CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2026
ENGLISH
(Solved)
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :
- This question paper contains 34 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper is divided into 7 sections.
- Section A – questions number 1 to 4 are case based questions
- Section B – questions number 5 to 6 are unseen passage
- Section C – questions number 7 to 18 are grammar short
- Section D – questions number 19 to 26 are short answer
- Section E – questions number 27 to 28 are paragraph
- Section F – questions number 29 to 30 are letter
- Section G – questions number 31 to 34 are long answer
- There is no overall choice given in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in few questions.
- Use of calculator is NOT allowed.
Section A
Read the given extract and answer the following questions given below :
It was a new bus, its outside painted a gleaming white with some green stripes along the sides. Inside, the overhead bars shone like silver. Directly in front of Valli, above the windshield, there was a beautiful clock. The seats were soft and luxurious. Valli devoured everything with her eyes. But when she started to look outside, she found her view cut off by a canvas blind that covered the lower part of her window. So she stood up on the seat and peered over the blind. (Madam Rides a Bus)
(1) The effect on Valli as she describes the bus reveals that she is _________. Choose the most suitable option. (A) awed (B) scared (C) disgusted (D) repulsed
(2) How does the author’s use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the passage?
[2 Marks](3) Which action of Valli shows that she did not want to miss out on any part of the experience?
[1 Mark](4) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket: The use of the word ‘devoured’ adds to a sense of _______ (fascination / hunger) in the extract.
(1) Comment on the portrayal of the narrator in the given extract.
[2 Marks](2) Complete the following suitably: The trees’ movement from the house to the forest reflects the broader theme of _______.
[1 Mark](3) What kind of atmosphere is created through the given extract? Select the correct option(s): 1. nostalgia 2. serenity 3. detachment 4. loss 5. joy
(4) What has the poet hardly mentioned in her letter?
[1 Mark](1) How is “success” perceived by Matilda ?
[1 Mark](2) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. ‘All the men noticed her, asked her name and wanted to be presented’ indicates that the men wanted to be formally _______ (introduced / withholden) to her.
[2 Marks](3) Explain the phrase “this victory so complete and sweet to her heart”.
[1 Mark]It was a moment of great joy and triumph for her, as described in the passage where all men noticed her and wanted to dance with her.
(4) Which of the following best describe Matilda’s state of mind in the context ? (A) overwhelmed (B) anxious (C) confused (D) sad
[1 Mark](1) Comment on the portrayal of the character of the boy in the given extract.
[2 Marks](2) Complete the following suitably : “Money is external” implies that the boy _______ (A) values material possessions. (B) learns the money cannot restore what is lost. (C) believes money is the solution to all problems. (D) is indifferent to material wealth.
[1 Mark]Explanation: The boy understands that loss is something deeper than what money can fix, as stated in the passage, "A dime, another ball, is worthless". So, the correct answer is (B).
(3) What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines ? Select the correct option. 1. reflection 2. intrigue 3. acceptance 4. anger 5. fear (A) 1, 4 and 5 (B) Only 2 (C) 1 and 3 (D) 4 and 5
[1 Mark](4) What does the poet mean by the phrase, ‘epistemology of loss’ ?
[1 Mark]Section B
Read the following text :
(1) Every year, countless flocks of birds take to the skies in one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles – migration. This incredible phenomenon involves the regular, long-distance movement of birds between their breeding and wintering grounds. Some species fly only a few hundred kilometers, while others travel across continents and oceans, covering tens of thousands of kilometers each year.
(2) Migration is primarily driven by changes in seasons. When food becomes scarce during harsh winters, birds travel to warmer regions where they can find abundant insects, seeds, or fish. The Siberian crane, for instance, travels thousands of kilometers from the cold wetlands of Siberia to India’s warmer lakes such as Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur and Chilika Lake in Odisha. The Bar headed goose, another amazing traveler, is known to fly over the towering Himalayas at heights where oxygen levels are dangerously low – a feat that astonishes even scientists.
(3) How these small creatures navigate such long distances remains a fascinating mystery. Studies suggest that migratory birds use multiple cues : the position of the sun by day, the stars at night, and even the Earth’s magnetic field. Some, like homing pigeons, possess a memory-based instinct that helps them return to the same spot year after year with stunning accuracy.
(4) Unfortunately, migration today is becoming more difficult. Expanding cities, pollution, and deforestation have destroyed vital wetlands and resting areas. Climate change has disrupted the timing of migration, confusing birds about when to travel or breed. Many species arrive too early or too late, missing the right conditions for nesting or feeding.
