Page 1
1
English Language and Literature -Code No. 184
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X- (2025-26)
General Instructions: -
1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers / sample answers.
The value points are in the nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete
answer. The students can have their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due
marks should be awarded accordingly.
2. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.
3. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no marks
to be awarded.
A: READING (20 marks)
Discursive Passage
1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
10
I because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports
sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.
1
II D. easily accessible
1
III eco-friendly
1
IV (a) Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective
over generations
1
V (a) employment : job security
[(a) is correct. Just as fair trade ensures fair wages, employment aims to provide
job security and both relationships focus on fairness and stability. Mass production
often prioritises efficiency and cost reduction, sometimes at the expense of
fairness, environmental responsibility, or the well-being of workers. Thus, (b) does
not match the context of the analogy.]
1
VI Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small
communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers
them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their
craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other
employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within
these communities.
2
Page 2
1
English Language and Literature -Code No. 184
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X- (2025-26)
General Instructions: -
1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers / sample answers.
The value points are in the nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete
answer. The students can have their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due
marks should be awarded accordingly.
2. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.
3. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no marks
to be awarded.
A: READING (20 marks)
Discursive Passage
1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
10
I because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports
sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.
1
II D. easily accessible
1
III eco-friendly
1
IV (a) Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective
over generations
1
V (a) employment : job security
[(a) is correct. Just as fair trade ensures fair wages, employment aims to provide
job security and both relationships focus on fairness and stability. Mass production
often prioritises efficiency and cost reduction, sometimes at the expense of
fairness, environmental responsibility, or the well-being of workers. Thus, (b) does
not match the context of the analogy.]
1
VI Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small
communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers
them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their
craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other
employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within
these communities.
2
2
VII C. i -iii [Paragraph 4 emphasises the preservation of cultural heritage (i), while
paragraph 5 highlights the uniqueness and creativity reflected in indigenous crafts
(iii).]
1
VIII While governments and organisations can create supportive policies and
platforms, consumers play a crucial role in driving demand for indigenous crafts.
Without consumer interest and investment, these efforts may fail to translate into
tangible benefits for artisans. Consumers' choices directly impact the visibility and
survival of handmade crafts, making their active participation essential for creating
a sustainable market and preserving cultural heritage.
2
Case-based Passage
2. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
10
I B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
[ Option B is the most likely because the study aims to explore writing
preferences, which are likely to evolve during these developmental stages.]
1
II ‘trends in writing habits’
1
III precision 1
IV By ‘affordability,’ the writer refers to the lower cost of ballpoint pens compared to
micro-tip pens, making them accessible and budget-friendly for students.
1
V B. The preferences for pens varied according to the students' age and the type of
writing task.
1
VI Ballpoints do not dry out quickly unlike micro-tips / Ballpoints work on a variety of
surfaces unlike microtips / Ballpoints are less likely to smudge unlike microtips/
Ballpoints pens are usually more affordable
1
VII The ‘aesthetic appeal’ is closely connected to ‘finer lines’ because finer lines create
neat, elegant, and visually pleasing writing.
1
VIII Hybrid features in pens, such as combining the speed and reliability of ballpoint
pens with the precision and aesthetic appeal of micro-tip pens, would likely result in
a commercially viable product as such pens would cater to a broader demographic,
meeting the needs of students across different age groups and writing tasks. This
would capitalise on the growing demand for versatile and functional writing tools.
Which would enhance its commercial success.
2
IX functional / useful
1
Page 3
1
English Language and Literature -Code No. 184
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X- (2025-26)
General Instructions: -
1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers / sample answers.
The value points are in the nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete
answer. The students can have their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due
marks should be awarded accordingly.
2. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.
3. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no marks
to be awarded.
A: READING (20 marks)
Discursive Passage
1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
10
I because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports
sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.
1
II D. easily accessible
1
III eco-friendly
1
IV (a) Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective
over generations
1
V (a) employment : job security
[(a) is correct. Just as fair trade ensures fair wages, employment aims to provide
job security and both relationships focus on fairness and stability. Mass production
often prioritises efficiency and cost reduction, sometimes at the expense of
fairness, environmental responsibility, or the well-being of workers. Thus, (b) does
not match the context of the analogy.]
