ADEPT YOURSELF
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CBSE CLASS X – SOCIAL SCIENCE (CODE NO. 087)
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER – SET 4 | ACADEMIC SESSION 2026–2027
General Instructions:
- The question paper comprises Six Sections: A, B, C, D, E and F.
- There are 37 questions in total.
- All questions are compulsory.
- Section A contains Questions 1–20. Each question carries 1 mark.
- Section B contains Questions 21–24. Each question carries 2 marks.
- Section C contains Questions 25–29. Each question carries 3 marks.
- Section D contains Questions 30–33. Each question carries 5 marks.
- Section E contains Questions 34–36. Each case-based question carries 4 marks.
- Section F contains Question 37, carrying 5 marks, based on map skills.
- Internal choices are provided in selected questions.
SECTION A – MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS (20 Marks)
Q1.
What was the main objective of the Treaty of Vienna of 1815?
[1]
Q2.
Who designed the tricolour flag of the United Provinces of Hindustan during the Swadeshi movement?
[1]
Q3.
Which of the following is an example of a renewable resource?
[1]
Q4.
Which soil develops mainly due to intense leaching in areas of high temperature and heavy rainfall?
[1]
Q5.
Which of the following is mainly associated with the development of irrigation and hydroelectric power?
[1]
Q6.
Which state was the first to introduce the three-tier system of Panchayati Raj?
[1]
Q7.
Which feature of Belgium helped reduce tensions between different linguistic communities?
[1]
Q8.
Which of the following is a major iron ore producing region of India?
[1]
Q9.
Which institution in India has the power to interpret the Constitution?
[1]
Q10.
Which type of unemployment is commonly found when more people are engaged in agriculture than actually required?
[1]
Q11.
Why did print become popular among workers and poor people in the nineteenth century?
[1]
Q12.
Which crop requires high temperature and high humidity and is mainly grown in areas of heavy rainfall?
[1]
Q13.
Which of the following is an example of a public sector enterprise?
[1]
Q14.
What is meant by the term ‘demand deposits’?
[1]
Q15.
Which organisation works towards establishing rules for international trade?
[1]
Q16.
Which of the following best represents a democratic outcome?
[1]
Q17.
Arrange the following events in chronological order:
I. Formation of the Swaraj Party
II. Jallianwala Bagh massacre
III. Simon Commission arrival in India
IV. Non-Cooperation Movement [1]
I. Formation of the Swaraj Party
II. Jallianwala Bagh massacre
III. Simon Commission arrival in India
IV. Non-Cooperation Movement [1]
Q18.
Which mineral is mainly used in the electrical and electronic industries because of its excellent insulating properties?
[1]
Q19.
Assertion (A): Federalism strengthens the unity of a country.
Reason (R): It accommodates regional diversity by sharing power among different levels of government. [1]
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.
Reason (R): It accommodates regional diversity by sharing power among different levels of government. [1]
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.
Q20.
Assertion (A): Cheap and affordable credit is important for economic development.
Reason (R): High interest rates can make borrowing expensive and increase the burden on borrowers. [1]
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.
Reason (R): High interest rates can make borrowing expensive and increase the burden on borrowers. [1]
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.
SECTION B – VERY SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (8 Marks)
Q21.
What was the significance of the Frankfurt Parliament of 1848?
[2]
Q22.
State any two reasons for the need for resource planning in India.
[2]
Q23.
How does communalism affect democratic politics?
[2]
OR
How does caste influence politics in India?
Q24.
Why do poor households often depend on informal sources of credit?
[2]
SECTION C – SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS (15 Marks)
Q25.
Explain three effects of the First World War on the Indian economy and society.
[3]
Q26.
Explain any three methods of soil conservation in India.
[3]
OR
Explain any three characteristics of black soil.
Q27.
Explain any three ways in which women face inequality in Indian society.
[3]
Q28.
Differentiate between the organised and unorganised sectors on any three bases.
