Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 English with Solutions and marking scheme Set 3 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 English Set 3 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]
I always liked McArdle, the crabbed, old, round-backed, red-headed news editor, and I rather hoped that he liked me. Of course, Beaumont was the real boss; but he lived in the rarefied atmosphere of some Olympian height from which he could distinguish nothing smaller than an international crisis or a split in the Cabinet.
Sometimes we saw him passing in lonely majesty to his inner sanctum, with his eyes staring 5 vaguely and his mind hovering over the Balkans or the Persian Gulf. He was above and beyond us. But McArdle was his first lieutenant, and it was he that we knew. The old man nodded as I entered the room, and he pushed his spectacles far up on his bald forehead.
“Well, Mr. Malone, from all I hear, you seem to be doing very well,” said he in his kindly Scotch accent.
I thanked him.
“The colliery explosion was excellent. So was the Southwark fire. You have the true descriptive touch. What did you want to see me about?”
“To ask a favor.”
He looked alarmed, and his eyes shunned mine. “Tut, tut! What is it?”
“Do you think, Sir, that you could possibly send me on some mission for the paper? I would do my best to put it through and get you some good copies.”
“What sort of mission had you in your mind, Mr. Malone?”
“Well, Sir, anything that had adventure and danger in it. I really would do my very best.
The more difficult it was, the better it would suit me.”
“You seem very anxious to lose your life.”
“To justify my life, Sir.”
“Dear me, Mr. Malone, this is very —very exalted. I’m afraid the day for this sort of thing is rather past.
The expense of the ‘special mission’ business hardly justifies the result, and, of course, in any case it would only be an experienced man with a name that would command public confidence who would get such an order. The big blank spaces in the map are all being filled in, and there’s no room for romance anywhere. Wait a bit, though!” he added, with a sudden smile upon his face.
“Talking of the blank spaces of the map gives me an idea. What about exposing a fraud —a modern Munchausen—and making him ridiculous? You could show him up as the liar that he is! Eh, man, it would be fine. How does it appeal to you?”
“Anything— anywhere — I care nothing.”
Mc Ardle was plunged in thought for some minutes.
“I wonder whether you could get on friendly—or at least on talking terms with the fellow,” he said, at last.
(Adapted-The Lost World by Arthur Conan Doyle/441 words)
Answer the following questions based on the passage above.
i. Select the option which indicates that Beaumont’s attention is focused on high level significant events and political matters, making him detached from the daily workings of the newsroom, correctly. [1]
A. “Passing in lonely majesty to his inner sanctum,”
B. “He lived in the rarefied atmosphere of some Olympian height”
C. “He was above and beyond us.”
D. “Could distinguish nothing smaller than an international crisis or a split in the Cabinet.”
Answer:
D. “Could distinguish nothing smaller than an international crisis or a split in the Cabinet.”
ii. What does McArdle suggest as a potential subject for Mr. Malone’s mission? [1]
A. Reporting on a natural disaster
B. Investigating a political scandal
C. Exposing a fraudulent individual
D. Documenting a historical event
Answer:
C. Exposing a fraudulent individual
iii. Share evidence from the text, in about 40 words to support the view that the writer’s writing style is descriptive and capturing. [2]
Answer:
The author uses vivid language to paint a picture of the characters and their surroundings, and the dialogue exchanges reveal the author’s ability to create distinct voices for the characters. Quoting a particular evidence: “The colliery explosion was excellent. So was the Southwark fire.” This phrase indicates that the author’s style is descriptive, capturing the vividness of events.
iv. Complete the sentence appropriately with a characteristic or its description.
Based on the information given in the excerpt, one can infer that Beaumont, the boss in the newsroom, can be described as ________________. [1]
Answer:
Based on the information given in the excerpt, one can infer that Beaumont, the boss in the newsroom, can be described as detached or aloof from the day-to-day operations of the newsroom.
v. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase, “He was above and beyond us”. [1]
A. He was distant and detached, both in terms of authority and mindset
B. He was physically taller.
C. He excelled at flying.
D. He surpassed our reporting
Answer:
A. He was distant and detached, both in terms of authority and mindset.
vi. Explain, in about 40 words, why did Mr. Malone always like McArdle? [1]
Answer:
Mr. Malone always liked McArdle because the passage describes McArdle as a crabbed, old, roundbacked, red-headed news editor who was kind to Mr. Malone and showed appreciation for his writing abilities.
vii. In the line, “The colliery explosion was excellent”, what does “colliery explosion” refer to? [2]
Answer:
In this context, it implies that there was an explosion at a coal mine, highlighting the author’s descriptive touch in portraying the event.
