PRACTICE PAPER - 2

ANSWERS
SECTION - A
Reading Skills (22 marks)
1. Literary Passage 12 m viii) Chips read out Max Staefel's name at the chapel
service, and there was some confusion and
i) It implies that he was well read and also had a habit
debate among the students about why his name
of collecting books which he might be referring to,
was included, considering he was of German
as and when required. 1 nationality. This suggests that there may have been
ii) (any two) discomfort, unsurity, embarrassment, concerns about his allegiance during the war. Thus
confusion, anxiety (any other relevant to context) 1 the given statement weakens this conclusion. 2
iii) Gives a sense of being argumentative / problematic ix) D 1
/ unresolved as Mr. Chipping was being coerced/ 2. Case- based factual passage. 10 marks
pressured into a decision and Ralston was plain i) To highlight that there is something fascinating and
cold and did not display any sign of emotion. 2 puzzling about these stripes that warrants further
iv) B 1 exploration and study. 1
v) Because he was taken by surprise and didn't expect ii) primary function 1
such a harsh evaluation of his teaching methods iv) D 1
and personal habits. He had been a dedicated and v) C 1
respected teacher and had not received any direct vi) The mention of the studies being published implies
criticism or pressure to change his ways. Ralston's that they have undergone some level of review
sudden and blunt assessment caught him off guard, and scrutiny, making it reasonable to infer that
and he couldn't immediately comprehend why the information they provide may be reliable and
credible. 2
such strong words were being used to address him.
vii) A 1
2
viii) Both studies support the idea that zebras' stripes
vi) was the one who then read out the names of the
have a specific purpose. The Cobb's study suggests
men who had died at war. 1 that the primary function is thermoregulation,
vii) war-time communication was checked for the while Prof. Caro's experiment indicates that
sharing of only permissible information and the stripes deter horseflies, which can also be linked to
remaining was crossed out. 1 reducing heat stress. 2

SECTION - B
Creative Writing (18 marks)
3. NOTICE → Drawing attention— of students of class XI
Format – 1 Content -2 → Mentioning the excursion; inviting registrations
Accuracy of spelling and grammar -1 → Giving details -D, T, V
→ Informing about parent-consent slips
Name of Organisation → Line with reference to the undersigned
NOTICE B. → Correct format (as listed)
Date
→ Drawing attention—one and all
Heading
→ Mentioning the find and where
[details] → Giving details of the bag
Signature → Sharing details for claiming (by owner)
Name (issuing authority) → Line with reference to the undersigned
Designation 4. INVITATION & REPLY
A. → Correct format (as listed) Format – 1 , Content -2,
Accuracy of spelling and grammar -1
2 Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise ONE for ALL ENGLISH CORE, Class – 12

