Get textual answers, explanations, solutions, notes, extras, MCQs, PDF of Chapter 4: ICSE Class 10 English Language/Grammar (Total English) solved which comprises Active and Passive Voice, Beginning and Ending, Format of a Personal Letter, and Test Paper-4. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference, and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
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Active and Passive Voice
ASSIGNMENT
Rewrite the following sentences according to the instructions given after each. Change only what you are asked to do and make a correct sentence. Do not alter the meaning.
1. She invited me to her birthday party yesterday.
Begin: I was
Answer: I was invited to her birthday party yesterday.
2. They propose to build a school in the village.
Begin: It is
Answer: It is proposed to build a school in the village.
3. All desire success and some achieve it.
End: by some
Answer: All desire success, but achieved only some.
4. Cut the vegetables just now.
Begin : You are
Answer: You are to cut the vegetables just now.
5. The rules forbid the audience to enter the hall without a pass.
Begin: The audience
Answer: The audience is forbidden by the rules to enter the hall without a pass.
6. Her friends accused her of being rude.
End: her friends.
Answer: She was accused of being rude by her friends.
7. Mrs Gupta pretended to be a wealthy woman.
Begin : It
Answer: It was pretended by Mrs Gupta that she was a wealthy woman.
8. It will greatly surprise Mr Das if they elect him.
End: elected
Answer: It will greatly surprise Mr Das if he is elected.
9. Everyone will blame me for my son’s behaviour.
Begin : I
Answer: I will be blamed by everyone for my son’s behaviour.
10. It is time to switch off the lights.
End: switched off
Answer: It is time the lights were switched off.
11. You must listen to your mother’s advice.
Begin: Your
Answer: Your mother’s advice must be listened to.
12. Do not look down upon the poor.
End: down upon
Answer: The poor must not be looked down upon.
13. We so often feel that these situations need never arise.
End: felt by us that these situations need never arise.
Answer: It is so often felt by us that these situations need never arise.
14. Alas! We shall hear his voice no more.
Begin Alas! His voice
Answer: Alas! His voice shall be heard no more.
15. Too much is being taken for granted.
Begin : They are
Answer: They are taking too much for granted.
Beginning and Ending
ASSIGNMENT
Write an opening and a closing sentence for each of the following essay titles and justify the effectiveness of each of your suggestions:
1. A day in the life of a student
Opening Sentence: “The sound of the morning alarm marks the beginning of a student’s day, filled with lessons, challenges, and moments of learning.”
This opening sentence is effective because it introduces the essay with a familiar event, relatable to all students. It sets a clear tone and provides a simple overview of what to expect in the essay.
Closing Sentence: “As the student lays down to rest, they carry with them lessons learned, friendships strengthened, and dreams for tomorrow.”
This closing sentence is effective because it ties the day’s experiences together and ends on a hopeful and reflective note. It leaves the reader with a sense of fulfilment and optimism, summarising the student’s daily journey.
2. Mobile phones-a blessing or a curse?
Opening Sentence: “Mobile phones have become an inseparable part of our lives, offering convenience but also raising concerns about their impact.”
This opening sentence is effective because it introduces the dual nature of mobile phones clearly and sets the stage for discussing both their benefits and drawbacks.
Closing Sentence: “Whether a blessing or a curse, the way we use mobile phones determines their role in shaping our lives.”
This closing sentence is effective because it highlights personal responsibility in using mobile phones and leaves the reader with a thoughtful conclusion, encouraging reflection.
3. There is no place like home
Opening Sentence: “Home is not just a place but a feeling of comfort, belonging, and love.”
This opening sentence is effective because it captures the emotional connection people have with their home, immediately drawing the reader into a relatable sentiment.
Closing Sentence: “No matter where life takes us, the warmth and familiarity of home remain unmatched.”
This closing sentence is effective because it emphasizes the unique value of home, leaving the reader with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation.
4. Life usually gives another chance to those who try hard.
Opening Sentence: “Life is full of challenges, but determination often opens the door to second chances.”
This opening sentence is effective because it introduces the idea of persistence and its rewards in a straightforward and motivational way, setting the tone for the essay.
