KENDRIYA VIDYALAYA SANGATHAN, CHENNAI REGION

ENGLISH COMMUNICATIVE (Code No. 101)

PRE-BOARD-1
CLASS-X-(2024-25)
TIME- 3 Hrs. ANSWER KEY Max. Marks-80

SECTION - A READING 22 Marks

1. Answer the following questions based on the passage above 10 marks

I. c) Increased access to online chess platforms and training software 1

II. b) Overreliance on technology, weakening intuition 1
III. One challenge is the rising costs of coaching, which puts financial pressure on parents.1
IV. Rectify the false statement: 1
The COVID-19 pandemic actually gave many young Indian chess players more time to
focus on honing their skills without the pressure of travelling for competitions.
V. The future of Indian chess looks promising due to the growing number of chess
academies, support from experienced Grandmasters, and increased backing from the
government and private sectors, which help nurture new talent even as challenges like
high coaching costs persist. 1
VI. It has become easier due to access to online chess platforms, training software, and
international chess literature, allowing young players to study strategies from around
the world. 1
VII. Young chess players like Charvi and Gukesh have to make significant sacrifices, such
as giving up normal childhood activities like watching TV and having free time, in order
to dedicate themselves fully to their chess training and succeed at the international level.
2
VIII. Mentorship from veteran Grandmasters is important because they provide expert
guidance, help young players refine their skills, and foster a competitive environment.
Their experience and training are crucial for shaping future champions and maintaining
a consistent pipeline of talent in India. 2
X . India now ranks fifth globally in the number of Grandmasters, and Indian players
consistently perform well on the international stage, with multiple young talents in the
top ranks India demonstrates growing dominance in chess. 2

2. Answer the following questions, based on the report above 10

I. The AI Club was motivated to plan various upcoming activities because they wanted to sustain
student interest in artificial intelligence and provide opportunities for skill development. 1
II. coding workshops /Practical demonstrations / practical experiences.
1

III. B) To provide students with knowledge about AI technologies and ethical implications 1

IV. C. 3 and 4 1

V. The most likely purpose of the interactive demonstrations showcased during the technology
fair was to engage attendees in learning about AI applications and to encourage participation in
coding challenges. 1

VI. The passage suggests that the students have a strong enthusiasm and eagerness to dive deeper
into the field of artificial intelligence. 1

VII. The specific skills that the students are expected to develop through their participation in the
AI Club include coding, understanding AI technologies, and problem-solving through
collaborative projects. 2

VIII. The AI Club at ABC School promotes holistic education by integrating interdisciplinary
learning and practical experiences, fostering collaboration, ethical awareness, and creativity
among students. This approach helps in the overall development of an individual with essential
skills for the future. 2

3. SECTION B WRITING SKILLS (22 MARKS)

From: krithi@gmail.com
To: principalphg@gmail.com
CC: correspondent@gmail.com
Date: November 20, 2024, 10.30am
Subject: Request to include healthier food options in school
cafeteria menu

Sir/ Madam

I kindly request you to improve our school cafeteria menu by

incorporating healthier food options, such as including millets and
other nutritious grains. This will encourage better eating habits and
contribute to students' overall well-being.

Thank you for your consideration

Warm Regards

Yours Sincerely
Content – 1, Organisation – 1, Accuracy - 1

4. Suggested Response sample

I recently visited Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tamil Nadu, known for its
stunning rock-cut temples and sculptures. The highlight was exploring the Shore Temple,
beautifully positioned by the coastline, with intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities. I also
wandered through the Pancha Rathas, a group of monolithic structures resembling chariots, and
admired the stunning bas-relief of Arjuna’s Penance. The beach offered a peaceful spot to relax
and enjoy the sunset. The rich history, architectural marvels, and coastal charm made my trip to
Mahabalipuram truly unforgettable.