A. FORMAL LETTER - invitation → Educational Qualifications (include advertised

Format- that of a formal letter- Sender’s address, requirements)
date, designation of the receiver, followed by the → Work experience/s (if relevant)- only internship /
receiver’s address, subject, salutation, content of part-time relevant here
the invitation, complimentary close. → References
Content: (Any other relevant information)
l Purpose of invitation 6. ARTICLE WRITING / REPORT WRITING:
l Date /time of event Format – 1, Content -2, Organisation -1, Accuracy
l Venue (address) of spelling and grammar -1
B. FORMAL LETTER- Reply in third person Newspaper Article Writing
Format- that of a formal letter- Sender’s address, Format:
date, designation of the receiver, followed by the Title (eye catching, thematically relevant)
receiver’s address, subject, salutation, content of -By line
the invitation, complimentary close. Introductory paragraph - Relevant to the given
CONTENT topic, introduction.
l In Third Person, mention of DTV. Main Body- Elaboration, examples, linkage to the
5. FORMAL LETTER: topic. Discussion on various aspects of the given
Format – 1, Content -2, Organisation -1, Accuracy issue, cause, effect. Developed coherently in one or
of spelling and grammar -1 two paragraphs.
Format: Concluding paragraph- Writer’s opinions/
Sender’s address, Date, Receiver’s address, comments, recommendations/solutions. End on a
Salutation. Subject, Letter, Complimentary close hopeful note/ call for action/ warning.
(largely accepted –Yours truly for letter to editor & A. Suggested response points (cues):
in business circuits -Yours sincerely) 1. What is fake news, and why has it become a
A. Content points: significant concern in the age of social media?
Introductory paragraph - Purpose of writing the spread of false information, often disguised as
letter and stating the issue briefly. legitimate news--- concern because the ease
Body paragraph: issue- with which information can be shared online
- Environmental Impact - litter poses a significant means that even unverified or misleading
risk to local environment - disrupts the natural content can reach a vast audience rapidly – can
beauty of Nainital - the non-biodegradable waste have serious consequences, affecting public
harms our flora and fauna perception, trust, and even causing social or
political unrest.
- Health Hazards - Litter attracts pests and
insects - risk of diseases due to these unhygienic 2. Analysing the Issue –
conditions Misinformation - affects the public behaviour
- Negative Impression - Nainital is known for its – perception - can sway opinions, incite panic,
natural charm – visitors exposed to unsightly or lead to misguided actions - challenges: sheer
sight of litter - leaves a negative impression and volume of content online
affects the tourism industry 3. Suggestions to Tackle Fake News -
Body paragraph: recommendations- Social Media - enhance their fact-checking
- placing additional waste bins in key tourist areas processes; implement algorithms to detect and
flag fake news
- enforcing strict fines for littering- strict
implementation Users - evaluate the information they encounter
online; verify sources, cross-reference facts,
- Public Awareness Campaigns - educational
refrain from sharing unverified content.
campaigns to raise awareness
Schools - Digital literacy programmes - educate
Concluding paragraph – Summarising, sharing a
the younger generation on discerning credible
call for action.
sources from unreliable ones.
B. Content
4. Local Perspective -
→ Covering Letter
Causes unrest / harm – need collaboration of
→ Reference to the advertisement
local media outlets, educational institutions,
→ Conveying suitability for the position and community organisations to promote
→ Submission of application media literacy, conduct workshops on fact-
Bio data as separate enclosure checking, and create awareness campaigns
→ Profile of self about the dangers of fake news.
ANSWERS 3
School Magazine Report Writing
Format:
l Heading & By line
l Details
Organisation & Content:
The report should answer these questions
WHO? WHERE & WHAT & HOW? WHAT NEXT? /
name of WHEN? events/ programme OPINIONS
event, sponsor/organiser date, time, place - details
special guests, if any town/ city + venue

iii.(Any one) 1 n … seeking professional advice is a common

n Emotional and psychological control or expected course of action in response to
[Aunt Jennifer's ordeals have overwhelmed and unusual experiences
dominated her, leaving her in a state of fear and n … talking to a psychiatrist is a logical and
anxiety. Her experiences of oppression and society’s widely accepted choice
constraints have taken a toll on her mental and n … it is an accepted cultural or societal norm
emotional state, leaving her feeling trapped and to turn to mental health professionals when
powerless.] grappling with unconventional or challenging
n Physical constraint and limitation circumstances
[The weight of Aunt Jennifer’s ordeals has left a ii. (Any one) 1
lasting mark on her physical being, limited her n It attempts to provide a psychological
actions and autonomy, leaving her feeling trapped explanation for an extraordinary experience
and unable to fully express herself.] n It delves into the subconscious and suggests
n Symbolic subjugation that Charley's yearning for a different reality
might be manifesting in his dreams or waking
[Aunt Jennifer's ordeals have become a dominating
thoughts.
force in her life, exerting power over her thoughts,
iii. A. defensive stance
actions, and sense of self. Making her live under
the constant influence of external forces - societal [Option B implies a proactive action taken to safeguard
expectations, gender roles etc. which suppress her against potential harm but he wife's reaction seems more
individuality] like a response to a perceived judgment rather than a
deliberate protective measure. Option C is not directly
iv. D. To highlight the juxtaposition between Aunt
supported by the phrase "kind of mad." which seems
Jennifer's mortality and the eternal, unafraid
more like a defensive reaction than a straightforward
prancing of the tigers 1
expression of concern. Option D could be true to some
[The contrast in the lines serves to emphasise the extent, but it doesn't fully capture the emotional tone of
stark juxtaposition between Aunt Jennifer's mortality, being "kind of mad." The wife's reaction appears more
indicated by the description of her hands lying still in emotionally charged and defensive rather than a simple
death, and the eternal, unafraid prancing of the tigers in assertion of privacy. Hence Option A is correct as it is
the artistic creation she made. This choice underscores a reaction in response to a perceived threat or criticism,
the enduring nature of the tigers' symbolic freedom in and captures the emotional tone conveyed by the wife's
contrast to the temporal nature of Aunt Jennifer's life.] reaction.] 1
v. (1) specifically highlights the idea of Aunt Jennifer iv. “among others” [‘Yes, I’ve taken the obvious step:
conquering fear through her creation of the tigers I talked to a psychiatrist friend of mine, among
OR (1) emphasises Aunt’s ability to assert herself others.’] 1
and find strength in the face of adversity whereas B. i A. His coping mechanism
1 [Derry's certainty about not looking different as he grows
(2) focuses more on the aspect of Aunt Jennifer's older can be seen as a coping mechanism, a way for him
ordeals rather than her empowerment OR (2) to handle the challenges posed by his disfigurement. It
puts more emphasis on her struggles rather reflects his psychological strategy to maintain a sense of
than her triumphs and may not fully capture the stability and control over his identity despite people’s
empowering aspect. prejudices. While Option B might be an interpretation,
vi. It conveys a sense of empathy and understanding it is more about his internal emotional strategy than an
for Aunt Jennifer's struggles and desires. 1 act of defiance against society’s expectations. The term
8. Prose- Vistas (No partial credit) 4 marks "coping mechanism" better captures the psychological
A. i. (Any one) 1 aspect of Derry's attitude toward his own identity and
4 Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise ONE for ALL ENGLISH CORE, Class – 12

