CBSE Class 12 English Core Question Paper 2024

Set 1 (Code No. 1/2/1) Solutions

SECTION A

Reading Skills

(22 Marks)

1. Read the following passage carefully:

(1) As a young adult, life can be stressful and overwhelming at times. Juggling among
school, work, social life, and other responsibilities, it can be easy to feel alone and
disconnected from the world around us. Dogs are the ultimate companions for anyone
looking to alleviate stress and loneliness. We'll explore many reasons why dogs make the
best companions for young adults.

(2) Unconditional love: Dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their owners, no
matter what. They don’t judge us, criticize us, or hold grudges against us. No matter how
flawed or imperfect we may be, our dogs will always love us unconditionally. This kind
of unwavering support and affection can be incredibly comforting for young adults
struggling to find their place in the world.

(3) Social connection: Dogs are great icebreakers and conversation starters. Whether
you’re walking them in the park, taking them to the dog beach, or simply hanging out at
home, dogs have a way of bringing people together. For young adults who may feel
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isolated or disconnected from their peers, having a dog by their side can be a great way
to connect with others and form new friendships.

(4) Increase physical activity: Dogs require regular exercise in order to stay healthy and
happy. This means that young adults who own dogs are more likely to engage in physical
activity themselves. Whether it's going for a run, playing frisbee, or simply taking a
leisurely stroll, getting out with your dog can be a great way to boost your mood and
energy levels.

(5) Emotional support: Dogs are also great emotional support animals for those
struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Their presence alone
can provide a sense of calm and comfort, and their ability to sense their owner's emotions
can be incredibly comforting. For young adults dealing with mental health challenges,
having a dog as a companion can be a life-changing experience.

(6) Improve responsibility and self-care: Owning a dog also comes with a great deal of
responsibility and self-care. Dogs require regular feeding, grooming, exercise, and
attention, which can be a great way for young adults to develop a sense of responsibility
and self-discipline. Additionally, having a dog as a companion can encourage young
adults to take better care of themselves, such as making sure they get enough sleep, eat
healthy, and engage in regular exercise.

(7) For all these reasons and more, dogs make fantastic companions for young adults.
Whether you're looking for emotional support, social connection, increased physical
activity, or simply someone to love and be loved by, a dog can provide all these things

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and more. So the next time you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider finding a
furry friend to take on the world with you.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) What is the significance of owning a dog for a young adult who is striving for
acceptance in society? 1

(A) It means increased physical activity.

(B) It builds a sense of responsibility.

(C) It helps young adults get more sleep.

(D) It is a source of unconditional love.

Ans: (D) It is a source of unconditional love.

(ii) A dog can encourage its owner to lead a healthier life by __________.

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Complete the above sentence appropriately, in about 40 words, with a characteristic or
description. 2

Ans: engaging in regular exercise, such as running, playing frisbee, or taking leisurely
strolls, which can improve mood and energy levels while maintaining overall physical
health.

(iii) Share evidence from the text, in approximately 40 words, to support the view that
dogs provide a sense of calm and comfort to those struggling with mental health issues.2

Ans: "Dogs are also great emotional support animals for those struggling with mental health
issues such as anxiety and depression. Their presence alone can provide a sense of calm and
comfort, and their ability to sense their owner's emotions can be incredibly comforting."

(iv) Explain in about 40 words the statement that dogs are great icebreakers . 2

Ans: Dogs help initiate conversations and build connections. Whether at the park or dog beach,
their presence attracts attention and encourages interactions, making it easier for young adults
to meet new people and form new friendships.

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(v) Which of the following activities help(s) young adults, owning a dog, build their sense
of responsibility and self-discipline ? 1

(A) walking the dog daily

(B) feeding it regularly

(C) engaging the services of a dog trainer

(d) Both (A) and (B)

Ans: (D) Both (A) and (B)

(vi) What does this article aim to do ? 1

(A) Explain the benefits of owning a dog.

(B) Provide advice on how to get a dog.

