Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 11: ICSE Class 10 English Language/Grammar (Total English) solved which comprises Prepositions, Personal Writing, Specimen Summary, Test Paper – 11. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
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Prepositions
ASSIGNMENT
Fill in the blanks with suitable prepositions:
1. The stranger knocked……..the door.
Answer: at
Explanation: The preposition “at” is used here because it indicates the specific place where the stranger knocked. “At” is commonly used to describe a point of interaction or location. For example, we say, “She is at the window,” or “Knock at the gate.”
2. Suddenly he jumped……….the pool.
Answer: into
Explanation: The preposition “into” is used to describe movement from outside to inside a space or area, like the pool. For instance, “He walked into the room,” shows movement entering a defined area.
3. He was standing………….the pillar.
Answer: near
Explanation: The preposition “near” is used to indicate a position close to something. For example, “The cat is near the sofa” means the cat is close to the sofa but not touching it.
4. We reached the station…………time.
Answer: on
Explanation: The preposition “on” is used with “time” to mean punctuality or being at the correct moment. For example, “He arrived on time for the meeting.”
5. He sat…………Harry and Manas.
Answer: between
Explanation: The preposition “between” is used when referring to something in the middle of two objects or people. For instance, “The letter is between the books” means it is placed in the middle of two books.
6. He presided………….the meeting.
Answer: over
Explanation: The preposition “over” is used here because it shows authority or control over something. For example, “She presided over the ceremony,” indicates she was in charge.
7. The people have been waiting at the station…….6 o’clock.
Answer: since
Explanation: The preposition “since” is used to refer to the starting point of time, continuing up to the present. For example, “She has been here since Monday” means she arrived on Monday and is still present.
8. There is a bus stop………….the end of the road.
Answer: at
Explanation: The preposition “at” is used to describe a specific point or location. For example, “Meet me at the corner of the street.”
9. He used to live…….Mumbai.
Answer: in
Explanation: The preposition “in” is used when referring to being inside a large area like a city or country. For example, “He lives in London.”
10. We will finish our homework…………..an hour.
Answer: in
Explanation: The preposition “in” is used to indicate the time it will take to complete something from the present moment. For example, “The train will arrive in 30 minutes.”
11. The boy has been missing………….Sunday.
Answer: since
Explanation: The preposition “since” is used to denote the starting point of an action or event that continues. For instance, “It has been raining since yesterday.”
12. You must reach the place……..sunset.
Answer: before
Explanation: The preposition “before” is used to indicate an action or event happening earlier than a specific time. For example, “We should leave before midnight.”
13. He disposed…………….his old car.
Answer: of
Explanation: The preposition “of” is used with “disposed” to mean getting rid of something. For example, “She disposed of the waste properly.”
14. We find it difficult to cope…………….Hindi.
Answer: with
Explanation: The preposition “with” is used after “cope” to show the thing being dealt with. For example, “He copes with pressure very well.”
15. We must conform…………..the school regulations.
Answer: to
Explanation: The preposition “to” is used with “conform” to mean complying with rules or standards. For example, “The design conforms to safety standards.”
Personal Writing
ASSIGNMENT
1. After your schooling, you went to join a college in another city. Describe your thoughts and feelings on leaving your home and school.
Leaving Home and School
The day I left my home for college in another city was filled with mixed emotions. As I packed my bags, memories of my school life kept flashing in my mind. I thought about my friends, my teachers, and the classrooms where I had spent so many hours. The familiar routine of home would now be replaced by something completely new.
The excitement of starting college was real, but it was overshadowed by a sense of nervousness. Would I make friends there? Would I adjust to the new city? These questions kept circling in my head. Leaving my parents behind felt like leaving a part of myself. I knew I would miss my mother’s morning calls to wake me up and the small but comforting conversations over meals.
The moment I stepped out of the house, my father gave me a smile that I knew was hiding his emotions. My mother wiped a tear but told me to stay strong. It wasn’t easy saying goodbye. As the train pulled out of the station, I watched my hometown slowly disappear from view. My heart felt heavy, yet there was a flicker of hope for the future.