viii. How does the line impact the reader, “I wonder whether you could get on friendly—or at least on talking terms with the fellow,” he said, at last. Answer in about 40 words. [2]
Answer:
This line impacts the reader by introducing the possibility of a mission involving interaction with an unknown individual. It sparks curiosity and intrigue as the reader wonders who this “fellow” might be and what kind of relationship Mr. Malone would need to establish with them. It creates anticipation and raises questions about the nature of the mission and the challenges Mr. Malone might encounter.
ix. Read the five Titles (a) -(e), given below: [1]
(a) “Mr. Malone’s Bold Appeal For An Intriguing Venture”
(b) “The Triumphs of Beaumont: A Tale of Newsroom Success”
(c) “Lost in the Map: Mr. Malone’s Quest for Exploration”
(d) “The Secret Mission: Unveiling Scientific Facts”
(e) “McArdle and Mr. Malone – Set For An Ambitious Pursuit.”
Identify the option that displays the title/s that DOES/ DO NOT correspond with the themes of the passage:
A. Only (a)
B. (b) (c) and (d)
C. Only (e)
D. (a) and (e)
Answer:
B. (b) (c) and (d)
2. Read the following text. [10 m]
1. In recent years, there has been a rising concern about the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension among young adults in India. A survey conducted among young adults aged 18-25 aimed to explore the risk factors, complications, and management of hypertension and recorded the percentage variation for 10 common aspects that affect their health.
2. Among those who were diagnosed with hypertension, the most common risk factor cited was family history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease (64%), followed by obesity or overweight (56%). Additionally, hypertensive young adults reported high levels of stress (48%) and low levels of physical activity (42%) as contributing factors to their condition.
3. On the other hand, those who were not diagnosed with hypertension often cited the lack of symptoms (62%) as their primary reason for not getting their blood pressure checked. Other reasons included the lack of awareness (54%) and the lack of access to health care facilities (46%). Additionally, non hypertensive young adults expressed low levels of concern (36%) about developing hypertension in the future.
4. Interestingly, both groups had similar levels of knowledge (38% for hypertensive young adults, 36% for non-hypertensive young adults) about the complications of hypertension, such as stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and vision loss. Similarly, both groups valued the importance of lifestyle modification (36% for hypertensive young adults, 34% for non-hypertensive young adults) such as diet, exercise, weight management, and smoking cessation to prevent or control hypertension.
5. However, there were also some notable differences between the two groups. For example, hypertensive young adults placed a higher priority on medication adherence (34%) compared to non-hypertensive young adults (18%). Conversely, non-hypertensive young adults were more likely to prioritize regular blood pressure monitoring (28%) compared to hypertensive young adults (14%).
6. Overall, the survey results suggest that there is a need for more education, screening, and intervention programs to address the increasing burden of hypertension among young adults in India.
Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.
i. Infer two possible ways that the survey, mentioned in the paragraph (1), could be beneficial. Answer in about 40 words. [2]
Answer:
The survey mentioned in the paragraph could be beneficial in the following ways:
(a) Identifying risk factors: The survey can help identify the common risk factors associated with hypertension among young adults in India.
(b) Informing healthcare policies: The survey findings can provide valuable insights into the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension among young adults.
ii. What was the most common risk factor cited by young adults diagnosed with hypertension in the survey? [1]
A. Lack of awareness
B. Family history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease
C. Obesity or overweight
D. High levels of stress
Answer:
B. Family history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease
iii. What kind of lifestyle modification is advisable to the young adults as per the survey to prevent hypertension? [1]
Answer:
Lifestyle modification such as diet, exercise, weight management, and smoking cessation can prevent or control hypertension.
iv. Identify the hypertensive young adult showing perfect medical adherence from the following three patients: [1]
A. Roshni – 1 love to live in the present. A large hamburger is perfect for me this evening.
B. Naman – I also wish to have large fries for I am already taking medicines regularly to control hypertension.
C. Deepak – 1 wish to have simple low salted meals for medicines.
Answer:
C. Deepak – 1 wish to have simple low salted meals for medicines.
v. What was the primary reason cited by non-hypertensive young adults for not getting their blood pressure checked in the survey. [1]
A. Lack of symptoms
B. Lack of awareness
C. Lack of access to healthcare facilities
D. High levels of stress
Answer:
A. Lack of symptoms
vi. What are some notable differences in priorities between hypertensive and non-hypertensive young adults regarding their approach to managing hypertension? [2]
Answer:
One notable difference is that hypertensive young adults prioritize medication adherence, while non hypertensive young adults prioritize regular blood pressure monitoring as part of their approach to managing hypertension.
vii. Complete the sentence appropriately: [1]
Non-hypertensive young adults expressed low levels of concern about developing hypertension in the future, indicating a need for ____________.
