Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 English with Solutions and marking scheme Set 5 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 English Set 5 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. We sit in the last row, bumped about but free of stares. The bus rolls out of the dull crossroads of the city, and we are soon in open countryside, with fields of sunflowers as far as the eye can see, their heads all facing us. Where there is no water, the land reverts to desert. While still on level ground we see in the distance the tall range of Mount Bogda, abrupt like a shining prism laid horizontally on the desert surface. It is over 5,000 metres high, and the peaks are under permanent snow, in powerful contrast to the flat desert all around. Heaven Lake lies part of the way up this range, about 2,000 metres above sea-level, at the foot of one of the higher snow-peaks.
2. As the bus climbs, the sky, brilliant before, grows overcast. I have brought nothing warm to wear: it is all down at the hotel in Urumqi. Rain begins to fall. The man behind me is eating overpoweringly smelly goat’s cheese. The bus window leaks inhospitably but reveals a beautiful view. We have passed quickly from desert through arable land to pasture, and the ground is now green with grass, the slopes dark with pine.
A few cattle drink at a dear stream flowing past moss-covered stones; it is a Constable landscape. The stream changes into a white torrent, and as we climb higher I wish more and more that I had brought with me something warmer than the pair of shorts that have served me so well in the desert. The stream (which, we are told rises in Heaven Lake) disappears, and we continue our slow ascent. About noon, we arrive at Heaven Lake, and look for a place to stay at the foot, which is the resort area. We get a room in a small cottage, and I am happy to note that there are thick quilts on the beds.
3. Standing outside the cottage we survey our surroundings. Heaven Lake is long, sardine-shaped and fed by snowmelt from a stream at its head. The lake is an intense blue, surrounded by green mountain walls, dotted with distant sheep. At the head of the lake, beyond the delta of the inflowing stream, is a massive snow-capped peak which dominates the vista; it is part of a series of peaks that culminate, a little out of view, in Mount Bogda itself.
4. For those who live in the resort, there is a small mess-hall by the shore. We eat here sometimes, and sometimes buy food from the vendors outside, who sell kabab and naan until the last buses leave. The kababs, cooked on skewers over charcoal braziers, are particularly good; highly spiced and well-done.
Horse’s milk is available too from the local Kazakh herdsmen, but I decline this. I am so affected by the cold that Mr. Cao, the relaxed young man who runs the mess, lends me a spare pair of trousers, several sizes too large but more than comfortable. Once I am warm again, I feel a pre-dinner spurt of energy- dinner will be long in coming- and I ask him whether the lake is good for swimming in.
5. “Swimming?” Mr. Cao says. “You aren’t thinking of swimming, are you?”
6. “I thought I might,” I confess. “What’s the water like?”
7. He doesn’t answer me immediately, turning instead to examine some receipts with exaggerated interest. Mr. Cao, with great off-handedness, addresses the air. “People are often drowned here,” he says. After a pause, he continues. “When was the last one?” This question is directed at the cook, who is preparing a tray of mantou (squat white steamed bread rolls), and who now appears, wiping his doughy hand across his forehead. “Was it the Beijing athlete?” asks Mr. Cao.
Answer the questions, based on the passage above.
i. One benefit of sitting in the last row of the bus was that: [1]
A. the narrator enjoyed the bumps.
B. no one stared at him.
C. he could see the sunflowers.
D. he avoided the dullness of the city.
Answer:
B. no one stared at him
ii. The narrator was travelling to: [1]
A. Mount Bogda
B. a 2000-metre-high snow peak
C. Heaven Lake
D. Urumqi
Answer:
C. Heaven Lake
iii. Which two things in the bus made the narrator feel uncomfortable? [2]
Answer:
As the author climbed higher, the weather turned in hospitable. It started raining, making the weather extremely cold. He had not brought anything warm to wear. To add to his discomfort, the bus window was also leaking. He desperately wished that he had brought something warmen to wear.
iv. Select the option that best describes Mount Bogda. [1]
A. a horizontal desert surface
B. a shining prism
C. a Constable landscape
D. the overcast sky
Answer:
B. a shining prism
v. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option. [1]
On reaching the destination the narrator felt relieved because __________.