The journey ahead seemed uncertain, but it was also a chance to grow and discover new things. With each passing hour, I tried to remind myself that this was the beginning of a new chapter, one that would shape me in ways I could not yet imagine.
2. State, with relevant incidents, how the reading habit has made you a better human being
How Reading Made Me Better
Reading has been a constant companion in my life, shaping my thoughts and actions. As a child, I started with simple storybooks, but over time, I explored novels, history, and biographies. Each book taught me something valuable, helping me understand people, situations, and emotions better.
Once, while reading Malgudi Days by R. K. Narayan, I came across a story about honesty. The character faced a difficult choice but chose to do the right thing despite the cost. That story stayed with me. Later, when I found someone’s lost wallet at a bus stop, I remembered that lesson. Instead of keeping it, I made the effort to return it to its owner. The joy on their face was unforgettable.
Another time, I read The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank. Her courage and optimism, even in the darkest moments, left a deep impact on me. It made me more grateful for the life I have and sensitive to the struggles of others.
Reading has also taught me patience. While solving a mystery novel, I learned the importance of looking at all sides of a situation before making a decision. It has helped me approach conflicts calmly and resolve misunderstandings.
Books have introduced me to worlds beyond my own, fostering empathy and kindness. They’ve shown me that every person has a story, and understanding those stories can make us better humans.
Test Paper – 11
Question 1
Write a composition (300 – 350 words) on any one of the following:
(i) Write a short story to illustrate the truth of the statement: ‘Optimism is the key to success.’
Optimism is the Key to Success
Arun, a young boy from a small village, dreamed of becoming an engineer. His family was poor, and his school lacked resources, but Arun never let these challenges dampen his spirit. “I may not have much, but I have my determination,” he often said, smiling brightly.
When Arun reached Class 10, he failed in mathematics in the first term exams. His friends teased him, and even his teacher doubted his ability. Arun was heartbroken but refused to give up. He remembered his father’s words: “Son, failure is just a step toward success. Stay positive, and you’ll find a way.”
With renewed energy, Arun approached his teacher after class and asked for guidance. Though hesitant at first, the teacher noticed Arun’s sincerity and agreed to help. Arun worked tirelessly every day, solving problems late into the night by the light of a kerosene lamp. Whenever he felt discouraged, he would remind himself that his hard work would pay off.
During the final exams, Arun gave his best. When the results were announced, Arun not only passed but scored the highest marks in mathematics. His perseverance and positive attitude had turned his failure into triumph.
Arun’s optimism didn’t stop there. He continued to excel in his studies and eventually earned a scholarship to a prestigious engineering college. Years later, Arun became a successful engineer and returned to his village to build a school.
When asked about his journey, Arun simply said, “Optimism kept me going. Even when the odds were against me, I believed in the possibility of success.”
Arun’s story is a testament to how optimism can transform obstacles into opportunities. It teaches us that a positive mindset, coupled with hard work, can lead to extraordinary achievements. Optimism truly is the key to success.
(iv) Looking back at the last decade of your life, describe the events that have contributed in shaping your personality.
The Decade That Shaped Me
Looking back at the last ten years of my life, I can see how various events and experiences have shaped the person I am today. Each phase taught me something valuable, leaving a lasting impact on my personality.
When I was ten, I changed schools for the first time. Initially, I struggled to adjust to the new environment and make friends. However, this challenge taught me the importance of adaptability and communication. I gradually became more confident in approaching people and expressing myself.
A few years later, my grandmother fell seriously ill. Watching my parents care for her day and night taught me the value of compassion and responsibility. I learned that being there for others during tough times strengthens relationships and builds character.
In high school, I faced academic pressure, especially during board exams. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but I realised the importance of time management and perseverance. Preparing for exams not only improved my focus but also gave me the confidence to handle stress better.
One of the most significant events was joining my school’s drama club. I was initially hesitant to perform on stage, but with encouragement from my friends and teachers, I discovered a love for acting. This experience helped me overcome my fear of public speaking and boosted my self-esteem.