Closing Sentence: “With effort and perseverance, life often rewards those who refuse to give up.”
This closing sentence is effective because it reinforces the central theme of the essay and leaves the reader inspired to keep trying despite obstacles.
Format of a Personal Letter
1 Your sister has recently joined a boarding school in Shimla. She writes to inform you that she feels confused in the new place. Write a letter, advising her how to make the best use of her time in the hostel.
A-123, Lajpat Nagar
New Delhi
January 16, 2025
Dear Shalini,
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I was happy to hear about your new journey at the boarding school in Shimla. I understand it feels confusing and a little overwhelming right now, but trust me, things will get better with time.
Start by being friendly and approachable with your classmates. A warm smile and a simple “hello” can lead to meaningful friendships. Join group activities, as they are a great way to bond with others and feel included. You’ll soon find friends who make the hostel feel like home.
Set a daily routine that balances studies, play, and relaxation. Use your study hours wisely and make small goals for each day. A good routine will help you stay focused and organised.
Try exploring new hobbies that interest you. Boarding schools often offer music, art, or sports activities—these will not only keep you busy but also help you discover new talents.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to share your feelings with someone you trust, like a teacher or a senior student. They will guide you and make you feel more comfortable.
Be patient, and give yourself some time to adjust. You are stronger than you think, and I know you will do well. Write back to me whenever you feel like it.
Take care of yourself.
With love,
Arjun
2. A penfriend from Russia is coming to India for the first time. Write a short letter giving directions to enable him (or her) to reach your house.
B-45, Sector 15
Noida, Uttar Pradesh
January 16, 2025
Dear Alex,
I am thrilled to hear that you’re visiting India for the first time. I can’t wait to meet you and show you around. To make it easier for you to reach my house, here are some directions.
Once you arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, take a taxi or book an app-based cab to Noida. Ask the driver to bring you to Sector 15, which is quite well-known. It’s about an hour’s drive from the airport, depending on traffic.
When you enter Sector 15, look for the main market. From there, you’ll see signs leading to B Block. My house, B-45, is near a small park. It’s a white two-storey house with a blue gate. If you face any difficulty, feel free to call me, and I’ll guide you further.
I’m so excited about your visit and hope you have a wonderful time here. Safe travels, and see you soon!Warm regards,
Rohan
Test Paper-4
Question 1
Write a composition (300 – 350 words) on any one of the following:
(i) Write a short story based on the theme: ‘In solitude the mind gains strength.’
Strength in Solitude
Arun lived in a small town in Rajasthan. His days were filled with chores, school, and helping his parents in their kirana shop. Life was predictable, but Arun had always felt something was missing. His friends often teased him for being quiet, calling him a dreamer.
One day, while cleaning the attic, Arun found an old, dusty typewriter. It belonged to his grandfather, who had been a journalist. Arun was curious. He brought it down, cleaned it, and started pressing the keys. The sound was strange but exciting.
Arun decided to write a story. He didn’t tell anyone. Every evening, after his homework, he would sit in a quiet corner and type. At first, it was difficult. His ideas felt jumbled, and he doubted himself. But slowly, he got better. The words began to flow, and the stories he wrote filled him with pride.
Over the weeks, solitude became his favorite companion. In the silence of his small room, Arun found freedom. He could imagine places he had never seen and create characters who felt alive. Writing gave him a sense of purpose.
One day, his English teacher, Ms. Sharma, announced a short story competition in school. Arun hesitated at first but decided to submit his story anonymously. The story was about a boy in a desert village who discovers his passion for writing.
When the results were announced, Arun’s story won first place. Ms. Sharma called him to the stage. “Your words have depth,” she said. “You should keep writing.”
For the first time, Arun felt noticed. His friends, who had teased him, now asked to read his stories. But what mattered more to Arun was what he had learned in those quiet hours alone. In solitude, he had discovered his voice and gained the courage to share it with the world.
(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 schoolgirls planting a sapling]
Planting Hope
Last year, on World Environment Day, our school organized a tree plantation drive. The entire school was buzzing with excitement. Our teachers divided us into small groups, and we were given saplings to plant around the school campus. I was grouped with two of my closest friends, and we were thrilled to participate.