A. he had got away from the desert.
B. a difficult journey had come to an end.
C. he could watch the snow peak.
D. there were thick quilts on the bed.
Answer:
D. there were thick quilts on the bed.
vi. The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraph 2, EXCEPT: [2]
A. They have passed quickly from arable land to pastures through desert
B. The stream changed into a white torrent as they climbed higher
C. The stream disappeared, as they continued their slow descent
D. About midnight, they arrived at Heaven Lake
Answer:
B. The stream changed into a white torrent as they climbed higher
vii. Explain why the statement “The bus window leaks inhospitably but reveals a beautiful view,” is ironic? [1]
Answer:
The leaking window was uncomfortable to him because through it came in bitter cold but at the same
time it provided solace to his soul revealing the beautiful view. So, the statement is ironic.
viii. It was several sizes too large, but more than comfortable. How can the statement best be described? [2]
A. Ironic
B. Popular
C. Tragic
D. Prejudiced
Answer:
A. Ironic
ix. Explain who asks, “When was the last one?” and what does he want to ask? What could be the intent of asking it? [1]
Answer:
Mr. Cao asks the cook, “when was the last one?” He wants to ask when was the last time when a person drowned in the lake. The intent was to dissuade the narrator from swimming as even a Beifing athlete had drowned in the lake.
2. Read the following text. [10 m]
1. The present generation is well updated in the use of internet and computers. The rapid development in computer technology and increase in accessibility of the internet for academic purposes has changed the face of education for everyone associated with it. Let’s look at the data arising out of a recent survey that was done to ascertain the time spent on utilization of the computer and internet:
2. At present, many schools and universities have been implementing internet-based learning, as it supplements the conventional teaching methods. The internet provides a wide variety of references and information to academics as well as scientific researchers. Students often turn to it to do their academic assignments and projects.
3. However, research on the Net is very different from traditional library research, and the differences can cause problems. The Net is a tremendous resource, but it must be used carefully and critically.
4. According to a 2018 Academic Student e-book Experience Survey, conducted by LJ’s research department and sponsored by EBSCO, when reading for pleasure, almost 74% of respondents said they preferred print books for leisure whereas, 45 % of respondents chose e-books rather than the printed versions, for research or assignments.
5. When asked what e-book features make them a favourite for research, the respondents were clear. Having page numbers to use in citations, topped the list (75%); followed by the ability to resize text to fit a device’s screen (67%); the ability to bookmark pages, highlight text, or take notes for later reference (60%); downloading the entire e-book (57%); and allowing content to be transferred between devices (43%) were the varied responses.
Answer the following questions, based on given passage.
i. According to the passage, one of the reasons for the recent transformation of education is that ________. [2]
Answer:
the easy availability of internet has been a catalyst for transformation in education. It provides a diverse pool of information and knowledge. The internet has broken all geographical barriers, helping students learn at their own pace from experts worldwide.
ii. Pick the option that lists statements that are NOT TRUE according to the passage. [1]
1. Internet-based education can only complement familiar methods of education.
2. Net-based learning will replace face-to-face education.
3. The resources that the net provides are a danger to the education system.
4. The current times has seen a rise in the convenience of using the internet for academic purposes.
A. land 2
B. 3 and 4
C. 2 and 3
D. land 4
Answer:
C. 2 and 3
iii. Replace the word ‘tremendous’, as used in paragraph 3, with another word of similar meaning. [1]
Answer:
‘incredible’
iv. Based on the graphical chart in the passage, choose the option that correctly states the depiction of internet usage for work and for leisure, for once a month. [2]
A. Option (1)
B. Option (2)
C. Option (3)
D. Option (4)
Answer:
C. Option (3)
v. Based on the given graphical representation of data in the passage, choose the option that lists the statements that are TRUE with respect to the usage of email. [1]
