CBSE 12 English (1/1/1) Question Paper with Solutions

Time Allowed :3 hours Maximum Marks :100 Total questions :13

General Instructions
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:

1. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.

2. This question paper contains three sections Section A : Reading Skills, Section B :
Creative Writing Skills and Section C : Literature

3. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the
correct question number and part thereof in your answer sheet.

4. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.

5. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.

SECTION A
Reading Skills

1. Read the following passage carefully:

(1) The term Artificial Intelligence spells a future in which this emerging technology will
impact every aspect of human existence. In fact, little do we know, it has already crept
into our lives, slowly, but surely. Look around you — education, health care, industry,
innovation, robots, robotic surgeries, transportation, home service — it’s already there.
It will change the lifestyle of everyone from the technology industry to normal people.
(2) The past fifteen years have seen considerable AI advances in education. You enter
school and AI takes your attendance using face recognition. Various applications are in
wide use by educators and learners today. AI technologies assist teachers in the class-
room. Learning at home is likely to expand significantly, along with learning based on

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virtual reality applications. Though quality education will always require active engage-
ment by human teachers, AI promises to enhance education at all levels, especially by
providing personalization at scale.
(3) The evolution of new technologies, mobile, and the Internet are changing lifestyles.
Artificial intelligence is playing an important role in every sector such as banking, driv-
ing, education, e-commerce, electronics, robotics. Systems of artificial intelligence are
aiming to stimulate execution and decision-making that is human-like. In targeted ap-
plications, substantial increases in the future uses of AI technologies, including more
driverless cars, healthcare diagnostics and targeted treatments, and physical assistance
for elder care can be expected. AI and robotics will also be applied across the globe in
industries struggling such as agriculture, food processing and factories. They will facili-
tate delivery of online purchases through flying drones, self-driving trucks or robots.
(4) AI-based applications could improve health outcomes and quality of life for millions
of people in the coming years — prime applications include clinical decision support,
patient monitoring and coaching, automated devices to assist in surgery or patient care,
and management of healthcare systems. Recent successes, such as mining social media
to infer possible health risks, machine learning to predict patients at risk, and robotics
to support surgery have expanded a sense of possibility for AI in healthcare.
(5) People’s future relationships with machines will become ever more personalized as
AI systems learn to adapt to individual personalities, ambitions and goals. These AI ap-
plications will help monitor people’s well-being, alert them to the impending risks, and
deliver services when needed or wanted.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage:
1: Answer the following questions in about 40 – 50 words each:

(i) Select the word that most appropriately defines Artificial Intelligence today.
(A) rewarding
(B) universal
(C) luxurious
(D) temporary

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Correct Answer: (B) universal
Solution: The passage highlights how Artificial Intelligence has infiltrated diverse domains
like education, health care, and transportation. This indicates that AI has become a universal
concept, influencing various aspects of life.

Quick Tip
Focus on the wide-ranging applications of AI mentioned in the text to choose the most
relevant option.

(ii) What is the connection between ‘face recognition’ in school education and AI?

Solution: The passage explains how AI simplifies school administration by using face recog-
nition for attendance, reducing manual efforts and making processes efficient.

Quick Tip
Relate your answer to specific technological applications of AI mentioned in the pas-
sage, such as automation or personalization.

(iii) Which one of the following do you infer from para 2?

(A) School education will become a virtual engagement.
(B) The teacher will be replaced by AI.
(C) Human teachers will play a passive role in the classroom.
(D) Human teachers are irreplaceable.

Correct Answer: (D) Human teachers are irreplaceable.

Solution: The passage emphasizes that while AI enhances education through tools like per-
sonalization, the active engagement and emotional support of human teachers remain crucial,
making them indispensable.

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 Quick Tip
Focus on the passage’s discussion about how AI complements but does not replace the
emotional and instructional roles of human teachers.

(iv) Share evidence from the text, in about 40 words, about how AI can support the field
of education.

Solution: The passage demonstrates how AI aids education by offering technological tools
like face recognition and virtual reality, helping teachers and students achieve better learning
experiences.

Quick Tip
Use specific examples like face recognition or personalized learning to highlight the
role of AI in education.

(v) The phrase ‘stimulate execution’ in para 3 nearly means:

(A) imitate creations
(B) strategise destructions
(C) shake inventions
(D) motivate implementation

Correct Answer: (D) motivate implementation.