[3]
Q29.
Explain any three ways in which globalisation has benefited consumers in India.
[3]
SECTION D – LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS (20 Marks)
Q30.
Explain the causes of the rise of nationalism in Europe after 1830.
[5]
OR
Explain the contribution of culture, language and folklore in developing nationalism in Europe.
Q31.
Explain five major problems associated with the indiscriminate use of mineral resources.
[5]
OR
Explain five measures for the conservation of minerals and energy resources.
Q32.
Explain the major forms of discrimination faced by women in India. Suggest measures to improve women’s political and social status.
[5]
OR
Explain how caste can take different forms in politics and how politics can influence caste relations.
Q33.
Explain the importance of the public sector in the Indian economy. Give five reasons.
[5]
OR
Explain how formal credit can help prevent the exploitation of borrowers.
SECTION E – CASE-BASED INTEGRATED UNITS (12 Marks)
Q34. Read the source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
[4](a) Which three ideas were associated with the French Revolution? [1]
(b) How did Romanticism contribute to nationalism? [1]
(c) Explain two ways in which nationalism contributed to the creation of nation-states. [2]
Nationalism in Europe developed through a combination of political, cultural and economic changes. The French Revolution introduced ideas of liberty, equality and fraternity. Later, revolutionary movements challenged conservative monarchies. Romantic artists and poets emphasised folk traditions, language and cultural heritage. In many regions, these ideas helped people imagine themselves as members of a common national community. The creation of nation-states such as Germany and Italy further strengthened the idea of nationalism in Europe.
(b) How did Romanticism contribute to nationalism? [1]
(c) Explain two ways in which nationalism contributed to the creation of nation-states. [2]
OR
Explain the role of language and folk traditions in creating a sense of national identity. [2]
Q35. Read the source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
[4](a) Why are minerals considered indispensable for modern industries? [1]
(b) Name the mineral used for aluminium production. [1]
(c) Explain two environmental problems caused by mining. [2]
Minerals are indispensable for modern life and industrial development. Iron ore provides the basic raw material for the iron and steel industry, while bauxite is essential for aluminium production. Mineral resources are finite and are being depleted rapidly because of increasing industrialisation and urbanisation. Mining can also cause land degradation, deforestation, pollution and displacement of local communities. Recycling, efficient use of minerals and the development of renewable alternatives can reduce pressure on mineral resources.
(b) Name the mineral used for aluminium production. [1]
(c) Explain two environmental problems caused by mining. [2]
OR
Suggest two measures for conserving mineral resources. [2]
Q36. Read the source carefully and answer the questions that follow:
[4](a) How do regular elections make a government accountable? [1]
(b) Why can democratic decision-making take more time? [1]
(c) Explain two conditions necessary for the effective functioning of democracy. [2]
Democracy is expected to produce a government that is accountable to citizens. Regular elections allow people to choose their representatives and remove governments that do not perform satisfactorily. Democratic governments are also expected to respond to public needs and follow constitutional procedures. At the same time, democracy may take time because decisions often involve consultation and discussion. Its success depends not only on elections but also on active citizen participation, transparency and respect for rights.
(b) Why can democratic decision-making take more time? [1]
(c) Explain two conditions necessary for the effective functioning of democracy. [2]
OR
Explain two ways in which democracy promotes dignity and freedom of citizens. [2]
SECTION F – MAP SKILL-BASED QUESTION (5 Marks)
Q37.(a) History Map Item – 2 Marks
Identify the following places on the outline political map of India:
A. The place associated with the Ahmedabad Mill Strike of 1918.
B. The place where the Congress session of December 1920 was held. [2]
(b) Geography Map Item – 3 Marks
Locate and label ANY THREE of the following:
(i) Tarapur Nuclear Power Plant – Maharashtra
(ii) Visakhapatnam Iron and Steel Plant – Andhra Pradesh
(iii) Paradip Major Sea Port – Odisha
(iv) Mumbai High – Maharashtra [3]
Identify the following places on the outline political map of India:
A. The place associated with the Ahmedabad Mill Strike of 1918.
B. The place where the Congress session of December 1920 was held. [2]
(b) Geography Map Item – 3 Marks
Locate and label ANY THREE of the following:
(i) Tarapur Nuclear Power Plant – Maharashtra
(ii) Visakhapatnam Iron and Steel Plant – Andhra Pradesh
(iii) Paradip Major Sea Port – Odisha
(iv) Mumbai High – Maharashtra [3]
CBSE CLASS X SOCIAL SCIENCE (087) – SOLUTIONS & MARKING SCHEME – SET 4
SECTION A – ANSWERS
Q1. (b) To restore the monarchies that had been overthrown [1]
Q2. (a) Abanindranath Tagore [1]
Q3. (c) Solar energy [1]
Q4. (b) Laterite soil [1]
Q5. (a) Multipurpose river projects [1]
Q6. (a) Rajasthan [1]
Q7. (b) Equal representation of Dutch and French-speaking ministers [1]
Q8. (a) Odisha-Jharkhand belt [1]
Q9. (c) Judiciary [1]
Q10. (b) Disguised unemployment [1]
Q11. (a) Cheap books and small pamphlets became available [1]
Q12. (b) Rice [1]
Q13. (b) Indian Railways [1]
Q14. (b) Deposits that can be withdrawn whenever required [1]
Q15. (a) WTO [1]
Q16. (b) Accountable and responsive government [1]
Q17. (a) II → IV → I → III [1]
Jallianwala Bagh massacre – 1919; Non-Cooperation Movement – 1920; Swaraj Party – 1923; Simon Commission – 1928.
Jallianwala Bagh massacre – 1919; Non-Cooperation Movement – 1920; Swaraj Party – 1923; Simon Commission – 1928.
Q18. (a) Mica [1]
Q19. (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. [1]
Q20. (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. [1]
SECTION B – ANSWERS
Q21.
The Frankfurt Parliament was convened in 1848 to draft a constitution for a united Germany. It represented an important attempt by liberal nationalists to establish a nation-state based on constitutional principles.
[2]
Q22.
- Resources are unevenly distributed across India.
- Planning is necessary to ensure judicious use of resources and prevent their depletion.
Q23.
Communalism can lead to political competition based on religious identities. It may create tensions between communities and undermine the principles of equality and democratic citizenship.
OR
Caste influences politics through caste-based voting patterns, political mobilisation and demands for representation. At the same time, political participation can also help disadvantaged caste groups gain representation. [2]
OR
Caste influences politics through caste-based voting patterns, political mobilisation and demands for representation. At the same time, political participation can also help disadvantaged caste groups gain representation. [2]
Q24.
Poor households may lack collateral required by banks. Informal lenders such as moneylenders may provide loans more easily and with fewer formal requirements, although often at very high interest rates.
[2]
SECTION C – ANSWERS
Q25.
- The war led to a sharp increase in defence expenditure, which was financed through higher taxes and war loans.
- Prices of essential goods increased considerably, causing hardship for ordinary people.
- Forced recruitment and crop failures further increased rural distress.
Q26.
- Contour ploughing reduces soil erosion on slopes.
- Terrace farming slows down the flow of water and prevents erosion.
- Strip cropping and shelter belts help check wind erosion.
- Black soil is ideal for cotton cultivation.
- It has high moisture-retaining capacity.
- It develops cracks during hot weather, which helps in aeration.
Q27.
- Women may receive lower wages than men for similar work.
- Women often have limited access to education and employment opportunities in some areas.
- Household responsibilities are disproportionately placed on women.
Q28.
- Job security: Organised sector workers generally enjoy greater job security, while unorganised workers often do not.
- Benefits: Organised workers may receive paid leave, provident fund and other benefits.