1. The everyday usage of email is more than the everyday usage of computer for personal use.
2. About 18% people use email once a week.
3. There are a smaller number of email users using it 2-3 times a week than the ones using it once a month.
4. Less than 5% of people never use the email.
A. 1 and 3
B. 2 and 4
C. 1 and 2
D. 3 and 4
Answer:
B. 2 and 4
vi. Based on the given graphical chart, pick the option that lists the area of zero response from respondents. [2]
A. Never using the internet for work and leisure
B. Daily use of the computer for academic activities
C. Writing and receiving emails once a week
D. Using the internet for personal tasks once a month
Answer:
A. Never using the internet for work and leisure
vii. In the cartoon, the student’s reaction reveals that he is indignant. Select from the following: [1]
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:
True
viii. Which of the following statements is NOT substantiated by information in paragraph 4? [1]
A. About three-quarters of the respondents preferred print books for recreational reading.
B. A little less than a 50% of the respondents voted for e-books for research or assignments.
C. More than 50% respondents stated enjoying both versions of books for leisure reading.
D. The survey was intended for understanding the e-book experience among students.
Answer:
C. More than 50% respondents stated enjoying both versions of books for leisure reading.
Section-B
Creative Writing Skills
3. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below, in about 50 words. [4]
A. You are Keshav/Karuna, Secretary, Health Club, Vidyapeeth Public School, Bengaluru. Draft a notice in about 50 words to be put up on your school notice board, asking all the club members and the other students to join a walk on World Diabetes Day to create an awakening among people about diabetes.
Answer:
| Vidyapeeth Public School NOTICE 08 July 20XX Diabetes Awareness Walk Our school is organising Diabetes Awareness Walk to create awareness about diabetes. All the |
OR
B. Your school has planned an excursion to Lonavala near Mumbai during the autumn holidays. Draft a notice in about 50 words for your school notice board, giving detailed information and inviting the names of those who are desirous to join. Sign as Naresh/Namita, Head boy/Head Girl, D.V. English School, Thane, Mumbai.
Answer:
| D.V. Engligh School NOTICE 08 July 20XX Excursion to Lonavala An excursion to Lonavala near Mumbai has been planned for students of classes IXth to XIIth during |
4. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below in about 50 words. [4]
A. You are Anu Verma, Secretary of the Worldwide Publisher’s Association. Write an invitation to Mr. Aravindan Choudhary, requesting him to inaugurate the World Book Fair on December 26, 20XX, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
Answer:
| Worldwide Publisher’s Association takes immense pleasure in inviting Mr. Aravindhan Choudhary to inaugurate the World Book Fair on December 26, 20XX at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Awaiting a favourable response from your end. RSVP |
OR
B. You are Ritu Sharma of 29A, Nirman Vihar, New Delhi and you have received an invitation from your friend Jaimy Jackson to attend the Christmas Party on December 24, 20XX, at S-45, Green Park. Write a reply accepting the invitation.
Answer:
| 29/A Nirman Vihar New Delhi 15 December 20XX Dear Jaimy JacksonThank you for inviting me to attend your Christmas party on December 24, 20XX, at S- 45, Green Park. I am absolutely delighted to accept your kind invitation. Eagerly looking forward to rejoicing with you in the auspicious celebration of Christmas. Wishing you a wonderful holiday. With warm wishes, Ritu Sharma |
5. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. You are Shilpa/Sameer living in Hyderabad. You have just completed your graduation and are looking for a job. While browsing through the Hindustan Times of 6th October 20XX, you come across the following advertisement. Choose a post for which you think you are suitable and send your application in response to this advertisement.
| Processing unit in Golagoan requires the following staff: 1. Food Technologist: 2 years Degree/Diploma in food technology having 1-2 years Lab Experience. 2. Accountant: B.Com with minimum experience of 4-5 years in a Manufacturing concern and conversant with sales tax laws 3. Receptionist: Female candidate fluent in English with good communication skills and proficiency in computer with 2-3 years’ experience. |
Answer:
27 Vayu Vihar
Hyderabad
8 Oct., 20XX
The Manager
Food Processing Unit
Golagoan
Subject: Application for the post of Receptionist
Sir/Madam,
With reference to your advertisement in the Hindustan Times dated 6 October 20XX, I come to know that you are looking for a receptionist. I wish to offer myself as a suitable candidate for the aforesaid post. I have the required skill needed for it. My communication skills are excellent. As for my qualification, I have attached detailed biodata along with this application. If given a chance, I assure you that I will give my best. Hoping for your favourable response.
