1 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE - Code No. 184 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER CLASS-X- (2026-27) Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80 General Instructions: Read the instructions carefully and follow them: 1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory. 2. The question paper contains THREE sections – Section – A: Reading Skills Section – B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills Section – C: Literature Textbook 3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each Part. SECTION A READING SKILLS (20 marks) 1. Read the following passage. 10 (1) Have you ever really looked at a toy store shelf and wondered what you're actually looking at? Rows upon rows of plastic products —bright, shiny, and visually appealing. We barely question them anymore. But here's a question worth asking: does the type of toy we choose really matter? The answer might surprise you. It turns out that choosing between a conventional plastic toy and an eco-friendly alternative is about far more than just grabbing something off the shelf. (2) Let's be honest —plastic toys are everywhere. They've been the default choice for generations, and there's a reason: they're affordable, they're designed to grab attention, and they work. However, what exactly are we getting when we buy a mass-produced plastic toy? Often, we're getting something made with chemicals like BPA* and lead, substances that make manufacturing cheaper. These aren't just abstract risks floating in the background. They're real concerns that affect real people, especi ally children who interact with these toys daily. (3) This is precisely why eco -friendly toys matter so much. Crafted from organic cotton, sustainable wood, and recycled materials, they ask a fundamental question: what if toys could be safe, engaging, an d environmentally responsible all at once? When we choose these alternatives, we're not just buying a toy —we're making a statement about what we value. (4) Ever noticed how a wooden block can keep a child entertained for hours, while some plastic gadget loses its appeal in minutes? There's a reason for that. Eco-friendly toys often engage children's minds differently. Natural materials offer something special—rich textures, varied tactile experiences, and a kind of sensory richness that engages the brain in deeper ways. A wooden building set doesn't just entertain; it challenges children to think, problem -solve, and create. It demands imagination in a way that pre -programmed, plastic alternatives never can. 2 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 (5) Think about the typical lifespan of a pl astic toy. It breaks, it ends up in landfills, and it's replaced. Eco-friendly toys, however, are designed to survive. They're built to last years, to be passed along, to become keepsakes rather than waste. This durability speaks volumes about the difference between toys made purely for profit and toys made with purpose. (6) Ultimately, the choice between conventional and eco -friendly toys reflects something deeper: how we think about consumption itself. Do we want a world where toys are disposable trinkets, or do we want objects that matter—that are safe, engaging, and kind to the planet? It's not just about toys. It's about the choices we make every single day and what those choices say about who we are and what kind of future we're building. *BPA: Bisphenol A, a chemical used primarily in the production of plastic items Created for academic usage / 435 words Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. I In Paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘rows upon rows of plastic products' emphasise? 1 II Complete the following with the correct option from the two given. When the writer says, 'These aren’t just abstract risks floating in the background', he refers to _________. (paragraph 2) (a) the potential health hazards present in mass -produced plastic toys that consumers often ignore or are unaware of. (b) the general concerns about toy safety that exist in society but don't directly affect individual purchasing decisions. 1 III The writer mentions, ‘organic cotton, sustainable wood, and recycled materials’ in paragraph 3. Which of the following is an example of ‘recycled material’? A. Hand spun clothes certified by environmental organisations B. Cotton grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilisers C. Plastic bottles processed and converted into shoes D. Wood treated with chemical preservatives to extend lifespan 1 IV In paragraphs 2 and 3, the writer contrasts the characteristics of plastic toys with eco-friendly toys. What does this comparison reveal about the writer's perspective on consumer responsibility? 2 V Identify whether the following statement is True or False. (Paragraph 4) The sensory richness of eco -friendly toys primarily enhances children's entertainment value rather than their cognitive development. 1 3 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 VI Complete the analogy by selecting one of the two correct options (a) or (b). disposable trinkets: landfills:: ___________ :_________ (a) eco-friendly toys: environmental responsibility (b) meaningful keepsakes: future generations 1 VII Read the statements (i–v) given below and select the option that correctly classifies them as Facts (F) or Opinions (O). (i) BPA and lead are used in the production of mass-produced plastic toys. (ii) Plastic toys are affordable and attractive, which makes them popular. (iii) Eco -friendly toys are designed to survive longer and are not discarded as waste. (iv) Wooden toys engage children's minds in deeper and more meaningful ways than plastic toys. (v) The choice between plastic and eco-friendly toys is about mindful consumption. A. (i) O (ii) O (iii) F (iv) F (v) O B. (i) F (ii) F (iii) O (iv) O (v) F C. (i) O (ii) F (iii) F (iv) O (v) O D. (i) F (ii) O (iii) F (iv) O (v) O 1 VIII What might be the author’s purpose of asking rhetorical questions** throughout the passage? 