10th English - Half Yearly Exam 2024 - Original Question Paper | Thiruvarur District

COMMON HALF YEARLY EXAMINATION - 2024

Standard X Subject: ENGLISH Marks: 100 Time: 3.00 hrs

PART I (14 x 1 = 14)

Answer all the questions.

Choose the appropriate synonyms

1. How cranky he was?

• a) normal
• b) strange
• c) abnormal
• d) happy

Answer: b) strange

2. He was delirious

• a) sick
• b) disappointed
• c) troubled
• d) forced

Answer: a) sick (Contextually related to medical state/troubled mind)

3. The spoilt child of affluent parents

• a) poor
• b) deprived
• c) old
• d) wealthy

Answer: d) wealthy

Choose the appropriate antonyms

4. Technology is a boon

• a) bonus
• b) bane
• c) blast
• d) block

Answer: b) bane

5. He uttered a delightful scream.

• a) plentiful
• b) beautiful
• c) hopeful
• d) sorrowful

Answer: d) sorrowful

6. His mother swooped upwards

• a) very quick.
• b) very fast
• c) very nice
• d) very slow

Answer: d) very slow

Grammar & Vocabulary

7. Choose the correct plural form of Syllabus

• a) syllabus
• b) syllabum
• c) syllabi
• d) syllables

Answer: c) syllabi

8. Form a derivative by adding the write prefix to the word understand

• a) dis
• b) in
• c) mis
• d) im

Answer: c) mis (misunderstand)

9. Choose the correct expansion of GPS

• a) Geometric position system
• b) Global positioning system
• c) Global pointing structure
• d) Globe position system

Answer: b) Global positioning system

10. Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate phrasal verb given below.
Walking helps to ________ the calories

• a) put on
• b) get through
• c) burn out
• d) burn off

Answer: d) burn off

11. Choose the suitable option to pair it with the word moon to form a compound word

• a) day
• b) light
• c) mark
• d) shine

Answer: b) light (moonlight)

12. Fill in the blank with the most appropriate preposition
Peter close the whole ________ his finger

• a) in
• b) with
• c) on
• d) into

Answer: b) with

13. Complete the following sentence using the most appropriate tense form
After he ________ his lunch he went across to the window

• a) will finish
• b) finish
• c) was finishing
• d) had finished

Answer: d) had finished

14. Choose the most appropriate linkers from the given four alternatives
Women are strong brave, resolute ________

• a) still
• b) but
• c) and
• d) however

Answer: c) and

PART II

SECTION 1 (Prose Short Answers)

Answer any three of the following questions in a sentence or two. (3 x 2 = 6)

15. Why did the seagull fail to fly?

The young seagull failed to fly because he was afraid that his wings would not support him. He felt certain that his wings would never support him, so he bent his head and ran away back to the little hole.

16. What does INSV stand for?

INSV stands for Indian Naval Sailing Vessel.

17. Where was Nagen uncle's shop?

Nagen uncle's tea shop was located next to a grocery shop and opposite a Shiva temple in the village of Bramhapur (from the lesson "The Attic").

18. What did Mr. Hamel say about the french language?

Mr. Hamel said that French was the most beautiful language in the world—the clearest and the most logical. He urged the people to guard it among them and never forget it.

SECTION 2 (Poetry Appreciation)

Read the following sets of poetic lines and answer any three of the following. (3 x 2 = 6)

19. Let me but live my life from year to year
With forward face and unreluctant soul

a) Whom does the word me refer to?
The word 'me' refers to the poet, Henry Van Dyke.

b) What kind of life does the poet want to lead?
The poet wants to lead a life facing forward with courage and an unwilling soul, without hesitation or fear.

20. It sat alone
What Happened there is still today unknown

a) What does it refer to?
It refers to the house (The House on Elm Street).

b) What happened inside it?
What happened inside the house is unknown and remains a mystery.

21. And now, if you will set us to our task
We will serve you four and twenty hours a day

a) Who does the pronoun you refer to?
The pronoun 'you' refers to human beings.

b) Who did we refer to?
'We' refers to the machines.

22. A woman is beauty innate
A symbol of power and strength

a) How is a woman?
A woman is described as having innate beauty.

b) What does she symbolise?
She symbolises power and strength.

SECTION 3 (Grammar Exercises)

Answer any three of the following. (3 x 2 = 6)

23. Rewrite the following sentence in other voice:
You are requested not to use mobile phones here.

Answer: Please do not use mobile phones here.

24. Rewrite the sentence in reporter speech:
"Where are we going, sir?" asked the aero-coachman.

Answer: The aero-coachman respectfully asked where they were going.

25. Punctuate the following sentence:
Stand back stand right back he cried

Answer: "Stand back! Stand right back!" he cried.

26. Combine the following into compound sentence:
Radha was ill. She was not hospitalized

Answer: Radha was ill, but she was not hospitalized.

27. Rearrange the words in the correct order to make meaningful sentences:

a) as / I / healthy / are / you / am / as
I am as healthy as you are.

b) these / of / was / the / Ariel / chief
Ariel was the chief of these.