(C) Discuss how to take proper care of a dog.

(D) Describe the experiences of dog owners.

Ans: (A) Explain the benefits of owning a dog.

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(vii) Select the option that 1

(A) travel the world

(B) accept a responsibility

(c) to be pessimistic

(D) have a global outlook

Ans: (B) accept a responsibility

(viii) What does the underlined part in the sentence “consider finding a furry friend to
take on the world with you” refer to?

Ans: It refers to getting a dog as a companion to help manage life's challenges and provide
support.

(ix) What is the tone of the article ?

(A) critical but supportive

(B) indifferent and bored

(C) positive and informative

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(D) humorous and casual

Ans: (C) positive and informative

2. Read the following passage carefully: 10

(1) A recent survey conducted by an independent research firm sought to

measure levels of happiness among youth aged 16-24 years in seven
countries. The findings revealed some intriguing insights into what
makes today’s youth happiest, as well as which factors influence their
overall well-being. In India, an overwhelming majority of the youth
reported feeling satisfied with their lives, with 87% rating of their
overall happiness as ‘high’ or ‘very high’. Financial security was
identified as the primary source of happiness for 66%, followed by
family support (89%), having a purpose in life (50%), and work or
studies (40%). Unfortunately, 65% reported feeling stress related to
academic performance or workload, while 25% reported feeling
lonely.

These figures point to a need for increased mental health support

among India’s youth.

(2) These surveys also revealed that family support is an important source
of contentment for young people across countries. In Europe, 59% of

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 respondents said that their families were a major source of happiness;
in France this figure was 67%, and 63% in Germany. In North
America, 64% rated family as an important factor for well-being in
Canada, while 61% did so in the United States. Similarly, 89% of
survey respondents in India named family support as a major
contributor to their overall contentment level.

(3) It is clear that stress has a significant impact on the happiness of today
s youth. The findings suggest that young people need better resources
to manage their mental health and well-being. This may include access
to counselling services, mindfulness activities and support groups to
help them cope with challenging circumstances. It is also important to
provide financial support so as to reduce some of the economic
pressures.

(4) In India, 65% of youth surveyed reported feeling anxious about their
academic performance or workload, while 25% felt lonely. These
figures are especially significant given how important family support
is for young people s overall contentment.

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Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:

(i) What are the two findings that the survey mentioned in paragraph 1 reveals? Answer
in about 40 words. 2

Ans: The survey reveals that 87% of Indian youth report high levels of happiness, primarily
due to family support (89%) and financial security (66%). However, 65% experience stress
related to academic performance, and 25% feel lonely, indicating a need for better mental
health support.

(ii) Explain in about 40 words the statement “It is also important to provide financial
support so as to reduce some of the economic pressures.” 2

Ans: Providing financial support can alleviate economic pressures faced by youth, reducing
their stress and anxiety. This assistance can help them focus better on their studies and personal
development, leading to overall improved mental health and well-being.

(iii) Elaborate giving data, tress has a significant impact on the happiness of today’s
youth.” 1

Ans: Stress significantly affects youth happiness, with 65% of Indian youth feeling anxious
about academic performance or workload. Additionally, 25% report feelings of loneliness,
highlighting the negative impact of stress on their well-being.
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(iv) Which of the following factors, with reference to the given passage, does not play a
substantial role in the well-being of Indian youth? 1

(A) Family support and strong ties

(B) Social connection and technology

(C) Books and literature

(D) Economic stability

Ans: (C) Books and literature

(v) State whether True or False, with reference to the given passage:

It is not necessary to provide financial support to the youth as only academic

performance plays an upper hand in deciding the stress level. 1

Ans: False.

(vi) What are the top choices which are of maximum value to today’s youth? 1
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 I. Collectivism

II. Social media

III. Individualistic society

IV. Family ties

Options:

(A) I and II (B) II and III

(C) I and IV (D) II and IV

Ans: (C) I and IV.

