
of unlocking a poem's meaning can feel like cracking a code or solving a puzzle but the sense of 
accomplishment derived from mastering a challenging piece can be deeply gratifying. Finally, 
impressing an English teacher with a well-analysed poem can be a source of pride and validation.  
(5) 
Overall, studying poetry is like a box of mixed chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. 
But whether it's complex, emotional, simple, or just downright weird, there's always something to 
be gained from the experience. So, let's applaud all the poets out there, for making us laugh, cry, 
scratch our heads, and occasionally feel like a genius. 
Created for academic usage/ 414 words 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
2 of 13 
 
 
i Which of the following statements best describes the author's attitude towards studying 
poetry? 
A. Finds poetry to be a frustrating and meaningless endeavor. 
B. Believes that the emotional rollercoaster of studying poetry is not worth the effort. 
C. Recognizes the challenges of studying poetry but also acknowledges the rewards it 
offers. 
D. Feels that poetry is too obscure and abstract for the average person to appreciate. 
1 
ii What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph (1)? Rationalise your response 
in about 40 words. 
If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a better option. One is led to 
ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
2 
iii Complete the sentence appropriately. 
The author's use of vivid imagery in the paragraph (3), such as "curl up in a ball and cry" and 
"jump up and down with joy", greatly affects the reader because ____________. 
1 
iv The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (a)-(e) 
below, identify two sets of antonyms: 
 
 
 
1 
v Complete the sentence appropriately. 
We can say that the author's tone becomes more neutral and objective when discussing weird 
poems, compared to other types of poetry because __________.  
1 
vi Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, how studying poetry can 
be like exploring a new city. 
2 
vii What is the message conveyed by Hina's experience, in the following case? 
  
Hina spends hours trying to analyze a poem for her assignment and finally feels a sense of 
accomplishment and pride, once she understands. 
 
A. Only those with natural talent for poetry should engage with it. 
B. Persistence makes studying poetry a rewarding pursuit.  
C. Study of poetry is guaranteed to impress others. 
D. The efforts of studying poetry is inversely proportional to the rewards gained. 
1 
viii State whether the following lines display an example of a simple / complex / emotionally 
charged / downright weird , poem. 
 
The sun rises in the east, 
A new day begins, a fresh start. 
Birds chirp, nature wakes up, 
A peaceful feeling in my heart. 
1 
2.  Read the following text. 10 m  
 
(1) 
Reduction  in  green  areas  has  caused  various  environmental problems.  People squeezed  between  
concrete  structures  are looking  for  various  ways  to meet their  longing for  green. One  of  the 
ways to do so, is vertical  gardens  and green  walls.  Vertical gardening is a unique method of 
            (a) intriguing and off-putting                       (b) deciphering and interpreting              
                        (c) appreciate and applaud       (d) simple and challenging 
                                                  (e) emotions and feelings 
3 of 13 
 
 
gardening where plants are grown in a vertical position or upward, rather than in the traditional 
method of planting them on the ground.  
 
(2) 
The  purpose of  vertical  gardens and  green  walls, which  arises from the studies  of different 
disciplines  (landscape  architects,  architects, engineers,  etc.),  is to close the cold image of concrete 
and increase the visual value. In these systems, nature and structures are integrated, and thus, urban  
areas  and  the  desired  environment  have become  intertwined. 
 
(3) 
Vertical  garden  case studies often show that , though functionality should be in the foreground, 
when vertical gardens are planned, they are  generally made  as  aesthetic  elements  in the  city's  
underpasses  and  city squares, and decorative elements in residences, without seeking functionality.  
 
(4) 
Experts  support that the visual quality and evaluation of landscape architecture is determined  based 
on  the satisfaction of  the  users. Hence, a survey questionnaire was prepared for residents of varied 
age groups from of a metropolitan city . The given Table 1, displays these responses: 
 Table 1 - Total number of participants : 400 
No. Survey statements Strongly 
agree 
Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly  
disagree 
Vertical gardens- 
1 improve quality of life of people 
in urban areas 
191 138 43 9 19 
2 reduce noise pollution 128 164 77 25 6 
3 increase air quality -indoors and 
outdoors 
172 147 51 28 2 
4 reduce energy and water 
consumption 
58 47 125 68 2 
5 positively impact global warming 114 144 106 30 6 
6 have a relaxing and calming 
effect 
161 177 44 7 11 
7 cost too much 86 107 152 42 13 
8 make plants look beautiful 195 139 44 6 16 
9 add naturalness to the environs 135 173 55 25 12 
10 are among the determining 
factor to visiting a place 
59 133 141 54 13 
11 are inconvenient indoors 9 84 123 126 48 
12 can be applied in every place 71 132 97 77 23 
13 have a functional feature 81 207 100 10 2 
14 distract drivers 34 101 106 131 28 
15 funds are best used for social 
issues 
57 72 100 130 41 
 