SECTION IV (Compulsory)

28. A stranger wants to go to a book shop. Guide him to reach his destination. (1 x 2 = 2)

[Image of Road Map: Start point, Bus Stand, Pharmacy, Play ground, Book shop]

Directions:
1. Go straight along the road.
2. Turn left near the Pharmacy.
3. Walk past the Bus Stand on your left.
4. The Book shop is on your right, opposite the Playground.

PART III

SECTION 1 (Prose Paragraph)

Answer any two of the following in a paragraph. (2 x 5 = 10)

29. Describe the struggles under went by the young Seagull to overcome its fare of flying

Solution Summary: The young seagull was afraid to fly because he thought his wings would not support him. His parents, brothers, and sister had all flown away. He was left alone on the ledge without food. His mother tempted him with a piece of fish but stopped just out of reach. maddened by hunger, he dived at the fish, falling into space. Terror seized him, but soon his wings spread outwards, and he began to soar. He flapped his wings and flew, overcoming his fear.

30. Highlight the factors responsible for the all women in the Navy crew to carry out their expedition.

31. "Technology is a boon to the disabled" -justify.

32. Give an account of the last day of Mr.Hamal in school.

SECTION 2 (Poetry Paragraph)

Answer any two of the following. (2 x 5 = 10)

33. Compare and contrast the attitude of the ant and the cricket.

34. Write a paragraph on 'The Grumble family' and their attitude towards other Folks.

35. Read the following stanza and answer the questions given below

It sat alone.
What happened there is still today unknown.
It is a very mysterious place.
And inside you can tell it has a ton off space

a) Pick out the rhyming words from the given stanza.
alone - unknown; place - space.

b) Give the rhyming scheme for the given stanza.
aabb

c) Identify the figure of speech employed in the first line of the given stanza.
Personification (The house is described as 'It sat', giving it human-like quality).

d) Pick out the alliteration words in the fourth line.
tell - ton (repetition of 't' sound).

36. Paraphrase the following stanza.

"Strong is she in her faith and belief... She's strong in her faith, firm in her belief!"

Paraphrase: The woman is described as being extremely strong in her convictions. Her faith and beliefs are her foundation. Persistence is the key to everything she does. Even when faced with difficulties, sighs, groans, and moans, she does not give up. She remains resolute and firm in her faith and belief.

SECTION 3 (Supplementary)

37. Rearrange the following sentences in coherent order. (1 x 5 = 5)

1. "Make rope of twisted 'straw'" she said.
2. The entire province trembled in fear of hearing the order of Emperor.
3. On the second day she told him what to do.
4. One night, in great distress, the son whispered the news to his hidden mother.
5. "Wait" she said, "I will think, I will think".

Correct Order:
1. (ii) The entire province trembled in fear of hearing the order of Emperor.
2. (iv) One night, in great distress, the son whispered the news to his hidden mother.
3. (v) "Wait" she said, "I will think, I will think".
4. (iii) On the second day she told him what to do.
5. (i) "Make rope of twisted straw" she said.

38. Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow.

(Passage about Francis Bennett waking up in bad temper, wife in France, using phonotelephote...)

i) Who was in a bad temper?
Francis Bennett.

ii) Where was his wife?
She was in France (Champs-Elysees).

iii) What did he switch on?
He switched on his phonotelephote.

iv) Where did the voice lead to?
The voice led to the house he owned in the Champs-Elysees.

v) What was very old?
The transmission of speech by the electric current was very old.

SECTION 4 (Writing Skills)

39. Prepare an attractive advertisement using the hints given below. (4 x 5 = 20)

Homemade taste- Hygiene -Family restaurant- Fresh juice- available -Free home delivery- card accepted.

TASTY BITES FAMILY RESTAURANT

~ Homemade Taste ~

• 100% Hygienic Preparation
• Fresh Juice Available
• Cards Accepted

FREE HOME DELIVERY

Visit us for a delightful meal!

40. You are Raja. You are upset about the bad influence of TV channels on the young children. You decide to write a letter to the editor of a leading newspaper suggesting measures to upgrade the standard. Write this formal letter in about 100 -120 words.

41. You are the coordinator of the science forum of your school. An event had been organized on account of National Science Day for the members of the forum. Now, write a report on the observation of "National Science Day" at your school.

42. Look at the following picture and express your views on it in about five sentences.

[Picture of a disabled person/wheelchair user]

Views: The picture depicts a person in a wheelchair, highlighting the importance of accessibility and inclusion for the differently-abled. Disability is not an inability; with the right support and infrastructure, everyone can achieve their goals. Society must ensure that public spaces are ramp-accessible. We should treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Technology and determination can overcome physical limitations.

43. Make notes or write summary of the following passage.

(Passage about Dragon tales in many cultures...)

Title: Dragon Tales
1. Origin & Spread:
- Known in many cultures (Americas, Europe, India, China).
- Unclear when stories first emerged.
2. Description:
- Huge, flying serpents described by ancient Greeks & Sumerians.
3. Etymology:
- Word 'dragon' from Greek 'draconta' meaning 'to watch'.
4. Role:
- Responsible for guarding valuables (gold, gems).