Answer:
Non-hypertensive young adults expressed low levels of concern about developing hypertension in the future, indicating a need for increased awareness and education regarding the long-term health risks associated with hypertension.
viii. State True or False. [1]
Both hypertensive and non-hypertensive young adults had similar levels of knowledge about the complications of hypertension and the importance of lifestyle modification.
Answer:
True
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. Lotus Valley International School has recently launched EcoArt, a dedicated space for displaying artworks made from recycled materials, near the library, on campus. As Ravi Kumar, Secretary of the Art Club, draft a notice for the school notice board, inviting students of classes IX-X, to participate in an EcoArt workshop, during lunch break, on Monday, 13 July. Invite volunteer applications for EcoArt.
Answer:
| Lotus Valley International School NOTICE 17 July 20XX Eco Art Workshop The Art Club invites students of classes IX-X to join an EcoArt workshop on Monday, 13 July, during |
OR
B. You are the Secretary of the Residents’ Welfare Association, Shantinagar, Sector E-4 Society. Draft a notice for the Society notice board, informing residents about the change of timings, Swimming Pool, Block 5 and share necessary details. Also, include the news of renovation of the much awaited gymnasium, on the Western side of the Society.
Answer:
| Residents’ Welfare Association, Shantinagar, Sector E-4 Society NOTICE 15 July 20XX New Timings and Renovation
For queries or suggestions, contact the undersigned. |
4. Attempt ANY ONE of two , in about 50 words. [4]
A. You are the Student Head, Sports Affairs, at D.P. Sr. Sec. School. Your school is organising a 2-day Chess tournament over the weekend, for parents of the school students. Write an invitation, inviting the school parents for this Chess tournament. Share information about the tournament rules and prizes and include other necessary details.
Answer:
|
Chess Tournament The Sports Club invites all parents to join a Chess tournament on 15-16 July, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the RSVP |
OR
B. Shri. Rameshwar Prasad, your grandfather, has received an invitation from his college colleague.
The invite is for the golden jubilee celebration and reunion dinner, marking the 50th anniversary of their wedding. Your grandfather wishes to attend the event but would need to be accompanied by a family member to assist him with his medication. Create an appropriate reply, accepting this invitation, on behalf of your grandfather.
Answer:
| Dear Shri Amitav Chaturvedi,
My grandfather, Shri, Rameshwar Prasad, is very happy to receive your invitation for the golden Yours sincerely, |
5. Attempt ANY ONE of two, in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. You are Harsimran Sethi, a fresh graduate of online journalism, from AIMT, Delhi. You saw the given advertisement in the newspaper and wish to apply for the position advertised. Write a letter to Aarambh News Agency, along with your bio-data, expressing your interest in the advertised post.
| Aarambh News Agency Journalists Wanted Opportunity for aspiring journalists Who do we need? Freshers and Experienced Both are Welcome Required: Degree/Diploma in online journalism Skills: Research, Writing, News Reading Please send your resume to – New India House 248 Near Lodhi Garden, New-Delhi (last date of application 23 July 20XX) |
Answer:
XYZ Apartments, New Delhi,
July 1, 20XX
Aarambh News Agency
456, ABC Street,
New Delhi
Subject: Application for the Advertised Journalism Position
Dear Sir,
I am writing to express my keen interest in the journalism position advertised in your newspaper. As a recent graduate of online journalism from AIMT, Delhi, I have acquired a strong foundation in news reporting, researching, writing, and digital media skills. During my studies, I developed a passion for storytelling and gained hands-on experience through internships. I am adept at presenting accurate information while adhering to ethical journalism practices. I possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and can work effectively within a team.
I believe that my academic background, enthusiasm for journalism, and dedication to delivering unbiased and informative news make me an ideal candidate for this position. Enclosed is my bio-data for your kind perusal.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to Aarambh News Agency and continue my growth as a journalist.
Yours sincerely,
Harsimran Sethi
Enclosure: Bio-data
Biodata:
About:
Harsimran Sethi
Phone: 91XXXXXXXX
E-mail: [email protected]
Profile Summary
A skilled online journalism graduate with a passion for effective communication and in-depth research.