appearance. Options C and D are obvious incorrect of communication.]

options.] 1 iv. By offering a direct and unfiltered connection
ii. (Any one or similar) between the interviewee and the audience 1
…the world is diverse, complex, and full of different v. (Any one) 1
perspectives and experiences. 1 n events, ideas, or information that hold
…there is more to the world than meets the eye. significance or importance.
iii. FALSE. [Was more of an earnest inquiry rather than a n crucial and noteworthy aspects of life, society,
taunting retort. Derry seems to be seeking clarification or culture
from Mr. Lamb about the nature of the world. It reflects n substantial and impactful content
his curiosity and perhaps a yearning for a broader vi. (Any one) 1
understanding of the world beyond the confines of the n Role as facilitators - Interviewers guide
garden. It's a genuine question.] 1 conversations, extracting valuable insights and
iv. (Any one) 1 information from interviewees.
n Pragmatic - Mr. Lamb's practical approach to n Knowledge brokers - Interviewers bridge
life. He doesn't dramatise or complain about gaps in understanding, acting as conduits for
his condition, showcasing a no-nonsense knowledge transfer between experts and the
attitude. audience.
n Resilient - By dismissing the idea that his tin leg n Narrative shapers - Through questions and
hurts, Mr. Lamb displays resilience. He doesn't dialogue, interviewers shape the narrative,
let physical discomfort define his emotional influencing how information is presented and
state or outlook on life. perceived
n Humourous - There's a hint of humor in n Audience representatives - Interviewers
Mr. Lamb's response. The use of "boy" and represent the audience, asking questions
the matter-of-fact tone add a touch of wit, that resonate with public inquisitiveness and
revealing his ability to find lightness in the face concerns
of challenges. n Cultural Interpreters - They interpret and
n Comforting / Reassuring - By dismissing the contextualise information, making it accessible and
idea that "tin hurts," Mr. Lamb is attempting relatable to a broader audience.
to reassure Derry. This contributes to his n Gatekeepers of information - Interviewers control
character as someone who, despite his own the flow of information, deciding which aspects
challenges, is considerate of Derry's feelings to highlight, amplifying their role in shaping
and strives to provide comfort. perceptions.
9. Prose- Flamingo (No partial credit) 6 marks B i False [Spoke with respect] 1
A i discomfort / sense of intrusion 1 ii. B. The valet had to supervise the acceptance of the
ii. (similar response, along any one of these lines) invite. 1
iii. (Response may be accepted along these lines) 1
Because it- 1
…the young lady's unexpected generous and kind
n includes the coexistence of discomfort and gesture that bridges the gap between social classes
essentiality [Emphasising shared humanity over material
n suggests that while interviews might be distinctions]
uncomfortable for some individuals iv. (Any one) 1
n means that interviews remain a crucial and n To create a positive atmosphere, to make the
indispensable means of communication, rattrap peddler feel at ease and comfortable.
allowing for the transmission of meaningful n To build trust and rapport, fostering a sense of
information and insights assurance in the peddler that allows him to be
iii. B. a tool for training 1 more open and receptive in their interaction.
[While interviews can be used as a tool for training v. B. Lucky chap! Unbelievable stroke of good luck.
purposes in certain contexts, it does not directly align 1
with the idea that an interview is "a supremely serviceable vi. He was ill at ease because he was having ‘evil
medium of communication." The term "supremely forebodings’ / ominous fears of what awaited him ;
serviceable" implies that interviews are highly effective, hence, thoughts were far from pleasant. 1
versatile, and impactful in facilitating communication 10. Answer any FIVE of the six following questions in
and exchanging information and ideas. While training 40-50 words each. 5 × 2= 10
can be a potential application of interviews, it is not Content -1
the defining characteristic that highlights the overall → Full credit for appropriate inclusion of all