44. Identify the errors in the following sentences and rewrite them correctly.

• a) I bought an book this morning.
  Correct: I bought a book this morning.
• b) He has good knowledge of English grammar.
  Correct: He has a good knowledge of English grammar.
• c) Myself I am Riya.
  Correct: I am Riya.
• d) As we were late so we apologised.
  Correct: As we were late, we apologised.
• e) Chennai is one of the biggest city in India.
  Correct: Chennai is one of the biggest cities in India.

SECTION 5 (Memoriter)

45. Quote from Memory (1 x 5 = 5)

A woman is beauty.......
........ to see in spring

A woman is beauty innate,
A symbol of power and strength.
She puts her life at stake,
She's real, she's not fake!
The summer of life she's ready to see in spring.

PART - IV

46. Write a paragraph of about 150 words by developing the following hints. (2 x 8 = 16)

a) Uncle Philip – cunning- living alone - interest collecting stones - death bed calls Tom - sole heir- hands over iron box - gems –warns- opening –Dynamite- headache- Tom- read books- consults- technicians –doctors- priest –salary- reduce afraid tax- failure –donates- human –vivisection centre.

(The Dilemma)
Uncle Philip was a cunning man who lived alone and had a passion for collecting precious stones. On his deathbed, he called his nephew Tom, his sole heir. He handed over an iron box, claiming it contained valuable gems. However, he warned Tom that the box was rigged with dynamite and would explode if opened incorrectly. This put Tom in a terrible dilemma. He became obsessed with the box, suffering from headaches. He read books, consulted technicians, doctors, and even a priest, but no one could help him open it safely. The fear of the box ruined his life; he had to pay taxes on the inheritance but couldn't use the wealth. Finally, fearing failure and poverty, he donated the box to a human vivisection centre, passing the dangerous burden to someone else.

(OR)

b) Holland-dikes –lie below level - Peter- prevent seawater - walks – besides the cana - I small hole in the dike –put his finger- Holland drowned while I am here. the little fellow- and screamed -next morning -a man - notice Peter - alarm -people mended - brave hero

(The Little Hero of Holland)
Holland is a land that lies below sea level, protected by dikes that prevent seawater from flooding the country. One day, a young boy named Peter was walking beside the canal. He noticed a small hole in the dike through which water was trickling. He realized the danger; if the hole expanded, Holland would be drowned. He bravely put his finger into the hole to stop the leak. He stayed there all night, cold and alone, determined that "Holland shall not be drowned while I am here." The little fellow screamed for help, but no one heard him. The next morning, a man walking by noticed Peter. He raised an alarm. The people came, mended the dike, and hailed Peter as the brave hero who saved their country.

47. a) Read the following paragraph and answer the questions given below.

(Passage about Olympic Games, Roman stoppage, Pierre de Coubertin, Paralympics, Sir Ludwig Guttmann)

1. Where did the Olympics games begin?
The Olympic games began in Greece about 3000 years ago.

2. Why did the Roman stop the Olympic Games?
The Romans stopped the Greek Olympic Games because they didn't like them.

3. How did the Paralympic for disabled begin?
It began in 1948 when Sir Ludwig Guttmann organized games for disabled soldiers at the Stoke Mandeville hospital.

4. Who was Sir Ludwig Guttmann?
Sir Ludwig Guttmann was a doctor at the Stroke Mandeville hospital in England.

(OR)

b) Read the following poem and answer the questions given below:

A bird came down the walk
He did not know I saw
He bit an Angel worn I halves
And ate the fellow raw
And then he drank a Dew
From a convenient Grass-
And then hopped sidewise to the wall
To let a Beetle pass-
He glanced with rapid eyes
That hurried all abroad
They looked like frightened Beads, I thoughts,
He stirred his Velvet Head,

1. What did the poet see?
The poet saw a bird coming down the walk.

2. How did the bird eat the worm?
The bird bit the worm (Angel) in halves and ate it raw.

3. Did the bird drink water? How?
Yes, the bird drank dew from a convenient grass.

4. What are the eyes compared to?
The eyes are compared to frightened beads.

Prepared for omtexclasses.com and omtex.co.in

10th Science - 2nd Mid Term Exam 2024 - Original Question Paper | Thiruvarur District | English Medium

10th Science - Second Mid Term Test 2024
Solved Question Paper

Part - I (10 x 1 = 10)

Choose the correct answer:

1. When a sound wave travels through air, the air particles

• a) vibrate along the direction of the wave motion
• b) vibrate but not in any fixed direction
• c) vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the wave motion
• d) do not vibrate

Answer: a) vibrate along the direction of the wave motion

2. The frequency, which is audible to the human ear is

• a) 50 kHz
• b) 20 kHz
• c) 15000 kHz
• d) 10000 kHz

Answer: b) 20 kHz (The human audible range is 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, which is 20 kHz. All other options are well into the ultrasonic range).

3. Artificial radioactivity was discovered by

• a) Bequerel
• b) Irene Curie
• c) Roentgen
• d) Niels Bohr

Answer: b) Irene Curie

4. _______ isotope is used for the treatment of cancer.