Skills:
- Research
- News Reading
- Article Writing
Education Qualifications:
Online Journalism graduate: AIMT Delhi (2022)
Internship Details:
6-month intership at news 360 as a Research Intern.
Reference:
Professor: Gaurav Agarwal (contact: 91XXXXXXXX)
Professor: Nandita Bhattacharya (contact: 91XXXXXXXX)
Declaration:
I here by declare that the information provided by me is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.
Signature
OR
B. Many people do not follow proper waste management practices and litter the streets and public places with garbage. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, sharing your concern, and exploring the consequences of such behaviour. Provide suggestions for raising awareness of environmental issues and encouraging responsible citizenship. Use the given cues along with your own ideas to compose this letter. You are Priya Singh, a concerned city resident.
→ How? – in-person/ social media
|
Answer:
54 Chittaranjan Park
New Delhi
May 3, 20XX
The Time of India
7 Bahadurshah Zafar Marg
New Delhi 110103
Subject: Urgent Need to Promote Responsible Waste Management for a Cleaner Environment
Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the widespread disregard for proper waste management practices in our city. The lack of responsible behaviour shown by many individuals, resulting in littered streets and public places, has drastic consequences for our environment.
Not only does improper waste disposal pose health risks and degrade the aesthetic appeal of our city, but it also contributes to environmental pollution and harm to animals. The need of the hour is to raise awareness about the importance of responsible waste management and encourage responsible citizenship.
To address this issue, community engagement programs, educational campaigns, and stricter enforcement of waste management regulations should be implemented. Encouraging public participation in cleanliness drives, promoting recycling initiatives, and facilitating easy access to waste disposal facilities are crucial steps towards creating a cleaner and sustainable environment.
Together, let us strive for a city where responsible waste management becomes a collective responsibility, ensuring a greener future for generations to come.
Yours sincerely,
Priya Singh
6. Attempt ANY ONE of two , in about 120-150 words. [4]
A. You are Gunjan Goel of class XII-B. Write an article for your school magazine, sharing the importance of reading books for cognitive development, as a library volunteer in community library, the need to do so and the benefits involved. Use the given cues along with your own ideas to compose this article.
|
Answer:
The Power of Books: Unlocking Growth and Community Development
By Gunjan Goel (Class XII-B)
In a fast-paced world driven by technology and instant gratification, the importance of reading books often gets neglected. As a library volunteer at our community library, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of books and the need for individuals to adopt the habit of reading.
Reading books is not just a source of entertainment; it plays a crucial role in personal growth and community development. For individuals, diving into the world of books opens doors to new knowledge, skills, and experiences. It broadens the horizons of awareness, enhances creativity, and encourages critical thinking. Moreover, reading instills a sense of purpose, as it enables self-reflection and personal development.
On a larger scale, a community that promotes reading, promotes a culture of knowledge and empathy. Access to books improves literacy rates, fosters understanding, and fills social gaps. It creates a positive impact by nurturing lifelong learners and promoting intellectual conversations. To get involved in this enriching journey, there are several ways one can contribute. Joining a community library, volunteering as a reading mentor for children, or organizing book clubs are great avenues to promote reading within the community. Sharing book recommendations, organizing literary events, and donating books are other impactful ways to encourage reading.
Let us recognize the power of books and commit ourselves to reading regularly. By doing so, we unlock a world of endless possibilities, unleash personal growth, and contribute to the development of our community.
OR
B. The R.W.A (Resident Welfare Association), Indradhunsh Apartments -II, organised a blood donation camp for the residents and nearby communities, on 15 February 2023. As Shushma Agarwal, the local correspondent of the neighbourhood newsletter, write a report, covering this event. Support your ideas with outline cues given below, to craft your report.
- Which volunteer program? – purpose of the launch event – its importance
- Activities that took place – who attended?
- Any key message delivered?
- How were young adults encouraged to join the volunteer program?
- Any resources and information provided to attendees?
- Any insights into follow-up activities planned?
- What impact is expected to be achieved in the community?
Blood Donation Camp at Indradhunsh Apartments -II: A Remarkable Success!
By Shushma Agarwal, Local correspondent
The Resident Welfare Association (R.W.A) of Indradhunsh Apartments -II organized a blood donation camp on 15th February 2023, with the aim of promoting community service and saving lives. The event witnessed a massive response from residents and nearby communities. The launch event emphasized the importance of blood donation in emergency situations and highlighted the crucial need for regular donors. Various activities were conducted, including educational sessions on the importance of blood donation, live cases from beneficiaries, and interactive activities to engage attendees.