Yours truly,
Shilpa/Sameer
Enel. 1 Merit Certificates
2 Resume/ Biodata
Biodata
Name- Shilpa
Father’s Name- Deepak Kumar
Sex- Female
Date of Birth- 8 September 2002
Nationality- Indian
Marital Status- Single
Address- D 27 Vayu Vihar, Hyderabad
Contact No -9810346782
Educational Qualification:
| Name of Examination | Year of Passing | Name of Board | Pass Percentage | |
| 1. | AISSE | 2018 | CBSE | 75 |
| 2. | AISSCE | 2020 | CBSE | 73 |
| 3. | BFA | 2022 | BA | 78 |
Languages known- Hindi, English
Skills and Strengths – Computer literate, fluent in English, good soft skills and communication skills, good in dealing with people.
References
(i) Sh. V. Anand, H.O.D. English Department, Anurag University, Hyderabad
(ii) Sh. R.K. Sareen, Advisor, University of Hyderabad Shilpa
OR
B. You are really concerned about the ways in which the advertisements in the media are targeting children for their own ends. As Nila/ Nilay, write a letter to the editor of a national daily protesting strongly against this hard-core marketing. Use the given cues along with your own ideas to compose this letter.
|
Answer:
F 104 Mahindra Apartment
Vikaspuri, New Delhi
15 July 20XX
The Editor
The Hindustan Times
B- 34 Connaught Place
New Delhi 110001
Subject: Strong protest against the hard-core marketing targeted children
Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I want to express my deep concern regarding the distressing and manipulative marketing practices targeted at children. Children are vulnerable and easily get influenced by these techniques employed in advertisingcampaigns. Advertisers target children with the aim of promoting their products and making profits.
These techniques create desires and cravings in children, promote materialism and encourage excessive craving for non-essential goods. These advertisements exploit them emotionally, making them feel low if they can’t have the latest products endorsed by celebrities.These strategies undermine parental authority and children’s cognitive development. They can’t distinguish between genuine needs and unnecessary desires.
Focus should be on using responsible advertisements which prioritise well-being of children. There should be comprehensive guidelines for advertising content ensuring that these are aligned with ethical standards. It is the moral obligation of all parents to protect children from this menace and create an environment that promotes their holistic well-being.
Yours sincerely,
Nila
6. Attempt ANY ONE from A and B given below in about 120-150 words. [4]
A. Your School Commerce Association organised a seminar for class XII students of the schools of your zone on the topic, ‘Rising prices create a crisis’. As coordinator of the programme, write a report in 120-150 words for your school magazine. You are Piyush/Priya of APC School Agra.
Answer:
THE RISING PRICES-A LOOMING CRISIS
By Priya/Piyush
15 June, 20XX, APC School, Agra: A seminar on the topic “The Rising Prices Create a Crisis” was organized by Commerce Association of the Vidyalaya for students of class XII on 8 July 20XX in the school auditorium. The speaker was the renowned economist Mr. Jai Kishore Bansal.
In the inaugural speech, the principal gave a warm welcome speech apprising the students of the achievements of the guest. Then Mr. Bansal addressed the students and talked about the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to this crisis of rising prices.
He explained that surge in prices can be attributed to many factors like inflation, imbalance in supply and demand, and fluctuation in energy costs, transportation etc.
He elaborated on the consequences, due to unabated price rise which were challenging, leading to poverty, inequality, and reduced standard of living. He coaxed the students to come up with ideas that could provide solutions, thus making it an interactive and lively session. Students also willingly participated and suggested that enhancing productivity, consumer education, and price regulation could be some of the solutions to the issue of rising prices.
Mr. Bansal was impressed by the sharp responses of the students. He concluded his talk by saying that it is crucial that we remain informed and engaged and advocate for responsible economic policies that take care of all members of society.
The seminar ended with a vote of thanks advocated by Mr. Jha, Head of the Department of Commerce.
OR
B. We often read news on how patients from abroad come to hospitals in India and get themselves treated at a fraction of expenses they will have incurred elsewhere. As a columnist for a health magazine, draft an article in about 120-150 words, describing the importance of medical tourism for India. You are Piyush/Priya.