• a) Radio Iodine
• b) Radio Cobalt
• c) Radio Carbon
• d) Radio Nickel

Answer: b) Radio Cobalt (Cobalt-60)

5. Photolysis is a decomposition reaction caused by

• a) heat
• b) electricity
• c) light
• d) mechanical energy

Answer: c) light

6. The pH of a solution is 3. Its [OH⁻] concentration is

• a) 1 x 10⁻³ M
• b) 3 M
• c) 1 x 10⁻¹¹ M
• d) 11 M

Answer: c) 1 x 10⁻¹¹ M
Explanation: We know that \( [H^+][OH^-] = 1 \times 10^{-14} \). Given pH = 3, so \( [H^+] = 10^{-3} \) M. Therefore, \( [OH^-] = \frac{1 \times 10^{-14}}{10^{-3}} = 1 \times 10^{-11} \) M.

7. The 'use and disuse theory' was proposed by

• a) Charles Darwin
• b) Ernst Haeckel
• c) Jean Baptiste Lamarck
• d) Gregor Mendel

Answer: c) Jean Baptiste Lamarck

8. Paleontologists deal with

• a) Embryological evidences
• b) Fossil evidences
• c) Vestigial organ evidences
• d) All the above

Answer: b) Fossil evidences

9. DNA fingerprinting is based on the principle of identifying _______ sequences of DNA.

• a) single stranded
• b) mutated
• c) polymorphic
• d) repetitive

Answer: d) repetitive

10. Pusa Komal is a disease resistant variety of

• a) sugarcane
• b) rice
• c) cow pea
• d) maize

Answer: c) cow pea

Part - II (5 x 2 = 10)

Answer any 5 questions. (Q.No.18 is compulsory)

11. What is a longitudinal wave?

A wave in which the particles of the medium vibrate in a direction parallel to the direction of propagation of the wave is called a longitudinal wave. Example: Sound waves in air.

12. Match:

1. Infrasonic	a) Compressions
2. Echo	b) 22 kHz
3. Ultrasonic	c) 10 Hz
4. High pressure region	d) Ultrasonography

1. Infrasonic	c) 10 Hz
2. Echo	d) Ultrasonography
3. Ultrasonic	b) 22 kHz
4. High pressure region	a) Compressions

13. In Japan, some of the new born children are having congenital diseases. Why?

This is due to the long-term effects of radiation from the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. The radiation caused genetic mutations in the survivors, which were then passed on to their children, leading to an increased incidence of congenital diseases.

14. Define combination reaction. Give example.

A combination reaction is a type of reaction in which two or more reactants combine to form a single product.
Example: Carbon burning in oxygen to form carbon dioxide. \[ C (s) + O_2 (g) \rightarrow CO_2 (g) \]

15. a) Which organism is considered to be the fossil bird?
b) What is the study of fossils called?

a) Archaeopteryx is considered to be the fossil bird, as it shows features of both reptiles and birds, making it a connecting link.
b) The study of fossils is called Paleontology.

16. What are transgenic organisms?

Transgenic organisms are organisms whose genetic material (DNA) has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. They are also known as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). They contain a foreign gene (transgene) that gives them a new, desired trait.

17. Name the types of stem cells.

The two main types of stem cells are:

1. Embryonic stem cells: Found in the early-stage embryo. They are pluripotent, meaning they can develop into any cell type of the body.
2. Adult stem cells: Found in various tissues of the body. They are multipotent, meaning they can develop into a limited range of cell types.

18. Two observers are stationed in two boats 4.5 km apart. A sound signal sent by one, under water, reaches the other after 3 seconds. What is the speed of sound in the water?

Given:

• Distance (d) = 4.5 km = 4500 m
• Time (t) = 3 s

Formula: Speed = Distance / Time
Calculation: \[ \text{Speed} = \frac{4500 \text{ m}}{3 \text{ s}} = 1500 \text{ m/s} \] The speed of sound in the water is 1500 m/s.

Part - III (4 x 4 = 16)

Answer any 4 questions. (Q.No.25 is compulsory)

19. a) Why does sound travel faster on a rainy day than on a dry day?
b) Name three animals, which can hear ultrasonic vibrations.

a) Sound travels faster on a rainy day because the presence of water vapor (humidity) in the air decreases the density of the air. The speed of sound is inversely proportional to the square root of the density of the medium. Since moist air is less dense than dry air, sound travels faster through it.
b) Three animals that can hear ultrasonic vibrations are:

1. Bats
2. Dolphins
3. Dogs

20. a) Give the function of control rods in a nuclear reactor.
b) What is stellar energy?

a) The function of control rods (made of materials like boron or cadmium) in a nuclear reactor is to control the rate of the fission chain reaction. They absorb excess neutrons, preventing the reaction from becoming too fast and uncontrollable. By inserting or withdrawing the rods, the power output of the reactor can be adjusted.
b) Stellar energy is the energy produced by stars. This energy is generated through the process of nuclear fusion, where light atomic nuclei (primarily hydrogen) fuse together under immense temperature and pressure to form heavier nuclei (like helium), releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the process.