Solution: The phrase ‘stimulate execution’ refers to the encouragement or motivation re-
quired to implement ideas or systems, as discussed in the context of AI’s decision-making
capabilities.

Quick Tip
Understand the context in which the phrase is used to determine its meaning accurately.

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(vi) With evidence from the text, explain in about 40 words, two ways in which AI will
help in the healthcare sector.

Solution: AI enhances healthcare by offering decision support and patient monitoring tools,
as well as enabling advanced treatments like robotics-assisted surgeries and health-risk pre-
dictions, as mentioned in the passage.

Quick Tip
Refer to specific benefits of AI in healthcare from the passage, such as improved diag-
nostics or robotic interventions.

(vii) According to the passage, why does the author conclude that people’s relationships
with machines will become more personalised?

Solution: The passage highlights how AI systems can tailor their functions to suit the unique
needs and preferences of individuals, fostering a more personalized and interactive relation-
ship between humans and machines.

Quick Tip
Understand how AI’s adaptability can improve human-machine interactions by focusing
on personalized services and tailored experiences.

(viii) Complete the following statement: AI will make the commercial supply chain
smoother by .

Solution: AI optimizes supply chains by introducing technologies like drones, automated

trucks, and robotics, which enhance the speed and efficiency of deliveries while reducing hu-
man intervention. This revolutionizes logistics and makes the supply chain seamless.

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 Quick Tip
Focus on how AI-driven technologies contribute to automation and efficiency in logis-
tics and supply chains.

(ix) Read the five headlines given below (I – V):

I. AI WILL IMPACT EVERY ASPECT OF OUR LIVES

II. AI WILL BE A BOON TO THE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS

III. SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS WILL BE CONTROLLED BY AI

IV. AI IS A MAJOR REASON FOR RISING UNEMPLOYMENT TODAY

V. FACTORY OWNERS WILL NOT USE AI FOR FEAR OF ITS UNPREDICTABILITY

Identify the option that displays the headline/s that does/do not correspond with occur-
rences in the passage.
(A) only V
(B) II and III
(C) IV and V
(D) III, IV and V

Correct Answer: (D) III, IV and V.

Solution: Headlines III, IV, and V do not correspond with the passage. The text discusses
AI’s positive impact on various domains, such as healthcare and logistics, but does not claim
that social relationships will be controlled by AI, that AI causes unemployment, or that fac-
tory owners avoid using AI.

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 Quick Tip
Always refer back to specific claims in the passage to identify inaccuracies or unsup-
ported statements in comprehension questions.

2. Read the following passage carefully:

(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 fac-
tors influence their overall well-being. In India, an overwhelming majority of the youth
reported feeling satisfied with their lives, with 87% rating their overall happiness as
‘high’ or ‘very high.’ Financial security was identified as the primary source of happi-
ness 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 content-
ment for young people across countries. In Europe, 59% of 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 impor-
tant 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 per-
formance or workload, while 25% felt lonely. These figures are especially significant
given how important family support is for young people’s overall contentment.
Answer the following question, based on the above passage:

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 Answer the following questions based on the passage:

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

Solution: The findings of the survey highlight that financial security and family support are
major contributors to happiness, while stress from academics and loneliness negatively impact
the mental well-being of Indian youth.

Quick Tip
Focus on percentages and their significance in the survey when summarizing key find-
ings.

(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.”

Solution: The passage suggests that providing financial support reduces economic burdens,
allowing youth to focus on academics and personal growth without the stress of meeting basic
financial needs.

Quick Tip
Highlight how financial assistance directly reduces stress and improves overall well-
being.

(iii) Elaborate, giving data, the statement “Stress has a significant impact on the happi-
ness of today’s youth.”

Solution: Stress caused by academics and feelings of isolation significantly reduce the hap-

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piness of Indian youth. The data highlights the urgent need to address these issues through
counseling and other supportive measures.

Quick Tip
Refer to the data provided in the passage to support your explanation of the impact of
stress.

(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?
(A) Family support and strong ties
(B) Social connection and technology
(C) Books and literature
(D) Economic stability

Correct Answer: (C) Books and literature

Solution: The passage emphasizes financial security, family support, and mental health sup-
port as key contributors to youth well-being. Books and literature are not mentioned as sig-
nificant factors.

Quick Tip
Use elimination to find the correct answer by checking which factors are not referenced
in the passage.

(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.