2 ** a figure of speech in which questions are asked for a reason other than to get an answer 2. Read the following passage. 10 (1) A 2023 report found that ‘audio routines’ have become a mainstay in people’s daily lives. Unlike traditional content, audio -based experiences offer a hands -free and eyes -free experience, allowing individuals to stay entertained or absorb information outside the confines of a screen or paper book. The audiobooks market in India is also witnessing intense growth, fuelled by the rapid adoption of smartphones and a rising preference for convenient, on-the-go content consumption. (2) A survey found that half of audiobook listeners spend between 1-4 hours per week listening to audiobooks and 33% spend 5-10 hours a week. When asked in which scenarios they’re most likely to hit play on an audiobook, commute was the most popular choice. 63% said they listen to audiobooks while on the go, 54% while completing household chores and 44% while relaxing or falling asleep. 56% of the listeners generally prefer to listen to fiction over non-fiction books. (3) 67% of audiobook listeners say they read more with audiobooks compared to books in traditional text format. When integrated into daily routines, audiobooks serve as a channel for more people to enjoy literature, accommodating those with the busiest of schedules. (4) The audiobook format also offers a user -friendly format that enables a diverse population, including individuals with physical or neurological limitations to have access to literature. Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for individuals with attention span difficulties, allowing them to engage with books despite the challenges of sitting down and maintaining a focus on reading. Created for academic usage / 253 words 4 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. I Complete the sentence by selecting the correct option from those given in the bracket. The word ‘mainstay’ as used in Paragraph 1 suggests that audiobooks have ______. (overpowered people’s lives/ become a support in people’s lives) 1 II What does relationship between smartphone adoption and audiobook suggest about consumer preferences? (Paragraph 1) 1 III Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below. Assertion: The most preferred scenario for listening to audiobooks is when travelling. Reason: During travel, listeners struggle with short attention span problems. A. Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation. B. Both are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation. C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false. D. The assertion is false, but the reason is true. 1 IV Choose the correct option to complete the sentence. All of the following are mentioned in paragraph 2 EXCEPT— A. 50% of audiobook listeners spend between one and four hours weekly listening to audiobooks. B. A little more than half of the audiobook listeners prefer fiction over non -fiction content. C. Approximately 30% percent of listeners spend less than one hour weekly listening to audiobooks. D. Audiobooks have made it possible for people to appreciate literature. 1 V Compare the preference for fiction (56%) versus non -fiction in audiobooks. What might this suggest about listener expectations? (Paragraph 2) 2 VI Complete the sentence suitably. (Paragraph 3) Audiobook adoption has worked well for people with busy lifestyles because ______________. 1 VII Identify the phrase from paragraph 4 that indicates that everyone would find audiobooks easy and comfortable. 1 VIII A student with reading difficulties wants to complete his reading assignme nts in school. Why would an audio book option be an advantage? (Paragraph 4) 1 IX Suggest one reason why the title, ‘Rise of Audiobooks: Transforming Reading’ is a suitable title for the passage. 1 5 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR 20 GRAMMAR 3. Complete any ten of the twelve following tasks, as directed. I Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal email: Dear Ms. Sharma, We are writing to confirm that your application for the scholarship programme ____________________ by our selection committee last week. A. has been reviewed B. was reviewed C. has been reviewing D. will be reviewed 1 II Report the doctor's statement. Doctor: "You should reduce your sugar intake and exercise regularly." 1 III Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the official notice: Notification to All Students, Please note that _________________ applicants who have submitted incomplete forms are required to resubmit their documents by Friday. A. these B. those C. this D. that 1 IV Read Isha's statement to her class teacher about missing school: "I was absent yesterday because I had to visit the dentist for my regular check-up." Report Isha's statement by completing the following sentence: Isha explained that _________________. 1 V Identify and correct the error in the given line from a technical report: Neither the software developers nor the project manager were aware of the compatibility issues. Error Correction 1 VI Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from the school's safety policy: All students _________________ wear their identification badges at all times while on campus premises. A. might B. could C. must D. may 1 6 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 VII The given question has an error. Select the option that correctly identifies the error and the correction. What among these books have you read before? No. Error Correction A. What Which B. among between C. these this D. have has 1 VIII Juhi asked her friend the following question: "Are you prepared for the mathematics test next week?" Report it correctly to complete the following sentence. Juhi asked her friend _________________. 