Another defining moment came when I volunteered for a tree-planting drive in my locality. It opened my eyes to the importance of environmental conservation and the power of small actions in creating positive change. It also made me more mindful and socially responsible.
Over the past decade, successes and failures alike have played a role in shaping my personality. I’ve learned to embrace challenges, remain empathetic, and work towards my goals with determination. Each event has been a stepping stone, preparing me for the future with lessons that will stay with me forever.
(v) Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you. Your composition may be about the subject of the picture or you may take suggestions from it; however, there must be a clear connection between the picture and your composition.
[Image description: Three Indian women walking on a dusty road with pitchers upon their heads, possibly carrying water.]
Life on a Dusty Path
The picture tells the story of resilience and hard work. It shows three women walking along a dusty road, carrying heavy loads on their heads. Their clothes are simple, and their faces speak of both weariness and determination. This image reminds me of the countless unsung heroes who form the backbone of our society.
The scene could very well belong to a rural Indian village. These women might be returning home after fetching water from a distant well or delivering goods to a nearby market. The road they walk on is uneven, lined with sparse vegetation and signs of a humble life. The surroundings reflect a place where resources are scarce, and survival depends on effort and cooperation.
I imagine these women waking up at dawn, preparing meals for their families, and then setting out to complete their chores. Despite the physical strain, they walk together, perhaps sharing stories or laughing about small joys. Their unity is a reminder of the strength found in togetherness.
This picture speaks of the struggles faced by women in many parts of the country. Yet, it also celebrates their perseverance and the quiet dignity with which they navigate life’s challenges. It highlights the importance of recognising their contributions and working towards easing their burdens through better infrastructure and opportunities.
The dusty path they walk on is symbolic of life itself—often challenging, yet navigated with determination and hope. These women, with their unwavering spirit, inspire us to face our own struggles with courage and grace.
Question 2
Select any one of the following:
(i) Write a letter to your friend, describing how you, along with a group of friends, intend to undertake a cleanliness drive in your area.
123, Ashoka Colony
Jaipur
Rajasthan
18 January 2025
Dear Ananya,
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to share something exciting that my friends and I are planning. We have decided to organise a cleanliness drive in our locality to improve the surroundings and raise awareness.
The streets and parks here often have plastic waste and litter. It not only looks unpleasant but is also harmful to the environment. We thought of taking this small step to bring about a change.
The drive is scheduled for next Sunday morning. We will gather volunteers and divide the work among smaller groups. Some will clean the market road, others the temple surroundings, and a group will take care of the children’s park. To spread awareness, we plan to put up posters and talk to shopkeepers, asking them to place bins outside their shops. A few of my friends are bringing gloves and garbage bags, and the municipal office has agreed to help with waste disposal.
I am really excited about this. It feels great to do something good for the community. If you are free, I’d love for you to join us. Let me know if you have any ideas to make it better.
Take care and write back soon!
Yours truly,
Aarav
(ii) Write a letter to the Police Commissioner (Traffic) of your area, regarding the inadequate parking facilities in your colony, which cause a Give your suggestions to solve the problem
123, Ashoka Colony
Jaipur
Rajasthan
18 January 2025
The Police Commissioner (Traffic)
Jaipur Police Headquarters
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Subject: Inadequate Parking Facilities in Ashoka Colony
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring to your attention the issue of inadequate parking facilities in Ashoka Colony. This problem has been causing significant inconvenience to residents and visitors alike.
The lack of proper parking spaces often leads to vehicles being parked on narrow roads, blocking traffic and creating frequent jams. This is especially problematic during peak hours when the streets become almost impossible to navigate. The situation is even worse near the market area, where shoppers leave their vehicles haphazardly.
To address this issue, I would like to suggest the following measures:
- Designating specific parking zones within the colony, especially near the market and residential complexes.
- Installing clear signboards indicating no-parking zones to discourage illegal parking.
- Conducting regular checks and imposing fines on vehicles parked in unauthorised areas.
- Collaborating with the municipal authorities to construct a small parking lot in the vacant land near the colony entrance.
