CBSE English Past Year Paper with Solutions - 2025 (Set - 2) | English Class 10 PDF Download

 Page 1


 
2/2/1 Page 1 of 19 # P.T.O. 
 
Candidates must write the Q.P. Code 
on the title page of the answer-book. 
Series :
  
2FEHG
  Set – 1  
  Q.P. Code  
 
Roll No. 
 
 
ENGLISH 
(Language and Literature) 
 
Time allowed : 3 hours  Maximum Marks : 80 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General Instructions :  
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :  
(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
(ii) The question paper contains three sections : 
 Section A – Reading Skills 
 Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills  
 Section C – Literature Text Book  
(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.  
• Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages. 
• Q.P. Code given on the right hand side of the question paper should be written on 
the title page of the answer-book by the candidate. 
• Please check that this question paper contains 11 questions. 
• Please write down the Serial Number of the question in the answer-book 
at the given place before attempting it. 
• 15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question paper 
 will  be  distributed  at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the candidates 
will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on the  
answer-book during this period.  
2/2/1
 
*ENGLISH-LAN. AND LIT.* 
# 
Page 2


 
2/2/1 Page 1 of 19 # P.T.O. 
 
Candidates must write the Q.P. Code 
on the title page of the answer-book. 
Series :
  
2FEHG
  Set – 1  
  Q.P. Code  
 
Roll No. 
 
 
ENGLISH 
(Language and Literature) 
 
Time allowed : 3 hours  Maximum Marks : 80 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General Instructions :  
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :  
(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
(ii) The question paper contains three sections : 
 Section A – Reading Skills 
 Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills  
 Section C – Literature Text Book  
(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.  
• Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages. 
• Q.P. Code given on the right hand side of the question paper should be written on 
the title page of the answer-book by the candidate. 
• Please check that this question paper contains 11 questions. 
• Please write down the Serial Number of the question in the answer-book 
at the given place before attempting it. 
• 15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question paper 
 will  be  distributed  at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the candidates 
will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on the  
answer-book during this period.  
2/2/1
 
*ENGLISH-LAN. AND LIT.* 
# 
 
2/2/1 Page 2 of 19 # 
SECTION A 
 Reading Skills 20 marks 
1. Read the following passage carefully :  10 
(1) Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree 
species from the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon is made by cutting 
the stems of cinnamon trees. The inner bark is then extracted and the 
woody parts removed. When it dries, it forms strips that curl into 
rolls, called cinnamon sticks. These sticks can be ground to form 
cinnamon powder. The spice, consisting of the dried inner bark, is 
brown in colour and has a delicately fragrant aroma and a warm 
sweet flavour. The distinct aroma and flavour of cinnamon derive 
from its essential oil and principal component, cinnamaldehyde, as 
well as numerous other constituents including eugenol.    
(2) There are two main types of cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon. The two 
have different nutritional profiles. Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri 
Lanka. Some people call it “true cinnamon.” Cassia cinnamon, on the 
other hand, originates from southern China. Cassia is cheaper than 
Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon has a robust, rich, somewhat 
bitter flavour while Ceylon is sweeter and lighter in flavor.  
(3) Cinnamon was once more valuable than gold. In Egypt it was sought 
for embalming and religious practices. In medieval Europe it was 
used for religious rites and as a flavouring agent. Later it was the 
most profitable spice in the Dutch East India Company trade.   
(4) Cinnamon is widely used as an aromatic condiment and flavouring 
additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savoury dishes, 
breakfast cereals, snack foods, bagels, teas, hot chocolate and 
traditional foods.   
(5) Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal properties 
for thousands of years. In recent years, modern science has started to 
confirm many of the potential health benefits associated with 
cinnamon. Cinnamon has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, 
which is why it’s often found in dental-hygiene products and is sold as 
cinnamon supplements. It is also a good source of antioxidants, 
substances that inhibit the effect of free radicals (reactive atoms that 
can damage cells). Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, cinnamon is 
currently being researched for its potential to fight Alzheimer’s 
disease and decrease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and colon 
cancer.   
Page 3


 
2/2/1 Page 1 of 19 # P.T.O. 
 