Carrying a small neem sapling and a spade, we searched for the perfect spot under the guidance of our teacher. The ground was soft from the previous night’s rain, making it easier to dig. We worked together, laughing and chatting as we took turns with the spade. One of my friends, Priya, accidentally got mud all over her face while digging, and we couldn’t stop laughing.
Once the hole was ready, we gently placed the sapling inside and covered its roots with soil. Our teacher reminded us to water it and take care of it as it grew. I poured water from a small can, feeling a sense of pride and responsibility. It was as if we had planted not just a tree but also hope for the future.
That day, we learned that small actions can make a big difference. Seeing our sapling standing tall gave us a sense of achievement. Even now, every time I pass by the school, I check on the tree. It has grown taller, and its green leaves sway in the breeze.
This memory is close to my heart because it taught me that teamwork and care for nature can create something beautiful. Just like the girls in the picture, we planted more than a tree that day—we planted the promise of a greener tomorrow.
Question 2
Select any one of the following:
(i) Your younger brother spends most of his free time playing games on the computer. As a result he always tired and cranky. Write a letter to your brother asking him to utilise his free time by doing some physical exercises.
12, Green View Apartments
Rajendra Nagar, Lucknow
January 16
Dear Rohan,
I hope you are doing well. I have noticed that you spend most of your free time playing games on the computer. While I understand it can be fun, it seems to make you tired and irritable.
Spending too much time in front of a screen is not good for your health. Instead, why not try using your time for some physical activities? You could play cricket at the nearby Ranjan Sports Ground, go cycling in Nehru Park, or even join Ankur and his friends for a game of football. These activities will not only keep you fit but also help you feel fresh and focused.
I really hope you give this a try. Once you start, I’m sure you will enjoy it and feel much better. Let me know how it goes.
Take care.
Yours lovingly,
Aditya
(ii) Write a letter to the manager of a mineral waterer bottling plant requesting him h /her to grant permission to the students of classes IX and X to visit the factory. Mention the probable date of the visit and the number of students who will visit the factory.
St. Joseph’s High School
MG Road, Pune
January 16
The Manager
Blue Springs Bottling Plant
Industrial Area, Pune
Subject: Request for Permission to Visit the Bottling Plant
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing on behalf of St. Joseph’s High School to request your permission to allow the students of Classes IX and X to visit your bottling plant. The purpose of this visit is to provide the students with practical knowledge of how mineral water is processed and packaged.
We plan to visit on January 25, with a group of 50 students and 3 teachers accompanying them. The visit would greatly help the students in understanding the industrial processes they study in their science curriculum.
We would be grateful if you could grant us permission for the visit and let us know about any specific requirements or guidelines to follow during the visit. Kindly confirm if the proposed date is convenient for you.
Thank you for considering our request. We look forward to your positive response.
Yours sincerely,
Nidhi Sharma
(Science Teacher)
St. Joseph’s High School
Question 3
(i) Your school is organising an inter-house debate competition to select the participants, who will represent your school at the “National Inter-School Debate’. Write out a notice for your school informing the students of the competition.
Greenfield Public School
Notice
Inter-House Debate Competition
January 16
Our school is organising an Inter-House Debate Competition to select participants for the National Inter-School Debate. Students who are interested in debating and wish to represent our school are encouraged to participate.
- Date of Competition: January 20
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Venue: School Auditorium
- Eligibility: Students of Classes IX to XII
The debate topics will be announced on the spot. Interested students must give their names to their respective House Captains by January 18.
Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your debating skills and make our school proud!
Anil Verma
Cultural Secretary
(ii) Write an email to the Principal of a neighbouring school requesting him/her to send two teachers from his/her school to judge the event.
From: cultural@greenfieldschool.org
To: principal@neighbouringschool.org
Subject: Request to Judge Inter-House Debate Competition
Dear Principal,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request the presence of two teachers from your esteemed school to judge the Inter-House Debate Competition being organised by Greenfield Public School. This event is a part of our efforts to select participants for the upcoming National Inter-School Debate.