usefulness and effectiveness of interviews as a medium content asked for
ANSWERS 5
→ Partial credit ½ for relevant but incomplete n Seeking Recognition –
content → might stem from a need for acknowledgment
Expression – 1 and attention
→ Full credit for effective organisation → She might feel that her family, particularly her
→ Partial credit ½ for some semblance of father and Geoff, may not fully appreciate her
organisation of ideas dreams or interests
→ Meeting a football star becomes a way for her to
Accuracy - Deduct ½ mark from the overall score
gain a sense of importance within the family
if the error density is high (more than a total of 2
n Misunderstanding
spellings and/or grammatical errors).
→ Geoff ’s disbelief and scepticism
i. n His willingness to endure personal risks and face
arrest-- demonstrated the power of individual → communication gap
courage in challenging colonial oppression → indicates differing perspectives on aspirations
n Isolation and Longing for Connection –
n Non-violent resistance -- inspired thousands of
peasants to overcome their fear of the British - → her secretive nature about her supposed
initiated a collective shift in mindset meeting with Danny Casey
→ feel unable to openly share her dreams or
n This strategy - influenced the trajectory of
experiences with her family --- possibly due to a
the Indian independence movement - set a
fear of judgment or lack of support
precedent for peaceful activism 2
vi. n profound impact - finding a reduced-price copy
ii. n by transforming it from a passive state of mere
- a moment of illumination 2
physical quietness -- to an active and purposeful n included - the essays by notable intellectuals,
collective introspection
including Spender, detailing their journeys into
n conventional idea of stillness often implies a Communism and subsequent disillusionment
cessation of movement or activity, a momentary n helped join the dots - shed light on the mystery
pause surrounding Spender's visit to Gemini Studios
n not just the absence of physical movement -- but -- revealing a connection not just to poetry but
a deliberate and a reflective silence to profound ideological shifts
n Neruda goes beyond this surface-level 11. Answer any TWO of three following questions in
understanding - presents a stillness that is 40-50 words each. 2 X 2= 4
dynamic and intentional 2 Content -1
iii. n goes beyond its literal meaning 2 → Full credit for appropriate inclusion of all
n symbolises resistance, patriotism, and a final content asked for
assertion of French identity in the face of → Partial credit ½ for relevant but incomplete
cultural suppression content
n not just about writing words on a board - carries Expression – 1
a deeper meaning that makes it a symbol of → Full credit for effective organisation
defiance and a last stand for cultural identity → Partial credit ½ for some semblance of
organisation of ideas
iv. n by symbolising a tranquil and secluded mental
Accuracy - Deduct ½ mark from the overall score
space - Keats uses the term 'bower' to represent
if the error density is high (more than a total of 2
a peaceful retreat -surrounded by nature
spellings and/or grammatical errors).
n Implication - encountering a thing of beauty
i. n symbolises the inescapable nature of destiny
creates an internal sanctuary within the
and the repercussions of the Maharaja's actions
individual
n fate catches up with him, through a harmless
n 'bower quiet' becomes a metaphorical refuge -- a gift for his son
serene state of mind where the beauty, whether n The symbolic revenge of the "hundredth tiger"
in nature or art, continues to offer solace, serves as a moving reminder that
inspiration, and a sense of tranquility that is -- one cannot elude destiny
unending 2 --even seemingly trivial choices may have
v. ⇒ highlights her desire for - recognition and profound consequences
validation 2 n highlights the story's theme of destiny's
⇒ points to - potential strains in her relationships inevitability and the irony of the Tiger King's
-- unmet needs and communication gaps within ultimate fate 2
her family ii. n during wartime, national loyalties are
(Any one) heightened, and harbouring an enemy soldier
6 Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise ONE for ALL ENGLISH CORE, Class – 12

