India's #1 AI Tutorworksheet · English — First Flight · Chapter 10

CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 10 Footprints Without Feet / The Making of a Scientist / Bholi Worksheet with Answers

Chapter 10 of NCERT First Flight presents three compelling prose pieces that explore human potential, moral choices, and social transformation. Footprints Without Feet narrates the tale of an invisible scientist who misuses his discovery, The Making of a Scientist chronicles Richard Ebright's inspiring scientific journey, and Bholi depicts a young girl's triumph over societal prejudice through education. This printable worksheet offers structured practice across multiple question formats to strengthen comprehension, inference skills, and appreciation of social commentary embedded in these narratives.

Your child's private AI tutor — trained on NCERT.

3-day free trial · ₹1 to start · Cancel anytime.

Start 3-day free trial →

Key takeaways

✓Three distinct stories in Chapter 10 explore scientific curiosity, social prejudice, and invisible consequences through varied narrative styles.
✓Footprints Without Feet examines misuse of scientific discovery through Griffin's character and moral decline.
✓The Making of a Scientist traces Richard Ebright's journey from butterfly collection to groundbreaking research in molecular biology.
✓Bholi addresses gender discrimination, educational empowerment, and self-confidence transformation in rural India.
✓Inference and social commentary form core analytical skills tested across MCQs, short answers, and long-answer questions.
✓This 60-minute worksheet includes 40+ questions with complete answer key and explanations for self-assessment.
✓CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 doubt-clearing with photo-upload solving at ₹999/month flat across Classes 6-12 with 3-day free trial.

Quick Chapter Recap — Three Stories, Three Lessons

Chapter 10 comprises three independent prose pieces, each with distinct themes and narrative techniques. Footprints Without Feet by H.G. Wells tells the story of Griffin, a brilliant but unscrupulous scientist who discovers invisibility yet uses it for theft and violence, ultimately facing isolation and failure. The Making of a Scientist by Robert W. Peterson traces the real-life journey of Richard H. Ebright from a curious child collecting butterflies to a Harvard researcher making significant contributions to molecular biology, emphasising the role of curiosity, guidance, and competitive spirit. Bholi by K.A. Abbas presents Sulekha, a girl with speech impediment and pockmarked face, who transforms through education into a confident woman capable of rejecting a greedy bridegroom and choosing to serve as a teacher. All three stories appear in CBSE board examinations through extract-based questions, character analysis, and thematic exploration, making thorough preparation essential for scoring well in the prose section.

Footprints Without Feet — science fiction exploring moral responsibility in scientific discovery
The Making of a Scientist — biographical account demonstrating curiosity-driven learning
Bholi — social realism addressing gender discrimination and transformative power of education
Common thread: individual choices shaping destiny and impact on society
Board exam pattern: 3-4 marks for extract-based questions, 5-6 marks for long answers on any story

Worksheet Overview — Difficulty Level and Time Allocation

This worksheet is designed at moderate-to-challenging difficulty, aligning with CBSE Class 10 board examination standards for the 2025 pattern. Students should allocate 60 minutes to complete all sections under timed conditions to simulate exam pressure and build speed. Section A tests quick recall and inference through MCQs, Section B reinforces vocabulary and key details, Section C checks understanding of character traits and plot elements, while Sections D and E demand analytical and evaluative thinking. The case-study question integrates comprehension with real-world application, a format increasingly favoured in recent CBSE papers. Teachers can use this worksheet for classroom assessment, homework assignment, or revision before term examinations. Students preparing independently should attempt the worksheet without referring to the textbook first, then use the answer key for self-evaluation and identify weak areas. Regular practice with such structured worksheets strengthens time management, sharpens textual recall, and builds confidence in tackling diverse question formats that appear in board examinations across the prose section of First Flight.

Difficulty level: Moderate-to-Challenging (Board exam standard)
Suggested time: 60 minutes (timed practice recommended)
Total marks: 50 (Section-wise distribution mentioned in each section)
Ideal for: Weekly tests, pre-exam revision, self-assessment at home
Best practice: Attempt without textbook, then check answers and review explanations

Section A — Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each, 6 marks total)

Multiple-choice questions test your ability to recall specific details, make inferences, and understand character motivations across all three stories in Chapter 10. Each question presents four options, only one of which is correct. Read the stem carefully, eliminate obviously incorrect options, and select the most appropriate answer based on textual evidence from NCERT First Flight. In the CBSE 2025 board exam, MCQs constitute a significant portion of the reading comprehension section, typically carrying 1 mark each with no negative marking. This section trains you to identify key plot points, character traits, thematic elements, and narrative techniques employed by the authors. Focus on understanding why an answer is correct rather than rote memorisation. For instance, questions on Griffin's character require you to infer his moral bankruptcy from his actions rather than explicit authorial statements. Similarly, questions on Ebright demand understanding of scientific temperament and curiosity. Bholi questions often explore transformation, empowerment, and social critique. Practice identifying the best answer even when two options appear similar by anchoring your choice in precise textual references and nuanced comprehension of the stories.