The competition is scheduled for January 20 at 10:00 AM in our School Auditorium. We would be delighted and honoured to have your teachers as judges, given their expertise and experience in guiding such events.
Kindly confirm your availability and share the names of the teachers who will attend. We will ensure all necessary arrangements are made for their convenience.
Thank you for considering our request. I look forward to your positive response.
Warm regards,
Anil Verma
Cultural Secretary
Greenfield Public School
Email: cultural@greenfieldschool.org
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the question that follow.
One fine morning, the collegiate assessor, Kirill Ivanovitch Babilonov, was being buried. As the funeral procession set off from the church to the cemetery, one of the deceased’s colleagues, Poplavsky, got into a cab and galloped off to find a friend, Grigory Petrovitch Zapoikin. Zapoikin, though still young, had acquired considerable popularity for his rare talent in impromptu speeches at weddings, jubilees, and funerals. He could speak under any circumstances—whether in his sleep, on an empty stomach, or in a high fever.
“Put on your hat and coat this minute and come along,” said Poplavsky. “One of our fellows is dead. We are just sending him off to the other world, so you must do a bit of palavering by way of farewell to him. You are our only hope. If it had been one of the smaller fry, it would not have been worth troubling you, but you see it is the secretary… a pillar of the office, in a sense. It is awkward for such a whopper to be buried without a speech.”
“I know your secretary,” said Zapoikin as he got into the cab. “A cunning rogue and a beast—the kingdom of heaven be his—such as you do not often see.”
The friends overtook the funeral procession and joined it. At the cemetery, the service by the graveside began. The mother-in-law, the wife, and the sister-in-law, in obedience to custom, shed many tears. When the coffin was being lowered into the grave, the wife even shrieked, “Let me go with him!” but did not follow her husband into the grave, probably recollecting her pension.
When everything was quiet again, Zapoikin stepped forward, turned his eyes to the mourners, and began:
“Can I believe my eyes and ears? Is it not a terrible dream—this grave, these tear-stained faces, these moans and lamentations? Alas, it is not a dream, and our eyes do not deceive us! He whom we have only so lately seen, so full of courage, so youthfully fresh and pure, who so lately before our eyes like an unwearying bee bore his honey to the common hive of the welfare of the state—he is now turned to dust, to an inanimate mirage.
“Devoted to good works and his official duty, he gave up the joys of this life and even renounced the happiness of domestic existence; as you are aware, to the end of his days, he was a bachelor. And who will replace him as a comrade? I can see now the kindly, shaven face turned to us with a gentle smile; I can hear now his soft, friendly voice. Peace to thine ashes, Prokofy Osipitch! Rest, honest, noble toiler!”
Zapoikin continued while his listeners began whispering among themselves. His speech pleased everyone and even drew some tears, but many found certain details odd. Firstly, the deceased’s name was Kirill Ivanovitch. Secondly, everyone knew that he had spent his whole life quarrelling with his lawful wife and could hardly be called a bachelor. Thirdly, he had a thick red beard and had never been known to shave, so no one understood why the orator mentioned his shaven face. The listeners were perplexed; they glanced at each other and shrugged their shoulders.
Soon, the listeners began to notice something strange about the orator himself. Zapoikin gazed at one spot, shifted uneasily, and began shrugging his shoulders too. Suddenly, he stopped speaking and, gaping in astonishment, turned to Poplavsky.
“I say! He’s alive!” Zapoikin exclaimed, staring in horror.
“Who’s alive?” asked Poplavsky.
“Why, Prokofy Osipitch—there he stands, by that tombstone!”
“He never died! It is Kirill Ivanovitch who’s dead.”
“But you told me yourself your secretary was dead.”
“Kirill Ivanovitch was our secretary. You have muddled it, you queer fish. Prokofy Osipitch was our secretary before, that’s true, but two years ago, he was transferred to the second division as head clerk.”
(i) For each word given below choose the correct meaning (as used in the passage) from the options provided:
1. impromptu (line 5)
(a) profuse
(b) spontaneous
(c) planned
(d) piece of music
Answer: (b) spontaneous
2. perplexed (line 39)
(a) undaunted
(b) scared
(c) puzzled
(d) exchanged
Answer: (c) puzzled
(ii) Which word in the passage means the opposite of the word ambled?