Answer:
INDIA: A GLOBAL HEALTHCARE DESTINATION
By Priya/Piyush
India is a leading destination for medical tourism. With its advanced infrastructure, worldclass medical facilities and skilled doctors, it has become a preferred choice for patients seeking quality treatment at affordable cost.
Medical tourism is important, and it offers benefits to both patients as well as the healthcare centres. The reason why patients choose India for their treatment is the cost effectiveness of the treatment. It is 60 to 80 % cheaper here without making any compromise on quality. Patients get excellent medical care and advanced treatment which is at par with global standards.
Renowned for its pool of highly skilled doctors, India has gained international recognition because of its doctors’ expertise. To add to this, India offers treatments and procedures across various disciplines like cardiology, orthopaedics, oncology, cosmetic surgery etc.
Above all in India medical tourists benefit because patients waiting time is minimal due to wide network of health professionals. This allows patients to receive timely treatment and facilitates a faster recovery process. With further advancement in healthcare technology and the government support, India is poised to further enhance its position as a global hub for medical tourism.
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. 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. (Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers)
i. What is the tone of the poet in the above lines?
A. Aggressive
B. Hopeful
C. Resigned
D. Sarcastic
Answer:
B. Hopeful
ii. Fill the blank with an appropriate word/phrase, with reference to the extract.
These lines show the by married women \I
Answer:
Oppression endured (Any other relevant)
iii. Which one of these phrases uses the poetic device used in “her terrified hands?”
A. admiring bog
B. walking stick
C. concerned eyes
D. counting heads
Answer:
C. concerned eyes
iv. Aunt Jennifer created tigers to show:
A. Her strength and ability of not giving up in the face of difficulties
B. Her fears and doubts
C. Her courage
D. None
Answer:
A. Her strength and ability of not giving up in the face of difficulties
v. ‘Strutting’ can replace which word in the extract?
Answer:
prancing
vi. Identify the phrase from the extract, that suggests the following:
Aunt Jennifer is subdued by patriarchal society.
Answer:
‘Still ringed with ordeals she was mastered by.’
OR
B. 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.
Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth. (A Thing of beauty)
i. What do we need on this earth to make our life less gloomy?
Answer:
Beautiful things
ii. Choose the option that lists the correct answers for the following:
1. What can a thing of beauty provide us?
2. How does time affect a thing of beauty?
A. i. Constant worry. ii. Its loveliness decreases.
B. i. Unending pain. ii. It loses its charm.
C. i. Everlasting joy. ii. Its loveliness increases
D. i. Temporary happiness. ii. It fades gradually
Ans.
C. i. Everlasting joy. ii. Its loveliness increases
iii. What sort of place is a bower?
Answer:
A pleasant place in the shade of trees
iv. Which poetic device has been used in the line:
“A flowery band to bind us to the earth.”
A. Metaphor
B. Alliteration
C. Personification
D. Simile
Answer:
B. Alliteration
v. Identify the phrase/line which says that ‘it is immortal’.
Answer:
‘it will never pass into nothingness’.
vi. Why do we need a flowery band?
A. To look beautiful
B. To pass into nothingness
C. To tie ourselves to the mighty dead
D. To continue our lives happily despite the sadness that surrounds us.
Answer:
D. To continue our lives happily despite the sadness that surrounds us.
8. Read the given extracts and answer the question for ANY ONE of two extracts given. [4]
A. He said I was unhappy. That made my wife kind of mad, but he explained that he meant the modern world is full of insecurity, fear, war, worry and all the rest of it, and that I just want to escape. Well, who doesn’t? Everybody I know wants to escape, but they don’t wander down into any third level at Grand Central Station. But that’s the reason, he said, and my friends all agreed. Everything points to it, they claimed. My stamp collecting, for example that’s a ‘temporary refuge from reality’.
i. Complete the sentence:
Charley was unhappy with ________
Answer:
life
ii. Select the option that signifies the condition of people of the ‘modem world’ mentioned in the extract.
1. Unsure
2. Lazy
3. Offensive
4. Anxious
5. Afraid
A. 1 and 3
B. 2 and 5
C. 2, 3 and 4
D. 1, 4 and 5
Answer:
D. 1, 4 and 5
iii. Identify and write a phrase from the passage which means the same as ‘imagination’
Answer:
‘temporary refuge from reality’
iv. ‘Everybody I know wants to escape’. This line does not suggest ___________.