 
(5) 
The study acknowledged that vertical gardening has the potential to transform urban spaces into 
green, sustainable areas, and further research should explore the impact of vertical gardening on the 
environment and human well-being. 
4 of 13 
 
 
Adapted for academic usage - 2019 case-study -Investigating the vertical garden applications in Turkey 
225 words approx. 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above 
i Complete the following analogy appropriately, based on your understanding of paragraphs 1 
& 2. 
We can say that the situation of people living in concrete structures is comparable with a fish 
living in a fishbowl, and the need for vertical gardens to the need for decorations in the 
fishbowl because _______________.                                                                                          
1 
ii  Fill the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets, based on your 
understanding of paragraph 2. 
The statement that , urban spaces have become more closely connected with the desired 
natural surroundings through the incorporation of nature and structures in vertical gardens 
and green walls, is a ___________ (fact/ opinion) because it is a _____________ (subjective 
judgement/ objective detail). 
1 
iii Justify the following, in about 40 words. 
While the survey results suggest that vertical gardens may be effective in improving the 
quality of life in urban areas, further research and evaluation may be necessary to fully 
understand their effectiveness and potential drawbacks. 
2 
iv Based on the survey results, which two concerns should a city government, looking to install 
vertical gardens, address? 
1 
v In Table 1, the statement 3, "Vertical gardens increase air quality - indoors and outdoors," 
received the most neutral responses from participants, with 51 respondents indicating a 
neutral stance. State any one inference that can be drawn from this.      
                                                                                           
1 
vi Select the option that correctly displays what ‘intertwined’ signifies. (Reference-Paragraph 2) 
 
A. (i) , (iv) and (v) 
B. Only (ii)  
C. Only (iii) 
D. (ii) and (v) 
 
FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED CANDIDATES 
In the given sentence taken from paragraph 1, select the option that correctly replaces the 
underlined word, with its most likely antonym.  
 
Vertical gardening is a unique method of gardening. 
 
A. an indefinite 
B. an exclusive 
C. a combined 
D. a standard 
1 
Page 5


1 of 13 
 
 
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER (2023-24) 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE (Code No. 184) 
CLASS-X  
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                       Maximum Marks: 80 
     General Instructions: 
1. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, GRAMMAR & WRITING and LITERATURE. 
2. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part. 
SECTION A : READING SKILLS (20 marks) 
Reading Comprehension Through Unseen Passages 
1.  Read the following text. 10 m 
(1) 
 
As a high school student, studying poetry can be a rollercoaster ride. This journey is punctuated by 
moments of profound appreciation for simpler pieces and intermittent frustration with more 
complex works. Let's be real here - some poems are just plain confusing and no amount of re-reading 
seems to help decipher the intended meaning. The puzzlement that results from such instances can 
be both vexing and demotivating. If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a 
better option. One is led to ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
(2) 
Conversely, some pieces resonate with the reader's soul.  stirring feelings of warmth, happiness, and 
connection to the world. Often, these compositions centre on themes that are universally 
understood, such as love, nature, or faith. Being able to actually understand what the poet is trying 
to say can feel like a little victory and is a welcome relief after grappling with more perplexing poetry. 
(3) 
Then there are poems that are emotionally charged; the ones that make the reader curl up in a ball 
and cry or jump up and down with joy. One is left in awe of the poet's ability to convey emotion 
through words. Let’s not forget the downright weird poems. These are the ones that defy 
categorization and leave the reader to their own devices in attempting to interpret meaning. The 
author's use of figurative language and unconventional imagery can create a sense of bewilderment 
that is either intriguing or off-putting. Regardless, the reader can appreciate the uniqueness of the 
work.  
(4) 
Despite the wide range of emotions and reactions that come with studying poetry, it can be a 
rewarding pursuit. Not only does reading poetry allow one to appreciate the artistic beauty of the 
written word but also enables one to develop crucial critical thinking and analytical skills. The process 
of unlocking a poem's meaning can feel like cracking a code or solving a puzzle but the sense of 
accomplishment derived from mastering a challenging piece can be deeply gratifying. Finally, 
impressing an English teacher with a well-analysed poem can be a source of pride and validation.  
(5) 
Overall, studying poetry is like a box of mixed chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. 
But whether it's complex, emotional, simple, or just downright weird, there's always something to 
be gained from the experience. So, let's applaud all the poets out there, for making us laugh, cry, 
scratch our heads, and occasionally feel like a genius. 
Created for academic usage/ 414 words 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
2 of 13 
 
