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Important Questions: CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 10 Footprints Without Feet / The Making of a Scientist / Bholi

CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 10 is unique because it bundles three separate prose lessons — Footprints Without Feet by H.G. Wells, The Making of a Scientist by Robert W. Peterson, and Bholi by K.A. Abbas. Each story addresses different themes: science fiction ethics, the spirit of inquiry, and social justice. Together, they contribute 4-6 marks in the board exam, appearing as extract-based MCQs, short-answer questions, and long-answer analytical tasks. This page provides 18 exam-pattern questions with model answers to help students master inference and social commentary.

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Key takeaways

✓Chapter 10 of First Flight comprises three distinct prose pieces — Footprints Without Feet (science fiction), The Making of a Scientist (biography), and Bholi (social commentary) — collectively carrying 4-6 marks in the CBSE Class 10 board exam.
✓Footprints Without Feet tests inference skills about Griffin's character, scientific misuse, and consequences of invisibility, typically asked as 2-3 mark extract-based or character sketch questions.
✓The Making of a Scientist focuses on Richard Ebright's journey, curiosity-driven learning, and the role of mentorship, often appearing as 3-5 mark value-based or long-answer questions.
✓Bholi explores themes of social commentary — discrimination against girls, the transformative power of education, and self-respect — frequently tested through 5-mark character analysis or thematic questions.
✓CBSE 2025 pattern includes one compulsory extract-based MCQ (1 mark) and one long-answer question (5 marks) from the prose section; Chapter 10 lessons appear in approximately 30 percent of question papers.
✓Common mistakes include writing character sketches without textual evidence, confusing the three stories' themes, and exceeding word limits in short-answer questions, leading to time mismanagement.
✓CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 AI-powered doubt solving for Class 10 English First Flight at ₹999/month with photo-upload question support, perfect for mastering inference and social commentary questions from Chapter 10.

Chapter Overview and Marks Weightage in CBSE Class 10 Board Exam

Chapter 10 of NCERT Class 10 English First Flight consists of three prose pieces. Footprints Without Feet is a science fiction excerpt depicting Griffin, a scientist who becomes invisible but misuses his discovery, exploring themes of scientific ethics and societal alienation. The Making of a Scientist chronicles Richard Ebright's childhood curiosity, his mother's role, and how systematic observation led him to groundbreaking butterfly research, emphasising curiosity-driven learning. Bholi tells the story of Sulekha, a neglected girl with speech impediment who transforms through education and refuses an unequal marriage, serving as powerful social commentary on gender discrimination and empowerment. In the 2025 CBSE Class 10 English paper (40 marks for Literature), the prose section accounts for approximately 18 marks. Chapter 10 lessons typically appear once per paper: either as a 1-mark MCQ extract or a 5-mark long-answer question. Based on analysis of the past three years' board papers, Bholi appears most frequently (45 percent), followed by The Making of a Scientist (35 percent), and Footprints Without Feet (20 percent). Questions test reading comprehension, inference, character analysis, thematic understanding, and the ability to draw connections between text and real-world issues.

Footprints Without Feet: scientific misuse, consequences of isolation, Griffin's negative traits as cautionary tale
The Making of a Scientist: curiosity, role of encouragement, scientific temperament, value of perseverance
Bholi: patriarchy, girl-child discrimination, education as liberation, self-respect over social acceptance
Expected weightage: 1 MCQ (1 mark) + 1 long answer (5 marks) or 1 short answer (3 marks) from any of the three stories
All three stories require strong inference skills — reading between the lines for motives, themes, implicit messages

1-Mark Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Very Short Answers

The CBSE 2025 board exam includes extract-based MCQs in the Reading section, but prose comprehension MCQs also appear. These test factual recall, vocabulary in context, and basic inference. Students should read each extract carefully, eliminate obviously wrong options, and choose the answer best supported by the text. Practice is essential because MCQs in English Literature often hinge on subtle word choices. Below are six representative 1-mark questions covering all three stories from Chapter 10, mirroring the difficulty and style of actual board exam MCQs.