(5) Conservationists worldwide are working to protect these travellers. International cooperation is essential since migratory routes cross national borders. Protected wetland sites, bird sanctuaries, and awareness programs encourage people to appreciate and safeguard these winged wanderers.
(6) Migratory birds are not just symbols of endurance and freedom; they are vital to nature’s balance. They help in pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. The survival of these birds is linked to the survival of ecosystems everywhere. Watching them reminds humanity of a powerful truth – the planet is shared, and the harmony of life depends on care, cooperation, and respect for nature’s rhythms.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above :
(1) Migration is primarily driven by changes in seasons as ________. (a) they move to colder areas to hibernate (b) they move to warmer places for food (paragraph 2)
(2) In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles’ refer to?
[1 Mark]This shows how migration is a remarkable natural event involving huge movements of birds across regions.
(3) What is unique about the Bar-headed goose? (paragraph 2)
[2 Marks](4) Select the option that best explains the phrase ‘navigate such long distances remains a fascinating mystery’. (paragraph 3) (a) travelling to unknown destinations without getting lost is truly amazing (b) travelling plans are predictable and well marked out by the leader of the pack
Reference: Paragraph 3 describes how birds use natural cues to navigate, which is why their travel is called a "fascinating mystery".
(5) State whether the following statement is True or False: Because of rapid urbanization and clear direction, it has become easier for migratory birds to find their way. (paragraph 4)
(6) Based on the information given in the passage, which of the following will protect migratory birds? (A) creation of more wetland sites. (B) making people aware about the eating habits of migratory birds. (C) work in cooperation with other countries. (D) create eating spots along the way.
(7) What message does the passage convey about life on Earth? (paragraph 6) (A) Man must provide cues to clear traffic routes for migratory birds. (B) Deforestation is essential to stop uncontrolled growth. (C) Harmony between man and nature is essential. (D) Climate change can be controlled only by technological intervention.
(8) List any two points according to the passage that illustrate that migratory birds play an important role in maintaining nature’s balance. (paragraph 6)
[2 Marks]Read the following text :
(1) A detailed study conducted across various industries and research sectors has shed light on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI). It revealed that nearly 70% of AI applications are developed by private tech companies, driven by innovation and market competition. About 20% stem from collaborations between academic institutions and industry leaders, fostering advancements in fields such as healthcare, finance, and transportation.
(2) Interestingly, around 10% of AI initiatives are spearheaded by governmental or non-governmental organisations, often focussing on social welfare. These projects aim to address issues like disaster prediction, agricultural efficiency, and public health monitoring.
(3) Among the AI applications, approximately 45% focus on automation, improving productivity and reducing operational cost. Around 30% cater to predictive analytics, aiding in decision-making processes in domains such as finance and weather forecasting. The remaining 25% revolve around interactive AI, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, enhancing user engagement and accessibility.
(4) Further analysis indicates that about 60% of AI implementations are found in urban areas, particularly in tech hubs and metropolitan cities. Around 30% are applied in industrial zones, enhancing manufacturing and logistics. The remaining 10% serve rural and underserved regions, supporting initiatives like digital literacy, healthcare access and agricultural support.
(5) Comparisons across parameters such as ethical concerns, accessibility, industry-specific applications, and societal impact reveal AI’s potential for transformative change. This analysis not only highlights the widespread adoption of AI but also underscores the need for inclusive and sustainable development in the field.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above :
(1) Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below: Assertion: Governmental and non-governmental organisations often use AI for social welfare. Reason: These organisations focus on disaster prediction, agricultural efficiency, and public health monitoring. (A) Both true and reason explain assertion (B) Both true but reason not correct explanation (C) Assertion true but reason false (D) Assertion false but reason true
(2) What does the use of the phrase “evolving landscape of artificial intelligence” in paragraph 1 suggest? (A) disinterest (B) progress and development (C) frustration (D) confusion
This shows growth in the AI field over time.
(3) How do AI applications contribute to societal development, especially in rural and underserved regions?
[1 Mark]These AI initiatives help farmers with better farming methods, improve health monitoring, and teach people digital skills, which aids in overall development and inclusion.
(4) Identify the word or phrase that indicates supervision as one of the areas of AI applications. (paragraph 2)
[1 Mark]This is clearly mentioned where governmental and non-governmental organisations focus on social welfare with AI.
(5) In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various parameters such as ethical concerns, accessibility, industry-specific applications, and societal impact in understanding the evolving AI landscape.
[2 Marks](6) Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank. In a remote village, an AI powered system is used to monitor crop health and provide timely updates to farmers. The percentage of AI initiatives in this segment would be categorized under is_______. (10% / 30% / 45%)
(7) What does the high percentage of AI implementations in urban areas suggest about the development and adoption of technology?