Content – 2 Organisation -1 Accuracy -1

5A. Suggested response

Sender’s address

Date

The Mayor
Address

Sub: Need to upgrade parks for a healthy lifestyle

Sir
Acknowledge the Mayor's efforts in promoting sustainability and improving transportation
infrastructure.
Highlight the need to upgrade the parks
Emphasise on improved facilities like playground equipment, walking trails, sport facilities
Propose specific measures fitness classes, laughter yoga classes, family sports .
Advocate for community engagement and collaboration to foster community engagement and
promote healthier lifestyle
Conclude by expressing gratitude for the Mayor's attention to this issue and urging initiatives for
a more sustainable and healthier city

Yours Sincerely

Signature
(name)

Format – 1, Content – 3, Organisation -2, Accuracy -1

5.B. Suggested response

Sender’s address

Date

The Mayor
Address

Sub: Regarding problem of food waste dumping

Sir

Attention towards the alarming issue of food waste dumping in our community.
food waste poses significant health risks and also environmental degradation.

Food waste being discarded in public spaces, including parks and streets - attracts pests and
rodents, creating unhygienic conditions that could lead to the spread of diseases. Furthermore,
decomposing food waste emits harmful gases, such as methane, which contribute to air pollution
and climate change.

To address this pressing issue, I propose the following measures:

Community Awareness Campaigns - Implementation of Segregation Bins - Composting

Initiatives - Collaboration with Local Businesses - Regular Clean-Up Drives

Implementation of these measures, we can significantly reduce food waste dumping in our
locality, fostering a cleaner, healthier environment for all residents. I urge you to consider these
suggestions seriously and to take prompt action to address this issue.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Yours Sincerely
Signature
(name)

Format – 1, Content – 3, Organisation -2, Accuracy -1

6A – Article writing

From Classroom to Career: The Importance of Skill-Based Learning

-By Ganesh X B

Benefits of Skill-Based Education

 Real-world application – prepare for various career path - enhanced employability- foster
creativity and critical thinking - Boosting confidence and motivation - Promoting Lifelong
Learning - Encouraging entrepreneurship

Recommendations for Policymakers - Curriculum Integration - Teacher Training -

Partnerships with Industries - Promoting Awareness.

. Format – 1, Content – 3, Organisation -3, Accuracy -1

6B Article writing

Eco Tourism: The Path to Joyful and Sustainable Travel

By Ganesh X B
Understanding Eco Tourism
The Need for Joyful Experiences

Sustainable Practices in Eco Tourism - Protect bio-diversity – conserve water and energy –
promote sustainable tourism - Eco-friendly accommodations, such as eco-lodges and sustainable
resorts, focus on minimizing waste. - Education and Awareness

Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility

Format – 1, Content – 3, Organisation -3, Accuracy -1

7 A. Gap fill 3x1=3

I) intends II) could III) such

B. Omission: (½ for word before and after + ½ for omission); No credit, if either word
before or after is missing or these words are completely missing. 4 x (½ + ½) x 1=4

No. Text Word Omission Word

before after
e.g. My trip Rajasthan was amazing. I visited the Trip To Rajasthan
I beautiful forts Jaipur, like Amber Fort and Hawa forts in Jaipur
Mahal.
II The markets full of colourful handicrafts and markets were full
textiles.
III I enjoyed delicious local food, including spicy curries and sweet
curries sweet Rabri.
IV A camel ride in the Thar Desert at sunset made it Desert at sunset
unforgettable.
C. Reordering and transformation (1x3=3)

a) I. People realise that consuming fast food too often can be unhealthy.
b) (I) he had joined a cooking class.
(II) why he had joined it.

SECTION D LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (26 MARKS)

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

A I. Patol Babu felt disheartened because he was offered a small role and that too a
monosyllabic word .It diminished his aspirations.

II. He mustered up his courage by recalling his mentor’s words to take a role , no matter how
small it was.

III. It had a gold mine of meaning .

IV. The word monosyllabic mean one word.

B I) in the middle of the ocean covered with ice and snow

II) The mariners experience fear, guilt and regret.
III. Mist and snow creates an atmosphere of isolation,vulnerability,eeriness
IV. The spirit has followed them as a consequence of their actions towards the killing of the
albatross

C. I) Soliloquy
II) Caesar’s dead body
III) Deep sorrow and remorse
IV) Conspirators who were the assassins of Julius Caesar

9. Short answer questions (five of six) 5x2=10

To be marked for content and organisation Up to 1 mark can be deducted for inaccuracy.

