Class 10 English: Literature – Footprints without Feet important questions
Literature – Footprints without Feet is a chapter of Class 10 English for the CBSE. These 30 questions are marked Very Important, Important or Practice, and each answer has been checked by our team. Use them to revise, not as a prediction of what will come in the exam.
Very Important · 5 marks
1. Read the extract from 'The Book that Saved the Earth' and answer the questions. OMEGA: It shall be done, Sir. Remove vitamins. (Crew takes vitamins from boxes on their belts.) Present vitamins. (They hold vitamins out in front of them, stiffly.) Swallow vitamins. (They pop the vitamins into their mouths and gulp simultaneously. They open their eyes wide, their heads shake, and they put their hands to their foreheads.) THINK-TANK: Excellent. Now, decipher that code. ALL: It shall be done, Sir. (They frown over the book, turning pages.) OMEGA: (brightly) Aha! IOTA: (brightly) Oho! OOP: (bursting into laughter) Ha, ha, ha. THINK-TANK: What does it say? Tell me this instant. Transcribe, Omega. i. Which sentence uses 'present' as in the extract? A. Oop received a nice present. B. Iota needs to present his opinion firmly. C. Omega must focus on the present. D. Oop didn't know anyone though a crowd was present. ii. Complete the analogy with a word from the text: frown : smile :: gloomily : ______ iii. Why were the crew asked to take vitamins? A. to boost energy B. to adapt to their circumstances C. to turn pages quickly D. to accomplish a specific task iv. By 'Transcribe', Think-Tank most likely wanted Omega to: (1) read aloud (2) translate (3) make notes (4) interpret (5) record reactions. A. 1 & 3 B. 2 & 4 C. only 3 D. 1, 4 and 5 v. List ways in which the words in brackets help the director and actors.
i. B. Iota needs to present his opinion firmly. ii. brightly iii. D. accomplish a specific task (deciphering the 'code'). iv. B. 2 & 4 (translate and interpret). v. They make clear the emotions and gestures needed, and they explain the stage setting and movements.
Important · 3 marks
2. Dr. Herriot knew his patients and their owners really well. Discuss. (The Triumph of Surgery, 40–50 words)
Patients: just by seeing Tricki in the street, he understood the dog was ill and needed help. Owners: he understood Mrs. Pumphrey well; knowing she was responsible for Tricki's obesity, he never spoke harshly to her but tactfully took Tricki to the surgery for treatment.
Important · 3 marks
3. Give one likely reason why the writer of 'The Midnight Visitor' made Ausable short and fat.
To highlight that his strength lies in his wit, not his looks. Ausable invents a balcony that does not exist and makes the agile, smart Max believe it — he needs no impressive physique. The writer shows that brain matters more than brawn.
Important · 3 marks
4. Validate the importance of small, fun learning tasks for a successful career, in the context of Richard Ebright. (The Making of a Scientist, 40–50 words)
Ebright began collecting and raising butterflies as a hobby. This made him curious about the gold spots on the monarch pupa and their secretion, which led to science-fair projects and later to his theory of how cells read DNA. Fun learning grew into a career as a renowned scientist.
Very Important · 6 marks
5. Fiction writers prefer creating grey characters rather than black-and-white ones. Analyse this with reference to both characters of 'The Thief's Story'. (100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - Neither character is wholly bad or wholly good. - Hari Singh is an artful thief who fools his victims and the police, lies without shame and steals Anil's money; yet Anil's trust and kindness change him and he returns the money. - Anil is helpful, simple and trusting, forgives the thief and never mentions the theft; yet he is careless about money and ignores Hari's small cheating. - Grey characters make a story unpredictable and present readers with moral questions, as Hari and Anil do.
Very Important · 6 marks
6. 'Honour among thieves' is a popular code. Examine 'A Question of Trust' as a story woven around this code. (100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - The code says thieves never double-cross one another and would rather help than betray each other. - Horace Danby is a careful, meticulous thief who robs once a year, but he does not expect the lady in red. - The lady, a thief herself, pretends to be the owner's wife, tricks him into opening the safe and leaves his fingerprints on everything; she breaks the code of honour between thieves. - As a result Horace goes to prison for the first time and feels betrayed.