[1 Mark]This suggests cities have better infrastructure and accessibility to adopt new technologies faster.
It also means rural areas need more support to benefit equally from AI advancements.
(8) Complete the sentence suitably: The collaboration between academic institutions and industry leaders in developing AI applications demonstrates _______.
(9) Complete the following with a suitable reason: The most likely reason the passage mentions “interactive AI” as a key focus area is because it enhances _______.
Section C
Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete a corporate communication letter from a company to its employee:
Dear Sumit,
This July, you _______ in Japan for three years. In six months the company will transfer you to Bengaluru at a senior position.
(A) will be have been living
(B) will have been living
(C) would have lived
(D) would have been living
Explanation:
"Will have been living" is the future perfect continuous tense which is used to describe an action that will continue up to a certain point in the future.
In the sentence, "This July, you will have been living in Japan for three years," means by July, Sumit’s stay in Japan will complete three years.
It expresses the duration of an activity that will be in progress before a future time.
Other options are incorrect because:
(A) "will be have been living" is grammatically wrong.
(C) "would have lived" suggests a conditional perfect tense which does not fit the context.
(D) "would have been living" also expresses conditional perfect continuous which is not suitable here.
Therefore, the best choice to complete the letter correctly is (B) "will have been living".
Read the given sentence from a self help book. Identify the error and supply the correction in the given format.
Each one of the candidates have submitted the documents before the deadline.
Pratima asked the following question to her friend, Shifa –
Do you like the painting, I gifted you yesterday?
Report Pratima’s question correctly.
Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete the concluding line from a school magazine report on a community outreach programme.
_________ (Each / All) community member was given a different set of equipment.
Explanation: We use "Each" when we mean every individual item or person considered separately. "All" refers to the whole group together. Here, since the sentence mentions that different sets were given to individual community members, "Each" is appropriate.
Read Robert’s reply to his swimming coach-
Thank you sir for the opportunity. I will make sure I do you proud. Robert thanked his coach for the opportunity and said _________.
Identify and correct the error in the given line:
I prefer the chocolate pudding than the vanilla truffle anyday.
Correct Sentence: I prefer the chocolate pudding to the vanilla truffle anyday.
Explanation: The verb "prefer" is followed by "to" when comparing two things (prefer A to B), not "than". The word "than" is used with comparatives but not with "prefer". Also, "anyday" should be written as two words "any day" for correct usage.
Rishaan’s parents asked him how he had fared in the speaking test in school that day.
He excitedly told them that before the teacher could finish the question, he _______ the correct answer.
Fill in the blank to complete the sentence.
(A) gave
(B) has given
(C) would have given
(D) will give
This use of 'would have given' correctly shows that Rishaan was ready to give the answer before the question was finished, but the action depends on the condition of the question being finished. Other options like 'gave' (simple past), 'has given' (present perfect), or 'will give' (future) do not fit the meaning of the sentence here.
Hence, (C) would have given is the right choice.
Detect the error and supply the correction for an advice by a grandparent.
You should respect your parent and elders.
Correction: "You should respect your parents and elders."
Explanation: The word "parents" must be plural because it means both father and mother together. Using "parent" refers to only one guardian, which is incorrect in this advice. Also, "elders" means older people such as grandparents and other senior family members. So the correct advice encourages respect towards both your parents and elders.
Report the dialogue between a customer and a worker at a grocery store:
Customer: Did you pack all the items?
Worker: Yes sir, I did.
The customer asked the worker _______.
Select the correct option: Earlier money _______ buy much more than it can today.
(A) could
(B) will
(C) can
(D) shall
Explanation: The sentence talks about a past situation where money had more purchasing power than now. Hence, we use 'could' to express this past ability or possibility. The sentence will be: "Earlier money could buy much more than it can today."
Other options don't fit because:
(B) 'will' indicates future tense, which is incorrect here.
(C) 'can' is present tense, but the sentence compares the past with the present.
(D) 'shall' is not appropriate for this context.
Complete the given sentence:
Drinking and smoking _________ (is / are) injurious to health.
Explanation:
1. "Drinking and smoking" consists of two activities connected by "and". When two nouns or pronouns are joined by "and", they form a plural subject.
2. A plural subject takes a plural verb.
3. Therefore, the plural verb "are" is used instead of the singular "is".
This sentence means both drinking and smoking cause harm to health, so we use the plural verb "are" to agree with the plural subject.
Read the conversation between a student and a school counsellor:
Counsellor: How do you feel after sharing your fears with your parents?
