Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 English with Solutions and marking scheme Set 2 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 English Set 2 with Solutions
Time : 3 Hours
Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions :
- The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, WRITING, and LITERATURE.
- Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
Section-A
Reading Skills (22 marks)
1. Read the following text. [12 m]
1. Ghost nets aren’t supernatural, but they are legitimately scary. A ghost net is a fishing net that’s been lost or abandoned in the ocean. They are one particularly appalling part of the global ghost fishing problem, which includes fishing gear abandoned in the water. Any net or line left in the ocean can pose a threat to marine life. Just because a net is no longer used by fishers doesn’t mean it stops working. These nets continue to trap everything in their path, presenting a major problem for the health of our oceans and marine life.
2. Ghost nets entangle sea turtles, dolphins and porpoises, birds, sharks, seals and more, apart from catching fish. The nets keep animals from moving freely, cause injuries and keep mammals and birds from rising to the surface for air. Since hundreds of animals can be caught in a single net, this threat is monumental. The ghost nets harm coral reefs too—breaking corals, exposing them to disease and even blocking the reefs from needed sunlight.
3. Ghost nets are also a major contributor to the ocean plastics’ crisis. Most modern nets are made of nylon or other plastic compounds that can last for centuries. According to a 2018 study in Scientific Reports, ghost nets make up at least 46 percent of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Those abandoned fishing lines and nets that do breakdown never go away; they just become smaller pieces of plastic. Marine animals mistake this microplastic for food and eat it, which can harm internal organs, keep them from eating and expose them to toxic chemicals.
4. Exorcising ghost nets from our oceans will require commitment, cooperation and innovation. Many groups are working to remove ghost nets from the sea and are collaborating with local fishers and governments around the world to identify target areas and remove as many nets as possible. In 2015, a single World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF)-led mission in the Baltic Sea hauled up 268 tons of nets, ropes and other material.
5. To stop these nets from becoming ghosts in the first place, conservation organisations advocate for fishing gear that can be traced to its owner so anyone dumping nets can be fined and refundable deposits on nets to encourage returning or recycling rather than littering. Tools like sonar reflectors that can make ghost nets easier to find and working with small-scale fisheries to develop more sustainable fishing gear and practices are other suggestions. It is only by attacking this problem from all sides, together with conservation partners, fishers and supporters, can we banish ghost nets and protect our oceans.
Adapted: https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/our-oceans-are-haunted-by-ghost-nets-why-that-sscary-andwhat-we-can-do —24
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
i. Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option: [1]
Ghost nets have been named so because they ____________.
A. cause much harm to the marine life.
B. are functional though not in use by fishers.
C. are not owned by anyone.
D. act as a snare for all animals in oceans.
Answer:
C. are not owned by anyone.
ii. Share evidence from the text, in about 40 words to support the view of the writer that ghost nets are a major threat to marine life. [1]
Answer:
The ghost nets abandoned in the ocean are great danger to marine life. Though these nets are no longer in use, they still can entrap fishes and other forms of sea life leading to incidences of sickness and eventual death. If the issue is not addressed in a war footing, the general health of the marine life will be at risk.
iii. List the two ways being entangled in a ghost net is likely to impact a walrus. [2]
(Clue: Think about the type of animal a walrus is)
Answer:
A walrus is a heavy mammal and animal of a large size. Getting entangled in a ghost net can lead to fatal consequences. It will be difficult for the animal to free itself and then they can become easy prey for whales and sharks. An entangled walrus is sure to die if it is not able to free itself before its lungs run out of oxygen.
iv. Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘negligible’, from words used in paragraph two. [1]
A. unimpressive
B. monumental
C. exposing
D. threat
Answer:
B. monumental
v. The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraph three, EXCEPT: [1]
A. Most ghost nets take a few years to completely disintegrate.
B. Ghost nets contribute to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
C. Most ghost nets provide nutrition to marine animals, upon disintegration.
D. Ghost nets can curtail freedom of marine animals.
Answer:
C. Most ghost nets provide nutrition to marine animals, upon disintegration.
vi. Some records share that fishing nets used to be made of common rope using natural fibres, prior to the 1960s. Based on your understanding of paragraph three, list one major advantage that these had over the fishing nets being used in present times. [2]
Answer:
The ropes used prior to 1960s were made of natural fibres which were biodegradable. They would disintegrate in course of time and the fibres being sourced from natural materials didn’t pose health risk to marine life even if they were ingested.
vii. It is fair to say that commitment and innovation have to go hand-in-hand to rid the oceans of ghost nets. Explain in 40 words. [1]
Answer:
It is absolutely right to assert that a lot ofcommitment and innovation will be required to rid the oceans of the ghost nets. Along with commitment, innovative ideas and use of technology is essential for alleviation of the problem. Modem well researched technology will bring down costs and the time for the operation clean-up.
viii. Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference, with respect to the following: [2]
The writer quotes the example of the WWF-led mission in the Baltic Sea (Paragraph 4), in order to _________.