Very Important · 5 marks
7. Read the extract from 'The Making of a Scientist' and answer the questions. The question he tried to answer was simple: What is the purpose of the twelve tiny gold spots on a monarch pupa? "Everyone assumed the spots were just ornamental," Ebright said. "But Dr Urquhart didn't believe it." To find the answer, Ebright and another excellent science student first had to build a device that showed that the spots were producing a hormone necessary for the butterfly's full development. This project won Ebright first place in the county fair and entry into the International Science and Engineering Fair. There he won third place for zoology. He also got a chance to work during the summer at the entomology laboratory of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. i. State one inference about Dr Urquhart from 'Everyone assumed the spots were just ornamental… But Dr Urquhart didn't believe it.' ii. True or False: none of these terms can be applied to the question 'What is the purpose of the twelve tiny gold spots?' — (a) hypothesis (b) assumption (c) premise (d) theory. iii. Ebright's approach to finding the purpose of the gold spots was highly effective. Elaborate. (2 marks) iv. Which phrase could replace 'a chance' in the last sentence?
i. Any one: he questioned assumptions; he was open-minded and curious; he did not simply accept conventional wisdom. ii. True: it is simply the question Ebright was trying to answer. iii. By building a device that showed the spots produced a hormone needed for the butterfly's full development, he gave evidence against the belief that they were only ornamental. This won him recognition at science fairs and a chance to work in a research laboratory. iv. an opportunity
Important · 3 marks
8. 'The Triumph of Surgery' is a powerful example of the importance of saying 'no'. Explain. (40–50 words)
Mrs. Pumphrey's indulgence makes Tricki dangerously fat and ill; despite Herriot's advice she cannot say no to his demands for treats. Herriot's firm decision to take Tricki away and restrict his diet saves him. Sometimes the best way to help is to say no, even if it is unpopular.
Important · 3 marks
9. How does education transform Bholi's life? (Bholi, 40–50 words)
Education gives Bholi confidence and self-esteem, so she can stand up for herself and challenge social norms. It empowers her to refuse to marry the greedy Bishamber and to choose her own path, recognising injustice. She becomes an example of how knowledge can change lives and society.
Important · 3 marks
10. Elements of Robert Arthur's style together create tension, uncertainty and suspense in 'The Midnight Visitor'. Comment with reference to any one element. (40–50 words)
Any one: short, punchy sentences create urgency and a sense of events moving fast; the dialogue between Ausable and Max is full of half-truths, creating ambiguity; the pacing gradually reveals information and twists that keep readers guessing until the end.
Very Important · 6 marks
11. Imagine M. Loisel from 'The Necklace' writes a diary entry exploring class, social status and social mobility in the light of his own experience. Write it in about 120 words.
Points from the official scheme (diary format, first person, as M. Loisel): - The last ten years have been hard for Matilda and me; I now see the social issues behind our trouble. - Society makes rising in status very difficult; status is judged by wealth, not character, and this narrow idea of success drove Matilda to chase possessions at the cost of happiness. - Losing the borrowed necklace taught us that chasing status can be a trap, making people sacrifice their happiness for an impossible dream.
Very Important · 6 marks
12. A character arc is the change a character goes through because of their experiences, challenges and relationships. Trace the character arc of the thief in Ruskin Bond's 'The Thief's Story' in about 120 words.
Points from the official scheme: - At first Hari is an experienced thief focused on staying ahead of the law, drawn to Anil because he thinks he can exploit his trusting nature. - He grows friendly with Anil, who teaches him to cook, write and read. - He steals Anil's money but, at the station, hesitates to board the train; he realises what he would lose (education, trust) and feels guilt. - He returns and replaces the money: he has developed a conscience and sees that honest work and trust offer a better life than crime.
Very Important · 5 marks
13. Read the extract from 'Bholi' and answer the questions. And suddenly Bholi noticed that the teacher was standing by her side, smiling at her. "What's your name, little one?" "Bh-Bho-Bho-." She could stammer no further than that. Then she began to cry and tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood. She kept her head down as she sat in her corner, not daring to look up at the girls who, she knew, were still laughing at her. When the school bell rang, all the girls scurried out of the classroom, but Bholi dared not leave her corner. Her head still lowered, she kept on sobbing. "Bholi." The teacher's voice was so soft and soothing! In all her life she had never been called like that. It touched her heart. I. Which tone is the teacher UNLIKELY to have used in 'What's your name, little one?' A. reassuring B. comforting C. settling D. calming II. How does telling the story from Bholi's perspective help build the narrative? (2 marks) III. 'Tears flowed … in a helpless flood' means Bholi was crying ______ (uncontrollably / unintentionally). IV. How does the teacher's behaviour contrast with that of the other girls?
I. C. settling. II. It gives direct insight into her thoughts and feelings, so readers understand her vulnerability and distress, feel the effect of the teacher's kindness and the girls' cruelty more strongly, and are drawn into her world. III. uncontrollably. IV. The teacher is kind and gently encouraging, while the girls are insensitive and cruel, laughing at her stammer.
Important · 3 marks
14. How does Matilda's desire for material wealth drive the plot of 'The Necklace'? (40–50 words)
Wanting to appear wealthy, she borrows a necklace from Mme Forestier for the party. She loses it, and she and her husband struggle desperately to replace it, which ruins them financially. Her desire sets off the chain of events that makes up the plot.