Candidates must write the Q.P. Code 
on the title page of the answer-book. 
Series :
  
2FEHG
  Set – 1  
  Q.P. Code  
 
Roll No. 
 
 
ENGLISH 
(Language and Literature) 
 
Time allowed : 3 hours  Maximum Marks : 80 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General Instructions :  
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :  
(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
(ii) The question paper contains three sections : 
 Section A – Reading Skills 
 Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills  
 Section C – Literature Text Book  
(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.  
• Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages. 
• Q.P. Code given on the right hand side of the question paper should be written on 
the title page of the answer-book by the candidate. 
• Please check that this question paper contains 11 questions. 
• Please write down the Serial Number of the question in the answer-book 
at the given place before attempting it. 
• 15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question paper 
 will  be  distributed  at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the candidates 
will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on the  
answer-book during this period.  
2/2/1
 
*ENGLISH-LAN. AND LIT.* 
# 
 
2/2/1 Page 2 of 19 # 
SECTION A 
 Reading Skills 20 marks 
1. Read the following passage carefully :  10 
(1) Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree 
species from the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon is made by cutting 
the stems of cinnamon trees. The inner bark is then extracted and the 
woody parts removed. When it dries, it forms strips that curl into 
rolls, called cinnamon sticks. These sticks can be ground to form 
cinnamon powder. The spice, consisting of the dried inner bark, is 
brown in colour and has a delicately fragrant aroma and a warm 
sweet flavour. The distinct aroma and flavour of cinnamon derive 
from its essential oil and principal component, cinnamaldehyde, as 
well as numerous other constituents including eugenol.    
(2) There are two main types of cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon. The two 
have different nutritional profiles. Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri 
Lanka. Some people call it “true cinnamon.” Cassia cinnamon, on the 
other hand, originates from southern China. Cassia is cheaper than 
Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon has a robust, rich, somewhat 
bitter flavour while Ceylon is sweeter and lighter in flavor.  
(3) Cinnamon was once more valuable than gold. In Egypt it was sought 
for embalming and religious practices. In medieval Europe it was 
used for religious rites and as a flavouring agent. Later it was the 
most profitable spice in the Dutch East India Company trade.   
(4) Cinnamon is widely used as an aromatic condiment and flavouring 
additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savoury dishes, 
breakfast cereals, snack foods, bagels, teas, hot chocolate and 
traditional foods.   
(5) Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal properties 
for thousands of years. In recent years, modern science has started to 
confirm many of the potential health benefits associated with 
cinnamon. Cinnamon has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, 
which is why it’s often found in dental-hygiene products and is sold as 
cinnamon supplements. It is also a good source of antioxidants, 
substances that inhibit the effect of free radicals (reactive atoms that 
can damage cells). Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, cinnamon is 
currently being researched for its potential to fight Alzheimer’s 
disease and decrease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and colon 
cancer.   
 
2/2/1 Page 3 of 19 # P.T.O. 
(6) Studies also suggest that cinnamon has anti-diabetic properties, and 
may offer protection from cancer and cardiovascular disease, among 
other conditions. However, more evidence is needed to confirm 
cinnamon’s benefits. In the short term, consuming moderate amounts 
of cinnamon as a spice or as a supplement seems to be safe for most 
people. However, cinnamon contains coumarin. This is a natural 
flavouring, but it also plays a role in creating warfarin, the common 
blood-thinning drug. Consuming too much coumarin can lead to liver 
damage and affect coagulation.   
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage : 
(i) Complete the sentence appropriately.   1 
 The characteristic aroma and flavour of cinnamon originate from 
its essential oil, primarily composed of ___________.   Paragraph (1)   
(ii) Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, 
how cinnamon derived from the trees is made fit to be used as a 
spice.                                                                               Paragraph (1) 2  
(iii) Mention one point of difference between Ceylon cinnamon and 
Cassia cinnamon.                                                         Paragraph (2) 1 
(iv) Complete the sentence appropriately.    1 
 The author says that cinnamon was once more valuable than gold 
because ___________.                                                      Paragraph (3)  
(v) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from  
paragraph (5) ? Rationalize your response in about 40 words.    2 
 “Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal 
properties for thousands of years.’’   
Page 4


 
2/2/1 Page 1 of 19 # P.T.O. 
 