Student: I believe they understand me better as they now know all my fears.
Report the student’s response by completing the following:
The student replied that _________.
Section D
How are the cultural and social fabric of Goa closely knit together with the traditional baker and his bread? (Glimpses of India)
(b) The pader has been important in preserving Portuguese-style bread, a part of Goa's heritage, even after the end of colonial rule. Despite modern changes, the pader continues to survive by adapting, such as delivering bread door-to-door.
(c) Therefore, the baker symbolizes the link between Goa's past and present, representing continuity in culture, family tradition, and social relationships through his craft of bread-making.
Bring out the literal and metaphorical meaning of the word “plunge” with reference to the young seagull who failed to muster up the courage to plunge. (Stories About Flying)
Metaphorical meaning: Metaphorically, "plunge" represents taking a bold step into the unknown or facing a challenge despite fear. For the young seagull, it means overcoming his fear of flying and taking the first brave step towards independence and growth. The word "plunge" symbolizes courage, risk-taking, and the willingness to try something new even when it seems scary.
Why was Fowler interested in meeting Ausable? (The Midnight Visitor)
Based on your understanding of the story, how do you assess Bholi’s father? (Bholi)
Bholi's father can be seen as a typical parent who is worried about his daughter's future but he also reflects some societal attitudes prevalent at that time. Initially, he is concerned about Bholi because of her physical appearance and speech problem. He fears that she might not get a good match due to these issues. This shows his care and concern for her future.
However, he also agrees to an unequal and unfair marriage proposal for Bholi without considering her feelings, which indicates a lack of understanding about her self-worth and desires.
His acceptance of Bishamber's proposal may be influenced by social pressure and a desire to ensure she is married, but later when Bholi refuses to accept this unfair marriage, it shows that Bholi has grown confident to stand for herself, which contrasts with his earlier attitudes.
In conclusion, Bholi's father is worried for her but also bound by traditional and societal norms which influence his decisions. His character represents the typical mindset of parents who want security for their children but may overlook their emotional needs and individual happiness.
What vision did Ebright have in raising a flock of butterflies? (The Making of a Scientist)
Section E
Read the given details of a fun zone designed for kids in a mall:
● A multi-level jungle themed play area with climbing walls, tunnels, and slides.
● A ball pit and trampoline section for younger kids.
● A gaming zone with arcade machines and interactive screens.
● Safety padding on all surfaces and trained staff for monitoring of activities.
● A dedicated toddler zone with soft toys, mini slides, and sensory play stations.
● A small cafeteria for parents with a view of the play area.
Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words on the suitability of this fun zone for kids in a mall. Focus on aspects such as safety, variety of activities, age – appropriateness, convenience for parents and overall experience.
Read the given details of a pre-school designed for young children:
● Brightly coloured classrooms with themed decorations.
● An outdoor grassy play area with slides, swings, and sand pits.
● A sensory activity zone with toys for touch, sound, and visual stimulation.
● Dedicated nap rooms with cozy beds and calming lights.
● A library with picture books, story-telling corners, and interactive learning tools.
● CCTV monitoring for safety and a nurse available for emergencies.
Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this pre-school for young children. Focus on aspects such as safety, learning opportunities, comfort, inclusivity and overall environment.
Section F
You are Toshani / Toshan Singh a resident of Bharatpura. You observed that on weekend afternoon a group of senior residents teach children free of cost. You are delighted to see their spirit of giving back to the community. Write a letter to the editor expressing your views on the need of volunteerism and senior participation in community engagement. Mention the benefits of such activities and how it would even reduce loneliness.
The Daily Bharatpura
Subject: Importance of Volunteerism and Senior Participation in Community Engagement
Respected Sir,
I am Toshan Singh, a resident of Bharatpura. I am writing to express my appreciation for the senior residents who dedicate their weekend afternoons to teaching children free of cost. Their selfless service inspires our community.
Volunteerism, especially among seniors, plays a vital role in strengthening social bonds and enhancing communal harmony. Seniors possess a wealth of knowledge and life experience, and their participation benefits not only the learners but also themselves by giving them a sense of purpose and belonging.
Such activities help reduce loneliness among the elderly by keeping them engaged and connected with the younger generation. It also fosters intergenerational learning and respect. Moreover, children benefit academically and socially from this additional guidance.
I strongly believe more such initiatives should be encouraged to build a compassionate and united society.
Thank you.