Answer:
attract attention of governments and other environment conservation organisations, that with right commitment and resources, the problem of ghost nests is indeed solvable. The huge mass of ropes, nets etc., amounting to 268 tons pulled out of the Baltic sea is indeed a pointer to the intensity of the problem. Governments need to acknowledge the gravity of the problem and also commit resources required to arrest further degradation of the oceans by abandoned ghost nets.
ix. Select the most suitable title for the above passage. [1]
A. The Scary Side of Ghost Nets
B. Ghost Nets- A Result of Human Dominance
C. Ghost Nets- A Menace to Marine Life
D. Ways to Tackle the Problem of Ghost Nets
Answer:
C. Ghost Nets- A Menace to Marine Life
2. Read the following text. [10 m]
1. It is generally accepted that leadership development should be a part of the education system’s responsibility for preparing individuals to participate in a democratic and progressive society. Many schools, colleges and universities, across nations, provide their students with leadership courses, curricular programs and co-curricular programs that are designed to develop students’ formal knowledge about leadership as well as opportunities and experiences to develop students as leaders and actually practice leadership. Yet, only a handful of studies have sought to understand leader development from the students’ point of view, with students describing their own experiences and what they learned from them in their own words.
2. A 2014 descriptive study sought to understand student leadership with research through key events via the following research questions:
Research Question 1: What key events do student leaders in college, report as significantly impacting their development as a leader?
Research Question 2: What lessons do student leaders in college, report learning as a result of the key events they have experienced?
Research Question 3: Are certain key events more likely to be linked to particular lessons?
Approximately 130 students were contacted and the 72 interested, were interviewed. Two members of the research team were present for each 15-45-minute interview. One member served as the primary interviewer while the second ran the audio equipment. The results for lessons learned (Table 1), were varied, but there were a few that were frequently quoted.
| Table 1 | |||
| Lessons learned | Responses | Lessons learned | Responses |
| Identity | Support Systems | ||
| Self-Identity | 58 | Developing and Using Support Systems | 36 |
| Leadership Identity | 54 | Being a Support System | 28 |
| Professionalism | 30 | Working with Others | |
| Balancing Roles | 19 | Communications | 59 |
| Individual Competencies | Teamwork | 26 | |
| Delegation | 17 | Conflict | 21 |
| Decisions Making | 15 | Diversity | 32 |
| Adaptability /Flexibility | 38 | Inspiring and Motivating others | 17 |
| Resilience/Persistence/Hard work | 18 | Other working with others | 30 |
| Taking Initiative | 36 | Getting the Job Done | |
| Accountability/Responsibility | 29 | Task Skills | 55 |
| Big Picture | 27 | Environment | 34 |
| Learning to Teach/Learn | 18 | ||
3. This study described the rich array of leadership lessons that students are learning through their experiences. It revealed that student leaders are learning foundational leadership skills and competencies that have positively impacted how to accomplish work, how to work with others and how to be both supported by and support others.
Adapted: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/264696744_Key_Events_in_Student_Leaders’_Lives_and_Lessons_Leamed_from_Them
Answer the following questions, based on given passage.
i. Does the following statement agree with the information given in paragraph 1?
The researcher believes that educational institutions have ideal resources to study impact of leadership skills on young adults.
Select from the following: [2]
True: if the statement agrees with the information.
False: if the statement contradicts the information.
Not Given: if there is no information on this.
Answer:
False
ii. Do you think the researchers of the study aimed to change the students’ outlook towards the development of leadership skills, directly or indirectly? Support your answer with reference to the text. [1]
Answer:
No, the study never aimed at changing the students’ outlook towards development of leadership skills. Rather the purpose of the research was to gain a students’ perspective on leadership programs being run in the educational institutions, with the objective of understanding to as to how the programs can be bettered or even redesigned if required.
iii. Select the option that displays the most likely reason for including Research Question 3 in the 2014 study. [1]
In order to find out if…
A. learning opportunities shape students’ overall personality.
B. leadership lessons are the result of the designed learning opportunities.
C. all learning opportunities cater to a specific lesson.
D. certain lessons are common in more than one learning opportunity.
Answer:
D. certain lessons are common in more than one learning opportunity.
iv. Complete the sentence based on the following statement. [1]
More than 50% of the identified student respondents were keen to participate in the 2014 study.
We can say this because ________.
Answer:
We can say this because out of 130 students, 72 had consented to the procedure of the research and allowed themselves to be interviewed by the researchers.
v. Select the option that displays the key event designed with “Balancing Roles” (Table 1) as the objective. [1]
A. Students will be able to debate the issue at hand, with different teams.
B. Students will be able to manage the responsibilities of a mentor, planner researcher and presenter.
C. Students will be able to surmount minor problems and focus on the final goal.
D. Students will be able to explain concepts and clarify them for peers.
Answer:
B. Students will be able to manage the responsibilities of a mentor, planner researcher and presenter.
vi. The lessons for ‘Individual competencies’ had a range of responses. [2]
Give one reason why having the least number of responses for ‘Decision Making’, is a matter that needs attention.
Answer:
The ability and willingness to take decisions is one of the paramount attributes of leadership. Any student not being able to exhibit this quality during the leadership courses and curriculum programs need to be monitored intensely. The least number of responses for ‘decision making’ also leads to the conclusion that the leadership programs being run by the educational institutes, may be lacking or may have given scant attention to this particular content in their courses.
vii. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option. [1]
The concluding sentence of the text makes a clear case for __________ by listing it as a core competency for student leadership.
