Preparing for the CBSE Class 10 English board exam? You’re in the right place! This page provides the complete and accurate solutions to the official CBSE English Language & Literature Sample Paper 2025–26. Designed as per the latest syllabus and marking scheme, these solutions will help you understand how to structure answers, manage time, and improve your overall exam performance. Whether you’re struggling with comprehension, grammar, or literature-based questions, these step-by-step answers will boost your confidence and help you score higher.
SECTION A
READING SKILLS (20 Marks)
- Read the following passage. 10
1 The growing preference for indigenous craft items is a welcome trend in today’s globalised world, where mass-produced goods often dominate markets. These handcrafted products, rooted in the cultural and artistic traditions of their regions, offer more than just aesthetic appeal. They symbolise sustainability, support local economies, and preserve the heritage of diverse communities.
2 One of the primary reasons for choosing indigenous crafts is their eco-friendliness. Unlike factory-made products, most traditional crafts are created using natural, locally sourced materials. Artisans often employ time-tested methods that minimise waste and avoid harmful industrial processes. For example, pottery made from local clay, handwoven textiles using organic dyes, and bamboo-based crafts all have a much lower environmental footprint compared to their machine-made counterparts. By opting for these items, consumers indirectly contribute to reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices.
3 Supporting indigenous crafts also strengthens local economies. Many artisans depend solely on their craft for livelihood, often working in small communities where opportunities for other forms of employment are limited. When people purchase their products, it provides a direct income to these artisans, empowering them and encouraging their craftsmanship. Initiatives like fair trade further ensure that artisans receive fair wages, fostering economic stability within their communities.
4 Moreover, indigenous craft items help preserve cultural heritage. Every handcrafted product carries a story—a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and skills passed down through generations. In India, whether it’s paintings, terracotta jewellery, sculptures, athangudi tiles, mud work frames or many others, each item reflects the unique identity of its region. By choosing these crafts, people not only appreciate the artistry but also help keep these traditions alive in an era where cultural homogenisation threatens diversity.
5 In addition to their economic and cultural value, indigenous crafts add a personal touch to homes and wardrobes. Unlike mass-produced items, which often lack individuality, handcrafted products are unique. Each piece bears the imprint of the artisan’s effort, creativity, and dedication, making it special for the buyer.
6 However, the preference for indigenous crafts requires sustained efforts to thrive. Governments, organisations, and consumers all have roles to play. Policies that promote local craftsmanship, provide training to artisans, and create global platforms for showcasing their work can boost the visibility and demand for these products. Consumers, too, must actively seek out and invest in handmade crafts rather than opting for cheaper, factory-made alternatives. Choosing indigenous craft items is a meaningful step toward a more sustainable and culturally enriched world.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I Why is the growing preference for indigenous craft items described as a ‘welcome trend’ in paragraph 1? 1
II According to paragraph 1, the indigenous craft items have all of the following qualities EXCEPT being:
A. handcrafted products B. rooted in artistic traditions C. aesthetic in appeal D. easily accessible. 1
III Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. The usage of locally sourced materials makes the indigenous crafts _ (traditional / eco-friendly). (Paragraph 2) 1
IV Select the option that is True from (a)-(c) given for what the phrase, ‘time-tested methods’ suggests in paragraph 2.
A. Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective over generations
B. Artisans use outdated practices that are no longer relevant in today’s commercial markets.
C. Artisans follow techniques that prioritise speed and mass production over craftsmanship. 1
V Complete the analogy by selecting one of the two correct options (a), (b) fair trade: fair wages:: : _ (Paragraph 3)
(a) employment: job security (b) mass production : reduced prices
VI
Why is supporting indigenous crafts considered an effective way to improve the economic conditions of small communities? (Paragraph 3) 2
VII What are the main ideas of paragraph 4 and paragraph 5?
i) Choosing indigenous crafts helps preserve cultural heritage
ii) Handcrafted products lack individuality.
iii) Indigenous crafts reflect the artisan’s creativity.
iv) Indigenous crafts promote uniformity by erasing regional differences in artistic traditions.
v) Cultural homogenisation encourages people to choose indigenous crafts over mass-produced goods.
Select the correct option.
| Options | Main idea of paragraph 4 | Main idea of paragraph 5 |
|---|---|---|
| A. | ii | iv |
| B. | v | ii |
| C. | i | iii |
| D. | iv | ii |
VIII Why is it important for consumers to take an active role alongside government and organisations in sustaining indigenous crafts? (Paragraph 6) 2
Answer
I because it counters the dominance of mass-produced goods, supports sustainability, and helps preserve cultural and artistic traditions.
II D. easily accessible
III eco-friendly
IV (a) Artisans use traditional techniques that have been refined and proven effective over generations
V (a) employment : job security
[(a) is correct. Just as fair trade ensures fair wages, employment aims to provide job security and both relationships focus on fairness and stability. Mass production often prioritises efficiency and cost reduction, sometimes at the expense of fairness, environmental responsibility, or the well-being of workers. Thus, (b) does not match the context of the analogy.]