(vii) The mental health of today s youth can be managed by resources like __________
and __________. 1

Ans: counselling services, mindfulness activities

(viii) Write the following sources that provide happiness to today s youth in descending
order: 1

(a) purposefulness (b) financial status

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(c) family support (d) stress

Ans: (c) family support, (b) financial status, (a) purposefulness, (d) stress

SECTION B

Creative Writing Skills (18 marks)

3. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 4

(a) You are the President of the Cultural Club of Marigold Public School, Vir Nagar. As
part of the Annual Community Service Week, you are planning to put up a cultural
performance in Ahista , a senior citizens home. Draft a notice for the school notice
board inviting participation by the students. Invent necessary details.

Ans:

Marigold Public School, Vir Nagar

Notice

Annual Community Service Week

We invite students to participate in a cultural performance at Ahista Senior Citizens

Home. Join us in spreading joy and showcasing your talents.

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Date: 5th August 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Venue: Ahista Senior Citizens Home

Contact: President, Cultural Club

OR

(b) As Chief Librarian of Little Wood Library, Birpur, draft a notice informing
members about the change in winter timings, effective from 1st April 2024. Also inform
the members about the newly introduced electronic international journal support
service with a remote accessing facility. Invent necessary details.

Ans:

Little Wood Library, Birpur

Notice

Change in Winter Timings & New Services

Effective Date: 1st April 2024

New Winter Timings:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

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 • Sunday: Closed

We are pleased to introduce the Electronic International Journal Support Service with
remote access facilities. Members can now access a wide range of journals from home.

For more information, please contact the library staff.

Chief Librarian
Little Wood Library, Birpur

4. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in about 50 words. 4

(a) You are the Secretary of the Civil Medical Doctors Association, Sheesh Nagar.
On the occasion of World Health Day, you are arranging a workshop on Drug
Free Pain Management and Reversal. Draft a formal letter of invitation to be
sent to all the members to attend the workshop. Request them to be punctual.
Invent relevant details.

Ans:

Civil Medical Doctors Association

Sheesh Nagar
30th July 2024

Dear Members,

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Subject: Invitation to World Health Day Workshop on Drug-Free Pain Management and
Reversal

On the occasion of World Health Day, we are pleased to invite you to a workshop on "Drug-
Free Pain Management and Reversal." The workshop aims to provide insights into
alternative pain management techniques and reversal methods without the use of drugs.

Details of the Workshop:

• Date: 7th April 2024

• Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

• Venue: Community Hall, Sheesh Nagar

The workshop will include presentations by experts, interactive sessions, and practical
demonstrations. We believe your participation will greatly benefit from the knowledge
shared during this event.

Please ensure your punctuality to make the most of this informative session.

We look forward to your presence.

Yours sincerely,

XYZ
Secretary

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Civil Medical Doctors Association
Sheesh Nagar

OR

(b) You are Shri E.A.S. Prasad, a well-known local cricketer. You have been invited as
a chief guest for an inter-school cricket championship in K.P.S School, Mahabagh.
Create an appropriate formal letter of acceptance.

Ans:

Shri E.A.S. Prasad

[Your Address]
30th July 2024

The Principal
K.P.S School
Mahabagh

Subject: Acceptance of Invitation as Chief Guest

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am honoured to accept your invitation to be the chief guest for the inter-school cricket
championship at K.P.S School on 10th August 2024. I look forward to the event.

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Yours sincerely,
Shri E.A.S. Prasad

5. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in 120 -150 words. 5

(a) You are Priti/Pramod Vats, a resident of 317, Rajdhani Enclave, Rajbagh.
You saw the given advertisement in the newspaper and wished to apply for the
same. Write a letter to the Personnel Manager along with your bio-data,
expressing your interest in the advertised post.

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Ans:

317, Rajdhani Enclave

Rajbagh
30th July 2024

The Personnel Manager

Harrison & Simpson Ltd.
[Company Address]

Subject: Application for Marketing Position

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am Priti/Pramod Vats, a college graduate fluent in English and Hindi, with excellent
interpersonal skills. I am writing to express my interest in the marketing position for
the new cosmetic range 'I Wish,' as advertised.