A. collaboration
B. flexibility
C. hard work
D. observation
Answer:
A. collaboration
viii. Based on the reading of the text, state a point to challenge the given statement. [1]
When theoretical knowledge about leadership suffices, it is a waste of funds by educational organisations to organise leadership camps and programmes.
Answer:
Leadership is a very complex attribute, and any amount of theoretical knowledge to imbibe it among the students will always be incomplete for its development. It must be noted here that some of the greatest leaders this world has produced, never had any education on how to become a good leader. The best way to educate and develop leadership qualities in students is through practical trainings, the contents of which should be carefully researched before introducing.
Section-B
Creative Writing Skills
Note: All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment purpose.
3. Attempt ANY ONE of two, in about 50 words. [4]
A. You are Josely Mathew, the President of the School Book Club. The club is organising a drive for promoting reuse of study materials and books. Draft a notice in about 50 words, for the school notice board, addressing students of classes X-XII, informing them about this drive and urging them to contribute to the endeavour. Mention how the donated books would benefit a charitable cause.
Answer:
| School Book Club Notice Book Donation Drive 17 September 20XX |
OR
B. As the House Captain of A.B.M. Public School, Telangana, draft a notice in not more than 50 words for the school notice board, informing House members from X-XII about the change in topic and submission dates for Round 1 of ‘Discovery’, – the upcoming Inter- House Reasearch-based Paper Presentation Competition. Do not forget to issue an apology for the above. You are Kruthika Reddy.
Answer:
| A.B.M. Public School, Telaengana Notice Change of Topic and Date-Discovery 18 September 20XX |
4. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below. [4]
A. Draft an invitation in about 50 words, on behalf of your aunt, Meghna Menon, which she has to share to invite prior work colleagues to the inaugural event of her own investment consultancy firm, in the Acer mall, Kozhikode, Kerala.
Answer:
| MEGHNA MENON Requests the Benign Presence of all her Ex- Colleagues to the Inaugural Event of her CONSULTANCY FIRM Do grace the occasion with your presence Date: 6 Oct. 20XX |
OR
B. You are Dr. Aryan Varma, a scientist at Dr. Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh. You have been formally invited to a public function as the chief guest but due to sudden illness, you are unable to attend the function. Write a formal reply
Answer:
| 14th September, 20XX
Dr. Aryan Verma thanks the secretary of Lion’s Club for their kind invitation to act as the chief guest Best wishes, |
5. Attempt ANY ONE of two, in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. You are Minu Sen, employed as an Asst. Manager for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in your current company in Hyderabad. You saw the given advertisement in the newspaper and wish to apply for the position advertised.
Write a letter to Credit Sage Pvt. Ltd. along with your bio-data, expressing your interest in the situation vacant.
Answer:
Cap Gemini Software Co. Ltd.
M.G. Road,
Hyderabad
September 19, 20XX
Credit Sage Pvt Ltd.
Nashik
Subject: Application for the post of Corporate Social Responsibility Manager (CSR)
Sir,
This is in reference to your advertisement for the post of Corporate Social Responsibility Manager (CSR) Head, in the Times of India dated September 19, 20XX.
I have been working in my current position as an Assistant Manager for CSR activities for the last four years and I have successfully executed several CSR projects for my company. My experience includes direct handling of rural CSR projects, wherein my company had adopted villages and was involved in creating awareness related to sanitation, hygiene issues for women and general cleanliness of the villages.
Besides this, I had also been involved with liaison activities with both government and government organisations for my company’s other CSR activities.
Given my experience in the given field, I believe I am the right candidate for the advertised position. I have enclosed my bio-data for your kind perusal.
Thank you,
Yours faithfully,
Minu Sen
OR
B. “There have been increased reporting of cases of domestic violence during the period of nationwide lockdown. This shows a grave scenario that being forced to stay indoors is proving to be harmful for the mental health of many people”. Write a letter to the editor of a daily local and create awareness about this issue. You are Ajay/Akriti Pathak of 5A, Misty Heights, Dehradun.
Answer:
5-A, Misty Heights
Dehradun
23 April, 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
Dehradun
Subject: Keeping good mental health during lockdown
Madam/ Sir,
Through this letter, I would like to draw your attention towards the growing number of cases of domestic violence during the period of nationwide lockdown.
Being forced to stay home with their families is proving to be bothersome for some people. Their behaviour is becoming erratic and restless, resulting in family quarrels. The situation has risen to physical assault in many cases.
For those people who are finding it hard to deal with the current situations, there needs to be some help given. It can be in the form of providing online counselling sessions or airing informative commercials on keeping good mental health on mass medial.
I request you to publish my letter in your in the esteemed columns of your newspaper to create awareness and motivate the government authorities and capable organisations to set up counselling centres and address this issue at the earliest.
Your faithfully,
Ajay/Akriti Patahak
6. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below. [4]
A. The construction sector is believed to be quite hazardous and has the maximum number of fatal work injuries because apart from other causes, stakeholders in this sector tend to ignore safety regulations.
