ENGLISH COMMUNICATIVE -Code No.

101
MARKING SCHEME
CLASS-X-(2025-26)
General Instructions: -
1. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers. These 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.
SECTION A: READING SKILLS (22 MARKS)

1. Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 12

I c) It plays a critical role in influencing global weather and climate patterns. 1

II an unusually large impact or importance 1

III Because these resources are essential for industries like telecommunications 2
and energy. Additionally, reliance on a single major supplier (the Asian country),
makes diversifying resource acquisition crucial for economic and geopolitical
stability.

IV b) vast and overwhelming in quantity 1

[Option a) is an obvious incorrect. Options c) and d) are plausible but incorrect:

Option c) implies a limitation in scientific measurement, which isn't suggested in
the passage. Option d) suggests difficulty in understanding the concept,
whereas the passage emphasises the sheer magnitude of the ice, not the
inability to comprehend it.]
V a) vault, emphasising security and value 1
[Option a) is correct because it conveys immense worth and inaccessibility.
Option b) does not convey the sense of immense value and security. Option c)
also lacks the connotation of security and exclusivity. Option d) only suggests
easy accessibility and bulk storage, which contrasts with the idea of resources
being difficult to obtain]

VI d) Greenland’s Melting Ice: A Growing Concern for the 21st Century 1

[ Option d) is the best choice because it comprehensively reflects the

paragraph's focus on ice melt, rising sea levels, changing energy absorption,
and the long-term global implications, making it the most fitting title. Option a)
is too broad and doesn’t specifically focus on the main issues discussed in the
paragraph. While Option b) captures part of the paragraph’s focus, it misses the
critical detail about Greenland’s changing colour and its effect on energy

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 absorption, making it incomplete. Option c) focuses only on the energy
absorption aspect, neglecting the significant discussion about rising sea levels
and the long-term impact of ice melt]

VII engine and on/off switch 1

VIII warning 1
[The option ‘speculative’ is incorrect in this context because Jennifer Francis’
statement in paragraph 4 is not a guess or assumption without evidence. The
option ‘viewpoint’ is also incorrect as it typically reflects a personal opinion or
belief, which may not necessarily be based on factual or scientific evidence.
Jennifer’s statement highlights a potential outcome which is not merely her
viewpoint but a scientifically supported cautionary message. Thus, ‘warning’ is
the correct choice because it highlights the cautionary and predictive nature of
her statement.]
IX Holland uses ‘eye-watering’ metaphorically to convey the overwhelming beauty 2
and grandeur of Greenland. While it may not literally reduce him to tears, the
phrase suggests the emotional intensity and awe-inspiring nature of the
experience. It highlights how Greenland's landscapes and wildlife leave a
profound visual impact that is hard to fully capture.

2. Answer the following questions, based on given passage. 10

I The tag 'A Hub for Livestock Trading' is suitable for the Nagaur Fair instead of 2
'Colourful Celebrations' because the fair primarily focuses on the large-scale
trade of livestock, with over 70,000 animals being traded annually, highlighting
its economic significance over its festive aspects. It reinforces its role as a
center for commerce rather than just a celebration of culture.

II c) annually 1

III c) Chand Baori is an ancient stepwell. 1

IV It highlights the increasing recognition and appeal of the Abhaneri Festival, 1

showcasing its success in drawing attention and admiration from visitors
worldwide.
V b) To attract buyers and showcase the animals for trading. 1

VI farmers and traders 1

VII d) Showcasing regional culture 1

VIII The Nagaur Fair spans four days because it involves extensive livestock 2
trading, requiring ample time for transactions, negotiations, and showcasing
animals. In contrast, the Abhaneri Festival lasts two days as it focuses on
cultural performances and celebration, which can be effectively showcased
within a shorter timeframe.
SECTION B- WRITING SKILLS (22 MARKS)
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3. Format – 1 Content -1 Accuracy -1 3

Suggested Content points:

 Highlight that it is a tree plantation volunteering event and how it aligns with
the school’s values of environmental awareness and community service
 Specify the date, time, and location of the event.
 Politely request permission to use school transport for the event and benefit
 Assure responsible usage and adherence to any guidelines provided.