A. a calculated response to emotional survival
B. the habitual distractions offering solace
C. contribution to a pleasant work environment
D. that escaping is the equivalent to “flight
Answer:
C. contribution to a pleasant work environment
OR
B. You are well,” Sadao agreed. He lowered his voice. “You are so well that I think if I put my boat on the shore tonight, with food and extra clothing in it, you might be able to row to that little island not far from the coast. It is so near the coast that it has not been worth fortifying. Nobody lives on it because in storm it is submerged. But this is not the season of storm. You could live there until you saw a Korean fishing boat pass by. They pass quite near the island because the water is many fathoms deep there.” The young man stared at him, slowly comprehending. “Do I have to?” he asked. “I think so,” Sadao said gently. “You understand — it is not hidden that you are here.”
i. The tone of the speaker in the expression “Do I have to?” is
(i) fear (ii) compassion (iii) doubt (iv) irritation
A. Options (i) and (ii)
B. Options (ii) and (iv)
C. Options (i) and (iii)
D. All of these
Answer:
C. Options (i) and (iii)
ii. “It is so near the coast that it has not been worth fortifying”. This line indicates that the place is
A. ideal for accommodation
B. left uncared for
C. surrounded by a fort
D. preserved
Answer:
B. the place is left uncared for
iii. The young man stared at him, slowly comprehending _________ What did he comprehend?
Answer:
that Sadao wants him to escape / to save him
iv. Complete the sentence appropriately, with reference to the extract.
Dr. Sadao was not only a skilled surgeon but also a man with _________
Answer:
humane values
9. Attempt ANY ONE of two extracts given. [6]
A. Then he opened a grammar and read us our lesson. I was amazed to see how well I understood it. All he said seemed so easy, so easy! I think, too, that I had never listened so carefully, and that he had never explained everything with so much patience. It seemed almost as if the poor man wanted to give us all he knew before going away and to put it all into our heads at one stroke.
i. What did M. Hamel intend to do?
A. Wanted to feed everything into their mind
B. Wanted to make them feel the importance of mother tongue
C. Wanted to teach them everything he could
D. All the above
Answer:
D. All the above
ii. The teacher was going away as ________.
Answer:
French was not taught anymore.
iii. Why do you think the narrator understood the lesson so well?
A. Because the lesson was very easy.
B. Because it was the last lesson.
C. Because the narrator listened silently.
D. Because the teacher explained patiently and the narrator listened carefully.
Answer:
D. Because the teacher explained patiently and the narrator listened carefully.
iv. Identify and write an antonym of ‘haste’ from the passage
Answer:
Patience
v. Find the odd one out from the following.
A. The lesson was very easy.
B. The teacher didn’t explain the lesson.
C. Franz was surprised.
D. The teacher delivered the last lesson.
Answer:
B. The teacher didn’t explain the lesson.
vi. How did the teacher deliver his last lesson?
Answer:
Very seriously, patiently, and diligently.
OR
B. “She thinks money grows on trees, don’t she, Dad?’ said little Derek, hanging on the back of his father’s chair. Their mother sighed. Sophie watched her back stooped over the sink and wondered at the incongruity of the delicate bow which fastened her apron strings. The delicate-seeming bow and the crooked back. The evening had already blacked in the windows and the small room was steamy from the stove and cluttered with the heavy-breathing man in his vest at the table and the dirty washing piled up in the comer. Sophie felt a tightening in her throat. She went to look for her brother Geoff.
i. The description of her house reveals __________.
A. the pathetic condition of her home
B. the upper middle-class British life
C. the affluent conditions of her life
D. All of these
Answer:
A. the pathetic condition of her home
ii. Find out a word from the extract which means the same as ‘strangeness’
Answer:
incongruity
iii. “Sophie felt a tightening in her throat.” Pick the option that lists Sophie’s feelings in this context.
1. anxious
2. annoyed
3. uneasy
4. terrified
A. land 3
B. 2 and 3
C. 1 and 4
D. 2 and 4
Answer:
A. 1 and 3
iv. Derek thought his sister to be _________
Answer:
impractical / not realistic
v. It could be inferred that Sophie’s mother was fatigued and burdened. Choose the option listing the elements that form the basis of this inference.