21. Explain a) Precipitation Reactions b) Neutralization Reactions

a) Precipitation Reaction: A precipitation reaction is one in which two soluble ionic compounds in an aqueous solution react to form an insoluble solid product called a precipitate.
Example: When a solution of silver nitrate is mixed with a solution of sodium chloride, a white precipitate of silver chloride is formed. \[ AgNO_3(aq) + NaCl(aq) \rightarrow AgCl(s) \downarrow + NaNO_3(aq) \] b) Neutralization Reaction: A neutralization reaction is a chemical reaction between an acid and a base. It results in the formation of a salt and water. The H⁺ ions from the acid react with the OH⁻ ions from the base to form water.
Example: The reaction between hydrochloric acid (a strong acid) and sodium hydroxide (a strong base) forms sodium chloride (a salt) and water. \[ HCl(aq) + NaOH(aq) \rightarrow NaCl(aq) + H_2O(l) \]

22. a) Why is Archaeopteryx considered to be a connecting link?
b) How can you determine the age of the fossils?

a) Archaeopteryx is considered a connecting link between reptiles and birds because it possesses features of both groups.

• Reptilian features: Jaws with teeth, a long bony tail, and claws on its wings.
• Avian (bird-like) features: Feathers on its body and wings, and a wishbone (furcula).

This combination of features provides strong evidence for the evolutionary transition from reptiles to birds.
b) The age of fossils can be determined by two main methods:

1. Relative Dating: This method determines the relative age of fossils by examining their position in layers of rock (strata). Fossils found in deeper layers are generally older than those in upper layers.
2. Absolute Dating (Radiometric Dating): This method determines the actual age of a fossil in years. It is based on the decay of radioactive isotopes present in the rocks around the fossil. For example, Carbon-14 dating is used for relatively young fossils, while Potassium-Argon dating is used for older ones.

23. a) Differentiate between Outbreeding and Inbreeding.
b) Differentiate between Undifferentiated cells and Differentiated cells.

a) Outbreeding vs. Inbreeding

Feature	Outbreeding	Inbreeding
Definition	Mating of unrelated individuals.	Mating of closely related individuals.
Genetic Effect	Increases heterozygosity.	Increases homozygosity.
Outcome	Often results in hybrid vigour (heterosis).	Can lead to inbreeding depression and expression of harmful recessive traits.

b) Undifferentiated cells vs. Differentiated cells

Feature	Undifferentiated Cells	Differentiated Cells
Definition	Unspecialized cells that can divide and renew themselves.	Specialized cells that have a specific function.
Potency	Can develop into one or more types of specialized cells (e.g., stem cells).	Have a specific structure and function and have lost their ability to differentiate.
Example	Embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells.	Nerve cells, muscle cells, skin cells.

24. What are the effects of hybrid vigour in animals?

Hybrid vigour, or heterosis, is the improved or increased function of any biological quality in a hybrid offspring. The effects of hybrid vigour in animals are generally positive and desirable in animal husbandry. They include:

• Increased Growth Rate: Hybrid animals often grow faster and reach market weight sooner.
• Higher Yield: Increased production of milk, meat, or eggs compared to the parent breeds.
• Improved Fertility: Higher conception rates and larger litter sizes.
• Greater Disease Resistance: Hybrids are often more robust and less susceptible to diseases.
• Better Adaptability: Enhanced ability to thrive in various environmental conditions.

25. a) A solution has a pOH of 11.76. What is the pH of this solution?
b) Calculate the pH of 1.0 x 10⁻⁴ molar solution of HNO₃?

a) Given: pOH = 11.76
We know the relationship between pH and pOH is: \[ pH + pOH = 14 \] Substituting the given value: \[ pH + 11.76 = 14 \] \[ pH = 14 - 11.76 \] \[ pH = 2.24 \] The pH of the solution is 2.24.

b) Given: Concentration of \(HNO_3\) is \(1.0 \times 10^{-4}\) M.
Nitric acid (\(HNO_3\)) is a strong acid, so it completely ionizes in water. \[ HNO_3 \rightarrow H^+ + NO_3^- \] Therefore, the concentration of \(H^+\) ions is equal to the concentration of the acid. \[ [H^+] = 1.0 \times 10^{-4} \text{ M} \] The formula for pH is: \[ pH = -\log[H^+] \] \[ pH = -\log(1.0 \times 10^{-4}) \] \[ pH = -(-4) \] \[ pH = 4 \] The pH of the solution is 4.

Part - IV (2 x 7 = 14)

Answer all the questions in detail.

26. a) Compare the properties of alpha, beta and gamma radiations.

Comparison of Alpha (α), Beta (β), and Gamma (γ) Radiations

Property	Alpha (α) Particle	Beta (β) Particle	Gamma (γ) Ray
Nature	Helium nucleus (\(^{4}_{2}\text{He}\))	Electron (\(^{0}_{-1}\text{e}\))	Electromagnetic wave (Photon)
Charge	Positive charge (+2e)	Negative charge (-1e)	No charge (Neutral)
Mass	High (\(6.64 \times 10^{-27}\) kg)	Low (\(9.11 \times 10^{-31}\) kg)	No rest mass
Ionizing Power	Very high (about 100 times β, 10000 times γ)	Moderate (less than α)	Very low
Penetrating Power	Very low (stopped by a sheet of paper)	Moderate (stopped by a thin aluminum sheet)	Very high (requires thick lead or concrete to stop)
Speed	About 1/10 to 1/20 of the speed of light	Up to 9/10 of the speed of light	Travels at the speed of light
Effect of Electric/Magnetic Field	Deflected towards the negative plate/pole	Deflected towards the positive plate/pole (more than α)	Not deflected

---

(OR)

b) What is a chemical equilibrium? What are its characteristics?