Yours sincerely,
Toshan Singh
Resident of Bharatpura
You are Shereen / Shivaji. There has been a lot of construction going on in your colony since the past few months. However the contractors do not follow any protocols of timings, blocking pavements with building material and dumping the rubble in the back lanes and sewage pipes. Write a letter to the President of your RWA drawing attention to these issues. Suggest a set of protocols to be followed by the builders to reduce any inconvenience being caused to the neighbouring residents.
12, Rose Apartment
Green Park Colony
New Delhi - 110016
Date: 20 June 2024
To
The President
Resident Welfare Association
Green Park Colony
New Delhi - 110016
Subject: Request to Implement Protocols for Construction Activities in Our Colony
Respected Sir,
I am Shivaji, a resident of Green Park Colony. I am writing to bring to your attention the increasing inconveniences caused by ongoing construction work in our locality. Contractors are not adhering to any set protocols, leading to blockage of pavements by construction materials and dumping of rubble in back lanes and sewage pipes. This not only hampers daily movement but also poses health hazards.
I kindly request the RWA to take immediate steps to ensure that contractors strictly follow these protocols:
1. Construction work should be carried out only between 8 AM and 6 PM to minimise noise disturbances.
2. Building materials must be stored in a designated area without blocking pavements or roads.
3. Rubble and waste must be removed daily and should never be dumped in sewage pipes or back lanes.
4. Proper safety measures and signages should be installed to alert residents.
5. Regular inspection by RWA officials to ensure compliance.
I believe that implementing these measures will greatly reduce inconvenience to residents and maintain cleanliness and safety in our colony.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Shivaji
Section G
Letter to God: This story is about a poor farmer named Lencho whose crops are destroyed by a storm. He writes a letter to God asking for money to sow his land again. Surprisingly, the postmaster and his co-workers help by collecting money to help Lencho even though they cannot give the full amount. Lencho believes the money came from God, showing that help can come through unexpected human kindness.
The Black Aeroplane: This story narrates how a pilot is lost in a dangerous storm. Just when he is about to lose hope, he sees a mysterious black aeroplane that guides him out of trouble. Help here comes in the form of an unknown aeroplane, symbolizing hope and protection in an unexpected manner.
Both stories highlight that sometimes help may not come directly as one expects but from unexpected sources - be it humans acting as angels in ‘Letter to God’ or an unknown plane in ‘The Black Aeroplane’. This teaches us to have faith and hope even in difficult situations.
Both the tiger in "A Tiger in the Zoo" and the dragon in "The Tale of Custard the Dragon" are animals that symbolize strength and power. They are central figures in their poems and create a strong impression on readers. Both animals have contrasting lives; the tiger is confined to the zoo and the dragon is kept at home with a family. Both poems highlight the difference between the natural instincts of the animals and their situations.
(b) Differences:
The tiger in "A Tiger in the Zoo" is wild and majestic, but it suffers due to captivity. It is portrayed as being frustrated, pacing in a cage, unable to express its true nature. The poem reflects a conflict between man and nature, showing how the tiger is deprived of its natural freedom.
In contrast, the dragon in "The Tale of Custard the Dragon" is shown as cowardly and fearful, despite being named a dragon, which is usually symbolic of bravery and power. However, the dragon suddenly proves its true bravery by protecting the family from danger. This poem uses humour and irony to convey a different kind of strength.
(c) Conclusion:
While the tiger represents the loss of natural freedom and the conflict between man and wild animals, the dragon symbolizes hidden courage and the surprising strength found in unexpected beings. Both animals are important symbols in their poems, but they represent different themes and ideas about nature and bravery.
Evaluate the elements of humour and endearment in “A Triumph of Surgery”.
In "A Triumph of Surgery," James Herriot uses humour and endearment to make the story engaging and to highlight human and animal quirks gently. (a) Humour is evident in the way Tricki, the dog, is portrayed with exaggerated characteristics of stubbornness and gluttony. The author humorously describes Tricki’s refusal to exercise and his obsession with food, making readers smile at his spoiled behaviour like a fussy child. (b) The endearing aspect comes through the concern and affection shown by Tricki’s owner and the vet. Despite Tricki’s difficult behaviour, the vet’s patience and kindness create a warm tone. (c) The title itself is a play on words, as the "triumph of surgery" metaphorically refers to the vet's success in changing Tricki’s behaviour rather than a typical surgical operation. (d) Instances like Mrs. Pumphrey’s dramatic reactions and exaggerated praise add gentle humour, making the story delightful. This mix of humour and affection helps readers connect emotionally with the characters and makes the narrative lively and memorable.
Discuss how the play “The Book that Saved the Earth” depicts how misunderstanding of cultural differences and lack of awareness about other races cause confusion and conflict.
Other Years — English