1
VI Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small
communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers
them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their
craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other
employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within
these communities.
2
2
VII C. i -iii [Paragraph 4 emphasises the preservation of cultural heritage (i), while
paragraph 5 highlights the uniqueness and creativity reflected in indigenous crafts
(iii).]
1
VIII While governments and organisations can create supportive policies and
platforms, consumers play a crucial role in driving demand for indigenous crafts.
Without consumer interest and investment, these efforts may fail to translate into
tangible benefits for artisans. Consumers' choices directly impact the visibility and
survival of handmade crafts, making their active participation essential for creating
a sustainable market and preserving cultural heritage.
2
Case-based Passage
2. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
10
I B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
[ Option B is the most likely because the study aims to explore writing
preferences, which are likely to evolve during these developmental stages.]
1
II ‘trends in writing habits’
1
III precision 1
IV By ‘affordability,’ the writer refers to the lower cost of ballpoint pens compared to
micro-tip pens, making them accessible and budget-friendly for students.
1
V B. The preferences for pens varied according to the students' age and the type of
writing task.
1
VI Ballpoints do not dry out quickly unlike micro-tips / Ballpoints work on a variety of
surfaces unlike microtips / Ballpoints are less likely to smudge unlike microtips/
Ballpoints pens are usually more affordable
1
VII The ‘aesthetic appeal’ is closely connected to ‘finer lines’ because finer lines create
neat, elegant, and visually pleasing writing.
1
VIII Hybrid features in pens, such as combining the speed and reliability of ballpoint
pens with the precision and aesthetic appeal of micro-tip pens, would likely result in
a commercially viable product as such pens would cater to a broader demographic,
meeting the needs of students across different age groups and writing tasks. This
would capitalise on the growing demand for versatile and functional writing tools.
Which would enhance its commercial success.
2
IX functional / useful
1
3
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
GRAMMAR (10 marks)
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.
10x1=10
I illustrated
1
II Error – the ; Correction - a
1
III have grown
1
IV ...they would love to go there again the following year
1
V D. regarding
1
VI ...not to try mending the trousers himself
1
VII B. feeling
1
VIII A. Error -Which ; Correction - What
1
IX She asked her sister if she was joining them for lunch that day.
1
X may
1
XI C. Every
1
XII A. little
1
WRITING SKILLS (10 marks)
4 Format-1 Content-2 Organisation of ideas-1 Accuracy-1 1X5=5
A. (The response may be created from the following content points)
? Significance of Ecological Awareness:
? the role of ecological awareness in protecting natural resources.
? how it can foster responsible environmental behaviour in students from an early age.
? the need for collective action to address pressing environmental issues such as
deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
? Proposal to Start Eco-Clubs in Rural Schools:
? establishing Eco-Clubs in rural schools to engage students in practical environmental
activities.
Page 4
1
English Language and Literature -Code No. 184
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X- (2025-26)
General Instructions: -
1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers / sample answers.
The value points are in the nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete
answer. The students can have their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due
marks should be awarded accordingly.
2. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.
3. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no marks
to be awarded.
A: READING (20 marks)
Discursive Passage
1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
10
I because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports
sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.
1
II D. easily accessible
1
III eco-friendly
1
IV (a) Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective
over generations
1
V (a) employment : job security
[(a) is correct. Just as fair trade ensures fair wages, employment aims to provide
job security and both relationships focus on fairness and stability. Mass production
often prioritises efficiency and cost reduction, sometimes at the expense of
fairness, environmental responsibility, or the well-being of workers. Thus, (b) does
not match the context of the analogy.]
1
VI Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small
communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers
them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their
craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other
employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within
these communities.
2
2
VII C. i -iii [Paragraph 4 emphasises the preservation of cultural heritage (i), while
paragraph 5 highlights the uniqueness and creativity reflected in indigenous crafts
(iii).]
1
VIII While governments and organisations can create supportive policies and
platforms, consumers play a crucial role in driving demand for indigenous crafts.