Correct Answer: False

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Solution: The passage highlights financial support as an essential factor in alleviating eco-
nomic pressures, which significantly contribute to youth stress. Academic performance alone
does not account for the stress levels of today’s youth.

Quick Tip
Identify keywords in the statement and refer to the passage to confirm its accuracy.

(vi) What are the top choices which are of maximum value to today’s youth?
I. Collectivism
II. Social media
III. Individualistic society
IV. Family ties

Correct Answer: (C) I and IV

Solution: The passage highlights collectivism and family ties as key contributors to the happi-
ness and well-being of today’s youth, emphasizing the importance of strong social and familial
support.

Quick Tip
Refer to the specific values mentioned in the passage and choose options that align with
those values.

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

Solution: The passage suggests that resources such as counseling services and mindfulness
activities help young people cope with stress and challenging circumstances.

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 Quick Tip
Focus on mental health-related support systems mentioned in the passage, like counsel-
ing or mindfulness.

(viii) Write the following sources that provide happiness to today’s youth in descending
order: (a) purposefulness
(b) financial status
(c) family support
(d) stress

Solution: According to the passage, family support (89%) is the most significant contribu-
tor to happiness, followed by financial status (66%), purposefulness (50%), and stress, which
negatively impacts happiness.

Quick Tip
Use percentages or rankings from the passage to determine the correct order of the
sources of happiness.

SECTION B- Creative Writing skills

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

(a) To encourage students to participate in outdoor activities, your school has planned a
7-day trek to Rohtang Pass for students of classes VIII – X during the summer vacation.
Write a notice for the school notice board giving all the necessary information. You are
Raghav/Ragini, Secretary Trekking Club, Amar Bahadur School.

Solution:

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Notice
Amar Bahadur School, Trekking Club
NOTICE
7-Day Trek to Rohtang Pass
Date: 15 April 2025

This is to inform all students of Classes VIII – X that the school is organizing a 7-day trek to
Rohtang Pass during the summer vacation. The trek will include activities such as hiking and
camping.
Interested students must submit their names and a participation fee of 5000 to the undersigned
by 30th April 2025. For further details, contact the Trekking Club Office.

Raghav/Ragini
Secretary, Trekking Club

OR

(b) The problem of the residents’ parking of vehicles, often leading to minor scuffles,
has become a source of growing concern. As Secretary of Goodwill Flats Welfare As-
sociation, Shripur, write a notice informing the residents about a meeting to discuss the
problem and find an acceptable solution. Invent necessary details.

Solution:
Notice

Goodwill Flats Welfare Association, Shripur

NOTICE
Meeting on Parking Issues
Date: 5 April 2025

This is to inform all residents that a meeting will be held to address the ongoing parking issues
in the colony and find a suitable resolution to avoid conflicts.
Date: 15 April 2025

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Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Community Hall, Goodwill Flats

Your presence is crucial for resolving this matter effectively. For any queries, contact the
Welfare Association Office.

Secretary
Goodwill Flats Welfare Association

Quick Tip
When drafting a notice, always include a clear title, purpose, and relevant details such
as date, time, and venue. Keep the tone formal and concise.

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

(a) You are the Student Head, Cultural Affairs Club at Newton Public School. The
school is holding its annual function on Saturday, April 20th , 2024 at 11 am. The Hon-
ourable Education Minister, Dr. Shah has consented to be the Chief Guest. Design an
invitation card to be sent to the parents and other invitees. Mention necessary details.

Solution:
Invitation Card

Newton Public School

Cordially Invites You

The Cultural Affairs Club of Newton Public School is delighted to invite you to the Annual
Function 2024.
Date: Saturday, April 20th , 2024
Time: 11:00 AM
Venue: School Auditorium

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The Honourable Education Minister, Dr. Shah, will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest.
RSVP: Cultural Affairs Club
Contact: 1234-567-890

OR

(b) You are a renowned doctor and have been invited by your school alumni as Chief
Guest to the Annual Graduation Ceremony of Green School on Sunday, March 24th ,
2024. Write a letter to the President of the Alumni Association expressing your inability
to attend due to a prior commitment. Also convey your congratulations to the graduat-
ing students.

Solution:
Dr. Renowned Name
XYZ Hospital, Main Road
City, State

Date: March 15th , 2024

To,
The President
Alumni Association
Green School

Subject: Regret for Inability to Attend Graduation Ceremony

Dear President,
I am honored to have been invited as the Chief Guest for the Annual Graduation Ceremony
on March 24th , 2024. However, due to a prior professional commitment, I regret to inform
you that I will be unable to attend the event.