(a) whopper
(b) galloped
(c) palavering
(d) mirage
Answer: (b) galloped
(iii) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words:
(a) Why did Poplavsky rush to fetch Zapoikin?
Answer: Poplavsky rushed to fetch Zapoikin because he was renowned for delivering impromptu speeches and was needed to speak at the funeral of Kirill Ivanovitch Babilonov, who was a prominent figure in the office.
(b) Though Zapoikin was still young, he had acquired considerable popularity. How?
Answer: Zapoikin had gained popularity because of his exceptional ability to deliver impromptu speeches at events such as weddings, jubilees, and funerals, regardless of his condition or situation.
(c) How did the dead man’s immediate family behave at the funeral?
Answer: The dead man’s immediate family, including his mother-in-law, wife, and sister-in-law, cried as per custom. The wife dramatically shrieked, “Let me go with him!” but refrained from jumping into the grave, likely due to thoughts of her pension.
(d) Whose eulogy was the speech? Whose was it supposed to be? Why was it a case of mistaken identity?
Answer: The eulogy was mistakenly for Prokofy Osipitch instead of Kirill Ivanovitch Babilonov. This happened because Poplavsky confused the deceased’s identity, leading Zapoikin to assume it was Prokofy, who had been the secretary two years earlier.
(e) What horrified the orator?
Answer: The orator was horrified when he realised that Prokofy Osipitch, the person he was eulogising, was actually alive and standing among the mourners, and that the deceased was Kirill Ivanovitch instead.
(iv) In not more than 50 words, describe the mistakes the orator made in his speech.
Answer: The orator referred to the deceased by the wrong name, described him as a bachelor though he was married, and mentioned a shaven face despite the deceased having a thick red beard. These mistakes arose because the speech was intended for a different person due to confusion.
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.
I am very….0…. (greed), especially for cream cakes, and drastically over-weight, Despite my doctor’s advice to go on a diet, I cannot. I have …1… (try) hundreds of times. I always …2…(start) with good intentions,but when I …3… (see) something I 4 (like), I. 5. (fall) into the trap and and indulged again. Much to my sorrow, my wife ….6… (book) me into one of those…7… (slim) centres. Even she thinks I am too fat. I do not believe they work. She says “you you” will not know until you have tried.” I Have to leave tomorrow, I have decided that today I am going to have a binge while my wife is out….8… (make) final arrangements with the doctor.
Answer:
0. Greedy
1. Tried
2. Start
3. See
4. Like
5. Fall
6. has booked
7. Slimming
8. making
(ii) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
(a) We competed ….. the prize.
Answer: We competed for the prize.
Explanation: The preposition “for” is used to indicate the object of competition. For example, “They competed for the trophy” means they were trying to win the trophy.
(b) Why are you so rude ….. your brother?
Answer: Why are you so rude to your brother?
Explanation: The preposition “to” is used to describe behavior or attitude directed toward someone. For example, “She is polite to her elders” shows politeness directed at elders.
(c) Does he agree ….. the proposal?
Answer: Does he agree to the proposal?
Explanation: The preposition “to” is used when agreeing to an idea, plan, or suggestion. For instance, “I agree to your terms” means acceptance of the terms.
(d) This shop deals ….. imported pens.
Answer: This shop deals with imported pens.
Explanation: The preposition “with” is used to indicate involvement or handling of something. For example, “This shop deals with antiques” means it handles or is involved in selling antiques.
(e) The war began ….. September, 1939.
Answer: The war began in September, 1939.
Explanation: The preposition “in” is used to denote a specific time period, such as a month or year. For instance, “The festival occurs in December” refers to the month.
(f) One should not be negligent ….. one’s duty.
Answer: One should not be negligent in one’s duty.
Explanation: The preposition “in” is used to describe the context or area where negligence occurs. For example, “He was negligent in his studies” means he was careless about his studies.
(g) He has been waiting here ….. over an hour.
Answer: He has been waiting here for over an hour.
Explanation: The preposition “for” is used to express the duration of time. For instance, “I waited for three hours” indicates the length of time someone waited.