Without consumer interest and investment, these efforts may fail to translate into
tangible benefits for artisans. Consumers' choices directly impact the visibility and
survival of handmade crafts, making their active participation essential for creating
a sustainable market and preserving cultural heritage.
2
Case-based Passage
2. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
10
I B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
[ Option B is the most likely because the study aims to explore writing
preferences, which are likely to evolve during these developmental stages.]
1
II ‘trends in writing habits’
1
III precision 1
IV By ‘affordability,’ the writer refers to the lower cost of ballpoint pens compared to
micro-tip pens, making them accessible and budget-friendly for students.
1
V B. The preferences for pens varied according to the students' age and the type of
writing task.
1
VI Ballpoints do not dry out quickly unlike micro-tips / Ballpoints work on a variety of
surfaces unlike microtips / Ballpoints are less likely to smudge unlike microtips/
Ballpoints pens are usually more affordable
1
VII The ‘aesthetic appeal’ is closely connected to ‘finer lines’ because finer lines create
neat, elegant, and visually pleasing writing.
1
VIII Hybrid features in pens, such as combining the speed and reliability of ballpoint
pens with the precision and aesthetic appeal of micro-tip pens, would likely result in
a commercially viable product as such pens would cater to a broader demographic,
meeting the needs of students across different age groups and writing tasks. This
would capitalise on the growing demand for versatile and functional writing tools.
Which would enhance its commercial success.
2
IX functional / useful
1
3
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
GRAMMAR (10 marks)
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.
10x1=10
I illustrated
1
II Error – the ; Correction - a
1
III have grown
1
IV ...they would love to go there again the following year
1
V D. regarding
1
VI ...not to try mending the trousers himself
1
VII B. feeling
1
VIII A. Error -Which ; Correction - What
1
IX She asked her sister if she was joining them for lunch that day.
1
X may
1
XI C. Every
1
XII A. little
1
WRITING SKILLS (10 marks)
4 Format-1 Content-2 Organisation of ideas-1 Accuracy-1 1X5=5
A. (The response may be created from the following content points)
? Significance of Ecological Awareness:
? the role of ecological awareness in protecting natural resources.
? how it can foster responsible environmental behaviour in students from an early age.
? the need for collective action to address pressing environmental issues such as
deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
? Proposal to Start Eco-Clubs in Rural Schools:
? establishing Eco-Clubs in rural schools to engage students in practical environmental
activities.
4
? how these clubs can organise tree plantations, cleanliness drives, and awareness
campaigns.
? the educational benefits of Eco-Clubs in building future environmentally conscious citizens.
? Support and Resources Needed:
? Request support from the Education Department in the form of resources, funding, and
guidance to set up and run the Eco-Clubs.
? Propose collaborations with NGOs or environmental organizations to support these
initiatives.
OR
B. (The response may be created from the following content points)
? Challenges Posed by Cyber Threats:
? the risks of identity theft, financial fraud, and data breaches.
? the vulnerability of children, the elderly, and untrained individuals to phishing scams,
malware, and online predators.
? how ignorance about digital security increases the impact of these threats.
? Urgent Need for Digital Security Awareness:
? the importance of educating people about safe online practices and promoting digital
hygiene.
? the role of schools, workplaces, and community organisations in spreading awareness.
? Proposed Practical Solutions:
? digital literacy programmes for all age groups.
? organising workshops, webinars, and public awareness campaigns on topics like strong
password creation, recognising scams, and safe browsing habits.
? the implementation of stricter cybersecurity policies by authorities.
? Call to Action:
? use of the platform of the national daily to raise awareness about digital security.
? the need for collaborative efforts between individuals, organisations, and the government
to tackle this issue effectively.
5 Content - 2 Organisation of ideas - 2 Accuracy - 1 1X5=5
Note:
? No title
? Analytical writing doesn't require a ‘correct’ answer. All perspectives are valid as long as the
reasoning is strong and evidence is used effectively.
? The writer must address the strengths of their chosen candidate and contrast them with the
other candidate/s’ qualities to highlight why their choice is better, in order for it to be
considered an analysis.