1 IX Choose the correct option to fill in the blank. Saira was disappointed when she saw there was _______ food left to serve the guests. A. few B. least C. any D. little 1 X Identify the error and suggest the correction. Each of the participants in the Science Fair have been given a set of guidelines to follow during the competition. Error Correction 1 XI Fill in the blank to complete the teacher’s advice by choosing the correct options from those given in brackets. If you practice regularly, you ____________ win the quiz competition next month. (might / must) 1 XII Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb given in the brackets from a travel blog. This hill station ____________ (lose) its natural beauty since the last time I saw it. 1 WRITING NOTE: All details presented in the questions in writing section are imaginary and created for assessment purpose. 4 A. You are Maya Nair, a concerned resident of Green View Colony, Guwahati. You feel that your colony lacks adequate recreational and community spaces for residents of all age groups. The existing facilities are insufficient. Write a letter to the Secretary o f your Resident Welfare Association (RWA) in 120 words, highlighting the need for establishing a community centre in the colony explaining how it will benefit the residents. 5 7 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 OR 4 B. You are Nandan Banerjee, a concerned citizen. Write a letter to the Editor of a local daily raising concern over the open burning of hospital and domestic waste in your city. Draw attention to its serious health implications, the need for scientific waste disposal practices and public awareness. 5 5 A. Read the product details mentioned on an e -commerce website for a student study desk organiser.  Multi-compartment storage with dedicated slots for books, stationery, and digital devices  Eco-friendly bamboo wood construction with non-toxic finish  Adjustable shelves to accommodate different item sizes  Compact yet spacious design suitable for a small room space  Anti-slip base prevents sliding on smooth surfaces  Available in natural wood and light oak finishes  Backed by a 5-year durability guarantee Now, analyse why this desk organiser would be a good purchase for students. Write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words, considering factors such as its sustainability, organisational efficiency, optimal use of space, functionality, and student appeal. OR 5 5 B. Vikram, a student of Grade X, has been offered the position of President of his school's Debate Club, which requires 5 -7 hours weekly commitment. Study the SWOT notes and write an analytical paragraph in 100 -120 to evaluate whether accepting this responsibility is advisable. Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Develops public speaking and leadership skills Significant time commitment away from studies Recognition and awards when representing school in state or national level competitions Risk of burnout balancing multiple responsibilities Creates strong network of like-minded peers Managing team conflicts and disagreements Opportunity to collaborate with other school clubs for joint events Conflicts with board examination preparation schedule & potential decline in academic performance Access to debate mentors and senior members who can provide guidance and support Limited time available for other activities Useful for university admissions in future due to leadership experience Criticism or negative feedback from members 5 SECTION C 40 8 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 LITERATURE TEXTBOOK 6. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. 5 A Natalya: But what’s this? Why, you’re in evening dress! Well, I never! Are you going to a ball or what? Though I must say you look better…Tell me, why are you got up like that? Lomov: [excited] You see, honoured Natalya Stepanova…the fact is, I’ve made up my mind to ask you to hear me out…Of course you’ll be surprised and perhaps even angry, but a…[aside] It’s awfully cold! Natalya: What’s the matter? [pause] Well? Lomov: I shall try to be brief: You must know, honoured Natalya Stepanova, that I have long, since my childhood, in fact, had the privilege of knowing your family. My late aunt and her husband, from whom, as you know, I inherited my land, always had the greatest respect for your father and your late mother. (The Proposal) I Which of the following statements best explains Natalya’s attitude in the opening lines of the extract? (a) She is genuinely surprised by his formal attire and expresses sincere admiration while seeking an explanation. (b) She mocks his formal dress with sarcasm to conceal her anxiety about his unexpected and unusual appearance. 1 II What do the ellipses (…) in Lomov’s speech highlight? A. reveals his struggle to articulate his prepared thoughts B. shows his overconfidence and casual attitude C. demonstrates his anxiety and emotional turmoil D. indicates a lack of intelligence and education 1 III Complete the following suitably. Lomov is quite formal in his conversation with Natalya and prepares lengthy justifications because he ____________. 1 IV How does the author's use of stage directions such as [excited] and [aside] enhance the dramatic tension in this extract? 