4. Content - 1 Organisation - 1 Accuracy -1 4

Content Points:
 Name and type of the gadget.
 Brief reason for choosing it as your favourite.
 Mention the standout specifications (e.g., sleek design, high performance,
durability).
 Highlight unique functionalities (e.g., voice commands, AI integration, touch
screen)
 Describe its primary purpose (e.g., communication, entertainment,
productivity).
 Additional features that make it versatile (e.g., multi-tasking, connectivity,
battery life).
 How it enhances your daily life.
 Personal satisfaction or convenience provided by the gadget

5. Format -1 Content -3 Organisation -2 Accuracy -1 1x7=7

A. Content Points:
 Impact on Students
 Students without digital access face difficulties in attending online classes and
completing assignments.
 Lack of exposure to digital tools limits learning opportunities and career readiness.
 Emotional toll due to feelings of exclusion and falling behind peers.

 Impact on Teachers
 Teachers struggle to reach students equitably, especially in rural or low-income
areas.
 Limited access to digital teaching aids and training hampers their ability to deliver
quality education.

 Suggested Measures
 Governments and NGOs should provide affordable devices and reliable internet
connectivity.
 Establish community learning centers with shared digital resources.
 Encourage public-private partnerships to improve technology access in schools.
B. Content Points:
 Challenges
 Many geological sites face neglect and vandalism, leading to their
gradual degradation.
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  Urbanisation, industrial activities, and unregulated tourism are major
threats to these sites.
 Lack of public awareness and insufficient government action aggravate
the problem.

 Suggestions for Preservation

 Geological sites should be declared protected areas and maintained with
proper security measures.
 Establish museums and information centers to promote the importance of
these sites.
 Introduce educational programmes in schools to foster appreciation for
geological heritage.
 Encourage responsible tourism and community involvement in
conservation efforts.

 Conclusion
 Urgent action is needed to protect these natural treasures and ensure
they are preserved for future generations.

6. Format - 1 Content - 3 Organisation – 3 Accuracy -1 8

A. Content points:
 Wellness is a holistic concept that includes physical, mental, and
emotional health.
 A balanced lifestyle is essential for achieving complete wellness and
leading a fulfilling life.
 Importance of Key Elements
 Physical Health - Regular exercise, nutritious food, and adequate
hydration are vital for maintaining the body’s strength and immunity.
 Mental Wellness - Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and maintaining
a positive outlook reduce stress and enhance emotional health.
 Adequate Sleep - Quality sleep helps the body recover, boosts brain
function, and strengthens immunity.
 Laughter - Known as the best medicine, laughter reduces stress
hormones, improves mood, and fosters better relationships.
 Nature’s Medicines - Herbal remedies and natural treatments like
turmeric, tulsi, and ginger offer safe and effective healing.

 Practical Suggestions
 Include daily exercise and a balanced diet in your routine.
 Dedicate time for relaxation and activities that bring joy, like spending
time with loved ones.
 Sleep for 7-8 hours each night to recharge your body and mind.
 Use natural remedies wisely, in consultation with experts, for common
ailments.
 Conclusion
 Complete wellness is not just about physical health but also mental and
emotional well-being.
 By incorporating small but meaningful changes in daily habits, everyone
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 can lead a healthier, happier, and more balanced life.

B. Content points:
 Space travel has moved from being a domain for astronauts to a potential
avenue for public tourism.
 The idea of space tourism fascinates many, but it comes with significant
challenges and ethical concerns.

 Potential Benefits
 Unique Experiences - Experiencing zero gravity and viewing Earth from
space can inspire awe and a deeper connection to the planet.
 Economic Benefits -Creation of new jobs in the space industry, tourism,
and associated sectors.
 Advances in space technology could lead to innovations benefiting life on
Earth.