Bio-data

Name: Priti/Pramod Vats

Address: 317, Rajdhani Enclave, Rajbagh
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Email: [Your Email Address]

Educational Qualifications:

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 • Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, [Your College], [Year]

Skills:

• Proficient in English and Hindi

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Experienced in marketing and customer engagement

Experience:

• Marketing Intern, [Company Name], [Duration]

o Developed marketing strategies and campaigns

o Conducted market research and customer surveys

I am confident that my educational background and skills make me a suitable

candidate for this position. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my
experience and skills can contribute to the success of your team.

Thank you for considering my application.

Yours sincerely,
Priti/Pramod Vats

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 OR

(b) You have been making documentaries on how rivers, the lifelines of our
nation, are under serious threat due to river pollution. Write a letter to the editor
of a national daily, examining the reasons for this pollution and suggesting ways
of tackling the issue. Use the given cues along with your own ideas to compose
this letter. You are Srishti/Suraj, a concerned student.

Ans:

The Editor
National Daily Newspaper
Bengaluru, Karnataka

Subject: Urgent Need to Address River Pollution

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Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to draw attention to the critical issue of river pollution, which threatens
the lifelines of our nation. As a documentary filmmaker, I have witnessed the
detrimental effects of pollution caused by industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and
human sewage.

The unchecked disposal of industrial waste and agricultural runoff introduces harmful
chemicals into our rivers, while inadequate sewage treatment facilities contribute to
water contamination. These factors not only endanger aquatic life but also pose severe
health risks to humans.

To tackle this pressing issue, I propose the implementation of strict laws regulating
waste disposal, the formation of monitoring committees to oversee compliance, and
improvements in waste handling processes. Additionally, educating the masses about
the importance of preserving our rivers is crucial.

I urge the authorities and the public to take immediate action to protect our precious
water resources.

Yours sincerely,
Srishti/Suraj

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6. Attempt any one of the two, (a) or (b), in 120 -150 words. 5

(a) With rapid digitalization, students have started depending on digital devices for
entertainment. This has impacted their lives, both positively and negatively. Write an
article with the help of the given cues and your own ideas, highlighting the advantages
and disadvantages of using digital devices. You are Rohini/Rohit.

Ans:

Digital Devices and Their Impact on Students

By Rohini/Rohit

With the rise of digitalization, students are increasingly using digital devices for
entertainment, which has both positive and negative impacts on their lives. On the positive
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side, digital devices enhance skills such as academics, psychomotor abilities, visual
intelligence, and research capabilities. They provide access to vast information and
educational resources, promoting learning and development.

However, the overuse of digital devices leads to several disadvantages. Prolonged use can
result in physical inactivity, poor interpersonal skills, addictive disorders, aggressive
behaviour, and a lack of concentration. These issues highlight the need for a balanced
approach to digital usage.

To mitigate these negative effects, solutions such as adult supervision, enforcing strict usage
timings, and spreading awareness about addiction are essential. By implementing these
measures, we can ensure that students reap the benefits of digital devices while minimizing
their adverse effects.

In conclusion, while digital devices offer significant advantages, responsible usage is crucial
for the overall well-being of students.

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 OR

(b) The student counselling department in your school put up the following poster
regarding an event in the community centre.

As Rita/Rahul, student editor, write a report on the above workshop for the school
magazine.

Ans:

Wellness Workshop at Community Centre

By Rita/Rahul, Student Editor

From 6th to 8th February, our school’s student counselling department organized a Wellness
Workshop at the community centre, themed "Be - Do - Live WELL." The event, held from
10 am to 6:30 pm, focused on addressing common concerns, reducing stress, and providing
motivation strategies to promote the joy of living.
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The workshop included interactive sessions on sharing common concerns, practical
techniques for stress reduction, and motivational talks to inspire students. One of the
highlights was the "Theatre in Action" segment, which creatively addressed mental health
issues through engaging performances.