2 OR B Sweat broke out over her whole body. Would her stammering tongue again disgrace her? For the sake of this kind woman, however she decided to make an effort. She had such a soothing voice; she would not laugh at her. “Bh-Bh-Bho-Bho,” she began to stammer. “Well done, well done,” the teacher encouraged her. “Come on, now — the full name? 9 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 “Bh-Bh-Bho-Bholi.” At last she was able to see it and felt relieved as if it was a great achievement. “Well done.” The teacher patted her affectionately and said, “Put the fear out of your heart and you will be able to speak like everyone else.” Bholi looked up as if to ask, “Really?” (Bholi) I Complete the sentence suitably. Bholi shows some physical symptoms like sweat breaking out over her body and stammering. This shows she is ______________. 1 II Choose the correct option to complete the sentence. “Would her stammering tongue again disgrace her?” The author has used this question as a narrative technique, with the aim of _________. A. convincing readers to judge Bholi B. showcasing Bholi’s inabilities C. giving readers a peek into Bholi’s thoughts D. showing sympathy for Bholi 1 III The teacher's statement, “Put the fear out of your heart and you will be able to speak like everyone else.” suggests that Bholi's primary obstacle is psychological rather than physical. Elaborate. 2 IV Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. Bholi's gesture of looking up 'as if to ask, Really?' reveals a mix of _________. (hope and hesitation/ disobedience and doubt) 1 7. Read the given extracts A and B and answer ANY ONE of the two. 5 A. Don’t eat that chocolate, Amanda! Remember your acne, Amanda! Will you please look at me when I’m speaking to you, Amanda! (Amanda) I Complete the sentence suitably. The speaker connects chocolate consumption to acne, which reveals her concerns regarding _______________. 1 II How does the speaker's demand ‘look at me when I'm speaking to you' suggest the dynamic between them? A. The speaker asserts authority which has a great influence on Amanda. B. Amanda is defiant and the speaker feels disrespected and ignored. C. Amanda is interested in listening to the speaker but is distracted. D. The speaker feels insecure and anxious about losing Amanda. 1 III Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. 1 10 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 The speaker’s use of ‘Will you please’ in the beginning of the third line suggests a _______________ rather than a demand. IV Analyse how the repetition of Amanda's name and the use of exclamation marks contribute to the tone and mood of the extract. 2 OR B. Listen. The glass is breaking. The trees are stumbling forward into the night. Winds rush to meet them. The moon is broken like a mirror, its pieces flash now in the crown of the tallest oak. (The Trees) I Complete the sentence suitably. The word 'listen' at the opening of the extract creates a sense of __________, pulling the reader directly into the dramatic manner of nature's revolt. 1 II Choose the correct option to complete the sentence. The phrase ‘stumbling forward’ suggests that the trees’ movement is ________. A. graceful and purposeful B. deliberate and controlled C. unsteady and uncertain D. rapid and aggressive 1 III Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. The repeated imagery of 'breaking' in the extract suggests that it is not destruction but a/an _____________________part of any meaningful change or liberation. 1 IV How does the sequence of sensory experiences in the extract enhance meaning and impact readers? 2 8. Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. 4x 3=12 I How does the poem use the ‘cat metaphor’ to characterise the fog’s nature? (Fog) 3 II The writer uses humour to simultaneously entertain readers and critique societal attitudes toward animals. Elaborate. (Mijbil the Otter) 3 III How does the hailstorm function as more than just a weather event in the story? (A Letter to God) 3 IV Assess how the poem's message about not judging by appearances still relevant today. (The Tale of Custard the Dragon) 3 11 There is no change in the Question Paper Design and Assessment Pattern for Academic Session 2026-27 V Why has the writer included the legends about tea’s origin-the Chinese emperor's story and Bodhidharma's tale in the narrative? (Glimpses of India- Tea from Assam) 3 9. Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2 x 3 = 6 I Compare Hari's initial approach to Anil with his honest smile at the story's end. What does this change reveal? (The Thief’s Story) 3 II Analyse how the writer uses irony throughout the story to convey t he message that vanity and materialism lead to one’s downfall. (The Necklace) 3 III Why does Horace take off his gloves to give the young lady his lighter? What does this action tell us about his state of mind at that crucial moment? (A Question of Trust) 3 10 Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6 A. Valli in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ and the young seagull in ‘His First Flight’ are protagonists of the story who undergo personal transformation. Compare and contrast how the catalysts in these stories drive the change. OR B. The poems, ‘The Ball Poem’ and ‘Dust of Snow’ capture brief moments that teach lasting lessons. How do these poems propose that momentary events generate a lasting impact? 11. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6 A. In the story, ‘The Midnight Visitor’ the ‘balcony’ functions as the story's central plot device, yet it never physically exists. Discuss what the balcony symbolises in the story. OR B. In ‘The Book that Saved the Earth’, Think-Tank rules Mars with absolute authority and arrogance, yet he makes ridiculous mistakes throughout the play. Evaluate how this impacts his leadership.