Candidates must write the Q.P. Code 
on the title page of the answer-book. 
Series :
  
2FEHG
  Set – 1  
  Q.P. Code  
 
Roll No. 
 
 
ENGLISH 
(Language and Literature) 
 
Time allowed : 3 hours  Maximum Marks : 80 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General Instructions :  
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :  
(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
(ii) The question paper contains three sections : 
 Section A – Reading Skills 
 Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills  
 Section C – Literature Text Book  
(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.  
• Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages. 
• Q.P. Code given on the right hand side of the question paper should be written on 
the title page of the answer-book by the candidate. 
• Please check that this question paper contains 11 questions. 
• Please write down the Serial Number of the question in the answer-book 
at the given place before attempting it. 
• 15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question paper 
 will  be  distributed  at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the candidates 
will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on the  
answer-book during this period.  
2/2/1
 
*ENGLISH-LAN. AND LIT.* 
# 
 
2/2/1 Page 2 of 19 # 
SECTION A 
 Reading Skills 20 marks 
1. Read the following passage carefully :  10 
(1) Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree 
species from the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon is made by cutting 
the stems of cinnamon trees. The inner bark is then extracted and the 
woody parts removed. When it dries, it forms strips that curl into 
rolls, called cinnamon sticks. These sticks can be ground to form 
cinnamon powder. The spice, consisting of the dried inner bark, is 
brown in colour and has a delicately fragrant aroma and a warm 
sweet flavour. The distinct aroma and flavour of cinnamon derive 
from its essential oil and principal component, cinnamaldehyde, as 
well as numerous other constituents including eugenol.    
(2) There are two main types of cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon. The two 
have different nutritional profiles. Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri 
Lanka. Some people call it “true cinnamon.” Cassia cinnamon, on the 
other hand, originates from southern China. Cassia is cheaper than 
Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon has a robust, rich, somewhat 
bitter flavour while Ceylon is sweeter and lighter in flavor.  
(3) Cinnamon was once more valuable than gold. In Egypt it was sought 
for embalming and religious practices. In medieval Europe it was 
used for religious rites and as a flavouring agent. Later it was the 
most profitable spice in the Dutch East India Company trade.   
(4) Cinnamon is widely used as an aromatic condiment and flavouring 
additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savoury dishes, 
breakfast cereals, snack foods, bagels, teas, hot chocolate and 
traditional foods.   
(5) Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal properties 
for thousands of years. In recent years, modern science has started to 
confirm many of the potential health benefits associated with 
cinnamon. Cinnamon has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, 
which is why it’s often found in dental-hygiene products and is sold as 
cinnamon supplements. It is also a good source of antioxidants, 
substances that inhibit the effect of free radicals (reactive atoms that 
can damage cells). Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, cinnamon is 
currently being researched for its potential to fight Alzheimer’s 
disease and decrease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and colon 
cancer.   
 
2/2/1 Page 3 of 19 # P.T.O. 
(6) Studies also suggest that cinnamon has anti-diabetic properties, and 
may offer protection from cancer and cardiovascular disease, among 
other conditions. However, more evidence is needed to confirm 
cinnamon’s benefits. In the short term, consuming moderate amounts 
of cinnamon as a spice or as a supplement seems to be safe for most 
people. However, cinnamon contains coumarin. This is a natural 
flavouring, but it also plays a role in creating warfarin, the common 
blood-thinning drug. Consuming too much coumarin can lead to liver 
damage and affect coagulation.   
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage : 
(i) Complete the sentence appropriately.   1 
 The characteristic aroma and flavour of cinnamon originate from 
its essential oil, primarily composed of ___________.   Paragraph (1)   
(ii) Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, 
how cinnamon derived from the trees is made fit to be used as a 
spice.                                                                               Paragraph (1) 2  
(iii) Mention one point of difference between Ceylon cinnamon and 
Cassia cinnamon.                                                         Paragraph (2) 1 
(iv) Complete the sentence appropriately.    1 
 The author says that cinnamon was once more valuable than gold 
because ___________.                                                      Paragraph (3)  
(v) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from  
paragraph (5) ? Rationalize your response in about 40 words.    2 
 “Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal 
properties for thousands of years.’’   
 