(h) One should not be blind ….. one’s faults.
Answer: One should not be blind to one’s faults.
Explanation: The preposition “to” is used to indicate ignorance or failure to notice something. For example, “He is blind to the risks” means he is unaware of the risks..
(iii) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but, or so. Choose the correct option.
1. Our team has a captain. He directs our players.
(a) Our team has a captain for the players to direct.
(b) Our captain has a team of players to direct.
(c) Our team has a captain who directs our players.
(d) Our team of players being directed by a captain.
Answer: (c) Our team has a captain who directs our players.
2. We all waved goodbye to John. We were driving along the road.
(a) We all waved goodbye to John when he was driving along the road.
(b) While driving along the road, we all waved goodbye to John.
(c) John waved goodbye to us all when we were driving along the road.
(d) While driving along the road, we were waving goodbye to John.
Answer: (b) While driving along the road, we all waved goodbye to John.
3. You must hurry up. You will miss the train.
(a) You will miss the train unless you have to hurry.
(b) Unless you hurry up, you will miss the train.
(c) If you hurry, you will not have to miss the train.
(d) If you are in a hurry, you will miss the train.
Answer: (b) Unless you hurry up, you will miss the train.
4. Lata is more intelligent. Jaya is less intelligent.
(a) Jaya is more intelligent than Lata.
(b) Lata is less intelligent than Jaya.
(c) Lata is more intelligent than Jaya.
(d) Jaya is not less intelligent than Lata.
Answer: (c) Lata is more intelligent than Jaya.
(iv) Choose the correct option to rewrite the following according to the instructions given after each sentence.
1. He died a very poor man. (End with: died.)
(a) He was a poor man so he died.
(b) He being a poor man died.
(c) The man was very poor when he died.
(d) He had poor when he died.
Answer: (c) The man was very poor when he died.
2. Health is far better than wealth. (Use: preferable)
(a) Health is preferable than wealth.
(b) Health is preferable to wealth.
(c) Health is preferable with that of wealth.
(d) Health is not as preferable as wealth.
Answer: (b) Health is preferable to wealth.
3. We are waiting for the bill to be settled. (Use: ‘settlement’ in place of ‘settled’)
(a) We are waiting for the settlement of the bill.
(b) We are waiting for settlement of bill to be done.
(c) We are waiting for the bill settlement to be made.
(d) We are waiting for the bill settlement to be done.
Answer: (a) We are waiting for the settlement of the bill.
4. You remembered to post the letter, didn’t you? (Begin with: You did not…)
(a) You did not remembered to post the letter, did you not?
(b) You did not forget to post the letter, did you?
(c) You did not remembered to post the letter, did you?
(d) You did not forget to post the letter, did you not?
Answer: (b) You did not forget to post the letter, did you?
5. You should not bother to pay me. (Use: ‘about’ in place of ‘to’)
(a) You should bother about paying me.
(b) You should not bother paying me about it.
(c) You had to bother about paying me.
(d) You should not bother about paying me.
Answer: (d) You should not bother about paying me.
6. He said, “I believe they were found yesterday”. (Begin with: He said that….)
(a) He said that I believe that they were found yesterday.
(b) He said that he believed that they were found a day before the previous day.
(c) He said that he believed that they were found the next day.
(d) He said that he believed they were found the previous day.
Answer: (d) He said that he believed they were found the previous day.
7. We cannot seem to make both ends meet. (Begin with: We seem)
(a) We seem not to make both ends meet.
(b) We seem that we can make both ends meet.
(c) We seem to make for the ends not to meet.
(d) We seem that we will make both ends meet.
Answer: (a) We seem not to make both ends meet.
8. As I see more of him, I like him less. (Begin with: The more…)
(a) The more he sees me, I like him less.
(b) The more I will see him, the more I like him.
(c) The more I see him, the less I like him.
(d) The more I would see him, the less I will like him.
Answer: (c) The more I see him, the less I like him.
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger who manages Online Free Notes. An avid reader of Victorian literature, his favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. He dreams of travelling the world. You can connect with him on social media. He does personal writing on ronism.
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