Important · 3 marks
15. Justify the view that Ebright's early successes were essential for his later achievements in science. (The Making of a Scientist, 40–50 words)
His early wins gave him motivation, proof of his talent and opportunities to grow. They built his confidence, confirmed his passion for science and developed a competitive spirit that drove him to excel, shaping his path as a successful scientist.
Important · 3 marks
16. How does 'The Book that Saved the Earth' use elements of satirical science fiction? (40–50 words)
It exaggerates the Martians, showing them as arrogant 'superior' beings who misunderstand basic Earth things, to humorously criticise human behaviour. Through absurd situations it comments on intelligence and cultural misunderstanding, while the futuristic setting and space travel add the science-fiction element.
Very Important · 6 marks
17. Evaluate how Griffin's character is shaped by his personal ambition, the unintended consequences of his science, and society's reactions. (Footprints without Feet, 100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme (one from each): - Ambition: driven to achieve a scientific breakthrough, he isolates himself, putting personal goals above social and ethical concerns. - Unintended consequences: invisibility makes him vulnerable, so he steals and deceives for warmth and food; it breeds paranoia and cuts him off from people. - Society's reaction: curiosity and fear turn into hostility as his acts grow desperate; a cycle of aggression and retaliation alienates him further, and others' lack of understanding deepens his resentment.
Very Important · 6 marks
18. Evaluate how James Herriot's characterisation supports the theme of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. (The Triumph of Surgery, 100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - Herriot is compassionate: he genuinely cares about Tricki's well-being, goes the extra mile, and patiently educates Mrs. Pumphrey about proper care. - He is also firm: despite Mrs. Pumphrey's reluctance, he insists on diet and lifestyle changes and takes Tricki to the surgery. - This firm yet kind approach shows that owners must set boundaries and put their pet's health before indulgence, reinforcing responsible pet ownership.
Very Important · 5 marks
19. Read the extract from 'The Book That Saved the Earth' and answer the questions. Historian: …You haven't heard about the Martian invasion of 2040? Tsk, tsk. What do they teach children nowadays? Well, you know, the invasion never really happened, because a single book stopped it. What was the book, you ask? A noble encyclopaedia? A tome about rockets and missiles? A secret file from outer space? No, it was none of those. It was — but here, let me turn on the historiscope and show you what happened many centuries ago, in 2040. (She turns on projector, and points it left. Spotlight on Historian goes out…) I. What does the pause shown by the dash in 'It was — but here…' convey? A. impatience B. suspense and anticipation only C. confusion D. deep thought II. How do the stage directions ('turns on projector', 'Spotlight on Historian goes out') add to the atmosphere and understanding of the scene? (2 marks) III. Complete: The Historian dismisses the encyclopaedia and rockets because she wants to (a) show the importance of science and military power (b) stress the surprising, unexpected nature of the book that stopped the invasion. IV. What emotion does 'Tsk, tsk' convey?
I. Suspense and anticipation: the pause builds expectation for the revelation. II. Turning on the projector shifts the scene from narration to visual storytelling, and the fading spotlight moves attention to the next action, heightening suspense. They guide the audience's attention and set the pace and dramatic effect. III. (b) IV. disappointment / disapproval.
Important · 3 marks
20. How does 'The Necklace' show that honesty is the key to a happy, stress-free life? (40–50 words)
Matilda replaces the necklace without telling her friend, which leads to ten years of suffering. Living with the lie causes constant fear and stress that damage her health. Had she admitted her mistake, she would have learnt it was fake; honesty brings peace of mind.
Important · 3 marks
21. Evaluate the saying 'Values are caught, not taught' in the context of Anil and Hari Singh in 'The Thief's Story'. (40–50 words)
Anil never lectures Hari. His silent trust and kindness, forgiving Hari's poor cooking and teaching him to read and write, deeply affect him. These actions, not words, teach Hari trust and honesty, so he returns the stolen money and chooses integrity over theft.
Important · 3 marks
22. Griffin experiences moments of comfort while invisible. How do these brief moments affect his sense of identity and his actions in 'Footprints without Feet'? (40–50 words)
Finding warmth and food briefly restores normal life but also highlights his isolation. This deepens his frustration, and his desperation to survive drives him to steal, disguise himself and finally turn violent, showing how his identity erodes as he cuts himself off from society.
Very Important · 6 marks
23. How does the author use misdirection in 'The Midnight Visitor' to build suspense and create the unexpected ending? (100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - From the start, Ausable's invented story makes Max (and the reader) believe in a balcony; he describes how it was used for earlier intrusions, making it believable. - This misdirection deceives Max and builds tension as readers wonder how the balcony will matter. - Suspense peaks when Max, fearing the 'police', jumps to escape through the balcony and finds too late that it does not exist. - The twist overturns expectations, shows Ausable's wit and resourcefulness, and gives a surprising, satisfying ending.