Key messages centered around fostering a culture of volunteerism and creating a supportive community. To encourage young adults, special initiatives such as volunteer recognition pro.grams and skill-building workshops were announced. Attendees were provided with resources and information, including guidelines on blood donation eligibility and post-donation care. Further, participants were given access to a volunteer portal with details of upcoming events and opportunities.
Follow-up activities, including blood donation drives at local hospitals and awareness campaigns in educational institutions, were planned to ensure lasting impact.
Overall, this blood donation camp is expected to create a positive impact in the community by promoting a culture of giving, sharing, fostering volunteerism, and saving precious lives.
Shushma Agarwal,
Local Correspondent,
Neighborhood Newsletter
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. A thing of beauty is a joy forever
Its loveliness increases, it will never
Pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing
i. Which of the following themes is best represented in the given extract?
A. Eternal beauty of nature
B. The destructive power of beauty
C. Materialistic pursuit of beauty
D. Consequences of Loving Nature (A thing of beauty)
Answer:
A. Eternal beauty of nature
ii. State whether the given statement is TRUE or FALSE, with reference to the extract. By referring to “A thing of beauty is joy forever”, the poet suggests that the experience of encountering something beautiful brings lasting joy that persists beyond the immediate moment.
Answer:
True
iii. Complete the sentence appropriately. The “beauty never dies” is an apt analogy for “it will never pass into nothingness” because ___________.
Answer:
a beautiful thing brings happiness that lasts forever.
iv. The use of the word ‘a bower’ in the extract suggests that a thing of beauty has its loveliness increase eternally and_.
Answer:
it will always make a pleasant place of repose for enjoying a peaceful, healthy and quiet sleep.
v. Based on the poem rhyme scheme, evident in lines 1-4, of the given extract, which word would rhyme with line 1?
Answer:
never
vi. Which punctuation mark is used to indicate a pause and separate the phrases in the line “Its loveliness increases, it will never”?
A. Comma
B. Period
C. Semicolon
D. Colon
Answer:
A. Comma
OR
B. Driving from my parent’s home
to Cochin last Friday morning,
I saw my mother, beside me,
doze, open-mouthed,
herface ashen like that ofa corpse and realized
with pain that she was as old as she looked. (My mother at Sixty-six)
i. What is the speaker’s emotional state when looking at her mother?
A. Confused
B. Nostalgic
C. Affectionate and apprehensive
D. Fearful
Answer:
C. Affectionate and apprehensive
ii. How does the poet vividly portray the physical state of her mother in the first stanza of the poem “My mother at sixty-six”?
Answer:
In the first stanza, the poet portrays her mother as fragile and delicate using words, “doze”, “open mouthed”, “her face ashen like that of a corpse”.
iii. Select the word that WILL NOT complete the sentence appropriately. The description of the mother as “doze, open mouthed,” creates a vivid image of ___________.
A. Weakness
B. Responsiveness
C. Aging
D. Mortality
Answer:
B. Responsiveness
iv. State whether the given statement is TRUE or FALSE.
In the first stanza of the poem “My mother at sixty-six,” the poet describes her mother’s face as radiant and full of vitality.
Answer:
False.
The poet describes her mother’s face as “ashen like that of a corpse” indicating exhaustion and aging rather than radiance.
v. What message do these lines convey in the context of family connections and the speaker’s worry and fear for losing her mother?
Answer:
The lines evoke strong feelings of concern, emotional attachment, and the frailty of family ties. They express the speaker’s fear of losing her mother, emphasizing the value of their relationship as well as the universal experience of dealing with impermanence and mortality.
vi. Complete the sentence appropriately:
The phrase “she was as old as she looks” suggests ____________.
Answer:
The poet realized that her mother was indeed old and in need of love, affection and care.
8. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given. [4]
A. Students on Ice, the programme I was working with on the Shokalskiy, aims to do exactly this by taking high school students to the ends of the world and providing them with inspiring educational opportunities which will help them foster a new understanding and respect for our planet. It’s been in operation for six years now, headed by Canadian Geoff Green, who got tired of carting celebrities and retired, rich, curiosity-seekers who could only ‘give’ back in a limited way. With Students on Ice, he offers the future generation of policy-makers a life-changing experience at an age when they’re ready to absorb, learn, and most importantly, act. (Journey to the End of the Earth)
i. What is the purpose of the Students on Ice program and how does it differ from other expeditions in terms of participants and objectives?