Q1. What was Griffin's primary flaw that led to his downfall?
Q2. Which childhood interest shaped Richard Ebright's future scientific career?
Q3. Why did Bholi's parents agree to marry her to Bishamber despite the large age difference?
Q4. How did Griffin become invisible in the story?
Q5. What role did Ebright's mother play in his scientific journey?
Q6. What was the turning point in Bholi's life that gave her confidence?

Section B — Fill in the Blanks (1 mark each, 5 marks total)

Fill-in-the-blank questions assess your recall of specific vocabulary, character names, places, and significant details from the three stories. This section strengthens your grasp of textual accuracy, an essential skill for extract-based questions in board examinations where precise language matters. When attempting these questions, pay attention to grammatical cues such as articles, tenses, and singular-plural forms that can help you identify the correct word even if you are unsure initially. In CBSE English papers, blanks often test key terms that carry thematic weight or represent turning points in the narrative. For Footprints Without Feet, expect terms related to scientific processes or Griffin's misadventures. For The Making of a Scientist, focus on scientific terminology, names of mentors, and stages in Ebright's research journey. For Bholi, recall names of characters, the village setting, and vocabulary related to her transformation. Write answers neatly in the blanks provided, ensuring correct spelling as marks may be deducted for errors in Class 10 board exams. This section typically takes 5-7 minutes; do not spend excessive time on any single blank — move ahead and return if time permits.

Blank 1: Griffin's landlord tried to eject him, so Griffin set his house on _________.
Blank 2: Richard Ebright won numerous prizes at the county _________ fair.
Blank 3: Bholi's real name was _________.
Blank 4: Griffin stole money from a clergyman's house in the village of _________.
Blank 5: Ebright's research contributed to understanding the structure of _________ in cells.

Section C — Match the Following / True or False (1 mark each, 5 marks total)

This section tests your understanding of character traits, plot sequences, and thematic connections through matching statements or verifying the truth value of assertions. Match-the-following questions typically present two columns: Column A with character names, incidents, or concepts, and Column B with corresponding descriptions, outcomes, or definitions. Read both columns thoroughly before attempting matches, and use elimination strategy to narrow down options. True or False questions require you to evaluate statements against textual evidence, making this format excellent for reinforcing accurate comprehension and correcting misconceptions. In board examinations, such questions often appear in the objective section and demand precise textual recall. For example, a statement like 'Griffin was a helpful member of society' is clearly false based on his antisocial behaviour throughout the narrative. Similarly, 'Ebright's mother encouraged his curiosity' is true as evidenced by her buying him scientific equipment and books. For Bholi, statements about her transformation, the teacher's role, and her final decision to reject Bishamber test your grasp of character arc and thematic resolution. Answer decisively based on textual evidence rather than personal opinion or assumptions.

Match A: Griffin's discovery — (i) Led to scientific recognition (ii) Led to isolation and misery (iii) Helped humanity
Match B: Richard Ebright — (i) Lacked competitive spirit (ii) Was mentored by Dr Urquhart (iii) Hated reading
Match C: Bholi's teacher — (i) Mocked her stammering (ii) Encouraged her with kindness (iii) Ignored her completely
True/False 1: Griffin used his invisibility primarily to help others.
True/False 2: Ebright's interest in butterflies eventually led to research in cell biology.

Section D — Short Answer Questions (2 marks each, 10 marks total)

Short-answer questions require you to demonstrate understanding of character motivation, plot development, and thematic significance in 30-40 words. In CBSE board examinations, 2-mark questions demand concise yet complete answers that address the question directly without unnecessary elaboration. Structure your response in 2-3 sentences, beginning with a clear topic sentence that directly answers the question, followed by supporting evidence or explanation. Avoid lengthy introductions or conclusions; focus on substance. For instance, if asked why Griffin's landlord tried to eject him, state the reason (unpaid rent) and Griffin's response (setting fire to the house), demonstrating cause-effect understanding. For questions on Ebright, highlight specific incidents such as his mother's role, his competitive participation in science fairs, or mentorship by Dr Urquhart. For Bholi, focus on her transformation arc, the teacher's influence, and her courageous rejection of Bishamber. Use textual references where possible but avoid lengthy quotations that consume word count. Write legibly and check that each answer is relevant to the question stem. This section typically should take 15-18 minutes; allocate approximately 3 minutes per question including thinking and writing time.