Students actively participated in the activities, finding the sessions both enlightening and
enjoyable. The event successfully provided a platform for students to discuss their challenges
and learn effective coping strategies.

Overall, the Wellness Workshop was a resounding success, leaving students equipped with
valuable tools to manage stress and enhance their well-being. The positive feedback from
participants emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering a supportive school
environment.

SECTION C

Literature (40 marks)

7. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two,
(a) or (b) 6

(a) Aunt Jennifer s fingers fluttering through her wool

Find even the ivory needle hard to pull. The massive

weight of Uncle’s wedding band
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Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer s hand.

(Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers)

(i) Which of the following themes is best represented in the given extract ? 1

(A) The maturity of adulthood

(B) The glory of feminity

(C) Victim of male domination

(D) The superficial beauty

Ans: (C) Victim of male domination

(ii) State whether the following statement is True or False, with reference to the extract.1

Aunt Jennifer is nervous and traumatized because of the constraints of her marriage.

Ans: True.

(iii) Complete the following sentence appropriately : 1

The fingers fluttering through her wool symbolize __________.

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Ans: Aunt Jennifer's struggle and oppression under the weight of her marriage.

(iv) The use of the words ‘massive weight’ creates a powerful image of __________. 1

Ans: the burden and oppression imposed by Uncle’s wedding band on Aunt Jennifer.

(v) Based on the rhyme scheme in lines 3 and 4, which word would rhyme with ‘band’
and ‘hand’? 1

(A) stand

(B) wind

(C) bent

(D) tent

Ans: (A) stand

(vi) The heavy wedding ring is a source of : 1

(A) joy.

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(B) freedom.

(c) dignity.

(D) burden.

Ans: (D) burden

OR

(b) Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing

A flowery band to bind us to the earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o'er-darkened ways
Made for our searching: (A Thing of Beauty)

(i) Which of the following themes is best represented in the given extract? 1
(A) The beautiful things in nature
(B) Things that cause unhappiness
(C) The immortality of human beings
(D) The early morning fragrance of flowers

Ans: (A) The beautiful things in nature

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(ii) State whether the given statement is True or False, with reference to the extract.
The paths we follow are often not worthy of our noble nature. 1

Ans: True.

(iii) Complete the following sentence appropriately:

We wreathe for ourselves a flowery band every morrow because __________. 1

Ans: it helps us stay connected to the earth despite the challenges and despair we face.

(iv) The use of the word dearth creates a powerful image of __________. 1

Ans: a lack or scarcity of noble and virtuous people, contributing to a sense of gloom.

(v) Based on the rhyme scheme in lines 4 and 5, which of the following word will rhyme
with days ? 1

(A) craze

(B) pays

(C) haste
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(D) waste

Ans: (D) waste

(vi) The lack of punctuation at the end of line 3 in the extract is to : 1

(A) create a sense of continuity and flow that connects it with the fourth line.

(B) encourage the reader to understand grammar.

(C) forewarn the reader of gloomy days ahead.

(D) keep us connected to this earth.

Ans: (A) create a sense of continuity and flow that connects it with the fourth line.

8. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two, (a)
or (b):

(a) "If I am able, are you?" Sadao asked.

"No," Hana said, "But if you can do it alone..."

Sadao hesitated again. "The strange thing is," he said, "that if the man were whole, I
could turn him over to the police without difficulty. I care nothing for him. He is my
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enemy. All Americans are my enemy. And he is only a common fellow. You see how
foolish his face is. But since he is wounded..." (The Enemy)

(i) Complete the sentence appropriately.

The dilemma faced by the couple was __________.

Ans: whether to help the wounded American soldier, despite their personal and political
conflicts.

(ii) What does Hana ask Dr. Sadao to do alone?

(A) Treat the wounded soldier

(B) Give him shelter in the outhouse

(C) Throw him back into the sea

(D) Hand him over to the authorities

Ans: (A) Treat the wounded soldier

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(iii) Explain the expression: "If the man were whole".