I believe these steps can help improve the situation and ease traffic congestion. I kindly request your intervention to resolve this matter at the earliest.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Yours sincerely,
Aarav Mehta
(Resident, Ashoka Colony)
Question 3
(i) Your school is organising an inter-school Science Wizard Exam. Write out a notice to be put up in your school informing the students about the Exam and inviting them to participate in it.
ABC Public School, Jaipur
Notice
Inter-School Science Wizard Exam
18 January 2025
This is to inform all students of Classes VIII to XII that our school is organising an Inter-School Science Wizard Exam on 5 February 2025 in the school auditorium.
The competition aims to test scientific knowledge and encourage innovative thinking among students. Participants will be required to solve science-based problems and answer quiz questions.
Details of the Exam:
- Date: 5 February 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Venue: School Auditorium
- Eligibility: Students of Classes VIII to XII
Interested students can register their names with their respective class teachers by 25 January 2025. For further details, please contact the Science Club in Room No. 12 during lunch break.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to showcase your talent and win exciting prizes!
(Sign)
Sarthak Sharma
Head Boy
(ii) Write an email to the Principal of a neighbouring school requesting him/her to send the names of the students who wish to participate in the Science Wizard Exam.
To: principal@email.com
Subject: Request for Participation in Inter-School Science Wizard Exam
Dear Principal,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to invite your esteemed school to participate in the Inter-School Science Wizard Exam being organised by our school, ABC Public School, Jaipur.
The competition will be held on 5 February 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, in our school auditorium. The event is open to students from Classes VIII to XII, and it aims to encourage scientific learning and innovation.
We kindly request you to send us the names of the students from your school who wish to participate. The last date for registration is 25 January 2025. Please email the list of participants to scienceclub@abcpublicschool.in or contact us at our school office for further details.
We look forward to the enthusiastic participation of your students. Thank you for your cooperation.
Best regards,
Sarthak Sharma
Head Boy
ABC Public School
Jaipur
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
The story of Robinson Crusoe is based on a real-life incident. The son of a cobbler, Alexander Selkirk, was a wayward young man, with little respect for authority. Abject conditions at sea and the cruelty of the captains made the sailors miserable in those days. It was not surprising that Alexander became rebellious and malevolent when he became a sailor.
In 1704, he was the Sailing Master on a ship, when it anchored for repairs near the desolate island of Juan Fernandez, about 650 kilometres west of Chile. They were looking for gold, which they often got by plundering other ships. In the days that followed, Alexander hatched a conspiracy. He instigated the other sailors to leave the ship and remain on the island. They would declare a mutiny. Perhaps, Alexander reasoned that the Captain would accept their demands if he believed that his men would refuse to sail otherwise. Unfortunately for Alexander, the crew played the Judas. The Captain, getting to know of Alexander’s part in the planned mutiny, left him behind on the island as he was a bad influence on the men. He was provided with a few necessities, among them, a copy of the Bible.
Alexander, marooned on an island populated only by wild cats and goats, became adept at hunting and his food soon comprised fish, turtles and meat. He also made clothes with goat skin. Although a cobbler’s son, he could not make shoes. Running barefoot after goats had hardened the soles of his feet. He read the Bible again and again and slowly took to reading it aloud. He spoke and sang to the cats and learnt to milk goats.
Once, during his stay on the island, a Spanish ship anchored near the island and the crew rowed in. Alexander was petrified and hid in the thick foliage. In those days, Spain and England were at daggers drawn. Fortunately, the Spaniards left after a brief rest.
In February 1709, two English ships sailed in to collect freshwater and shoot goats. Alexander rushed to them for succour. He looked strange with his unkempt hair, beard and goat skin clothes. His rescuers understood him with great difficulty. His speech had changed a great deal. His vocabulary had shrunk and he had to grope for words. They did, however, manage to understand his story finally.
Alexander took a job as a sailor on one of the ships and reached London in 1711. He returned home with a large fortune. However, he ran out of his fortune in two years and had to return to sea. Alexander’s adventures became well-known. Eight years later, Daniel Defoe gave the story a new shape with many twists, calling it The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe. It is now the story of a man who was shipwrecked on an island and lived alone for an unbelievable twenty-eight years.