Q1. Why did Griffin become a homeless wanderer? (2 marks)
Q2. How did Richard Ebright's mother contribute to his success as a scientist? (2 marks)
Q3. What was Bholi's reaction when the teacher asked her name on the first day? (2 marks)
Q4. What role did Dr Urquhart play in Ebright's scientific development? (2 marks)
Q5. Why did Bholi refuse to marry Bishamber? What does this reveal about her character? (2 marks)

Section E — Long Answer and HOTS Questions (4 marks each, 12 marks total)

Long-answer questions assess your ability to analyse themes, evaluate character arcs, and synthesise insights from the text in 80-100 words. These Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) questions require you to go beyond surface-level comprehension and demonstrate critical thinking, inference, and evaluative judgement. Structure your answer in three parts: introduction stating your main argument or interpretation, body providing 2-3 supporting points with textual evidence, and a concluding sentence that ties your argument together. For Footprints Without Feet, questions often explore the moral implications of scientific discovery without ethical responsibility. For The Making of a Scientist, focus on the qualities that contributed to Ebright's success — curiosity, competitive spirit, mentorship, and systematic approach. For Bholi, analyse the social commentary on gender discrimination, dowry system, and transformative power of education. In CBSE board exams, 4-mark questions reward well-organised, coherent responses that demonstrate depth of understanding. Avoid vague generalisations; instead, ground your analysis in specific incidents and character actions. Use transition words to ensure smooth flow between ideas. This section should take approximately 20-22 minutes; plan your answer mentally for 1-2 minutes before writing.

Q1. Griffin was a brilliant scientist but a lawless person. Explain how his character illustrates the theme that scientific brilliance without moral responsibility leads to destruction. (4 marks)
Q2. Trace Richard Ebright's journey from a curious child to a successful scientist. What qualities and experiences contributed to his achievements? (4 marks)
Q3. How does Bholi's story serve as a social commentary on the status of girls in Indian society? Discuss her transformation and its significance. (4 marks)

Section F — Case Study Question (6 marks)

The case-study question integrates reading comprehension with analytical and application skills, a format increasingly emphasised in CBSE board examinations from 2023 onwards. This question presents an extract or scenario related to the chapter and asks 3-4 sub-questions testing different cognitive levels — recall, understanding, application, and evaluation. Read the passage or scenario carefully, underlining key phrases that signal themes, character traits, or conflicts. Answer each sub-question based strictly on the information provided in the case study, supplemented by your knowledge of the complete chapter. Sub-questions typically include one objective question (MCQ or fill-in-blank for 1 mark), one short explanation (2 marks), and one analytical or evaluative question (3 marks). Manage your time carefully; allocate 8-10 minutes for this question. Ensure your answers are precise and directly address what is asked. For instance, if the case study presents an extract from Griffin's confrontation with villagers, your analysis should focus on his moral isolation and consequences of misusing scientific power. If the extract is from Ebright's childhood, discuss the role of early curiosity and encouragement. For Bholi extracts, focus on empowerment themes and social critique embedded in the narrative.

Answer Key with Explanations — Section A (MCQs)

This detailed answer key provides correct responses along with brief explanations to help you understand why each answer is right and learn from mistakes. For MCQs, understanding the reasoning behind correct answers strengthens inference skills and prepares you for varied question formats in board examinations. When reviewing incorrect answers, identify whether the error stemmed from misreading the question, incomplete textual recall, or faulty inference. Use this analysis to improve future attempts. Answer 1: (b) His lack of moral responsibility — Griffin's brilliance is overshadowed by his selfish, violent behaviour, theft, and disregard for others, leading to his isolation. Answer 2: (a) Collecting butterflies — Ebright's childhood fascination with butterflies led him to systematic study, participation in science fairs, and eventually groundbreaking research in cell biology. Answer 3: (b) They considered her a burden due to her appearance and speech defect — Bholi's parents believed marrying her off to anyone willing was fortunate, reflecting societal prejudice. Answer 4: (c) He discovered a formula that made his body transparent — Through scientific experimentation, Griffin made his body invisible. Answer 5: (c) She nurtured his curiosity and provided him with books and equipment — Ebright's mother mattered in fostering his scientific temperament. Answer 6: (b) Her teacher's kindness and education — The teacher's encouragement helped Bholi overcome her stammer and gain self-confidence.