Ans: The expression means if the soldier were not injured, Dr. Sadao would have no moral or
ethical conflict in turning him over to the authorities.

(iv) Dr. Sadao says, "All Americans are my enemy." What character trait of Dr. Sadao
does it reflect?

Ans: It reflects Dr. Sadao’s internal conflict and loyalty to his country, which is challenged by
his compassion and medical ethics.

OR

Derry : I'd not come to steal anything.

Mr. Lamb: No, no. The young lads steal....scrump the apples. You're not so young.

Derry

: I just....wanted to come in. Into the garden.

Mr. Lamb: So, you did. Here we are, then.

Derry : You don't know who I am.

Mr. Lamb: A boy. Thirteen or so.

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Derry : Fourteen. [Pause] But I've got to go now. Good-bye.

Mr. Lamb: Nothing to be afraid of. Just a garden. Just me.

Derry : But I'm not....I'm not afraid. [Pause] People are afraid of me.

(On the Face of It)

(i) Why does Mr. Lamb feel that Derry has not come to steal?

Ans: Mr. Lamb feels that Derry has not come to steal because Derry's intent appears to be
simply exploring the garden and talking to him, rather than stealing.

(ii) Cite instances from the extract which show that Mr. Lamb is trying to put Derry at
ease.

Ans: Mr. Lamb addresses Derry kindly, says "Nothing to be afraid of," and reassures him by
calling the garden "Just a garden" and himself "Just me."

(iii) Choose the correct statement:

(A) Derry entered the garden as he was fascinated by the bees.

(B) Derry came to meet Mr. Lamb.

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(C) They were well acquainted with each other.

(D) Derry entered as he wanted to see the garden.

Ans: (D) Derry entered as he wanted to see the garden.

(iv) People are afraid of Derry because __________.

Ans: of his physical appearance, which makes him feel isolated and judged by others.

9. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for any one of the given two,
(a) or (b): 6

(a) "Children grow up in them, becoming partners in survival. And survival in

Seemapuri means rag-picking. Through the years, it has acquired the proportions of a
fine art. Garbage to them is gold. It is their daily bread, a roof over their heads, even if
it is a leaking roof. But for a child it is even more." (Lost Spring)

(i)Complete the sentence appropriately.

Children become partners in survival suggests that __________.

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Ans: they are deeply involved in the struggle for basic needs and livelihood, which is a part
of their daily lives.

(ii) Rag-picking has acquired the proportion of a fine art means:

(A) artistic bend of mind is required.

(B) it has proportionately displaced art.

(C) it has become a highly skilful activity.

(D) it has discovered pieces of art.

Ans: (C) it has become a highly skilful activity.

(iii) State whether the given statement is True or False with reference to the extract. 1

The children and their parents have left Dhaka to live in Seemapuri.

Ans: False.

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(iv) Why does the author say, 'survival in Seemapuri means rag-picking'? 1

Ans: The author says this because rag-picking is the only means by which the people of
Seemapuri can earn their livelihood and survive.

(v) What does the phrase "for a child it is even more" reveal about the children's
dreams? 1

Ans: It reveals that for children, rag-picking represents not just survival but also a loss of
their innocence and dreams, as it becomes their whole world.

(vi) Which of the following headlines suggests the central idea of the extract?

(A) Seemapuri, A Pot of Gold

(B) Rag-picking - Different Perspectives

(C) Art in Delhi and in Seemapuri

(D) Saheb-e-Alam in Seemapuri

Ans: (B) Rag-picking - Different Perspectives

OR

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(b) This settlement was adopted unanimously by the commission. Gandhi explained
that the amount of the refund was less important than the fact that the landlords had
been obliged to surrender part of the money and, with it, part of their prestige.
Therefore, as far as the peasants were concerned, the planters had behaved as lords
above the law. Now the peasant saw that he had rights and defenders. He learned
courage. (Indigo)

(i) What was Gandhi's purpose in agreeing to the settlement, even at a lesser amount? 1

Ans: Gandhi agreed to the settlement to demonstrate that the landlords were not above the
law and to restore the peasants' rights and self-respect.