1. her sigh
2. her delicate bow
3. her apron’s strings
4. her crooked back
A. 1,2
B. 3,4
C. 2,3
D. 1,4
Answer:
D. 1,4
vi. Who was the heavy breathing man in his vest?
Answer:
Sophie’s father
vi. Who was the heavy breathing man in his vest?
Answer:
Sophie’s father
10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following in about 40-50 words each. [5×2=10]
i. Comment on any one of the aspects of the writing style of Selma Lagerlof in “The Rattrap.”
Answer:
Selma Lagerlof in The Rattrap tells story in a fairytale manner. Her descriptions are very vivid. She makes use of Swedish words. Her narrative style is very interesting and gripping. Her portrayal of struggles and poverty ridden individual selling rattrap is full of sensitivity and replete with deep insights of human reaction to poverty.
ii. “This handicap stayed with me as the years rolled by.” What did this “handicap” ruin for Douglas and what did it deprive him of?
Answer:
This handicap that stayed with him filled him with fear of drawing. Because of this handicap all his fishing trips were mined. Whenever he stepped into water, fear haunted him taking possession of him completely. It made his leg go paralysed and icy, horror would grab his heart which deprived him of the joy of boating, canoeing, and swimming.
iii. The city folk who pass through the road side stand had a complaint. What was their complaint? (A road side stand)
Answer:
The city folk did not stop at the roadside stand to buy anything. But they had a complaint that the ugly looking shop on the roadside mined the beauty of the landscape due to its badly painted.signboards.
iv. Comment on the significance of the last two lines of “My Mother at 66.”
Answer:
“See you soon Amma and smile and smile”- these are the last two lines of the poem. They signify the poet’s efforts to deliberately remain positive and cheerful in the face of her approaching separation from her mother and her fear of losing her.
v. Interview is an ‘unwarranted intrusion’ into lives. Many celebrities think so. Elucidate
Answer:
Many celebrities feel disturbed and intruded by interviews. Many of them feel that it is an unwelcome interference into their private life and they feel embarrassed of being lionised by the outside world and feel awkward with people clamouring to get acquainted with them. Though some others think it as an art, it can lead to loss of freedom to move in public as a non-entity.
vi. According to Pablo Neruda “a huge silence” can interrupt two things. What are they? (Keeping quiet)
Answer:
According to Pablo Neruda, a huge silence can prevent human beings from becoming megalomaniacs rushing into committing destructive activities, causing danger to themselves and the world, and creating unhappiness.
11. Answer ANY TWO of the following in about 40-50 words each. [2×2=4]
i. What is the author’s indirect comment on subjecting innocent animals to the willfulness of human beings? (The Tiger King)
Answer:
Kalki indirectly comments on subjecting innocent animals to unwarranted cruelty due to the thoughtlessness of human beings through the character of Maharaja, who takes upon himself the mission of killing hundred tigers on the basis of an astrologer’s prediction that he will die because of the hundredth tiger.
ii. “In spite of myself, I was carried downstairs and tied fast in a chair.” Why do you think the author uses the expression “In spite of myself….” here? (Memories of childhood)
Answer:
Zitkala-Sa refused to give in to the forceful cutting of her long hair. She tried to hide. And when she was caught, she resisted by kicking and scratching. In spite of all her efforts, she was forcefully dragged out of the room, tied fast in a chair and her hair was cut.
iii. ‘Take care of small things and the big things will take care of themselves’. What is the relevance of this statement in the context of the Antarctic environment?
Answer:
The statement refers to the importance of single celled plants called phytoplankton which are found in Antarctic Ocean. They sustain the entire food chain. The depletion in the ozone layer could be very harmful and affect the activities of these plants leading to endangering the rest of the food chain. In turn this might upset the Global carbon cycle too.
12. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. The text ‘Indigo’ expresses the value of freedom and Indians’ fight for freedom. How would you define freedom? Taking references from the chapter, compose a draft to address your peers and share your views in the morning assembly of your school.
You may begin this way:
Good morning, everyone
I stand here to speak about a fundamental concept which is the core of our existence: FREEDOM.