 Challenges and Concerns

 Environmental Impact - Rocket launches produce significant carbon
emissions, contributing to climate change. Pollution from frequent space
travel may harm the atmosphere.
 Accessibility Issues - High costs make space tourism available only to
the wealthy, increasing societal inequalities.
 Safety Risks - Space travel involves potential dangers like accidents,
equipment failure, and radiation exposure.

 Key Considerations
 Should humanity invest resources in space tourism when many critical
issues like poverty, education, and healthcare on Earth remain
unresolved?
 Can sustainable practices in space travel be developed to mitigate
environmental and ethical concerns?

 Conclusion
 Space tourism offers exciting possibilities, but its risks and impacts
cannot be ignored.
 While advancements in space technology are commendable, the focus
should first be on solving Earth’s pressing issues.
 Until space travel becomes safer, sustainable, and accessible to all, it
may remain a risky luxury rather than a step forward for humanity.

SECTION C-GRAMMAR (10 MARKS)

7 Fill in the blanks with the appropriate option: 1x3=3

i becoming
ii refers
iii views
8 Identify the missing word in each line 1x4=4

5
 No. Word Omission Word After
Before
e.g. is our most
i we should reduce
ii is the only
iii small can make
iv we must act

9 Do as directed. 1X3=3

I
i Orissa is a beautiful state in the eastern part of India and we are known for our 1
rich heritage, vibrant festivals and exquisite temple architecture.

II
i if/ whether he had heard about the new discovery announcement the previous 1
day

ii that he had heard about finding a planet with water vapour 1

10. Read the given extracts and answer the questions briefly, for any two 2x4=8
extracts, of the three, given

A
I The tone could be curious / inquisitive or surprised. The narrator might have 1
been genuinely interested in learning more about the boys’ work or surprised to
discover that they engaged in multiple tasks beyond picking and selling fruit.

II Nicola glanced hopefully at the narrator because he might have been expecting 1
his interest in hiring him and Jacopo as guides. He likely saw it as an
opportunity to earn more money, which would contribute to supporting their
sister's treatment.

III Displays their adaptability, and determination to overcome their difficult 1

circumstance
IV It suggests that he sees them as remarkable and intriguing, recognising a depth 1
of character and maturity unusual for children of their age.
B

I It suggests Ozymandias’ arrogance and belief in his unparalleled power and 1

superiority over all rulers.

II It implies that Ozymandias wanted future rulers to feel insignificant and awed by 1
his achievements, believing they could never surpass his greatness.

III The imagery emphasises the desolation and emptiness surrounding 1

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 the ruins, contrasting sharply with Ozymandias’ boastful claim,
highlighting the futility of his pride.

IV It conveys the message that human ambition and achievements are ultimately 1
transient, as time reduces even the greatest works to insignificance.

C
I The dialogue reveals a deep-seated rivalry / animosity between Mrs. Jordan 1
and Mrs. Slater. Both women are quick to accuse and belittle each other,
indicating underlying tensions and competition, especially regarding the
inheritance.

II Mrs. Jordan is implying that Henry is weak-willed and lacks independence, 1

blindly following Mrs. Slater’s manipulative and self-serving instructions. Her
statement highlights her disdain for Henry's submissiveness and reveals her
perception of him as a spineless accomplice in Mrs. Slater's schemes.

III It heightens the tension and drama in the scene. It exposes the selfishness and 1
greed of the characters, creating a chaotic and morally charged atmosphere.

IV Abel’s reaction, particularly his question about what the bureau and clock are 1
doing downstairs, suggests that he quickly discerns his daughters' opportunistic
behaviour and recognizes their greed and lack of respect.

11. Answer any FIVE of the following SIX questions in 30-40 words each : 5x2=10

I The villagers actively contribute to Mrs. Packletide's ambition by exaggerating 2

her success in killing the tiger. They help create the illusion that she is a brave
and heroic hunter by spreading the story and praising her. The villagers’
involvement in this deception reinforces Mrs. Packletide’s desire for social
recognition and enhances her false sense of accomplishment.