VI Supporting indigenous crafts improves the economic conditions of small communities by providing artisans with a stable source of income. This empowers them to sustain their livelihoods and encourages the continuation of their craftsmanship. Additionally, it reduces economic challenges in areas where other employment opportunities are limited, creating a positive cycle of growth within these communities.
VII C. i -iii [Paragraph 4 emphasises the preservation of cultural heritage (i), while paragraph 5 highlights the uniqueness and creativity reflected in indigenous crafts (iii).]
VIII While governments and organisations can create supportive policies and platforms, consumers play a crucial role in driving demand for indigenous crafts. Without consumer interest and investment, these efforts may fail to translate into tangible benefits for artisans. Consumers’ choices directly impact the visibility and survival of handmade crafts, making their active participation essential for creating a sustainable market and preserving cultural heritage.
2. Read the following passage. 10
1 A recent study conducted across two age groups—students aged 10–12 and 13–16—explored their preferences for ballpoint and micro-tip pens for various writing activities such as note-taking, examinations, and personal writing. The study aimed to understand trends in writing habits and the factors influencing pen selection among students.
2 The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes. Among students aged 10–12, 65% preferred ballpoint pens for note-taking, citing ease of use and affordability as key factors. However, 35% opted for micro-tip pens, valuing their precision and smooth writing. For examinations, ballpoint pens were the overwhelming choice, with 78% favouring them for their speed and reliability, while 22% stuck with micro-tip pens, appreciating their fine control.
3 In the 13–16 age group, preferences shifted slightly. For note-taking, 60% favoured micro-tip pens, highlighting their ability to produce neat, legible notes, while 40% continued to use ballpoint pens. During examinations, however, 70% still relied on ballpoint pens, indicating their consistency under time constraints. When it came to personal writing, such as journalling or creative tasks, 58% in this group chose micro-tip pens, appreciating the aesthetic appeal of finer lines, while 42% stuck with ballpoint pens for their convenience.
4 These findings point to the importance of understanding age-specific preferences and task requirements, enabling manufacturers to innovate products. Manufacturers could further explore incorporating hybrid features, such as pens offering the speed of ballpoint pens with the precision of micro-tip pens, to cater to a wider range of student preferences.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
I Why did the study most likely focus on the two specific age groups of 10–12 and 13–16? (Paragraph 1)
This is so because these age groups .
A. represent the largest population of growing students.
B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
C. were the easiest to survey across various schools.
D. have a natural preference for ballpoint pens.
II Identify the phrase in paragraph 1 that conveys the writer’s reference to the patterns or preferences observed in how students use pens for various writing tasks.
III Complete the following by selecting the correct option from those given in the brackets. (Paragraph 2) Geetha, aged 11, wishes to complete her practical file neatly, ensuring her work is legible and appealing. She is most likely to choose a micro-tip pen for this task because the (speed / precision) offered by this type of pen helps produce tidy work.
IV What does the writer mean by ‘affordability’ while citing the high percentage of ball point pen usage? (Paragraph 2)
V Complete the following with the correct option.
When the writer says ‘distinct patterns’ in the line ‘The results revealed distinct patterns based on age groups and writing purposes,’ of paragraph 3, s/he means that .
A. students in both age groups use pens in the same way for all the listed purposes.
B. the preferences for pens varied according to the students’ age and the type of writing task.
C. only micro-tip pens were popular across all writing tasks in the 13-16 age group.
D. students of all age groups preferred ballpoint pens for completing creative writing tasks.
VI Complete the following appropriately.
The one likely reason why more than 40% of students still chose ballpoint pens for creative tasks, even though micro-tip pens are better suited for such activities is __________. (Paragraph 3)
VII How are ‘aesthetic appeal’ and ‘finer lines’ connected? (Paragraph 3)
VIII Elaborate how hybrid features in pens would lead to a commercially viable product. (Paragraph 4)
IX Fill in the blank with ONE suitable word. (Paragraph 4)
Understanding age-specific preferences helps manufacturers design products that cater to the unique needs of different age groups, ensuring their products are both __ as well as appealing.
Answer:
I B. are when students develop and refine their writing habits.
[ Option B is the most likely because the study aims to explore writing preferences, which are likely to evolve during these developmental stages.]
II ‘trends in writing habits’
III precision
IV By ‘affordability,’ the writer refers to the lower cost of ballpoint pens compared to micro-tip pens, making them accessible and budget-friendly for students.
1
V
B. The preferences for pens varied according to the students’ age and the type of writing task.
1
VI
Ballpoints do not dry out quickly unlike micro-tips / Ballpoints work on a variety of surfaces unlike microtips / Ballpoints are less likely to smudge unlike microtips/ Ballpoints pens are usually more affordable
VII The ‘aesthetic appeal’ is closely connected to ‘finer lines’ because finer lines create neat, elegant, and visually pleasing writing.
VIII Hybrid features in pens, such as combining the speed and reliability of ballpoint pens with the precision and aesthetic appeal of micro-tip pens, would likely result in a commercially viable product as such pens would cater to a broader demographic, meeting the needs of students across different age groups and writing tasks. This would capitalise on the growing demand for versatile and functional writing tools. Which would enhance its commercial success.
IX functional / useful