Answer:
Good morning, everyone.
Today I am here to speak about a concept that lies at the core of our existence- FREEDOM. The lesson
‘Indigo’ shows the value of freedom.
Freedom can be defined as the power or right to act, speak or think without any restriction.
The lesson Indigo brings to light the struggle for freedom endured by indigo farmers during colonial era. Farmers were exploited and denied their basic rights. It also portrays their indomitable spirit to fight for freedom.
In fact, freedom extends beyond political boundaries. It affects various aspects of our life- intellectual, social and emotional and dignified livelihood. It empowers us to express our opinion, pursue our dreams and live a life of dignity.
However, with freedom comes responsibility. We must use our freedom to uplift and support one another creating an inclusive and harmonious environment.
The lesson reminds us that freedom is not easily won. It requires courage and perseverance. Let us all strive to uphold and protect the cherished freedom in our lives and lives of others.
Thank you.
OR
B. Most of us do not raise our voice against injustice in our society and tend to remain mute spectators. Anees Jung in her story Lost Spring highlights the miserable life of street children and bangle makers of Firozabad.
As Anees Jung makes an appeal to the people to wake up and act against the injustice.
You may begin:
Dear citizens
I write to you today
Answer:
Dear citizens,
I write to you today as Anees Jung, inspired by the story of Lost Spring. This tale sheds light on the heart-breaking realities faced by children and bangle makers in our society. It urges us to break our silence and awaken our conscience and help the downtrodden.
There are countless children who are deprived of cosy and well-fed childhood, education, and basic rights. They are trapped in a vicious circle of poverty and deprivation. They are not able to break the shackles because of iron grip of unfortunate circumstances.
Hence, we all need to raise our voice on the issue and support organisations working to improve their lives. Volunteer your time, skills, and resources to uplift these unfortunate urchins.
In conclusion, I implore everyone to take a stand for the downtrodden. Let us break free from the chain of indifference. Together we can bring light to the lives of those deprived of basic rights.
Yours sincerely,
Anees Jung
13. Answer ANY ONE of the following in about 120-150 words. [5]
A. Imagine Tom reaches home safely. He has fully recovered, and the war has now come to an end. He owes his life to Sadao and Hana and is forever indebted to them. Years later, he pens down his thoughts recounting the tribulations and the experience of being granted a new life by a Japanese couple. As Tom, write down the diary entry in about 120-150 words.
Answer:
20 May, 20XX
Sunday
It has been years since the war ended. As I sit here, I feel overwhelming sense of gratitude for the couple who saved my life- Sadao and Hana.
I vividly remember the time when I had sustained wounds in war, there was no hope left for me. But fate helped, leading me to the doorstep of Sadao and Hana. Sadao, a skilled Japanese surgeon, and Hana, his wife took me in despite the risks they faced harboring an enemy soldier. Through countless surgeries, painful rehabilitation, and support, Sadao led me to the path of recovery. Hana, his wife fully supported him. I owe them my life. Years have passed since those days of turmoil, but I am very grateful that I personally witnessed the healing power of humanity. By writing this diary entry I want to honour their memory and wish that humanity may always win!
With gratitude and renewed sense of faith in humanity,
Tom
OR
B. The lesson On the Face of It, is primarily concerned with the issues of human connection and alienation.
It also teaches us how human attitude and behaviour can change a person’s life. Derry’s perspective of life undergoes a sea change after meeting Mr Lamb. He reflects how his chance meeting with Mr Lamb has blessed his life.
As Derry, pen down your thoughts and write a diary.
Answer:
Dear Diary,
Today, I find myself reflecting on the incredible impact that Mr. Lamb had on my life. I feel deep gratitude and admiration towards him. When I first met him, I was skeptical. But something about his warm smile and gentle demeanor compelled me to engage in conversation. As the conversation unfolded, I found immense kindness and wisdom in him. He could see beyond the surface and connect with others on a profound level.
I found the power of empathy and understanding in his conversations. He treated me as an equal who deserved all the love, respect, and happiness. He not only changed my perspective of life but also opened my heart to possibilities of genuine human connection.
Now I am way above the world of judgement and isolation. I feel fulfilled and will strive to be a beacon of light for others as he has been for me.
Derry