Answer:
The Students on Ice program aims to provide high school students with inspiring educational opportunities, fostering a new understanding and respect for our planet. It differs from other expeditions by targeting future policy-makers at an age when they are ready to absorb, learn, and take action.
ii. The founder and head of the Students on Ice program is _________.
A. Canadian Geoff Green
B. Retired, rich curiosity-seekers
C. High school students
D. Policy-makers
Answer:
A. Canadian Geoff Green
iii. The purpose behind taking high school students to the ends of the world and providing them with inspiring educational opportunities is ___________.
Answer:
To help them foster a new understanding and respect for our planet.
iv. Give one reason why the writing style of the extract can be called factual and informative.
Answer:
One reason why the writing style of the extract can be called factual and informative is because it presents specific details about the Students on Ice program, such as its objective of taking high school students to the ends of the world. It also provides information about the program’s founder, Geoff Green, and his motivations for starting the program.
OR
B. Right at the start, it is imperative to disclose a matter of vital importance about the Tiger King. Everyone who reads of him will experience the natural desire to meet a man of his indomitable courage face-to-face. But there is no chance of its fulfillment. As Bharata said to Rama about Dasaratha, the Tiger King has reached that final abode of all living creatures. In other words, the Tiger King is dead. (The Tiger King)
i. Complete the sentence appropriately. The author’s purpose in using foreshadowing, is to ______________.
Answer:
The statement “the Tiger King has reached that final abode of all living creatures” foreshadows the fact that the Tiger King is dead. It creates a sense of anticipation and hints at the fate of the Tiger King.
ii. As per the given extract, What is the fate of the Tiger King?
A. The Tiger King is alive and well.
B. The Tiger King is missing.
C. The Tiger King is imprisoned.
D. The Tiger King is dead.
Answer:
B. The Tiger King is dead.
iii. Which trait, the narrator is lauding when he says “man of his indomitable courage”?
Answer:
The phrase “indomitable courage” implies a sense of unwavering bravery and resilience in the face of adversity or mortal danger.
iv. How is the reference to “Bharata and Dasaratha” in the given extract, an example of allusion?
Answer:
The reference to Bharata and Dasaratha is an allusion, as it draws context to Hindu mythology and the epic Ramayana to add depth to the text, comparing the Tiger King’s fate to that of a revered figure.
9. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two, given. [6]
A. I started for school very late that morning and was in great dread of a scolding, especially because M. Hamel had said that he would question us on participles, and I did not know the first word about them. For a moment I thought of running away and spending the day out of doors. It was so warm, so bright! The birds were chirping at the edge of the woods; and in the open field back of the sawmill the Prussian soldiers were drilling. It was all much more tempting than the rule for participles, but I had the strength to resist, and hurried off to school. (The Last Lesson)
i. List any two sensory details present in this extract.
Answer:
(a) Visual:
The morning is described as warm and bright.
(b) Auditory:
The birds chirping at the edge of the woods can be heard.
ii. What was the author’s initial thought when he considered the possibility of running away?
A. To avoid a scolding.
B. To spend the day outdoors.
C. He was afraid of the Prussian soldiers.
D. He was worried about their lack of knowledge on participles.
Answer:
B. He wanted to spend the day outdoors.
iii. Complete the sentence appropriately.
The phrase “great dread of a scolding” means ___________.
Answer:
“great dread of a scolding” means a strong feeling in anticipation of being scolded.
iv. Pick evidence from the extract that helps one infer that the day talked about in the extract was a beautiful day.
Answer:
Phrases used in the above extract like: “It was so warm, so bright!” and “The birds were chirping” aligns with the idea of a beautiful day.
v. What does the term ‘sawmill’ mean?
Answer:
A factory in which logs are sawn into planks or boards by machine.
vi. Which of the following headlines best suggests the central idea of the extract?
A. The School Skippers Enjoys
B. Sunshine Beckons, but School Awaits
C. Ignorance is Bliss
D. Prussian Soldiers Join Chirping Birds
Answer:
B. Sunshine Beckons, but School Awaits
OR
B. I remember a story a man from Udipi once told me. As a young boy he would go to school past an old temple, where his father was a priest. He would stop briefly at the temple and pray for a pair of shoes. Thirty years later I visited his town and the temple, which was now drowned in an air of desolation. In the backyard, where lived the new priest, there were red and white plastic chairs. A young boy dressed in a grey uniform, wearing socks and shoes, arrived panting and threw his school bag on a folding bed. Looking at the boy, I remembered the prayer another boy had made to the goddess when he had finally got a pair of shoes, “Let me never lose them.” The goddess had granted his prayer. Young boys like the son of the priest now wore shoes. But many others like the ragpickers in my neighborhood remain shoeless. (Lost Spring)
i. What is the writer’s purpose of using the shoes as symbolism?