Q1: (b) His lack of moral responsibility
Q2: (a) Collecting butterflies
Q3: (b) They considered her a burden due to her appearance and speech defect
Q4: (c) He discovered a formula that made his body transparent
Q5: (c) She nurtured his curiosity and provided him with books and equipment
Q6: (b) Her teacher's kindness and education

Answer Key — Sections B, C, D, E, and F with Detailed Solutions

Section B Answers (Fill in the Blanks): (1) fire, (2) science, (3) Sulekha, (4) Iping, (5) DNA/cells. Explanation: These answers are drawn directly from textual details in the three stories. Section C Answers (Match/True-False): Match A-ii (isolation and misery), Match B-ii (mentored by Dr Urquhart), Match C-ii (encouraged with kindness); True/False 1: False — Griffin used invisibility for theft and violence; True/False 2: True — his butterfly interest evolved into molecular biology research. Section D Sample Answers: Q1 (Griffin homeless): Griffin set fire to his landlord's house after being threatened with ejection for unpaid rent, destroying his notebooks and forcing him to flee as a homeless wanderer. Q2 (Ebright's mother): She recognised his curiosity, bought him scientific books and equipment, and encouraged him to participate in competitions, laying the foundation for his scientific temperament. Q3 (Bholi's first day): Bholi was initially too nervous and stammered when asked her name, but the teacher's gentle encouragement helped her speak it fully, marking the beginning of her transformation. Q4 (Dr Urquhart's role): Dr Urquhart suggested Ebright raise butterflies to study their migration, guiding him toward original research and scientific methodology. Q5 (Bholi refuses Bishamber): Bholi refused because Bishamber demanded dowry after seeing her pockmarks, revealing her self-respect and refusal to be treated as inferior. Section E Sample Long Answer (Ebright's qualities): Richard Ebright's success resulted from insatiable curiosity, competitive spirit, supportive mentorship, and dedication to systematic research. From childhood butterfly collection, he progressed to winning science fair prizes and conducting original experiments. His mother nurtured his interests, Dr Urquhart provided research direction, and his school encouraged participation in competitions. His ability to ask meaningful questions and pursue answers methodically led to significant contributions in molecular biology, demonstrating that scientific achievement requires both innate curiosity and sustained effort supported by encouraging mentors. Section F Case Study Answers: (i) Ambition and scientific curiosity, (ii) His immoral actions isolated him socially and legally, bringing misery instead of recognition, (iii) Yes, discoveries should be shared responsibly; Griffin's secrecy and misuse illustrate the dangers of unchecked scientific power without ethical oversight.

Section B: fire, science, Sulekha, Iping, DNA
Section C: Matches A-ii, B-ii, C-ii; T/F: False, True
Section D: Answers should be 30-40 words, addressing question directly with textual evidence
Section E: Answers should be 80-100 words, well-structured with introduction, body, conclusion
Section F: Multi-part answers based on extract, integrating comprehension and analysis

How CBSETUTOR.ai Supports Your English First Flight Preparation

While worksheets like this one offer structured practice, personalised doubt-clearing often makes the difference between average and excellent board performance. CBSETUTOR.ai provides Class 10 students across India with 24×7 AI-powered tutoring at just ₹999/month — one flat fee covering all subjects from Classes 6 to 12. Simply photograph any question from Chapter 10 or any other First Flight chapter, upload it to the platform, and receive step-by-step solutions within moments. Whether you are confused about Griffin's character analysis, need help framing a long answer on Ebright's scientific journey, or want to understand how to approach Bholi's transformation thematically, the AI tutor adapts to your learning pace and provides explanations in clear, student-friendly language. The platform also offers additional practice questions, chapter summaries, and exam-pattern worksheets across the entire NCERT English curriculum. Parents in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and smaller towns alike have found CBSETUTOR.ai invaluable for supplementing school learning without expensive coaching centre fees. Start with the 3-day free trial to experience how instant, on-demand support transforms confidence and academic outcomes. For Chapter 10 specifically, students can clarify nuances in inference questions, improve answer-writing techniques, and master social commentary analysis essential for scoring full marks in the prose section.