Chemical Equilibrium

Chemical equilibrium is a state in a reversible chemical reaction where the rate of the forward reaction (reactants forming products) is equal to the rate of the reverse reaction (products forming reactants). At this point, the concentrations of reactants and products remain constant over time, and there is no net change in the composition of the system.

Characteristics of Chemical Equilibrium:

1. Dynamic Nature: Equilibrium is dynamic, not static. Both forward and reverse reactions continue to occur, but at equal rates, so there is no overall change.
2. Constant Concentrations: The concentrations of all reactants and products become constant at equilibrium.
3. Reversibility: Equilibrium can only be attained in reversible reactions.
4. Closed System: A state of chemical equilibrium can only be reached in a closed system, where no substances can enter or leave.
5. Attainable from Either Direction: Equilibrium can be approached from either the reactants' side or the products' side.
6. Effect of a Catalyst: A catalyst increases the rates of both the forward and reverse reactions equally. Therefore, a catalyst helps in attaining equilibrium faster but does not alter the position of the equilibrium or the equilibrium constant.

27. a) i) How do you differentiate homologous organs from analogous organs?
ii) Natural selection is a driving force for evolution-How?

i) Differentiation between Homologous and Analogous Organs

Basis of Difference	Homologous Organs	Analogous Organs
Origin and Structure	Similar basic structure and developmental origin.	Different basic structure and developmental origin.
Function	Perform different functions.	Perform similar functions.
Evolution	Indicate divergent evolution (common ancestor, adapted to different needs).	Indicate convergent evolution (different ancestors, adapted to similar needs).
Example	Forelimbs of a human, bat, whale, and cheetah.	Wings of an insect and a bird.

ii) Natural Selection as a Driving Force for Evolution

Natural selection, a concept proposed by Charles Darwin, is the primary mechanism and driving force behind evolution. It works through the following steps:

1. Variation: Within any population, individuals exhibit variations in their traits (e.g., size, color, resistance to disease). These variations arise from genetic mutations and recombination.
2. Overproduction: Organisms tend to produce more offspring than can survive, leading to a "struggle for existence."
3. Survival of the Fittest: Individuals with variations that make them better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive, compete for resources, and reproduce. This is often referred to as "survival of the fittest."
4. Inheritance: The advantageous traits of the surviving individuals are passed on to their offspring.
5. Gradual Change: Over many generations, the frequency of these favorable traits increases in the population, while unfavorable traits become less common. This gradual accumulation of changes leads to the evolution of new species.

For example, the evolution of long necks in giraffes can be explained by natural selection. Ancestral giraffes had varied neck lengths. Those with slightly longer necks could reach more leaves, had a survival advantage, and reproduced more, passing the long-neck trait to their offspring. Over generations, this led to the very long necks we see today.

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(OR)

b) i) Differentiate: Somatic gene therapy and Germ line gene therapy
ii) Biofortification may help in removing hidden hunger. How?

i) Differentiation between Somatic and Germ Line Gene Therapy

Basis of Difference	Somatic Gene Therapy	Germ Line Gene Therapy
Target Cells	Body cells (somatic cells) like bone marrow cells, skin cells, etc.	Reproductive cells (germ cells) like sperm or eggs, or early embryos.
Heritability	The genetic changes are not passed on to the next generation.	The genetic changes are heritable and are passed on to all subsequent generations.
Purpose	To treat a genetic disease in a single individual.	To permanently correct a genetic defect in a family line.
Ethical Concerns	Considered ethically more acceptable for treating diseases.	Raises significant ethical concerns due to permanent changes in the human gene pool. It is currently banned in most countries for human use.

ii) How Biofortification helps in removing Hidden Hunger

Hidden hunger refers to a chronic lack of essential micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) in a diet, even if a person consumes enough calories. It can lead to serious health problems, impaired development, and reduced productivity.

Biofortification is the process of increasing the nutritional value of food crops through conventional plant breeding or modern biotechnology. It addresses hidden hunger directly at its source by making staple foods more nutritious. Here's how it helps:

1. Enhancing Staple Foods: Biofortification focuses on staple crops like rice, wheat, maize, and beans, which are consumed in large quantities by populations, especially in developing countries. By enriching these staples, it ensures that people get more vitamins and minerals without changing their dietary habits.
2. Cost-Effective and Sustainable: Once a biofortified crop is developed, it can be distributed and grown by farmers year after year. It is a one-time investment that can provide a sustainable source of micronutrients for entire communities, making it more cost-effective than recurring interventions like distributing supplements.
3. Targeted Nutrient Improvement: Specific micronutrient deficiencies can be targeted. For instance:
   • Golden Rice: Genetically engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor of Vitamin A, to combat Vitamin A deficiency.
   • Iron-biofortified Beans and Pearl Millet: Bred to have higher iron content to fight iron-deficiency anemia.
   • Zinc-biofortified Wheat and Rice: Developed to increase zinc intake, crucial for immune function and growth.