2/2/1 Page 4 of 19 # 
(vi) The writer’s use of the phrases ‘modern science has started to  
confirm’ in paragraph (5) and ‘more evidence is needed to confirm’ 
in paragraph (6) suggests that the benefits of cinnamon are :   1  
1. proven    
2. scientific     
3. uncertain    
4. controversial  
5. harmful  
Select the correct option :  
(A) 1 and 3    
(B) 2 and 4     
(C) only 3    
(D) only 5   
(vii) Which of the following statements about cinnamon and its health 
benefits is true ?  1 
(A) Modern science has evidence to prove that cinnamon has 
many anti-diabetic properties, and it offers complete 
protection from cancer and cardiovascular disease.    
(B) Cinnamon lacks antimicrobial and antifungal properties, 
making it unsuitable for dental hygiene products.     
(C) Antioxidants found in cinnamon have no effect on free 
radicals in the body.    
(D) Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties are being 
researched for its potential benefits in Alzheimer’s disease, 
irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer.        
                                                                                Paragraph (6) 
Page 5


 
2/2/1 Page 1 of 19 # P.T.O. 
 
Candidates must write the Q.P. Code 
on the title page of the answer-book. 
Series :
  
2FEHG
  Set – 1  
  Q.P. Code  
 
Roll No. 
 
 
ENGLISH 
(Language and Literature) 
 
Time allowed : 3 hours  Maximum Marks : 80 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
General Instructions :  
Read the instructions very carefully and strictly follow them :  
(i) This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
(ii) The question paper contains three sections : 
 Section A – Reading Skills 
 Section B – Grammar and Creative Writing Skills  
 Section C – Literature Text Book  
(iii) Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.  
• Please check that this question paper contains 19 printed pages. 
• Q.P. Code given on the right hand side of the question paper should be written on 
the title page of the answer-book by the candidate. 
• Please check that this question paper contains 11 questions. 
• Please write down the Serial Number of the question in the answer-book 
at the given place before attempting it. 
• 15 minute time has been allotted to read this question paper. The question paper 
 will  be  distributed  at 10.15 a.m. From 10.15 a.m. to 10.30 a.m., the candidates 
will read the question paper only and will not write any answer on the  
answer-book during this period.  
2/2/1
 
*ENGLISH-LAN. AND LIT.* 
# 
 
2/2/1 Page 2 of 19 # 
SECTION A 
 Reading Skills 20 marks 
1. Read the following passage carefully :  10 
(1) Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree 
species from the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon is made by cutting 
the stems of cinnamon trees. The inner bark is then extracted and the 
woody parts removed. When it dries, it forms strips that curl into 
rolls, called cinnamon sticks. These sticks can be ground to form 
cinnamon powder. The spice, consisting of the dried inner bark, is 
brown in colour and has a delicately fragrant aroma and a warm 
sweet flavour. The distinct aroma and flavour of cinnamon derive 
from its essential oil and principal component, cinnamaldehyde, as 
well as numerous other constituents including eugenol.    
(2) There are two main types of cinnamon: Cassia and Ceylon. The two 
have different nutritional profiles. Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri 
Lanka. Some people call it “true cinnamon.” Cassia cinnamon, on the 
other hand, originates from southern China. Cassia is cheaper than 
Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon has a robust, rich, somewhat 
bitter flavour while Ceylon is sweeter and lighter in flavor.  
(3) Cinnamon was once more valuable than gold. In Egypt it was sought 
for embalming and religious practices. In medieval Europe it was 
used for religious rites and as a flavouring agent. Later it was the 
most profitable spice in the Dutch East India Company trade.   
(4) Cinnamon is widely used as an aromatic condiment and flavouring 
additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savoury dishes, 
breakfast cereals, snack foods, bagels, teas, hot chocolate and 
traditional foods.   
(5) Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal properties 
for thousands of years. In recent years, modern science has started to 
confirm many of the potential health benefits associated with 
cinnamon. Cinnamon has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, 
which is why it’s often found in dental-hygiene products and is sold as 
cinnamon supplements. It is also a good source of antioxidants, 
substances that inhibit the effect of free radicals (reactive atoms that 
can damage cells). Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, cinnamon is 
currently being researched for its potential to fight Alzheimer’s 
disease and decrease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and colon 
cancer.   
 