Answer:
The use of shoes as a symbol adds depth and conveys the theme of social inequality and the struggle for a better life.
ii. What does the young boy’s prayer for a pair of shoes signify?
A. The boy’s love for the temple
B. The boy’s need for better possessions
C. The boy’s desire for spiritual enlightenment
D. The boy’s hope for good health
Answer:
B. The boy’s need for better possessions
iii. Explain one inference that can be drawn from the phrase “temple which is now drowned in an air of desolation” used in above paragraph.
Answer:
The phrase suggests that the temple has lost its former glory and is now surrounded by emptiness and abandonment.
iv. Identify the line from the text that bears evidence to the fact that the writer’s association with the boys is not a recent one.
Answer:
The line from the paragraph that bears evidence to the fact that the writer’s association with the boys is not a recent one is: “Looking at the boy, I remembered the prayer another boy had made to the goddess when he had finally got a pair of shoes.”
v. How does the writer’s use of the phrase “Looking at the boy, I remembered the prayer another boy had made to the goddess when he had finally got a pair of shoes” suggest the writer’s relationship with the boys?
A. The writer is a close family member of the boys
B. The writer is a teacher at the boys’ school
C. The writer has empathy for the boys for a significant period of time
D. The writer is a researcher studying the boys’ experiences
Answer:
C. The writer has empathy for the boys for a significant period of time
vi. Complete the following sentence:
The phrase “But many others like the ragpickers in my neighborhood remain shoeless.” indicates that author is _________.
Answer:
… aware of and concerned about the persistent social inequality and disparity in their neighborhood.
10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions, in about 40-50 words. [5×2=10]
i. Who approached Gandhi during the Indian National Congress Party convention and asked him to visit a particular district? (Indigo)
Answer:
A peasant named Rajkumar Shukla from Champaran approached Gandhiji.
ii. What caused the author’s aversion to water in their early years?
Answer:
The author’s aversion to water began at a young age after experiencing being knocked down by the waves at the beach with his father.
iii. What was the response of the owner of the gray cottage when the protagonist knocked on the door seeking shelter?
(The Rattrap)
Answer:
The owner, an old man without a wife or child, was happy to provide shelter and companionship to the protagonist.
iv. What is the central theme of the poem ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’? (Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers)
Answer:
The theme of the poem relates with the oppressions and struggles that a woman has to face in the male dominant patriarchal society.
v. What was the initial expectation of the American publisher regarding the sales of Umberto Eco’s book? (The Interview)
Answer:
The American publisher expected to sell no more than 3,000 copies of Umberto Eco’s book in a country where nobody has seen a cathedral or studied Latin.
vi. What was the primary purpose of the make-up department in the film industry during that time?
(Poets and Pancakes)
Answer:
The primary purpose of the make-up department was to transform decent-looking individuals into hideous crimson-hued monsters using pancakes and other locally made potions and lotions, in order to make them look presentable on-screen.
11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words.
i. How can we argue that the vadai packet incident shows the author lacked the cognitive and emotional maturity needed to comprehend the consequences of untouchability?
Answer:
At the time of the incident, the author was only in the third grade and it is not uncommon for children to lack a full understanding of complex social issues like untouchability at that age. The author also shared that she had not, till then, heard people speak openly of untouchability – suggests that she may not have had a complete grasp of the issue’s social implications.
ii. What does ‘On the Face of If suggest about the role of compassion in overcoming prejudice and stereotypes?
Answer:
The play ‘On the Face of It’ suggests that empathy plays a crucial role in overcoming prejudice and stereotypes. Through the characters’ interactions and personal growth, it highlights the transformative power of understanding and connecting with others, leading to the dissolution of preconceived notions and fostering genuine acceptance.
iii. Dr. Sadao was compelled by his duty as a doctor to help the enemy soldier. What made Hana, his wife, sympathetic to him in the face of open defiance from the domestic staff? (The Enemy)
Answer:
In “The Enemy,” Dr. Sadao’s sense of duty as a doctor compelled him to help the enemy soldier, which made Hana, his wife, sympathetic to him. Despite facing open defiance from the domestic staff, Hana recognized and respected her husband’s commitment to his profession and human compassion.
12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. What advice would you like to give to the poet ‘Pablo Neruda’ after studying his poem ‘Keeping Quiet’.