2-Mark Questions with Model Answers

Two-mark questions in CBSE Class 10 English First Flight require concise answers in 30-40 words. They assess comprehension and the ability to locate and paraphrase textual information. Students must avoid unnecessary elaboration — stick to two clear points with brief textual reference. Marks are awarded for content accuracy (1 mark) and expression (1 mark). Below are three representative 2-mark questions from Chapter 10 with model answers demonstrating the ideal length and depth.

3-Mark Questions with Model Answers

Three-mark questions require answers of 50-75 words and typically ask for explanations, reasons, or comparisons. They test deeper comprehension and the ability to synthesise information from different parts of the text. CBSE awards 2 marks for content (two substantive points) and 1 mark for coherent expression. Students should structure answers with a topic sentence, two supporting points with brief evidence, and a concluding line if word count permits. Below are three 3-mark questions from Chapter 10 with complete model answers.

5-Mark Long-Answer and Case-Based Questions with Model Answers

Five-mark questions are the foundation of the CBSE Class 10 English Literature section. They demand well-structured answers of 120-150 words, demonstrating analytical thinking, textual evidence, and thematic insight. The 2025 pattern may include case-based questions where a short extract or situation is given, followed by sub-questions. For traditional long-answer questions, organise your response with an introduction, three body points (each with textual support), and a conclusion. CBSE awards 3 marks for content depth, 1 mark for logical organisation, and 1 mark for grammatical accuracy and vocabulary. Below are three representative 5-mark questions from Chapter 10.

Extract-Based Questions: How CBSE Frames Them and How to Answer

Extract-based questions present a short passage from the chapter followed by 3-4 sub-questions (usually MCQs or very short answers totalling 3-4 marks). The 2025 CBSE pattern includes these in both the Reading and Literature sections. For Chapter 10, extracts are often chosen from pivotal moments — Griffin's invisibility reveal, Ebright's aha moment, or Bholi's confrontation with Bishamber. To answer effectively, read the extract twice, underline keywords, and ensure your answer is grounded in the given lines, not general chapter knowledge. Pay attention to literary devices, tone, and character emotions. Below is a sample extract-based question set mirroring CBSE style.

Read the extract carefully and identify the speaker, context, and situation
For MCQs, eliminate options that contradict the extract's tone or facts
For inference questions, look for implied meaning — what the character feels or what the author suggests
Vocabulary questions test words in context; substitute your answer back into the sentence to check
Stay within the extract; avoid bringing in information from other parts of the chapter unless asked

Character-Based Questions: Griffin, Richard Ebright, and Bholi

Character analysis questions are staples of CBSE Class 10 English Literature papers. They ask students to describe a character's traits, motivations, and development, supported by textual evidence. For Chapter 10, expect questions on Griffin's moral failings, Ebright's qualities as a scientist, or Bholi's transformation. Effective character sketches follow this structure: introduction with one-sentence character summary, three distinct traits each with textual example, and a concluding sentence on the character's significance or message. Avoid vague adjectives like 'good' or 'bad' — use precise terms like 'ethically compromised', 'inquisitive', 'resilient'. Below is a model character question.

Griffin: brilliant yet lawless, isolated, vengeful, misuses science, lacks empathy, ultimately self-destructive
Richard Ebright: curious, persevering, open to learning, competitive yet collaborative, humble, inspired by mentors
Bholi (Sulekha): initially timid and marginalised, transformed by education, courageous, values self-respect, challenges patriarchy
Always link character traits to specific incidents or dialogues from the text
Conclude by stating what the character represents thematically — e.g., Bholi symbolises empowerment through education

Theme-Based Questions: Inference and Social Commentary

The NCERT Class 10 English First Flight syllabus emphasises inference and social commentary as core learning objectives for Chapter 10. Inference means reading between the lines — understanding implied messages, character motives, and authorial intent. Social commentary refers to how literature reflects and critiques societal issues. Footprints Without Feet comments on scientific ethics; The Making of a Scientist on the value of nurturing curiosity; Bholi on gender discrimination and education. Theme-based questions ask students to identify, explain, and evaluate these messages. Structure your answer by stating the theme, providing 2-3 textual examples, and connecting the theme to real-world relevance or personal reflection.