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
1. Abject (line 2)
(a) pleasant
(b) happy
(c) scary
(d) wretched
Answer: (d) wretched
2. Mutiny (line 9)
(a) following
(b) revolt
(c) compliance
(d) harmony
Answer: (b) revolt
(ii) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word comforted?
(a) petrified
(b) malevolent
(c) rebellious
(d) wayward
Answer: (a) petrified
(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words:
(a) How did Alexander Selkirk become ‘a wayward young man with little respect for authority?’
Answer: Alexander Selkirk became wayward due to his rebellious nature and lack of discipline, influenced by his attitude toward authority.
(b) Why did Alexander become rebellious and malevolent when he became a sailor?
Answer: Harsh conditions at sea and the cruelty of captains made Alexander rebellious and malevolent.
(c) What conspiracy did Alexander hatch? Why did he do so?
Answer: Alexander planned to incite a mutiny among sailors, hoping the captain would meet their demands.
(d) What is meant by ‘the crew played the Judas’? How did the crew do so?
Answer: ‘The crew played the Judas’ means they betrayed Alexander by revealing his mutiny plan to the captain.
(e) What did Alexander do when the crew of the Spanish ship rowed in?
Answer: Alexander hid in the foliage to avoid capture by the Spanish crew.
(iv) In not more than 50 words, give an account of Alexander’s adventures on the island.
Answer: Marooned on an island, Alexander survived by hunting, fishing, and making goat skin clothes. He read the Bible, sang to cats, and hid from Spaniards. Rescued in 1709, he returned to London but later went back to sea after losing his fortune.
Question 5
(i) Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets. Do not copy the passage but write in correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space
In recent years, significant progress has been ….0…. (make) in the …1…. (develop) of electrified roads and wireless charging technology. In 2016, France …2… (develop) the world’s longest photovoltaic road, ….3…. (cover) a distance of one kilometer and ….4…. (equip) with 2,880 square meters of photovoltaic electric panels. This road had been designed in such a way so as to generate sufficient power to not only charge Electric Vehicles (EVs) but also provide surplus energy for streetlights in nearby towns. However, the test results …5…. (fall) short of expectations because of …6… (reduce) sunlight …7… (expose). tractors,leafcover and , the impact of vehicles, including …8… (cause) wear and tear.
Answer:
- made
- development
- covering
- equipped
- fell
- reduced
- exposure
- causing
(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words:
1. One should not confide one’s secrets _______ everyone.
Answer: to
Explanation: The preposition “to” is used to indicate the recipient of information or secrets. Here, it implies revealing secrets to someone. For example, “She confided her fears to her best friend.”
2. She was accompanied _______ her sister to the town.
Answer: by
Explanation: “Accompanied by” means to have someone with you. Here, it indicates that her sister was with her. For example, “He was accompanied by his parents.”
3. Rama made an objection _______ his proposal.
Answer: to
Explanation: “Objection to” is a common phrase used when expressing disagreement. Here, it means that Rama objected to the proposal. For example, “She raised an objection to the plan.”
4. The man provides the poor _______ free ration.
Answer: with
Explanation: “Provide with” is used to indicate giving something to someone. In this case, the man gives free rations to the poor. For example, “The organisation provided the students with resources.”
5. The staff meeting broke _______ at 4 p.m.
Answer: up
Explanation: “Broke up” means to end or disperse. Here, it indicates the conclusion of the staff meeting. For example, “The party broke up at midnight.”
6. The old man has no control _______ his children.
Answer: over
Explanation: “Control over” means having authority or power over someone or something. In this case, the man lacks authority over his children. For example, “She has no control over her emotions.”
7. I see no cause _______ anxiety.
Answer: for
Explanation: “Cause for” is used to indicate a reason for something. Here, it implies there is no reason for anxiety. For example, “There is no cause for alarm.”
8. A leader must be true _______ his/her word.
Answer: to
Explanation: “True to” means being faithful or keeping a promise. In this context, a leader must keep their word. For example, “He stayed true to his principles.”