By making staple foods themselves the source of better nutrition, biofortification is a powerful and practical strategy to combat hidden hunger on a large scale.

10th English - 2nd Mid Term Exam 2024 - Original Question Paper | Thiruvarur District

10th English Second Mid Term Test 2024 - Solutions

I. Answer all the Questions (10x1=10)

Choose the Correct Synonyms for the underlined words.

1. He has fixed his GAZE on the icon.

Answer: c) stare

2. India's disabled continue to GRAPPLE with the challenges of access.

Answer: d) to fight inorder to win

3. Lessons were repeated in UNISON.

Answer: d) simultaneous utterance

Choose the Correct Antonyms for the underlined words.

4. M. Hamel was so CRANKY.

Answer: b) cheerful

5. Technology is very important to communicate and be INDEPENDENT.

Answer: b) dependent

6. But it would have been DIFFICULT.

Answer: a) easy

7. Choose the correct expansion of the abbreviation SIM

Answer: b) Subscriber Identification Module

8. Choose the correct plural form of LEAF from the following.

Answer: d) leaves

9. Complete the following sentence with the most appropriate phrasal verb given below.
There will be a __________ next week in the office.

Answer: d) shut down (Note: This is an unusual context for 'shut down'. 'Meeting' or 'event' would be more fitting. However, based on the options, it's the most plausible if 'the office' itself is closing for a week.)

10. Choose the suitable option to pair it with the word SOFT to form compound word.

Answer: b) ware (software)

II. Answer any Three of the following Questions (3x2=6)

11. Why did Mr. Hamel blame himself?

Mr. Hamel blamed himself for his students' inability to learn French properly. He admitted that he had often sent them to water his flowers instead of having them learn their lessons, and he had given them holidays when he wanted to go fishing.

12. Why were the old villagers sitting in the last desk?

The old villagers were sitting on the last desks to show their respect and gratitude to M. Hamel for his forty years of faithful service. They were also there to express their sorrow for not having attended school more often and to show respect for their country and language, which was no longer going to be theirs.

13. Why is the technology important according to David?

According to David, technology is important because it allows him to communicate and be independent. It empowers him to interact with the world, control his environment, and express himself in ways that would be difficult or impossible without it.

14. How does Kim help Alisha?

Kim is an assistive technology device that helps Alisha by allowing her to control appliances in her home. She can operate lights, fans, and music systems using simple voice commands or by using her eye movements, giving her greater control and independence in her daily life.

III. Answer any Two of the following (2x2=4)

15. Change into INDIRECT SPEECH:
"Where are we going, Sir?" asked the Aero coachman.

The Aero coachman respectfully asked where they were going.

16. Punctuate the following:
Well cash what have you got

"Well, Cash, what have you got?"

17. Rearrange the words in the correct order to make meaningful sentences:

a) speaks/he/besides/German/languages/two

Answer: He speaks two languages besides German.

b) as/I/healthy/are/you/am/as

Answer: I am as healthy as you are.

IV. Answer any Two of the following Questions (2x5=10)

18. Technology is a boon to the disabled - Justify.

Technology has proven to be a transformative boon for disabled individuals, breaking down barriers and fostering independence. For those with mobility impairments, powered wheelchairs and smart home devices offer unprecedented control over their environment. For instance, voice-activated assistants like Kim, as seen with Alisha, can manage lighting, entertainment, and more, granting autonomy. Communication, a fundamental human need, is revolutionized by tools like text-to-speech software, eye-tracking devices, and specialized keyboards, allowing non-verbal individuals like David to express their thoughts and connect with others. Furthermore, advancements in prosthetics, hearing aids, and visual aids have significantly enhanced the quality of life, enabling participation in education, employment, and social activities. Thus, technology empowers the disabled, not just by assisting with daily tasks, but by unlocking their potential and integrating them more fully into society.

19. Write a paragraph by developing the following hints:
Holland - dikes - lie below sea level - Peter - prevent-sea water - walks - besides the canal - small hole in the dike - put his finger - Holland - drowned - next morning - a man - notice - people mended - brave hero.

In Holland, a country that lies below sea level, the safety of the land depends on large walls called dikes. A young boy named Peter understood their importance well. One day, as he was walking beside a canal, he noticed a small hole in the dike, with seawater trickling through. Knowing the immense danger a small leak could pose, Peter bravely put his finger in the hole to stop the flow. He stayed there all night, enduring the cold, to prevent Holland from being drowned. The next morning, a man on his way to work noticed Peter and quickly alerted the villagers. People rushed to the spot and mended the dike. Peter's quick thinking and courageous act saved his country, and he was hailed as a brave hero.

V. Reading Comprehension

20. Read the following stanza and answer the questions given below:

We can pull and haul and push and lift and drive.
We can print and plough and weave and heat and light.
We can run and race and swim and fly and dive.
We can see and hear and count and read and write.

a) Who does WE refer to in the stanza?