Answer:
Dear Pablo,
After reading your poem “Keeping Quiet”, I would request you to continue spreading your message of unity and introspection. The poem beautifully conveys the importance of silence, self-reflection, and the need for humanity to pause and connect with one another. I would urge you to delve even deeper into these themes, exploring how silence can be a catalyst for personal and collective transformation.
I request you to write more such poems that inspire individuals to embrace stillness, to listen to their inner voices, and to genuinely understand the interconnectedness of all living beings. Additionally, I would suggest you to use your poetic talent to encourage people to take action based on this newfound awareness—urging them to break down barriers, challenge prejudices, and work towards a more peaceful and compassionate world.
Ultimately, my humble request would be to continue using your soothing words to ignite contemplation, empathy, and positive change in the hearts and minds of readers across the globe.
Yours truly
Yashmita Chaudhary
OR
B. You have been assigned the task of summarizing the portrayals of women in the texts ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’, ‘Going Places’, ‘Lost Spring’, and ‘My Mother at Sixty-six’ in your school.
Explain how these portrayals emphasize the diverse experiences of women and why it is crucial to comprehend the unique challenges and experiences faced by each individual wom’an. Provide examples from at least three of the mentioned texts in your response.
You may begin this way:
Good morning everyone.
While analysing the texts…………
You may end this way:
It is vital to acknowledge
Answer:
Good Morning everyone,
While analysing the texts ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’, ‘Going Places’, ‘Lost Spring’, and ‘My Mother at Sixtysix’. I found that all of them present varied portrayals of women, shedding light on their experiences in society. These portrayals exemplify the diversity within the female experience. In ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers,’ Aunt Jennifer’s embroidered tigers symbolise her desire for freedom and empowerment in the face of a repressive marriage.
‘Going Places’ depicts a young girl’s aspirations for independence, challenging traditional gender roles.
In ‘Lost Spring,’ the marginalised lives of child laborers, particularly the girl protagonist, reflect the systemic injustice faced by impoverished girls.
These texts underscore the importance of understanding each woman’s unique challenges and experiences. By recognizing individual narratives, we can break free from generalizations and stereotypes, fostering empathy and solidarity. It is vital to acknowledge the intersectionality of gender, class, and societal norms, enabling us to advocate for gender equality and social justice.
Thank you,
Have nice day.
13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. ‘The third level’ is an epitome of the fact that ‘The modem world is full of insecurity, fear, war, worry and stress.’ What are the ways in which we attempt to tackle them? Write a diary entry.
Answer:
25/04/20XX
10:15 p.m.
After having gone through the story ‘The Third Level’, I feel that in reflects the idea that the modern world is indeed filled with insecurity, fear, war, worry, and stress.
In response to these challenges, people employ various strategies to cope:
Firstly, individuals seek peace in their personal relationships, relying on the support and understanding of loved ones to sail through difficult times.
Secondly, engaging in hobbies, leisure activities, and entertainment offers a respite from the pressures of the world.
Additionally, individuals may turn to spirituality or mindful practices to find inner peace and cultivate a sense of calmness amid the chaos.
Lastly, social efforts like promoting social justice address the root causes of insecurity and fear.
Collectively, these strategies aim to counteract the negative impacts of modern life and foster well-being and resilience.
OR
B. Bama’s encounter portrays her as a victim of the caste system, while Zitkala-Sa’s experience illustrates a different form of discrimination. How does Zitkala-Sa’s ordeal reflect the type of discrimination she faces, and how do Bama and Zitkala-Sa respond to their individual circumstances? As a journalist who her interviewed both Bama & Zitkala-Sa, create a diary entry noting down important points for your next articles be published in a leading newspaper.
You may begin like this:
After going through the lesson, ‘Memories of Childhood’, I interviewed both of them.
Answer:
After going through the lesson, ‘Memories of Childhood’, I interviewed both of them. Bama experienced discrimination based on caste and untouchability, while Zitkala-Sa faced racial and cultural prejudice. Zitkala-Sa’s hair, which held great significance to her, as it was tribal honour to have thick braids like a warrior woman was forcibly cut at a European missionary school due to her tribal background.
Both protagonists protested against the injustice they encountered, but they took different paths. Zitkala-Sa’s rebellion was met with resistance, while Bama followed her brother’s advice and achieved academic success. Zitkala-Sa continued to voice her opposition to racial prejudice through her writing, which criticised dogma and the evils of a marginalised community while Bama pursued a more subtle form of protest through her educational achievements to prove her mettle.