? A recommended approach would be to know the specific needs of the event/audience and
match them with the strengths of the candidate/s, ensuring a logical / audience-focused
approach.
Page 5
1
English Language and Literature -Code No. 184
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X- (2025-26)
General Instructions: -
1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers / sample answers.
The value points are in the nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete
answer. The students can have their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due
marks should be awarded accordingly.
2. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.
3. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no marks
to be awarded.
A: READING (20 marks)
Discursive Passage
1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
10
I because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports
sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.
1
II D. easily accessible
1
III eco-friendly
1
IV (a) Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective
over generations
1
V (a) employment : job security
[(a) is correct. Just as fair trade ensures fair wages, employment aims to provide
job security and both relationships focus on fairness and stability. Mass production
often prioritises efficiency and cost reduction, sometimes at the expense of
fairness, environmental responsibility, or the well-being of workers. Thus, (b) does
not match the context of the analogy.]
1
VI Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small
communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers
them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their
craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other
employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within
these communities.
2
2
VII C. i -iii [Paragraph 4 emphasises the preservation of cultural heritage (i), while
paragraph 5 highlights the uniqueness and creativity reflected in indigenous crafts
(iii).]
1
VIII While governments and organisations can create supportive policies and
platforms, consumers play a crucial role in driving demand for indigenous crafts.
Without consumer interest and investment, these efforts may fail to translate into
tangible benefits for artisans. Consumers' choices directly impact the visibility and
survival of handmade crafts, making their active participation essential for creating
a sustainable market and preserving cultural heritage.
2
Case-based Passage
2. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
10
I B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
[ Option B is the most likely because the study aims to explore writing
preferences, which are likely to evolve during these developmental stages.]
1
II ‘trends in writing habits’
1
III precision 1
IV By ‘affordability,’ the writer refers to the lower cost of ballpoint pens compared to
micro-tip pens, making them accessible and budget-friendly for students.
1
V B. The preferences for pens varied according to the students' age and the type of
writing task.
1
VI Ballpoints do not dry out quickly unlike micro-tips / Ballpoints work on a variety of
surfaces unlike microtips / Ballpoints are less likely to smudge unlike microtips/
Ballpoints pens are usually more affordable
1
VII The ‘aesthetic appeal’ is closely connected to ‘finer lines’ because finer lines create
neat, elegant, and visually pleasing writing.
1
VIII Hybrid features in pens, such as combining the speed and reliability of ballpoint
pens with the precision and aesthetic appeal of micro-tip pens, would likely result in
a commercially viable product as such pens would cater to a broader demographic,
meeting the needs of students across different age groups and writing tasks. This
would capitalise on the growing demand for versatile and functional writing tools.
Which would enhance its commercial success.
2
IX functional / useful
1
3
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
GRAMMAR (10 marks)
3. Complete any ten of twelve of the following tasks, as directed.
10x1=10
I illustrated
1
II Error – the ; Correction - a
1
III have grown
1
IV ...they would love to go there again the following year
1
V D. regarding
1
VI ...not to try mending the trousers himself
1
VII B. feeling
1
VIII A. Error -Which ; Correction - What
1
IX She asked her sister if she was joining them for lunch that day.
1
X may
1
XI C. Every
1
XII A. little
1
WRITING SKILLS (10 marks)
4 Format-1 Content-2 Organisation of ideas-1 Accuracy-1 1X5=5
A. (The response may be created from the following content points)
? Significance of Ecological Awareness:
? the role of ecological awareness in protecting natural resources.
? how it can foster responsible environmental behaviour in students from an early age.
? the need for collective action to address pressing environmental issues such as
deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
? Proposal to Start Eco-Clubs in Rural Schools:
? establishing Eco-Clubs in rural schools to engage students in practical environmental
activities.
4
? how these clubs can organise tree plantations, cleanliness drives, and awareness
campaigns.
? the educational benefits of Eco-Clubs in building future environmentally conscious citizens.
? Support and Resources Needed:
? Request support from the Education Department in the form of resources, funding, and
guidance to set up and run the Eco-Clubs.
? Propose collaborations with NGOs or environmental organizations to support these
initiatives.