As a columnist for an e-magazine, draft an article in about 120-150 words, on the theme of the importance of worker safety in construction zones. Explore possible reasons for the prevailing situation and include suggestions for addressing it. Support your ideas with cues given below.
|
HEADLINES
|
Answer:
Construction Workers: Safety in Jeopardy
By Riya Sen
The construction sector is posing a challenge for its own workers. Long hours at the site with unregulated work load has exposed the workers to fatigue and leading to accidents. Very little worker’s compensation adds to the problem.
The workforce toils through extreme weather with the threat of landslides, especially at the hilly mining sites. Most such sites have stories of bodies piling up under the soil due to both man-made and natural hazards. The fatality rate has been increasing and is largely ignored by the authorities. The managers seem to be blind to the plight of the workers.
The need of the hour is to update the safety standards and regulations to ensure worker safety. Though the question, “will training programs help this?”, is yet to be answered, immediate action has to be taken to prevent the rising fatality rates.
OR
B. The construction sector is believed to be quite hazardous and has the maximum number of fatal work injuries. A safety fair was organised by ‘Building Safely’, an NGO in Mysore, Karnataka with the overarching theme pertaining to the importance of worker safety in construction zones. You were asked to cover this event as the junior correspondent of a local daily. Write a report covering this event in about 120-150 words. Support your ideas with outline cues given below, to craft your newspaper report.
|
Safety Fairs: Programmes • Toolbox talks • Video dedication for the deceased • Speeches • Safety games |
Answer:
Safety first for the construction sector
By Ambika Mohapatra, Junior Correspondent
Mysore,17 September: Building safely, an NGO has organised a safety fair for workers and managers of construction sites in Mysore, on Saturday. The event was dedicated to safety awareness with speeches from relevant authorities. Safety games brought in a fun element to the fair. The overarching theme ‘Worker safety needs to be a priority in worker zones’ also saw the inauguration of special insurance programs for the workers. The emergency response drill brought out the loopholes as well as information about the system. The attendees were also hosted to a lunch with the bosses of the construction syndicate. ‘Our knowledge of safety regulations and our rights as workers has increased greatly today” said a worker who did not want to be named. The satisfaction among the people seem to be a testimony to the need of such fairs in the future.
Section – C
LITERATURE: TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY READING TEXT
7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given. [6]
A. I looked again at her, wan pale
as a late. winter’s moon and felt that old
familiar ache, my childhood’sfear,
but all I said was, see you soon,
Amma,
all I did was smile and smile and
smile……(My Mother at Sixty-Six)
i. What is the speaker’s emotional state when looking at her mother?
A. Confused and disoriented
B. Nostalgic and longing
C. Empathetic and understanding
D. Fearful and apprehensive
Answer:
D. Fearful and apprehensive
[The speaker mentions feeling an “old familiar ache” and “childhood’s fear” of losing her comes alive when looking at she looks at her mother. This suggests a sense of fear or apprehension that is rooted in the speaker’s past experiences with her mother.]
ii. What does the use of the word “but” at the beginning of the line, ‘ but all I said..’, suggest?
Answer:
It suggests a contrast between the speaker’s internal emotional response and her outward behaviour.
iii. Select the word that WILL NOT complete the sentence appropriately.
The description of the mother as “wan, pale / as a late winter’s moon” creates a vivid image of:
A. vulnerability
B. sensitivity
C. frailty
D. mortality
Answer:
B. sensitivity
The word that will not complete the sentence appropriately is sensitivity.
iv. State whether the given statement is TRUE or FALSE.
The poetic device used in the line, ‘pale as a winter’s moon’ is the same as the one used in the line, ‘the winter wind wistfully wailed at night’.
Answer:
The poetic device used in the line, ‘pale as a winter’s moon’ is not the same as the one used in the line, ‘the winter wind wistfully wailed at night’, hence the answer is FALSE because [the poem’s line holds a simile/metaphor whereas the other line is an example of alliteration – ‘w’ sound]
v. What message do these lines highlight, in the context of familial relationships, and the speaker’s sense of anxiety and fear at the prospect of losing her mother?
Answer:
The poem highlights the importance of cherishing and appreciating the people we love, while we still can. [quality time -life is transient and similar]
vi. Complete the sentence appropriately.
The repetition of the word, ‘smile’ suggests that ________.
Answer:
The speaker is trying to hold back her emotions and remain composed, despite the pain she feels at parting from her mother.
OR
B. And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imaginedfor the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read:
An endlessfountain ofimmortal drink,
Pouring unto usfrom the heaven’s brink.
(A Thing ofBeauty)
i. Which of the following themes is best represented in the given extract?
A. The beauty of nature
B. The power of imagination
C. The immortality of art and literature
D. The inevitability of death
Answer:
C. The immortality of art and literature
[The extract emphasises the idea that the tales of the mighty dead are an “endless fountain of immortal drink” that pour down to us from the heavens, suggesting that these stories and legends are timeless and will never truly die. This theme speaks to the enduring power of art and literature to transcend time and space and to continue to inspire and move people long after their creators have passed away.]
ii. State whether the given statement is TRUE or FALSE, with reference to the extract.
By referring to the dead as “mighty”, the poet emphasizes their importance and the power they exerted on the people.
Answer:
FALSE
[The dead are referred to as “mighty” in the poem because they have achieved greatness in their lifetime.