(ii) Complete the sentence with one word: 1

The commission agreed by common consent, or in other words, they agreed to the
settlement __________.

Ans: unanimously.

(iii) Explain the impact on the landlords as a result of the settlement. 1

Ans: The settlement forced the landlords to surrender part of their money and prestige,
making them acknowledge the peasants' rights and reducing their dominance.

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(iv) Based on the content provided in the extract, select the most likely option about the
behaviour of the landlords. 1

(A) The landlords were sorry for their behaviour.

(B) The landlords were obstinate and refused Gandhi's suggestion.

(C) The landlords had to refund the money.

(D) The landlords and the planters became partners in the Indigo plantation. 1

Ans: (C) The landlords had to refund the money.

(v) What did the peasants realize from the Champaran incident? 1

Ans: The peasants realized that they had rights and defenders and that they could challenge
unjust practices and demand fair treatment.

(vi) Complete the sentence appropriately. 1

The phrase "lords above the law' suggests that __________.

Ans: the landlords considered themselves superior and not accountable to legal or ethical
standards.

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10. Answer any five of the following six questions in 40-50 words each: 5x2=10

(i) What was the 'thunderclap' the narrator received as M. Hamel began the lesson?

(The Last Lesson)

Ans: The 'thunderclap' was the shock and realisation that this was the last French lesson he
would ever attend, as he had not appreciated his education and now faced the loss due to the
war.

(ii) Explain the sentence "an army of barefoot boys who appear like the morning birds
and disappear at noon.” (Lost Spring)

Ans: The sentence describes the children who come to school early in the morning, much
like birds that appear at dawn, and leave by midday, highlighting their transient presence and
the daily routine of rag-picking.

(iii) The lesson "The Rattrap' is both entertaining and philosophical. Do you agree with
the statement? Give reasons. (The Rattrap)

Ans: Yes, the lesson is entertaining through its engaging narrative of the peddler's
adventures and philosophical in its exploration of themes like redemption, the nature of
human kindness, and the transformative power of selflessness.

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(iv) Bring out the contrast between Jansie and Sophie in the story 'Going Places'.

Ans: Jansie is practical and realistic, concerned about the future and societal expectations,
while Sophie is dreamer and imaginative, living in a world of fantasies and unrealistic
ambitions, which leads to a contrast in their perspectives on life.

(v) How was there a great deal of national integration in the make-up department?

(Poets and Pancakes)

Ans: The make-up department at the studio had a diverse group of people from different
regions and backgrounds working together. This interaction and collaboration fostered a
sense of national unity and integration among the workers.

(vi) Did Umberto Eco like to be identified as a novelist ? Give reasons in support of
your answer. (The Interview)

Ans: No, Umberto Eco did not primarily want to be identified as a novelist. He considered
himself a scholar and a semiotician, and his work in literature was an extension of his
academic interests in signs, symbols, and communication.

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11. Answer any two of the following three questions in 40-50 words each: 2×2=4

(i) Do you think the prediction made by the state astrologer "was indisputably
disproved"? Give reasons in support of your answer. (The Tiger King)

Ans: No, the prediction by the state astrologer was not indisputably disproved. Although the
astrologer predicted that the King would die from a tiger bite, the King's death came about
due to a different cause. The irony is that despite the prediction's apparent failure, the King's
demise was indirectly linked to tigers, illustrating how the prophecy played out in an
unexpected way.

(ii) "Then I lost my spirit." What are the incidents that led Zitkala-Sa to feel this way?

(Memories of Childhood)

Ans: Zitkala-Sa felt she lost her spirit due to the traumatic experiences she faced at the
boarding school. She was forced to conform to the white man’s ways, including cutting her
hair and adopting unfamiliar customs, which led to a deep sense of alienation and loss of her
cultural identity.