2/2/1 Page 3 of 19 # P.T.O. 
(6) Studies also suggest that cinnamon has anti-diabetic properties, and 
may offer protection from cancer and cardiovascular disease, among 
other conditions. However, more evidence is needed to confirm 
cinnamon’s benefits. In the short term, consuming moderate amounts 
of cinnamon as a spice or as a supplement seems to be safe for most 
people. However, cinnamon contains coumarin. This is a natural 
flavouring, but it also plays a role in creating warfarin, the common 
blood-thinning drug. Consuming too much coumarin can lead to liver 
damage and affect coagulation.   
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage : 
(i) Complete the sentence appropriately.   1 
 The characteristic aroma and flavour of cinnamon originate from 
its essential oil, primarily composed of ___________.   Paragraph (1)   
(ii) Based on the reading of the passage, examine, in about 40 words, 
how cinnamon derived from the trees is made fit to be used as a 
spice.                                                                               Paragraph (1) 2  
(iii) Mention one point of difference between Ceylon cinnamon and 
Cassia cinnamon.                                                         Paragraph (2) 1 
(iv) Complete the sentence appropriately.    1 
 The author says that cinnamon was once more valuable than gold 
because ___________.                                                      Paragraph (3)  
(v) What is the tone of the writer in the given lines from  
paragraph (5) ? Rationalize your response in about 40 words.    2 
 “Cinnamon is a spice that has been prized for its medicinal 
properties for thousands of years.’’   
 
2/2/1 Page 4 of 19 # 
(vi) The writer’s use of the phrases ‘modern science has started to  
confirm’ in paragraph (5) and ‘more evidence is needed to confirm’ 
in paragraph (6) suggests that the benefits of cinnamon are :   1  
1. proven    
2. scientific     
3. uncertain    
4. controversial  
5. harmful  
Select the correct option :  
(A) 1 and 3    
(B) 2 and 4     
(C) only 3    
(D) only 5   
(vii) Which of the following statements about cinnamon and its health 
benefits is true ?  1 
(A) Modern science has evidence to prove that cinnamon has 
many anti-diabetic properties, and it offers complete 
protection from cancer and cardiovascular disease.    
(B) Cinnamon lacks antimicrobial and antifungal properties, 
making it unsuitable for dental hygiene products.     
(C) Antioxidants found in cinnamon have no effect on free 
radicals in the body.    
(D) Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties are being 
researched for its potential benefits in Alzheimer’s disease, 
irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer.        
                                                                                Paragraph (6) 
 
2/2/1 Page 5 of 19 # P.T.O. 
(viii) Which of the following statements best describes the author’s 
attitude toward cinnamon and its uses ? 1 
(A) Finds cinnamon to be a prized condiment which can be used 
in almost all food items.   
(B) Believes that cinnamon should be used by everyone, 
everyday.   
(C) Recognizes that cinnamon has many useful properties, 
including health benefits.   
(D) Believes that cinnamon should only be used as a medicinal 
supplement.  
2. Read the following passage carefully : 10  
(1) When planning vacations, Indians typically prioritize domestic 
destinations, as shown by Ministry of Tourism data indicating  
1.7 billion domestic tourist visits within India compared to 21 million 
international departures in 2022. Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan,  
Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka stand out as the top 
states for domestic tourism. Reasons for domestic tourism are many, 
some travel because it suits their budget while others love to explore 
the historical, cultural diversity. The government today is focussing 
on tourist-friendly infrastructure which is making travel more 
convenient for the domestic traveller.        
(2) In terms of outbound tourism, a significant proportion of Indian 
travellers, totalling 5.9 million, visited the United Arab Emirates in 
2022, comprising 28 percent of total outbound tourist travel. Other 
Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait also rank 
among the top destinations, with 2.4 million, 880,000, and 830,000 
Indian visitors, respectively. Additionally, countries like the United 
States and the United Kingdom attract a considerable number of 
Indian tourists because these countries offer a mix of traditional and 
contemporary experiences along with enjoying unique cuisines and 
diverse landscapes.