OR
B. (The response may be created from the following content points)
? Challenges Posed by Cyber Threats:
? the risks of identity theft, financial fraud, and data breaches.
? the vulnerability of children, the elderly, and untrained individuals to phishing scams,
malware, and online predators.
? how ignorance about digital security increases the impact of these threats.
? Urgent Need for Digital Security Awareness:
? the importance of educating people about safe online practices and promoting digital
hygiene.
? the role of schools, workplaces, and community organisations in spreading awareness.
? Proposed Practical Solutions:
? digital literacy programmes for all age groups.
? organising workshops, webinars, and public awareness campaigns on topics like strong
password creation, recognising scams, and safe browsing habits.
? the implementation of stricter cybersecurity policies by authorities.
? Call to Action:
? use of the platform of the national daily to raise awareness about digital security.
? the need for collaborative efforts between individuals, organisations, and the government
to tackle this issue effectively.
5 Content - 2 Organisation of ideas - 2 Accuracy - 1 1X5=5
Note:
? No title
? Analytical writing doesn't require a ‘correct’ answer. All perspectives are valid as long as the
reasoning is strong and evidence is used effectively.
? The writer must address the strengths of their chosen candidate and contrast them with the
other candidate/s’ qualities to highlight why their choice is better, in order for it to be
considered an analysis.
? A recommended approach would be to know the specific needs of the event/audience and
match them with the strengths of the candidate/s, ensuring a logical / audience-focused
approach.
5
A Option 1:
Based on the letters from Mr. Rajan Sharma and Ms. Meera Kapoor, Ms. Kapoor emerges as
the better choice for the guest speaker at the school's debate competition. While both
candidates are experienced and skilled, Ms. Kapoor’s international accolades and ability to
connect debating with real-world scenarios give her a distinct edge. Her focus on making
debates relevant to global and social issues aligns well with the interests of high school
students, offering them a broader perspective. Although Mr. Sharma has significant
experience as a coach and speaker, his approach appears more focused on techniques rather
than engaging students with relevant and inspiring real-world examples. Moreover, Ms.
Kapoor’s emphasis on personal growth through debating resonates with the developmental
needs of students. Her global exposure and relatability make her the ideal speaker to inspire
and connect with the audience effectively.
Option 2:
Based on the letters from Mr. Rajan Sharma and Ms. Meera Kapoor, Mr. Rajan emerges as
the better choice for the guest speaker at the school's debate competition. With over 10 years
of experience as a debate coach and public speaker, Mr. Sharma brings unmatched expertise
in nurturing critical thinking and fostering a passion for debating among students. His track
record of guiding students to success in national-level competitions demonstrates his ability to
deliver practical insights and techniques that directly contribute to debate performance. While
Ms. Kapoor’s global exposure and focus on real-world relevance are commendable, Mr.
Sharma’s hands-on experience in coaching students and making them competition-ready
seems more aligned with the goals of the Debate Society. Additionally, his experience with
school and university-level events ensures that he understands the aspects of connecting with
high school audiences.
OR
B Option 1:
Sunaina emerges as the most appropriate partner for Jaspreet in the art-integrated project
presentation as her qualities balance those of Jaspreet’s. Jaspreet’s creativity and
communication skills make her an excellent presenter and idea generator, but her struggles
with time management require a partner who can complement her weaknesses. Sunaina’s
strong organisational skills and discipline ensure that tasks are completed on time and
deadlines are met, which is crucial for the success of the project. Although Sunaina is slightly
reserved, her preference for structure and predictability aligns well with Jaspreet’s
collaborative working style, as Jaspreet can take the lead in brainstorming and presenting
ideas while Sunaina ensures everything stays on track. While Tabassum is highly creative and
spontaneous, her difficulty in staying focused may amplify Jaspreet’s challenges with time
management, making her less suitable. Alice, on the other hand, excels in polished
presentations, but her tendency to dominate and prioritise control may conflict with Jaspreet’s
collaborative preferences.
Option 2:
Tabassum would be the best partner for Jaspreet in the art-integrated project presentation as
her qualities balance those of Jaspreet’s. Jaspreet thrives on creativity and collaboration, and
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