They may have contributed to society in a significant way or achieved great things in their respective fields. It is not about the power they exerted on the people. By referring to them as “mighty,” the poet emphasizes their importance and the positive impact or influence they have had on the world.]
iii. Complete the sentence appropriately.
The “endless fountain of immortal drink” is an apt analogy for the tales of the mighty dead because __________.
Answer:…just as a fountain constantly pours forth water, the tales of the mighty dead pour forth endless inspiration and wisdom for the living.
[The term “immortal drink” suggests that the stories are never-ending and that they have the power to sustain us much in the same way that water does.]
iv. The use of the word “brink” in the extract suggests that the immortality that is being poured onto us is on the verge of overflowing. This creates a powerful image of _________.
Answer:
abundance
[The use of the word “brink” in the poem suggests that the immortality that is being poured onto us is on the verge of overflowing. This powerful image suggests that the beauty and grandeur of the dooms are so great that they are overflowing from heaven. This image of abundance reinforces the idea that the beauty and grandeur of the dooms are endless and that there is an infinite supply of it.]
v. Based on the poem rhyme scheme, evident in lines 2-5, of the given extract, which word would rhyme with line 1?
Answer:
tombs [rhymes with dooms , which is the last word of line 1]
vi. Complete the sentence appropriately.
The mention of ‘the grandeur of the dooms’ suggests _________.
Answer:
The great tales of long-gone heroes.
8. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given. [4]
A. Climate change is one of the most hotly contested environmental debates ofour time. Will the West Antarctic ice sheet melt entirely? Will the GulfStream ocean current be disrupted? Will it be the end of the world as we know it? Maybe. Maybe not. Either way, Antarctica is a crucial element in this debate — not just because it’s the only place in the world, which has never sustained a human population and therefore remains relatively ‘pristine’ in this respect; but more importantly, because it holds in its ice-cores half-million-year-old carbon records trapped in its layers of ice. (Journey to the End of the Earth)
i. How does the absence of a human population in Antarctica make it significant in the climate change debate?
Answer:
This makes it an important reference point for understanding the effects of human activities on the environment and the potential impacts of climate change.
[The absence of a human population in Antarctica means that the region is relatively pristine and has not been subject to the same levels of human impact as other areas of the world.]
ii. Why is “climate change” described as a “hotly contested” issue in the extract provided?
This is so, because there __________.
A. is universal agreement on the causes and implications of climate change
B. is a planned path ahead about how to address climate change
C. are differing views on the causes and implications of climate change
D. are minimal reports of fresh threats to climate change
Answer:
C. are differing views on the causes and implications of climate change
iii. The analogy of a time machine is an appropriate analogy for the role of carbon records in the study of climate change because:
Answer:
just like a time machine would allow us to observe past events, carbon records allow us to observe past climatic conditions.
[Carbon records allow us to study past climates by analysing the air bubbles trapped in ice cores. They provide a glimpse into the Earth’s atmospheric conditions at the time the ice was formed and can help scientists understand how the climate has changed over time.]
iv. Give one reason why the writing style of the extract can be called factual and informative.
Answer:
1. Because the writer presents information in a straightforward and objective manner
2. Because the writer applies a third-person point of view and avoids the use of personal opinion or emotional language
3. Because the writer uses a logical structure to present her argument (Starting with the importance of Antarctica as a relatively pristine location, and then moving on to explain the significance of the ice cores and carbon records found there)
OR
B. DERRY: You’re … peculiar. You say peculiar things. You ask questions I don’t understand.
MR LAMB: I like to talk. Have company. You don’t have to answer questions. You don’t have to stop here at all. The gate’s open.
DERRY: Yes, but…
MR LAMB: I’ve a hive of bees behind those trees over there. Some hear bees and they say, bees buzz. But when you listen to bees for a long while, they hum…. and hum means ‘sing’. I hear them singing, my bees.
DERRY: But…I like it here. I came in because I liked it…..when I looked over the wall.
MR LAMB: If you’d seen me, you’d not have come in.
DERRY: No. (On the Face of It)
i. List the playwright’s purpose of using ellipses (…) in this extract.
Answer:
The character pauses, searching for words to put for his thought.
ii. Select the option that best describes Derry and Mr. Lamb in the extract.
A. Derry: introvert; Mr. Lamb: friendly
B. Derry: fearful; Mr. Lamb: domineering
C. Derry: friendly; Mr. Lamb: weird
D. Derry: open minded; Mr. Lamb: charming
Answer:
A. Derry: introvert; Mr. Lamb: friendly
iii. Which of the following best summarises Mr. Lamb’s attitude towards the bees?
A. Beauty is being true to yourself.
B. There is a kind of beauty in imperfection.
C. Beauty is the promise of happiness.
D. The beauty of the world lies in the details
Answer:
D. The beauty of the world lies in the details.
iv. Derry says, “I came in here because I liked it …” What was the one significant thing Derry might have liked about the place, as per the extract?
Answer:
Must have been attracted by the greenery and the solitude it provided from people.