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(iii) Tishani Doshi considered the programme 'Students on Ice' a success. Do you agree
with her? Why/Why not? (Journey to the End of the Earth)

Ans: Yes, Tishani Doshi considered 'Students on Ice' a success because it provided students
with a unique opportunity to experience and understand the fragility of the polar
environments firsthand. This exposure helped them appreciate the importance of
environmental conservation and inspired them to become more proactive in addressing
climate change.

12. Answer any one of the following two questions in 120-150 words: 5

(a) Franz in "The Last Lesson" realizes the importance of going to school while Saheb
in "Lost Spring" yearns to go to school. Write a paragraph exploring the different
perspectives of these two young boys on learning and education.

Ans: Franz and Saheb offer contrasting perspectives on education that highlight the value
and challenges of schooling. In "The Last Lesson," Franz's realization of the importance of
school comes too late, as he is faced with the harsh reality of losing his opportunity to learn
due to the German occupation. His regret underscores how education is often undervalued
until it is threatened. Conversely, Saheb in "Lost Spring" yearns for school as a means of
escape from the harsh life of rag-picking. His desire for education represents hope and a
vision for a better future. Saheb’s longing illustrates how education is seen as a pathway to
opportunity, reflecting its critical role in transforming lives. While Franz's experience is

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shaped by loss and missed chances, Saheb's perspective is driven by a yearning for change
and improvement.

OR

(b) Write a comparative analysis for your study group focusing on how the poems
"Keeping Quiet" and "My Mother at Sixty-six" illuminate the different facets of
human introspection and the significance of quiet reflection in understanding oneself.

Ans: "Keeping Quiet" by Pablo Neruda and "My Mother at Sixty-six" by Kamala Das both
explore themes of introspection and reflection, though from different angles. In "Keeping
Quiet," Neruda advocates for a moment of silence to promote peace and self-awareness. The
poem emphasizes the power of quiet reflection to understand oneself and foster collective
harmony. It suggests that through silence, people can confront their inner selves and
transcend the superficial aspects of life. On the other hand, Kamala Das’s "My Mother at
Sixty-six" reflects on personal introspection through the lens of familial love and aging. The
poem’s quiet moments capture the poet's realization of her mother’s frailty and the passage
of time. Both poems highlight the significance of reflection: Neruda’s through a call for
global tranquillity, and Das’s through personal and poignant observation of a loved one's
vulnerability. Each poem uses quiet moments to delve deeper into human experiences and
emotions.

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13. Answer any one of the following two questions in 120-150 words: 5

(a) Justify the statement, It may take a long time for oppression to be resisted but the
seeds of rebellion are sowed early in life." (Memories of Childhood)

Ans: The statement reflects the notion that while the struggle against oppression might seem
prolonged and challenging, the foundation for resistance is often laid early in life. This is
evident in various historical and literary contexts where early experiences of injustice and
inequality foster a sense of awareness and desire for change. In “Memories of Childhood,”
Zitkala-Sa’s early experiences with cultural suppression plant the seeds of her rebellion
against the imposed norms. Similarly, in other contexts, childhood experiences of inequality
and resistance shape individuals' later actions and attitudes towards oppression. The
formative experiences of injustice and the initial stirrings of rebellion during youth provide
the critical momentum necessary for a more significant and prolonged resistance against
systemic oppression in adulthood.

OR

(b) The story "The Tiger King" is a satire on the conceit of those in power. How does
the author employ the literary device of dramatic irony in the story? (The Tiger King)

Ans: In "The Tiger King," the author uses dramatic irony to critique the arrogance and self-
importance of those in power. Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows more about a
situation than the characters do. In the story, the King’s belief that he will overcome any

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threat posed by the tigers, despite the growing danger, highlights his arrogance. The irony is
evident when the King is ultimately killed by a tiger, despite his efforts to control and
conquer them. The story exposes the futility of the King's attempts to defy fate and
demonstrates how his arrogance leads to his downfall. This use of dramatic irony serves to
underscore the inherent foolishness and hubris of those who hold power, as they are blind to
the consequences of their actions.

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