1. Dad and Michael visited computer fair, bought virtual reality vizor and glove and a
handful of latest psycho driven games.
 2. Brutus justifies saying Caesar was ambitious- wanted to be emperor of Rome – he was a
tyrant wanted to treat Romans as slaves – Roman liberty and democracy under threat –
conspirators disliked Caesar’s egoistic behavior.
3. Sick and tired and irritated the creatures of the Bingle Bog prayed and pleaded the frog to
stop singing, when failed they started pelting stones and sticks and inflicted insults.
4. Helen the ghost warned Hallock to use ouija board – Lavinia buys Ouija board reasons
that it would help Hallock to write ghost stories – arranges for Ouija board party – Ouija
board calls Hallock a traitor – leads to misunderstanding and mistrust – Lavinia calls for
divorce – Hallock is shattered.
5. Mrs.Packetide decided to organise the Tiger Hunt solely to outshine Loona Bimberton,
who had recently been celebrated for flying in an airplane with an Algerian aviator. She
was not interested in the shoot but only to upstage Loona’s accomplishment and receive
more attention. After the hunt, Mrs. Packletide would throw a luncheon party in Loona
Bimberton’s honour with tiger skin rug spread on the floor with guests and media engaged
to speak about tiger shoot. She also decided to send a tiger claw brooch to Loona as a
birthday gift.
6. The bureau plays a symbolic role, reflecting the greed and materialistic nature of Amelia
and Elizabeth. The bureau becomes a point of conflict as both sisters are eager to claim
their father’s possessions after his supposed death, rather than mourn for him. The bureau
serves as a symbol of their selfishness and lack of genuine affection for their father. Thus,
the play satirically conveys the hypocrisy and greed prevalent within the family.

10. Long answer question (One of two) 1x8=8

Content – 4 Organisation – 3 & Accuracy – 1

In D.H. Lawrence’s Snake, the poet's reaction to the snake reflects a profound internal struggle
between his innate respect for nature and the societal teachings that dictates his behavior. As the
snake drinks from the water trough, the speaker is initially captivated, feeling “honoured” by the
presence of this creature that has come “like a guest in quiet.” This suggests a deep admiration and
a sense of connection to the natural world.
However, the poet’s reverence is challenged by the “voice of his education,” which insists that the
snake must be killed because it is venomous. This voice represents societal expectations and fears.
The poet’s education also tells him that being a “man” means acting with aggression and
dominance over nature, which conflicts with his actual desire to leave the snake unharmed.
Then suddenly the poet throws a log at the snake, an act driven more by internalised pressure than
personal conviction. He immediately regrets this action, calling it “paltry, vulgar and mean,” This
regret reflects a deeper understanding that he has lost an opportunity to honor a creature he views
as a “king in exile.”
Ultimately, the poet’s remorseful reflection suggests that true wisdom lies in respecting nature
rather than imposing control over it, and he is left with a sense of guilt for having failed to uphold
this belief.
(or)
In both "Coachman Ali" and "The Two Gentlemen of Verona," love, faith, and trust within
families are central themes that reveal the deep emotional bonds between family members.

Coachman Ali, despite five years of separation from his daughter, demonstrates unwavering faith
and hope by waiting daily for her letter. His patience and love are symbols of a parent’s
unconditional love that transcends physical distance and time. His belief emphasises the
importance of trust and hope in family relationships.

On the other hand, the two boys in "The Two Gentlemen of Verona" embody parental love in their
devotion to their sister. Though orphans themselves, they take up their responsibility and work
tirelessly to provide for her needs. Their selflessness shows that familial love is not just a matter
of blood ties but also of responsibility and sacrifice. The boys’ care for their sister underlines the
value of trust within a family — relying on one another in difficult times strengthens their bond.

From these stories, we learn that love, faith, and trust are timeless values that keep families
together, even in challenging situations. In today’s world, where families may face hardship or the
pressures of modern life, these lessons remind us of the importance of nurturing relationships,
maintaining hope, and supporting one another through thick and thin. Families built on these
principles are more resilient and compassionate, ensuring the well-being of every member.
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