 
i Which of the following statements best describes the author's attitude towards studying 
poetry? 
A. Finds poetry to be a frustrating and meaningless endeavor. 
B. Believes that the emotional rollercoaster of studying poetry is not worth the effort. 
C. Recognizes the challenges of studying poetry but also acknowledges the rewards it 
offers. 
D. Feels that poetry is too obscure and abstract for the average person to appreciate. 
1 
ii What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from paragraph (1)? Rationalise your response 
in about 40 words. 
If solving a riddle is what was intended, then  playing Sudoku is a better option. One is led to 
ponder if obscurity was the goal. 
2 
iii Complete the sentence appropriately. 
The author's use of vivid imagery in the paragraph (3), such as "curl up in a ball and cry" and 
"jump up and down with joy", greatly affects the reader because ____________. 
1 
iv The passage includes some words that are opposites of each other. From the sets (a)-(e) 
below, identify two sets of antonyms: 
 
 
 
1 
v Complete the sentence appropriately. 
We can say that the author's tone becomes more neutral and objective when discussing weird 
poems, compared to other types of poetry because __________.  
1 
vi Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, how studying poetry can 
be like exploring a new city. 
2 
vii What is the message conveyed by Hina's experience, in the following case? 
  
Hina spends hours trying to analyze a poem for her assignment and finally feels a sense of 
accomplishment and pride, once she understands. 
 
A. Only those with natural talent for poetry should engage with it. 
B. Persistence makes studying poetry a rewarding pursuit.  
C. Study of poetry is guaranteed to impress others. 
D. The efforts of studying poetry is inversely proportional to the rewards gained. 
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viii State whether the following lines display an example of a simple / complex / emotionally 
charged / downright weird , poem. 
 
The sun rises in the east, 
A new day begins, a fresh start. 
Birds chirp, nature wakes up, 
A peaceful feeling in my heart. 
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2.  Read the following text. 10 m  
 
(1) 
Reduction  in  green  areas  has  caused  various  environmental problems.  People squeezed  between  
concrete  structures  are looking  for  various  ways  to meet their  longing for  green. One  of  the 
ways to do so, is vertical  gardens  and green  walls.  Vertical gardening is a unique method of 
            (a) intriguing and off-putting                       (b) deciphering and interpreting              
                        (c) appreciate and applaud       (d) simple and challenging 
                                                  (e) emotions and feelings 
3 of 13 
 
 
gardening where plants are grown in a vertical position or upward, rather than in the traditional 
method of planting them on the ground.  
 
(2) 
The  purpose of  vertical  gardens and  green  walls, which  arises from the studies  of different 
disciplines  (landscape  architects,  architects, engineers,  etc.),  is to close the cold image of concrete 
and increase the visual value. In these systems, nature and structures are integrated, and thus, urban  
areas  and  the  desired  environment  have become  intertwined. 
 
(3) 
Vertical  garden  case studies often show that , though functionality should be in the foreground, 
when vertical gardens are planned, they are  generally made  as  aesthetic  elements  in the  city's  
underpasses  and  city squares, and decorative elements in residences, without seeking functionality.  
 
(4) 
Experts  support that the visual quality and evaluation of landscape architecture is determined  based 
on  the satisfaction of  the  users. Hence, a survey questionnaire was prepared for residents of varied 
age groups from of a metropolitan city . The given Table 1, displays these responses: 
 Table 1 - Total number of participants : 400 
No. Survey statements Strongly 
agree 
Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly  
disagree 
Vertical gardens- 
1 improve quality of life of people 
in urban areas 
191 138 43 9 19 
2 reduce noise pollution 128 164 77 25 6 
3 increase air quality -indoors and 
outdoors 
172 147 51 28 2 
4 reduce energy and water 
consumption 
58 47 125 68 2 
5 positively impact global warming 114 144 106 30 6 
6 have a relaxing and calming 
effect 
161 177 44 7 11 
7 cost too much 86 107 152 42 13 
8 make plants look beautiful 195 139 44 6 16 
9 add naturalness to the environs 135 173 55 25 12 
10 are among the determining 
factor to visiting a place 
59 133 141 54 13 
11 are inconvenient indoors 9 84 123 126 48 
12 can be applied in every place 71 132 97 77 23 
13 have a functional feature 81 207 100 10 2 
14 distract drivers 34 101 106 131 28 
15 funds are best used for social 
issues 
57 72 100 130 41 
 