9. Attempt ANY ONE of two extracts given. [6]
A. A girl from the countryside, she hadn’t gone through all the stages of worldly experience that generally precede a position of importance and sophistication that she had found herself catapulted into. She never quite recovered from the terror she felt that day. That was the end of a brief and brilliant acting career — the legal adviser, who was also a member of the Story Department, had unwittingly brought about that sad end. While every other member of the Department wore a kind of uniform — khadi dhoti with a slightly oversized and clumsily tailored white khadi shirt — the legal adviser wore pants and a tie and sometimes a coat that looked like a coat of mail. Often, he looked alone and helpless … (Poets and Pancakes)
i. Select the option that completes the given sentence appropriately.
‘Stages of worldly experience’ in the given context would refer to .
A. good education to gain knowledge.
B. situations that require one to be street smart.
C. smaller, not so important roles in acting.
D. training in soft skills.
Answer:
B. situations that require one to be street smart.
ii. Select the suitable word from the extract to complete the following analogy:
sealed: closed :: propelled: ___________.
Answer:catapulted
iii. Select the correct option to fill in the blank.
The harm done to the actress was a/an ___________.
A. well-planned act.
B. unintentional act.
C. act of jealousy.
D. act of male dominance.
Answer:
B. unintentional act.
iv. Based on the above extract, choose the statement that is TRUE for the legal adviser.
A. He disliked the actress from the countryside.
B. He acted after thinking through things carefully.
C. He did not gel well with others in the Department.
D. He was always dressed smartly.
Answer:
C. He did not gel well with others in the Department.
v. Identify the textual clue that allows the reader to infer that the writer is sympathetic towards the professional fate of the actor. (Clue: a phrase)
Answer:
sad end
vi. Complete the sentence with an appropriate explanation, as per the extract.
The writer uses the word ‘uniform’ to refer to the outfits of the Department members because just like a uniform ____________.
Answer:
signifies common code, the apparels of the Department members, loose khadi shirt and khadi dhoti, were nearly the same or uniform with each other
OR
B. Unaware of what his name represents, he roams the streets with his friends, an army of barefoot boys who appear like the morning birds and disappear at noon. Over the months, I have come to recognise each of them.
“Why aren’t you wearing chappals?” I ask one.
“My mother did not bring them down from the shelf,” he answers simply.
“Even if she did, he will throw them off,” adds another who is wearing shoes that do not match. When I comment on it, he shuffles his feet and says nothing. “I want shoes,” says a third boy who has never owned a pair all his life. Travelling across the country I have seen children walking barefoot, in cities, on village roads. It is not lack of money but a tradition to stay barefoot, is one explanation. (Lost Spring)
i. What is the writer’s purpose in allowing the boys to speak for themselves via dialogue, as opposed to
only a writer’s commentary?
Answer:
To give voice to their hopes, dreams, and struggles in a way that is immediate and relatable.
ii. The line, “It is not lack of money but a tradition to stay barefoot” can be best classified as:
A. A fact
B. An opinion
C. A theme
D. A plot point
Answer:
B. An opinion
iii. Explain any one possible inference that can be drawn from the line, “an army of barefoot boys who appear like the morning birds and disappear at noon”.
Answer:
The boys come from poor or marginalised backgrounds who do not have the means to buy footwear yet they are lively and energetic like the ‘morning birds’. They dirappear by noon as they return to their homes.
iv. Identify the line from the text that bears evidence to the fact that the writer7s association with the boys is not a recent one.
Answer:
The line from the text: “Over the months, I have come to recognize each of them.”
v. Based on the context provided in the extract, select the most likely comment that the writer would have made, based on the boy’s reaction to the mismatched shoes.
A. “Why are your shoes mismatched? That’s not a good look.”
B. “Don’t worry about your shoes, you can wear a matching pair later.”
C. “I like your shoes. What matters is that they protect your feet.”
D. “Have you chosen to mismatch your shoes?
Answer:
C. “I like your shoes. What matters is that they protect your feet.”
vi. Complete the sentence with ONE word.
The phrase “he answers simply”, suggests that the boy’s response to the writer’s question about why he wasn’t wearing chappals was _________.
Answer:
Straightforward
10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following six question, in about 40-50 words. [5×2=10]
i. “You realise the true value of a thing only on losing it.” Comment on this statement in the light of the story, The Last Lesson.
Answer:
Prussians ban on the French language in the districts of Alsace and Lorraine actually woke the French from their slumber of taking everything in life too easily. Citizens including little Franz realised their horrific loss and the lesson which till the other day had been so boring and difficult to understand had never felt so interesting and simple to Franz as on the last day.
ii. What can be inferred from the statement made by Anees Jung when she writes ‘Garbage to them is gold’ with reference to the children and elders of Seemapuri?
Answer:
Without knowing skills of productive work to eke out a living these ragpickers, have nothing to except picking up ‘item for recycling that makes a bottom line of there livelihood. It is with this intent that Anees Jung expresses that ‘Garbage to them is gold.’
iii. If the Christmas spirit is about selflessness, forgiveness and becoming ‘better7 versions of ourselves amongst other things, Edla Willmansson is the epitome of this spirit. Justify with two points of evidence from The Rattrap.
Answer:
Edla despite knowing the truth about the peddler gave him shelter and treated him with full respect. As remarked by her father that she preached worse than the priest. This proves her most powerfully as the epitome of the Christmas spirit. She even invited the peddler next year for Christmasiv.
iv. How might the message of the poem, ‘Aunt Jennifer7s Tigers’ be different, if the following last four lines were omitted?