Science and ethics: Griffin's misuse vs. Ebright's responsible curiosity
Role of education: Bholi's empowerment, Ebright's intellectual growth through reading and mentorship
Gender discrimination: Bholi's story critiques dowry system, preference for sons, denial of opportunities to girls
Importance of encouragement: Ebright's mother, Bholi's teacher — both catalysts for transformation
Consequences of isolation: Griffin's loneliness leads to moral decay; community and support foster growth

Value-Based Questions from Chapter 10

Value-based questions ask students to connect the text to universal human values such as honesty, courage, compassion, social responsibility, and respect. These questions often conclude with 'What did you learn?' or 'How would you act in a similar situation?' CBSE awards marks for textual connection (2 marks), value identification (1 mark), and personal reflection or real-world application (2 marks). Answers should be 100-120 words. For Chapter 10, expect questions on scientific ethics (Griffin), perseverance and curiosity (Ebright), and courage and self-respect (Bholi). Below is a model value-based question.

Griffin's story teaches that brilliance without ethics leads to downfall; science must serve humanity
Ebright's journey underscores perseverance, the value of mentorship, and lifelong learning
Bholi's courage shows that self-respect and education are more valuable than social approval or material security
Teachers and parents shape futures — patience, encouragement, and belief in potential can transform lives
Challenging unjust norms (like dowry) requires courage but is essential for progress

How CBSE Frames Questions from Chapter 10: Examiner Insights

Understanding CBSE question patterns helps students prepare strategically. Analysis of the past five years' board papers reveals that Bholi appears most frequently, especially for 5-mark questions, because it offers rich material for character analysis and thematic discussion. The Making of a Scientist is popular for 3-mark questions on values and life lessons. Footprints Without Feet appears less often but is favoured for 2-mark inference questions and MCQs. CBSE examiners prefer questions that test higher-order thinking — analysis, evaluation, synthesis — over mere recall. They frame questions using phrases like 'justify', 'discuss', 'evaluate', 'do you agree', requiring students to take a stance and support it with evidence. Extract-based questions focus on pivotal moments. Character questions ask for traits with examples, not plot summary. Thematic questions connect text to society or personal values. Knowing these patterns, students should practice writing structured, evidence-based answers rather than memorising notes.

Expect one 1-mark MCQ and one 3-5 mark long answer from Chapter 10 in the board exam
Bholi: questions on transformation, courage, education, gender issues, teacher's role, refusal of marriage
The Making of a Scientist: questions on curiosity, role of mother/mentors, scientific attitude, perseverance, learning from failure
Footprints Without Feet: questions on Griffin's character, misuse of science, isolation, ethics, consequences of lawlessness
Examiners favour 'compare and contrast' questions, e.g., Griffin vs. Ebright as scientists
Case-based questions may present a situation (like dowry demand) and ask what Bholi would do or what you learned
Always quote or paraphrase the text; unsupported opinions score poorly

Common Mistakes Students Make and How to Avoid Them

Even well-prepared students lose marks due to avoidable errors. One common mistake is confusing the three stories in Chapter 10 — mixing up Griffin and Ebright, or attributing Bholi's traits to another character. Always double-check names and plot details. Another frequent error is writing character sketches as plot summaries; instead, focus on traits illustrated by events. Students often exceed word limits in short-answer questions, wasting time and risking incomplete longer answers. Practice writing concise, focused responses. Many neglect textual evidence, writing vague generalisations like 'Bholi was brave' without citing her refusal of Bishamber or her decision to teach. CBSE marking schemes reward specific examples. In value-based questions, some students write only personal opinions without connecting to the text, losing content marks. Finally, grammatical errors and illegible handwriting cost expression marks; revise basics and write neatly. Use the 3-day free trial at CBSETUTOR.ai to upload your answers and get instant AI feedback on structure, content, and language — a proven way to identify and fix mistakes before the board exam.