 
(5) 
The study acknowledged that vertical gardening has the potential to transform urban spaces into 
green, sustainable areas, and further research should explore the impact of vertical gardening on the 
environment and human well-being. 
4 of 13 
 
 
Adapted for academic usage - 2019 case-study -Investigating the vertical garden applications in Turkey 
225 words approx. 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above 
i Complete the following analogy appropriately, based on your understanding of paragraphs 1 
& 2. 
We can say that the situation of people living in concrete structures is comparable with a fish 
living in a fishbowl, and the need for vertical gardens to the need for decorations in the 
fishbowl because _______________.                                                                                          
1 
ii  Fill the blanks with the appropriate option from those given in brackets, based on your 
understanding of paragraph 2. 
The statement that , urban spaces have become more closely connected with the desired 
natural surroundings through the incorporation of nature and structures in vertical gardens 
and green walls, is a ___________ (fact/ opinion) because it is a _____________ (subjective 
judgement/ objective detail). 
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iii Justify the following, in about 40 words. 
While the survey results suggest that vertical gardens may be effective in improving the 
quality of life in urban areas, further research and evaluation may be necessary to fully 
understand their effectiveness and potential drawbacks. 
2 
iv Based on the survey results, which two concerns should a city government, looking to install 
vertical gardens, address? 
1 
v In Table 1, the statement 3, "Vertical gardens increase air quality - indoors and outdoors," 
received the most neutral responses from participants, with 51 respondents indicating a 
neutral stance. State any one inference that can be drawn from this.      
                                                                                           
1 
vi Select the option that correctly displays what ‘intertwined’ signifies. (Reference-Paragraph 2) 
 
A. (i) , (iv) and (v) 
B. Only (ii)  
C. Only (iii) 
D. (ii) and (v) 
 
FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED CANDIDATES 
In the given sentence taken from paragraph 1, select the option that correctly replaces the 
underlined word, with its most likely antonym.  
 
Vertical gardening is a unique method of gardening. 
 
A. an indefinite 
B. an exclusive 
C. a combined 
D. a standard 
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5 of 13 
 
 
vii Infer one benefit and one drawback of vertical gardening, in comparison to other solutions, 
such as community gardens or parks. (Answer in about 40 words) 
2 
viii Which of the following is the main takeaway from the study mentioned in the passage? 
A. Vertical gardening has minimal impact on the environment or human well-being. 
B. Vertical gardening is a sustainable practice that can transform urban spaces into green 
areas. 
C. The impact of vertical gardening on the environment and human well-being has 
already been thoroughly explored. 
D. The study needs to  include experts from horticultural firms to offer any 
recommendations for further research. 
1 
SECTION B : WRITING SKILLS  & GRAMMAR (20 marks) 
GRAMMAR 10 
3 Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed. 
                                                                                                                   
1x10 
i. Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket, for the given portion of 
a letter: 
 
Dear Sir 
This is with reference to committee’s letter of recommendation that ________ (highlight) the 
nominations for ‘Safe Residential Area’ award for this current year. 
 
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ii. Read the given sentence from a recipe review article. Identify the error and supply the 
correction in the sentence. 
 
This delightful recipe must keep your hunger pangs at bay with its balanced spices and 
oriental flavour. 
Use the given format for your response. 
 
error correction 
  
 
1 
 
iii. Abhilash and Neha had a conversation about the inauguration of Neha’s Dance Academy. 
Report Abhilash’s question. 
Is your best friend helping you in this venture? 
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iv. Read the dialogue between Shabnam and her mentor, Sara, regarding her summer internship 
programme. 
 
Sara: Why did you choose to participate in this internship programme? 
Shabnam: Ah! I am convinced this programme has the potential to enhance my abilities. 
 
Select the correct option to complete the reporting of the above dialogue.  
 
Sara asked Shabnam _________________________________ in that internship programme. 
Shabnam sighed and exclaimed that she was convinced that programme had the potential to 
enhance her abilities. 
 
A. why to choose to participate 
B. to choose participation  
C. why he had chosen to participate 
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