- Working conditions: Organised sector activities are regulated by government rules, whereas unorganised workers often lack such protection.
Q29.
- Consumers get a wider variety of products.
- Increased competition can lead to better quality and competitive prices.
- Consumers gain access to products and technologies produced in different countries.
SECTION D – ANSWERS
Q30.
Causes of the Rise of Nationalism in Europe:
- The French Revolution introduced the ideas of liberty, equality and fraternity.
- The growth of liberalism encouraged demands for constitutional government.
- Economic hardship and social inequality contributed to revolutionary movements.
- Romanticism promoted common cultural traditions, language and folk heritage.
- Political movements and wars gradually encouraged the formation of nation-states.
- Romantic artists and poets promoted a sense of shared cultural heritage.
- Folk songs, dances and stories preserved collective memories.
- Language became an important symbol of national identity.
- Polish nationalists used language and music to preserve their identity.
- Cultural traditions helped people imagine themselves as part of one national community.
Q31.
Problems Associated with Indiscriminate Use of Minerals:
- Mineral resources are finite and can be exhausted.
- Mining causes land degradation.
- Mining activities may result in deforestation.
- Mineral processing can cause air and water pollution.
- Mining may displace local communities and disturb ecosystems.
- Use minerals carefully and efficiently.
- Promote recycling and reuse of metals.
- Use substitutes wherever possible.
- Adopt improved mining technologies that reduce wastage.
- Promote renewable sources of energy to reduce dependence on exhaustible resources.
Q32.
Women’s Inequality and Measures:
- Women may face unequal wages and employment opportunities.
- Women often carry a disproportionate share of unpaid household work.
- Educational and political opportunities may remain unequal in some areas.
- Greater representation of women in elected bodies can strengthen their political participation.
- Education, equal employment opportunities and enforcement of laws can reduce discrimination.
- Political parties may select candidates according to caste composition of constituencies.
- Caste groups may demand greater representation and social justice.
- Different caste groups form alliances to influence elections.
- Politics can help disadvantaged caste groups gain representation.
- However, excessive dependence on caste identity may also create social tensions.
Q33.
Importance of the Public Sector:
- It provides essential services such as transport, electricity and healthcare.
- It undertakes projects requiring large investment.
- It promotes employment and regional development.
- It provides services that may not be sufficiently profitable for private companies.
- It works towards broader social and economic objectives.
- Banks and cooperatives generally charge regulated interest rates.
- Borrowers receive clear information about the terms of the loan.
- Formal institutions are supervised by the Reserve Bank of India.
- Formal credit reduces dependence on exploitative moneylenders.
- Affordable credit can support investment, production and income generation.
SECTION E – ANSWERS
Q34.
- (a) Liberty, equality and fraternity. [1]
- (b) Romanticism promoted folk traditions, language, art and cultural heritage, thereby creating a sense of shared identity. [1]
- (c) Nationalism united people around a common identity and encouraged political movements demanding independent nation-states. [2]
Q35.
- (a) Minerals provide essential raw materials for industries and modern infrastructure. [1]
- (b) Bauxite. [1]
- (c) Mining may cause land degradation and deforestation. It can also pollute water and disturb ecosystems. [2]
Q36.
- (a) Citizens can reward or remove representatives through elections based on government performance. [1]
- (b) Democratic decisions often involve discussion, consultation and consideration of different viewpoints. [1]
- (c) Effective democracy requires citizen participation, transparency, accountability, protection of rights and respect for constitutional procedures. Any two. [2]
SECTION F – MAP WORK SOLUTIONS
Q37(a).
- A – Ahmedabad, Gujarat
- B – Nagpur, Maharashtra
Q37(b).
- Tarapur Nuclear Power Plant – Maharashtra
- Visakhapatnam Iron and Steel Plant – Andhra Pradesh
- Paradip Major Sea Port – Odisha
- Mumbai High – Maharashtra