Answer: 'We' refers to the machines.

b) What can a machine do?

Answer: A machine can pull, haul, push, lift, drive, print, plough, weave, heat, light, run, race, swim, fly, dive, see, hear, count, read, and write.

c) Pick out the rhyming words in the above lines.

Answer: drive - dive; light - write.

d) Write the rhyme scheme of the given stanza.

Answer: The rhyme scheme is aabb.

e) Pick out the alliterating word in the second line.

Answer: The alliterating words are print and plough.

21. Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow. (5x1=5)

Like everybody else in easy circumstances nowadays, Francis Bennett, having abandoned domestic cooking, is one of the subscribers to the Society for Supplying Food to the Home, which distributes dishes of a thousand types through a network of pneumatic tubes. This system is expensive, no doubt, but the cooking is better. So, not without some regret, Francis Bennett was lunching in solitude. He was finishing his coffee when Mrs. Bennett, having got back home, appeared in the telephote screen. When he had finished his lunch, he went across to the window, where his aero-car was waiting.

a) Who has abandoned domestic cooking?

Answer: Francis Bennett has abandoned domestic cooking.

b) What has Francis Bennett subscribed to?

Answer: Francis Bennett has subscribed to the Society for Supplying Food to the Home.

c) What does the society for supplying food to the home do?

Answer: It distributes dishes of a thousand types through a network of pneumatic tubes.

d) With whom was Bennett having lunch?

Answer: Bennett was having lunch in solitude (alone).

e) What was waiting for Bennett near the window?

Answer: His aero-car was waiting for him near the window.

VI. Answer any Two of the following (2x5=10)

22. Prepare an attractive advertisement using hints given below:
Home made taste - hygiene - family restaurant - fresh juice - available - free home delivery - cards accepted.

TASTE OF HOME

Your Family Restaurant

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Craving the delicious taste of home-cooked meals?

We serve food with 100% Hygiene and the authentic Home Made Taste!

• Wide range of family recipes
• Fresh Juices Available
• FREE Home Delivery
• All Cards Accepted

Come, taste the love!

Contact: 98765 43210 | Visit us at: 123, Main Road, Thiruvarur

23. You are Vasanth/Vasanthi school pupil leader of GHSS. Your Headmaster has requested you to inform the students about the ECO club meeting in your school. Prepare a notice giving the details such as date of the meeting, time and venue.

GOVERNMENT HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL

NOTICE

Date: [Current Date]

ECO CLUB MEETING

This is to inform all the members of the ECO Club that a meeting has been scheduled to discuss the plans for the upcoming 'Green School Initiative'. All members are requested to attend without fail.

• Date: [A Future Date, e.g., 25th October 2024]
• Time: 3:30 PM
• Venue: School Auditorium

Your presence and active participation are highly anticipated.

Vasanth
(School Pupil Leader)

24. Make notes or write summary of the following passage:

Dolphins are regarded as the friendliest creatures in the sea and stories of them helping drowning sailors have been common since Roman times. The more we learn about dolphins, the more we realize that their society is more complex than people previously imagined. They look after other dolphins when they are ill, care for pregnant mothers and protect the weakest in the community, as we do. Some scientists have suggested that dolphins have a language but it is much more probable that they communicate with each other without needing words. Could any of these mammals be more intelligent than man? Certainly the most common argument in favour of man's superiority over them that we can kill them more easily than they can kill us is the least satisfactory. On the contrary, the more we discover about these remarkable creatures, the less we appear superior when we destroy them.

Notes

1. Dolphins: Friendly Creatures

• 1.1 Friendliest in the sea.
• 1.2 Help drowning sailors - stories from Roman times.

2. Complex Society

• 2.1 Look after ill dolphins.
• 2.2 Care for pregnant mothers.
• 2.3 Protect the weakest.

3. Communication & Intelligence

• 3.1 May have a language.
• 3.2 Comm. without words more probable.
• 3.3 Question of intelligence greater than man's.

4. Man's Superiority Questioned

• 4.1 Argmnt: Man can kill them easily - unsatisfactory.
• 4.2 Discovering more abt. them makes us less superior when we destroy them.

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Summary

Dolphins: The Intelligent Creatures
Dolphins are known as the friendliest sea creatures, with historical tales of them rescuing sailors. Their society is surprisingly complex; they care for their sick, protect pregnant mothers, and look after the weak, much like humans. Scientists believe they communicate effectively, possibly without using words. The common argument for human superiority, based on our ability to kill them, is weak. In fact, as we learn more about these remarkable and intelligent mammals, our act of destroying them makes us seem less superior.

VII. Quote from Memory (5)

25. Quote from Memory: (Note: The prompt in the question paper "If you make your brains." is unclear/likely a typo. The answer for the standard memory poem "Life" by Henry Van Dyke is provided below.)

Life
Let me but live my life from year to year,
With forward face and unreluctant soul;
Not hurrying to, nor turning from the goal;
Not mourning for the things that disappear
In the dim past, nor holding back in fear
From what the future veils; but with a whole
And happy heart, that pays its toll
To Youth and Age, and travels on with cheer.