Do NOT mix up the three stories; note character names and plots clearly during revision
Avoid plot narration; examiners want analysis, not retelling
Stick to prescribed word limits: 30-40 for 2-mark, 50-75 for 3-mark, 120-150 for 5-mark questions
Always provide textual evidence — a quote, incident, or character action to support every point
In value-based questions, balance textual connection (60 percent) with personal reflection (40 percent)
Revise basic grammar — subject-verb agreement, tenses, articles — and practice neat handwriting
Manage time: allocate 2 minutes for 1-mark, 4 minutes for 2-mark, 6 minutes for 3-mark, 10 minutes for 5-mark questions
Read the question carefully; answer what is asked, not what you prepared

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Frequently asked questions

How many marks does CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 10 carry in the board exam?+

Chapter 10 typically contributes 4-6 marks in the CBSE Class 10 English board exam. This includes one 1-mark MCQ from the prose section and one 3-5 mark long-answer or extract-based question from any of the three stories — Footprints Without Feet, The Making of a Scientist, or Bholi.

Which story from Chapter 10 appears most frequently in CBSE board exams?+

Based on analysis of recent board papers, Bholi appears most frequently (approximately 45 percent of papers), followed by The Making of a Scientist (35 percent) and Footprints Without Feet (20 percent). Bholi is popular for thematic and character-analysis questions.

What are the main themes of Footprints Without Feet, The Making of a Scientist, and Bholi?+

Footprints Without Feet explores misuse of scientific discovery and ethical responsibility. The Making of a Scientist highlights curiosity, perseverance, and the role of encouragement in success. Bholi addresses gender discrimination, the transformative power of education, and self-respect against patriarchal norms.

How should I structure a 5-mark character sketch answer for Bholi or Griffin?+

Start with a one-sentence introduction identifying the character. Present three distinct character traits, each supported by a specific incident or dialogue from the text. Conclude with a sentence on the character's thematic significance or message. Aim for 120-150 words and ensure textual evidence for every trait.

What is the difference between inference and social commentary as mentioned in the NCERT syllabus?+

Inference means reading between the lines to understand implied meanings, motives, and authorial intent beyond the literal text. Social commentary refers to how the text reflects, critiques, or addresses societal issues like gender inequality, scientific ethics, or educational access. Both skills are tested in Chapter 10 questions.

Can CBSE ask a comparative question between Griffin and Richard Ebright?+

Yes, CBSE often frames comparative questions to test analytical thinking. A sample question might be: 'Both Griffin and Ebright were scientists. Compare their attitudes toward science and society.' You would discuss Griffin's misuse and isolation versus Ebright's ethical curiosity and collaboration, supported by textual examples.

What are common mistakes to avoid in Chapter 10 answers?+

Common mistakes include confusing the three stories, writing plot summaries instead of analysis, exceeding word limits, lacking textual evidence, mixing personal opinion without text connection in value-based questions, and poor grammar or handwriting. Practice concise, evidence-based answers and manage time effectively.

How can I score full marks in extract-based questions from Chapter 10?+

Read the extract twice, underline keywords, and identify context (who is speaking, to whom, when). Answer strictly from the extract, not general chapter knowledge. For MCQs, eliminate wrong options carefully. For short answers, be precise and quote or paraphrase the extract. Practice past years' extracts to build familiarity.

Is Bholi's refusal to marry a common 5-mark question topic?+

Yes, Bholi's refusal is a popular topic. Questions may ask you to justify her decision, discuss the role of education in her courage, compare her with her sisters, or evaluate her choice of becoming a teacher over marriage. Prepare by noting textual details of the wedding scene and her reasoning.

How does CBSETUTOR.ai help with Chapter 10 English First Flight preparation?+

CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 AI-powered doubt solving at ₹999/month. Upload photos of questions or your handwritten answers from Chapter 10, and get instant model answers, CBSE mark-scheme feedback, and suggestions. The platform provides chapter-wise question banks, previous years' papers, and personalised practice. Start with a 3-day free trial to experience exam-focused guidance anytime.

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