II Initially, Patol Babu is disappointed by the small payment for his acting role, 2
feeling that it doesn't compensate for his years of experience. However, when
he immerses himself in his craft, he finds personal satisfaction in the perfect
execution of his lines, despite the meagre financial reward. The story portrays
how true contentment often arises from self-respect and the joy of doing
something well, rather than external recognition or financial gain.

III The mood in the story shifts from melancholy to reflective, and ultimately, to a 2
bittersweet sense of empathy and regret. It begins with a sombre tone as Ali,
filled with loneliness and faith, endures the biting cold and mockery at the post
office. The mood turns reflective when Ali’s story unfolds, and the postmaster,
experiencing similar anxiety, gains empathy. The ending blends sadness with
realisation, emphasising the human connection through shared suffering.

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IV The author uses the concept of advanced virtual reality games to blur the lines 2
between the real and virtual worlds. By integrating Sebastian’s consciousness
into the psycho-drive games, the author explores the potential and unintended
consequences of futuristic technology, creating suspense and an engaging
narrative.

V The audience's initial adulation creates a dependency in the nightingale for 2

constant applause, fuelling her need to perform tirelessly to maintain their
approval. This relentless pursuit of admiration pushes her to overexert herself
under the frog's guidance. Later, their loss of interest in her uninspired
performances deepens her despair, as she equates her worth with their
appreciation.

VI The Shakespearean sonnet form divided into three quatrains and a concluding 2
rhymed couplet, allows Shakespeare to build his argument progressively. In the
quatrains, he contrasts the impermanence of physical monuments with the
enduring nature of poetry, while the final couplet delivers a powerful conclusion,
highlighting the immortality of the loved one, through verse. The consistent
metre and the rhyme scheme provide a rhythm that reinforces the theme of
permanence amidst the passage of time.

12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 150 words 1x8=8
A.
Content points:
 Supernatural in ‘Julius Caesar’:
 Portents and omens: Calpurnia’s dream, the soothsayer's warning (‘Beware the Ides of
March’), dreams of unnatural phenomena like graves opening etc.
 Role: The supernatural heightens tension, foreshadows tragedy, and adds a layer of
inevitability to Caesar's fate. It reflects the characters' inner turmoil and the unrest of
Rome.

 Supernatural in ‘A Shady Plot’:

 The humorous take on the supernatural - Ghosts appear as part of a comical narrative,
with Helen (the ghost) providing a light-hearted take on the afterlife and her ‘Writer's
Inspiration Bureau.’
 Role: Unlike in ‘Julius Caesar’, the supernatural in ‘A Shady Plot’ serves as a satirical
device to critique the writing process and human follies rather than a serious narrative.

 Comparison:
 In ‘Julius Caesar’, the supernatural reflects the gravity of fate, politics, and human
ambition. In contrast, in ‘A Shady Plot,’ it is a tool for humour and irony.
 Both, however, influence the actions of the characters (Caesar ignoring the omens, John
in ‘A Shady Plot’ trying to appease Helen).

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B.
Content Points:

 Introduction
 Both poems acts disrupt nature and lead to guilt and self-realisation.
 The Mariner’s act symbolises arrogance, while the narrator’s in ‘Snake’ reflects
conditioning by the society.

 The Mariner’s Act and Guilt

 The Mariner impulsively kills the Albatross, a symbol of goodwill and nature’s harmony.
 His action brings a curse, leading to suffering of his crew.
 Guilt is externalised as he is condemned share his tale as penance.
 Realisation comes through understanding the sanctity of all life, leading to redemption.

 The Narrator’s Act and Guilt in ‘Snake’

 The narrator admires the snake’s majesty but is driven by conditioning to harm it.
 Unlike the Mariner, his regret is immediate and internal, reflecting personal moral failure.
 He envies the snake’s dignity and feels he has betrayed his own values by acting out of
fear and external expectation.

 Conclusion
 Both poems highlight the moral and emotional consequences of disrupting the natural
order.
 They emphasise guilt as a transformative force, leading to self-awareness and moral
growth.
 The poems point to humanity’s flawed relationship with nature and the need to respect all
living beings.