Very Important · 6 marks
24. Comment critically on the role of the Surgery in 'The Triumph of Surgery'. (100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - The Surgery is the place of Tricki's recovery and the catalyst for his change. - It contrasts with Mrs. Pumphrey's overindulgent home, where pampering and overfeeding made him ill. At the Surgery he gets a strict diet, exercise and company of other dogs. - It stands for responsible pet care: a pet's well-being needs more than affection and indulgence. - Through Tricki's recovery, the writer criticises overindulgence and stresses holistic care, physical and emotional.
Very Important · 5 marks
25. Read the extract from 'Bholi' and answer the questions. Sweat broke out over her whole body. Would her stammering tongue again disgrace her? For the sake of this kind woman, however, she decided to make an effort. She had such a soothing voice; she would not laugh at her. "Bh-Bh-Bho-Bho," she began to stammer. "Well done, well done," the teacher encouraged her. "Come on, now — the full name?" "Bh-Bh-Bho-Bholi." At last she was able to say it and felt relieved as if it was a great achievement. "Well done." The teacher patted her affectionately and said, "Put the fear out of your heart and you will be able to speak like everyone else." Bholi looked up as if to ask, "Really?" I. Complete: Bholi's sweating and stammering show she is ______. II. The question 'Would her stammering tongue again disgrace her?' is used to: A. make readers judge Bholi B. show her inabilities C. give readers a peek into Bholi's thoughts D. show sympathy for her III. The teacher's words suggest Bholi's main obstacle is psychological rather than physical. Elaborate. (2 marks) IV. Bholi looking up 'as if to ask, Really?' shows a mix of ______ (hope and hesitation / disobedience and doubt).
I. extremely scared and anxious (nervous and apprehensive). II. C. giving readers a peek into Bholi's thoughts (internal monologue). III. With encouragement, Bholi manages to say her full name despite her stammer. So her real obstacles are anxiety and the fear of being judged. By treating her with compassion and reassurance, the teacher helps her begin to overcome her stammer. IV. hope and hesitation.
Important · 3 marks
26. Compare Hari's first approach to Anil with his honest smile at the end of 'The Thief's Story'. What does this change reveal? (40–50 words)
At first Hari manipulates Anil with calculated charm and deceit. His final smile is genuine and effortless. The contrast shows a real change: he moves from seeing people as chances to exploit to valuing human connection, and the change is inner, not just outward behaviour.
Important · 3 marks
27. How does the writer use irony in 'The Necklace' to show that vanity and materialism lead to one's downfall? (40–50 words)
Matilda sacrifices everything to replace a necklace that was fake; ten years of poverty turn her into the 'common woman' she despised; her pride causes her ruin. The final irony is that her suffering was needless. The irony criticises materialism and shows vanity bringing self-made tragedy.
Important · 3 marks
28. Why does Horace take off his gloves to give the young lady his lighter in 'A Question of Trust'? What does this show about his state of mind at that moment? (40–50 words)
He is so eager to please the lady and escape being reported that he forgets his careful rule of never leaving fingerprints. It shows his desperation and fear of prison: the lady has manipulated him, and he is thinking like a frightened man, not a careful criminal.
Very Important · 6 marks
29. In 'The Midnight Visitor', the balcony is the story's central plot device, yet it never exists. Discuss what the balcony symbolises. (100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - The balcony symbolises the power of a story to create reality. It exists only in words, in Ausable's detailed description and Max's belief, yet it becomes more real than the room because Max acts on it. Ausable makes it believable with plausible details about the building and earlier intrusions. - It shows the theme of truth versus perception: Max accepts it because it matches what he expects of a Paris hotel. - Ultimately it represents the triumph of storytelling over facts: by controlling the narrative, Ausable gains complete power over Max.
Very Important · 6 marks
30. In 'The Book that Saved the Earth', Think-Tank rules Mars with absolute authority and arrogance, yet makes ridiculous mistakes. Evaluate how this affects his leadership. (100–120 words)
Points from the official scheme: - Think-Tank combines absolute power with absolute ignorance. He mistakes books for sandwiches, hats and weapons, yet claims each mistake proves his genius and insists he is never wrong. Without humility his intelligence is useless. - Because no one dares challenge him, he never gets honest feedback; his crew's fearful obedience means no reality check. His errors grow: nursery rhymes become military threats, and paranoia replaces reason. - At the climax, frightened by the picture of Humpty Dumpty, he orders the evacuation of Mars. Unchecked power plus arrogance makes him a destructive leader; his huge brain becomes a liability.
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