Photo-upload instant solutions for any question from Chapter 10 or entire First Flight textbook
24×7 availability eliminates dependency on fixed tutor schedules or coaching class timings
Flat ₹999/month across all subjects and classes (6-12), drastically cheaper than traditional coaching
Detailed explanations strengthen conceptual clarity in character analysis, themes, inference skills
3-day free trial allows risk-free exploration of AI tutoring benefits before commitment

Frequently asked questions

How many stories are included in CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 10?+

Chapter 10 includes three distinct prose pieces: Footprints Without Feet by H.G. Wells, The Making of a Scientist by Robert W. Peterson, and Bholi by K.A. Abbas, each exploring different themes and narrative styles.

What is the main theme of Footprints Without Feet?+

The story explores the consequences of scientific brilliance without moral responsibility, showing how Griffin's discovery of invisibility leads to crime, isolation, and ultimate failure due to his lack of ethical grounding and antisocial behaviour.

How did Richard Ebright become a successful scientist according to The Making of a Scientist?+

Ebright's success resulted from childhood curiosity about butterflies, encouragement from his mother, mentorship by Dr Urquhart, competitive participation in science fairs, and dedication to systematic research, ultimately contributing to molecular biology understanding.

What social issues does Bholi's story address?+

Bholi addresses gender discrimination, dowry system, neglect of girls with physical challenges, and the transformative power of education in empowering women to reject oppressive social norms and choose dignified, independent lives.

How should I prepare Chapter 10 for CBSE Class 10 board exams?+

Read each story carefully, note character traits and themes, practice extract-based questions, prepare character sketches, understand social commentary in Bholi, analyse moral lessons in Footprints, and practice writing concise 2-mark and detailed 4-6 mark answers within time limits.

What is the suggested time to complete this Chapter 10 worksheet?+

The worksheet is designed for 60-minute timed practice, simulating board exam conditions. Allocate approximately 10 minutes for MCQs and objective sections, 15 minutes for short answers, 20 minutes for long answers, and 10 minutes for the case study question.

What types of questions appear from Chapter 10 in CBSE board exams?+

Expect extract-based MCQs (1 mark each), character-based short answers (2-3 marks), thematic long answers (4-6 marks), and occasionally value-based or HOTS questions asking you to relate story messages to real-life situations or evaluate character decisions.

How can I improve my inference skills for Footprints Without Feet?+

Focus on understanding character actions and their consequences rather than explicit statements. Analyse why Griffin made certain choices, what his behaviour reveals about his values, and how the author uses irony to convey moral lessons about responsibility.

Why is Bholi's teacher important to the story?+

The teacher represents the transformative power of compassionate education. Her kind, patient treatment contrasts with Bholi's family's neglect, helping Bholi overcome stammering, gain confidence, and ultimately reject an unsuitable marriage, choosing self-respect and service instead.

Can CBSETUTOR.ai help with Chapter 10 English preparation?+

Yes, CBSETUTOR.ai offers 24×7 AI tutoring with photo-upload doubt-solving at ₹999/month for all subjects. Upload any question from Chapter 10 for instant solutions, explanations, and additional practice questions. Start with a 3-day free trial to experience personalised support.

Related resources

Important Questions: CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 10 Footprints Without Feet / The Making of a Scientist / Bholi Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 10 Footprints Without Feet / The Making of a Scientist / Bholi — Formulas & Key Points CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 9 A Triumph of Surgery / The Thief's Story / The Midnight Visitor Worksheet with Answers Important Questions: CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 9 A Triumph of Surgery / The Thief's Story / The Midnight Visitor AI Tutor for Class 10: The Smart Alternative to Tuition AI Tutor for Class 10 Maths: Learn Faster with Instant Help Class 9 English — First Flight Chapter 1: A Letter to God, Dust of Snow & Fire and Ice — Previous Year Questions (2020–2025)CBSE Class 9 Mathematics Chapter 1 Number Systems Worksheet with Answers

Keep learning — related guides

Class 10English — First Flight

Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 12 Writing Skills — Formulas & Key Points

Class 10English — First Flight

Important Questions: CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 12 Writing Skills

Class 10English — First Flight

Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 11 Grammar Toolkit — Formulas & Key Points

Class 10English — First Flight

CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 12 Writing Skills Worksheet with Answers

Class 10English — First Flight

Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 10 Footprints Without Feet / The Making of a Scientist / Bholi — Formulas & Key Points

Class 10English — First Flight

Important Questions: CBSE Class 10 English — First Flight Chapter 11 Grammar Toolkit

Ready to give your Class 10 child the tutor that never sleeps?

CBSETUTOR.ai covers every chapter in the Class 10 NCERT syllabus — Maths, Science, Social Science, English, Hindi and more. 24×7. Patient. Unlimited. 3-day free trial.

Start your child's 3-day free trial →