is seen as a betrayal to one's country -- tension marginalised and underprivileged – for Saheb
amplified - the wounded man is not just any and Mukesh - she might try to connect with
enemy but a prisoner of war them, offer them assistance, or try to find ways
n adds layers to the moral dilemma -- the historical to uplift their lives
context of World War II - hostilities between n Her willingness to help - might lead her to take
Japan and the United States – their choice action to improve their situation
forces the characters to confront their ingrained B. Value Points:
prejudices and challenge societal norms n Identify the reason behind his mental roadblock
n the wounded soldier's identity as an American The real reason behind your mental roadblock is
POW -- questions the dehumanisation of the the series of defeats that you have faced. Don’t
enemy during wartime, emphasising shared
you know that defeat is success turned inside
vulnerabilities and the common thread of
out?
suffering - the moral dilemma becomes not
n Explain that its common
just about allegiance to one's nation but also
about recognising the shared humanity that These setbacks are usual for anyone who takes
transcends national conflicts 2 risks in any field. Make them your milestones
on your road to achievement.
iii. n heightened - first-person perspective allows
readers to intimately connect with the narrators' n Share Douglas’s experience
experiences, emotions, and cultural struggles William Douglas, in his autobiography has
n gain authenticity - they draw from the real-life mentioned the approach he took to overcome
encounters of Zitkala-Sa and Bama - provide a his fear of water (elaborate). He was resolute to
raw and unfiltered glimpse into their personal overcome his mental block caused by fear. He
histories emerged victorious against his own enemy –
n humanises the broader themes of cultural clash, fear. Follow his example. I’m sure you too will
discrimination, and identity loss overcome this mental block and taste success
n impact - not just literary 2 like him.
12. Answer ONE of the two following questions, in n Offer advice
about 120-150 words. (5) Never let fear of anything rule your life. If you
Content -2 do, you will be carrying the heavy burden of
regret throughout your life. Stars like you must
→ Full credit for sustained, clear, well-developed
personal response to the task that appropriately shine and lead the way for others. All the best!
justifies any arguments 13. Answer ONE of the two following questions, in
→ Partial credit of 1 ½, 1 and ½ as per the response about 120-150 words. (5)
clarity and relevance Content -2
Expression – 2 → Full credit for sustained, clear, well-developed
→ Full credit for effective organisation -structure, personal response to the task that appropriately
relevant vocabulary and effective relay of ideas justifies any arguments
→ Partial credit of 1 ½, 1 and ½ as per the level of → Partial credit of 1 ½, 1 and ½ as per the response
coherence and cohesion clarity and relevance
Accuracy-1
Expression – 2
→ Full credit for none to minimal errors
→ Full credit for effective organisation -structure,
→ Partial credit of ½ for spellings and/or
grammatical, largely accurate relevant vocabulary and effective relay of ideas
→ No credit for error density causing impediment → Partial credit of 1 ½, 1 and ½ as per the level of
in understanding coherence and cohesion
A. Value Points: Accuracy-1
n Edla Willmansson’s compassionate nature - she → Full credit for none to minimal errors
would feel a sense of empathy and concern for → Partial credit of ½ for spellings and/or
their situation grammatical, largely accurate
→ No credit for error density causing impediment
n Edla has shown kindness and sympathy
in understanding
towards the rattrap peddler - similarly, she
A. Value Points:
might respond with understanding and a desire
Educational opportunities –
to help Saheb and Mukesh improve their lives
n From witnessing the grandeur of glaciers to
n Edla's experiences with the rattrap peddler understanding the delicate balance of polar
-taught her about the struggles of the ecosystems
ANSWERS 7
These opportunities extend beyond the scientific
n B. Value Points:
realm - they delve into the interconnectedness n seemingly simple question - holds profound
of environmental, social, and economic facets meaning
n Not just about memorising facts – but about n world we live in - labels and judgments - placed
understanding the complex web that sustains upon individuals - based on their differences -
life on our planet categorisation - either desirable or undesirable
n Gained insights into the immediate impacts -a "flower" or a "weed"
of climate change -- not abstract concepts but n every individual – unique -just like every plant
tangible signs of a planet in flux. in a garden - a distinctive beauty, strength, and
Fostering an understanding --- purpose
n hands-on experiences - the melting ice, the n just as a garden thrives with diverse flora - our
shifting landscapes — such experiences fuel society with a diverse range of individuals
commitment to environmental stewardship n diversity - enriches
n not just learning - internalising a responsibility n yet, we often witness exclusion, prejudice, and
to act the marginalisation
n a sense of global citizenship --- because this n need to challenge this limited perspective
venture is not being done as tourists – but as -- embrace the concept of inclusion - every
ambassadors of a sustainable future individual valued and celebrated – their unique
n aware that actions today shape the world we qualities and contributions
inherit tomorrow n weeds too can bloom and flourish - the right
n empowers to be advocates for positive change environment
and passion to address the challenges the planet n let us strive to build bridges of understanding
faces and acceptance
n moulding the future generation into informed, n sow seeds of a more inclusive and compassionate
responsible custodians of this planet world
rr