(iii) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but, or so. Choose the correct option:
1. The aerated water tasted peculiar. It has to be disposed of.
(a) The aerated water being peculiar was disposed of.
(b) The aerated water has to be disposed as it was peculiar.
(c) Since the aerated water tasted peculiar, it has to be disposed of.
(d) The aerated water could not be tasted as it was peculiar in taste.
Answer: (c) Since the aerated water tasted peculiar, it has to be disposed of.
2. He is very old. He enjoys good health.
(a) Although he is very old, he enjoys good health.
(b) Being very old, he enjoys good health.
(c) He is too old to enjoy good health.
(d) He enjoys good health after being very old.
Answer: (a) Although he is very old, he enjoys good health.
3. He saw me coming. He immediately took to his heels.
(a) He saw me coming to he immediately took to his heels.
(b) Seeing me, he immediately took to his heels.
(c) He immediately took to his heels when I was coming.
(d) As soon as he saw me coming, he took to his heels.
Answer: (d) As soon as he saw me coming, he took to his heels.
4. He met a man. He was selling books on a footpath.
(a) He met a man who was selling books on a footpath.
(b) He met a man when he was selling books on a footpath.
(c) He met a man while he was selling books on a footpath.
(d) He was selling books on a footpath when he met a man.
Answer: (a) He met a man who was selling books on a footpath.
(iv) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence:
1. “I will help you if I can,” he promised me. (Begin with: He promised me that…)
(a) He promised me that he will help to me if he can.
(b) He promised me that he shall help me if he could.
(c) He promised me that he would help me if he could.
(d) He promised me that he should help me if he could.
Answer: (c) He promised me that he would help me if he could.
2. To squander away your money is very disappointing. (Begin with: It….)
(a) It is very disappointing to squander away your money.
(b) It is very disappointment to squander at your money.
(c) It is a disappointment for you to squander your money.
(d) It is disappointing for you to squander your money.
Answer: (a) It is very disappointing to squander away your money.
3. He is too old for the job. (Remove: ‘too’)
(a) He cannot do the job for being old.
(b) He is so old that he cannot do the job.
(c) He is very old to do the job.
(d) He is old enough to do the job.
Answer: (b) He is so old that he cannot do the job.
4. Rima is not the cleverest girl in the class. (End: …than Rima)
(a) All other girls in the class are not cleverer than Rima.
(b) Most other girls in the class are cleverer than Rima.
(c) Many other girls in the class are cleverer than Rima.
(d) Many of the girls in the class are cleverer than Rima.
Answer: (b) Most other girls in the class are cleverer than Rima.
5. He is sorrowful, yet hopeful. (Begin with: Notwithstanding…)
(a) Notwithstanding his sorrow, he is hopeful.
(b) Notwithstanding his hope, he is sorrowful.
(c) Notwithstanding about his sorrow, he is still hopeful.
(d) Notwithstanding to his sorrow, he is hopeful.
Answer: (a) Notwithstanding his sorrow, he is hopeful.
6. He must not be late or he will be punished. (Begin with: In the event of…)
(a) In the event of his being late, he will be punished.
(b) In the event of his getting late, he will be punished.
(c) In the event of his late entry, he will be punished.
(d) In the event of coming late, he will be punished.
Answer: (a) In the event of his being late, he will be punished.
7. No one can put up with such an insult. (Begin with: Can anyone…)
(a) Can anyone do away with such an insult?
(b) Can anyone put up with that insult?
(c) Can anyone put up with such an insult?
(d) Can anyone take up such an insult?
Answer: (c) Can anyone put up with such an insult?
8. He said, “I wonder if my friend is interested in the property now.” (Begin with: He said that…)
(a) He said that he wondered if his friend was interested in the property then.
(b) He said that he wonder if his friend would be interested in the property now.
(c) He said that I wonder if my friend would still have interest in the property now.
(d) He said that he would be in wonder if his friend is interested in the property now.
Answer: (a) He said that he wondered if his friend was interested in the property then.
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