Yes, you can expect questions that require inference and critical analysis of texts in CBSE Class 10 English literature.

Inference and critical analysis are important skills that Class 10 students are expected to develop in their English literature studies. The CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) curriculum for Class 10 English literature includes a variety of texts such as poems, short stories, and plays. Students are required to read and analyze these texts to gain a deeper understanding of their themes, characters, and literary techniques used by the authors. This involves making inferences and critically analyzing the text.

Examples of Questions Requiring Inference and Critical Analysis:

1. "What does the poet imply about the nature of love in the poem?" - This question requires the student to read the poem and infer the poet's view on love based on the language, imagery, and tone used.

2. "What is the significance of the title of the story?" - This question asks the student to critically analyze the title and determine its relevance to the overall theme or message of the story.

3. "How does the use of symbolism contribute to the meaning of the play?" - This question requires the student to identify and interpret the symbolic elements in the play and analyze how they enhance the deeper meaning of the text.

4. "What do you think the author's purpose was in writing this story?" - This question prompts the student to make an educated guess about the author's intention in writing the story and support their answer with evidence from the text.

Developing Inference and Critical Analysis Skills:

To excel in answering such questions, students should:

1. Read the text attentively: Careful reading is crucial to understanding the nuances of the text and picking up on subtle clues and details.

2. Identify literary techniques: Students should be able to recognize and analyze literary techniques such as metaphor, simile, personification, and symbolism used by the author to convey their message.

3. Consider the context: Understanding the historical, social, and cultural context of the text can provide valuable insights into its themes and meanings.

4. Make connections: Students should be able to connect different parts of the text to draw conclusions and make inferences about the author's intent or the deeper meaning of the work.

5. Support with evidence: It is important to back up any inferences or critical analyses with evidence from the text itself, such as specific quotes or examples.

By honing their inference and critical analysis skills, Class 10 students will be able to engage with literature on a deeper level and develop a more nuanced understanding of the texts they study.