When Aunt is dead, her terrified hands will lie
Still ringed with ordeals she was mastered by.
The tigers in the panel that she made
Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid.
Answer:
1. If the last four lines were omitted, the poem would have a more sombre tone.
2. Without the image of the tigers continuing to prance, the poem would end on a note of despair, with Aunt Jennifer’s hands still ringed with the ordeals she was mastered by.
3. The message of the poem would refer to the oppression and suffering of women, without any hope for liberation.
[By ending the poem on these lines, the author achieves a sense of hope and transcendence. The image of the tigers continuing to prance, proud and unafraid, suggests that there is a way to transcend the oppression and suffering of women, even if it is only through art. The poet suggests that art can provide a kind of liberation, even in the face of social and cultural constraints.]
v. How would you describe the character and temperament of Sophie’s father? (Going places)
Answer:
Sophie’s father is an archetype of the lower-middle class father who has worked hard in uncompromising conditions in order to earn a livelihood for his family. After his day’s work, he watched television instead of spending time with his family or sharing family responsibilities with his wife. He expects Sophie to buy them a new house instead of engaging in her expensive dream ambitions if she gets a chance to earn money. His impoverished financial condition does not, however, stop him from watching the football match, or later, going to the pub for celebration. He is shown as a practical, but self-centered and shorttempered person.
vi. Umberto Eco, with reference to “The Name of the Rose” says, “l think if I had written The Name of the Rose ten years earlier or ten years later, it wouldn’t have been the same.” What could he have meant?
Answer:
- Umberto Eco suggests that the success of his book, “The Name of the Rose,” was largely due to timing. He believes that if he had written the book ten years earlier or ten years later, it wouldn’t have had the same impact.
- This could be interpreted as Eco recognising the importance of cultural context and how the reception of a work of art is influenced by the historical, social, and political climate of its time.
- Eco might be suggesting that the themes and ideas he explored in his novel resonated particularly strongly with readers in the cultural moment in which it was published and that this moment was fleeting. Therefore, if he had written the book earlier or later, it might not have been as relevant or timely, and might not have captured the same level of attention and interest.
11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. [2×2=4]
i. Apparent illogicality sometimes turns out to be a futuristic projection? Discuss. (The Third Level)
Answer:
Human being is known to be the most intelligent among all the creatures that possess an imaginative brain. Sometimes, the human brain can visualise the things which are unbelievable for the rest of the world. All the inventions might have sprouted in some brains of the people in the past and have now taken a deep root and have become a part of our daily life.
But another truth is that all the illogicality can’t become reality as projected in the story as a person cannot move from one era to another, in order to escape from the harsh realities of life.
ii. ‘It is better to have tried and failed than never to have tried at all’. How would you relate this observation to the author of the episode ‘The Cutting of My Long Hair’? (Memories of Childhood)
Answer:
This indicates her revolt against the practice. Knowing that she could not prevail against the authorities, she struggles against the injustice. She clearly believed that even if she doesn’t succeed in resisting the injustice, she should not have the regret of never having tried.
iii. Answer the question in the context of the following lines from. (The Enemy)
“Stupid Yumi,” she muttered fiercely. “Is this anything but a man? And a wounded helpless man!”
In the conviction of her own superiority she bent impulsively and untied the knotted rugs that kept the white man covered.
Explain the superiority Hana is convinced about.
Answer:
In the given lines, Hana is expressing her frustration with Yumi, who is hesitant to help her with the wounded white man. In these lines, she is asserting her own intervention and belief in the importance of doing the right thing, even if it goes against traditional values or societal norms in the name of patriotism and loyalty to the nation. This demonstrates her sense of moral superiority over Yumi, who is more concerned with following the strict rules of her society to stick to inhuman loyalty and patriotism towards one’s country than with helping a fellow human being.
12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. [5]
i. Imagine you are Pablo Neruda, the poet of Keeping Quiet.
What advice might you offer to Robert Frost, the poet of A Roadside Stand, in the context of his conflicted emotions, as displayed in the given lines:
The requisite lift of spirit has never been found,
Or so the voice of the country seems to complain,
I can’t help owning the great relief it would be
To put these people at one stroke out of their pain.
Pen down your advice, in a letter to Frost.
You may begin this way:
Dear Robert
I recently read your poem, “A Roadside Stand,” and…
You may end this way:
I hope this advice is helpful to you. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to support you.
Warmly,
Pablo Neruda
Answer:
Dear Robert,
I recently read your poem, “A Roadside Stand,” and was struck by the conflicting emotions that you expressed towards the end. I understand that it can be difficult to make decisions when we are overwhelmed by our emotions.
In my own experience, I have found that taking a moment of stillness and reflection can be very helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the situation and connecting with our own humanity and that of others. This is the message that I try to convey in my poem, “Keeping Quiet.”
I would advise you to take a moment to be still and contemplative before making any decisions about the fate of the people at the roadside stand. By quieting your mind and being present in the moment, you may be able to understand their struggles and pain objectively, and gain a new perspective about your own place in the world too. I also feel that by breaking from your routine and taking a moment of stillness and reflection, you might gain a deeper understanding of the situation and make a more functional decision.
I believe that this moment of reflection could help you to see beyond your conflicting emotions. We are all human, after all, and before connecting with others, and resolving their issues, we must try to connect with our own selves to advice from a place of balance and calm. I hope this advice is helpful to you. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to support you.
Warmly,
Pablo Neruda
OR
ii. The different portrayals of women in the texts ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’, ‘Going Places’, ‘Lost Spring’, and ‘My Mother at Sixty-six’, offer insights into the experiences of women in society.
You have been asked to address your peers and share –
→ the ways these portrayals highlight the diversity of the female experience.
→ the importance of understanding each individual woman’s challenges and experiences.
Compose this draft, with reference to any three of these prescribed texts listed above.
You may begin this way:
Good morning, everyone.
As I analysed the allotted texts…
You may end this way.
To conclude, I’d like to say that …
Answer:
Good morning, everyone.
As I analysed the allotted texts, I noticed that though each portrayal of women was unique, they all offered varied insights into the experiences of women in society. To begin with, Aunt Jennifer was portrayed as a victim of patriarchy, living in a world where women were expected to conform to societal norms and expectations and was unable to attain freedom and strength she desired, due to the limitations imposed upon her by society.
In contrast, Sophie was portrayed as ambitious and determined to break free from societal norms. She refused to be limited by her gender and sought to challenge the restrictions placed upon her. Sophie’s mother, on the other hand, from a generation prior, had chosen to conform and sacrifice her individuality to societal expectations.
Similarly in “Lost Spring,” the grandmother and daughter-in-law, in Firozabad, were portrayed as resilient in the face of poverty and the societal constraints of their caste. However, unlike Sophie’s and Aunt Jennifer’s need to find an outlet, they found ways to make the best of their situation, despite the limitations placed upon them.
When we analyse the portrayal of the aged mother, in “My Mother at Sixty-six,”, she is presented as vulnerable and in need of protection. Sadly, it does make one wonder about the unaddressed vulnerability of Sophie’s mother and the grandmother in “Lost Spring”. A point worth considering is that Kamala Das’ mother’s acceptance of her circumstances comes across as a voluntary decision, whereas that of the women in “Lost Spring” is a akin to resignation.
These portrayals of women offer valuable insights into the experiences of women in our society from victimization to the resilience in the face of poverty and discrimination – and offer us important lessons about strength, vulnerability, and the need for empathy and respect.
To conclude, I’d like to say that as readers, we can learn from their experiences and strive towards a more equitable and just society. These characters, stress that it is important to recognise the complexities of each woman’s experiences, and refrain from passing sweeping judgements as women are not a uniform group, but rather unique individuals.
13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. [5]
i. When Derry grows up into a confident young man, he reflects on the incident of his meeting with Mr Lamb. He wonders how Mr Lamb would have felt if he had seen him today.
As a grown-up Derry, write a diary entry expressing his thoughts and feelings of gratitude for Mr. Lamb for moulding him into a man of confidence.
Answer:
12 April 2023
Thursday
Today as I walked down the street, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much I have changed since I first met Mr Lamb. I remember how timid and unsure of myself I was back then. But now I am a totally changed person.
Today when I feel proud of my progress, I really wonder what Mr. Lamb would think of me now. He was such a kind and supportive person. He saw some potential in me even when I didn’t see it in myself.
I think he would have been proud to see the person that I have become, and it all goes to his credit. He had a big role in shaping me into a man of substance. But at the same time, it is really sad that he is not here to see it for himself.
I miss him and his kind words. As I continue my journey, I will always carry with me the lessons I learned from him. I will always be grateful for the time I spent with him and for the person he helped me to become.
Derry
OR
ii. A grown-up Zitkala-Sa, reflects on the incident about cutting of her long hair and is conflicted that she did not do enough to resist and surrendered easily. She also wonders if she could have tried something else to prevent the incident.
As the grown-up Zitkala-Sa, create a diary entry, expressing these thoughts and conclude by absolving yourself of any blame.
You may begin like this:
I find myself reflecting on an event that happened many years ago. . . (Memories of childhood)
Answer:
I find myself reflecting on an event that happened many years ago, one that has continued to haunt me ever since. It is the incident where my long hair was forcefully cut off at the Carlisle Indian School. As I sit here today, I cannot help but feel conflicted about my actions that day.
On one hand, I am proud that I stood up for myself and refused to submit to their demands at first. I still remember the fire in my belly as I declared that I would struggle before giving in. However, as time passed, my spirit wavered, and eventually, I allowed them to cut my hair. Looking back now, I cannot help but feel that I gave in too easily, that I did not do enough to resist.
As I ponder over what I could have done differently, I realise that there might have been other options too which never came across my mind then. Perhaps I could have sought help from my fellow students. Maybe I could have tried to escape or find another way out of the situation. But in that moment, I was so overwhelmed and confused that I could not think straight.
I know that I have blamed myself for this incident for far too long. But today, I choose to absolve myself of any blame. As a young girl, I forced into a strange place. I was not given the chance to make my own choices, to decide what was best for me. I was a victim of a system that sought to strip away my identity and forced me to assimilate.
Today, I choose to forgive myself and honour the brave little girl who stood up for herself that day. I am grateful for her courage and strength, and I will continue to honour her memory by fighting for justice and equality for all.