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 Please convey my heartfelt congratulations to the graduating students and best wishes for
their future endeavors.
Warm regards,
Dr. Renowned Name

Quick Tip
When drafting a formal letter or invitation, include all essential details, use polite lan-
guage, and maintain a concise structure.

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

(a) You are Amar/Anita, a fresh MBA graduate from Singla Institute of Management,
Khushbagh. You saw the given advertisement in a newspaper and wish to apply for the
position advertised. Write a letter to India Helptel Company along with your bio-data,
expressing your interest in the advertised post.

Solution:
Amar/Anita
C-123, Green Valley

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Khushbagh

Date: March 20, 2025

To,
The HR Manager
India Helptel Company
Mumbai

Subject: Application for the Position of Management Trainee

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in the position of Management Trainee in your INDIA-
WIDE LOGISTICS Department, as advertised. I am a fresh MBA graduate with a specializa-
tion in Marketing from Singla Institute of Management, Khushbagh.
My qualifications, skills, and experience align well with the requirements of the position. I
possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and am proficient in English
and my state language. I am confident that my academic background and enthusiasm to
contribute to a dynamic organization like India Helptel Company will make me a valuable
addition to your team.
Enclosed herewith is my bio-data for your perusal. I would be honored to discuss my
application further in an interview.
Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
Amar/Anita

Quick Tip
When writing a formal letter of application, include a clear subject line, concise para-
graphs, and relevant enclosures like a bio-data to support your candidature.

16
(b) An increase in the number of vehicles on the road has increased instances of traffic
snarls, road rage, and accidents. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily showing
your concern and examining the reasons for such behaviour. Provide suggestions on how
to manage the situation. You are Brinda/Bharat.

Solution:
Brinda/Bharat
45, Green Meadows
New Delhi

Date: March 20, 2025

To,
The Editor
The National Times
New Delhi

Subject: Concern Over Increasing Traffic Issues and Road Rage

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Dear Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the alarming
rise in traffic snarls, road rage, and accidents. The exponential increase in vehicles, budget-
friendly cab services, and lack of adherence to traffic rules are significant reasons for this
issue.
This problem can be mitigated by improving traffic management during peak hours, stricter
enforcement of traffic laws, and promoting awareness about road safety through media cam-
paigns. Initiatives like carpooling and upgrading public transport systems can also signifi-
cantly reduce congestion.
I urge both authorities and citizens to address this critical issue and contribute towards safer
and more efficient roadways.
Yours sincerely,
Brinda/Bharat

Quick Tip
When writing a formal letter, always include specific suggestions and maintain a pro-
fessional tone. Structure your letter clearly with an introduction, body, and conclusion.

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

(a) India is emerging as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Write
an article on “India as a popular choice of Foreign Visitors”. You are Leela/Laksh.

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Solution:

India as a Popular Choice of Foreign Visitors

By Leela/Laksh

India has become a hotspot for global tourists, owing to its rich culture, history, and diver-
sity. The influx of foreign visitors has brought significant economic benefits, generating jobs
for local people and promoting traditional crafts, food, and culture. Destinations for medical,
religious, and ecotourism have placed India on the global map as a preferred choice.
To strengthen its position further, the authorities need to focus on better infrastructure,
including creating information centers for tourists. Media can play a pivotal role in raising
awareness about lesser-known attractions. Strict measures to ensure cleanliness and safety
would also enhance the tourist experience.
With continued efforts, India can not only attract but also retain the interest of visitors from
across the globe, making tourism a key driver of economic and cultural growth.

Quick Tip
For articles, focus on key points, structure content in paragraphs, and use a professional
tone. Emphasize solutions and future prospects.

OR

(b) The senior residents of your colony have initiated a Reading Club for the children of

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a neighbourhood slum. As Ramesh/Ranjita, the local correspondent of the neighbour-
hood newsletter, write a report covering the project.

Solution:

A Noble Initiative: Reading Club for Slum Children

By Ramesh/Ranjita, Local Correspondent

The senior citizens of our colony have taken a commendable step towards the betterment
of society by initiating a Reading Club for the children of a nearby slum. This project, which
involves a two-hour voluntary service every Sunday morning, aims to support the educational
growth of underprivileged children.
The activities include assistance with reading school textbooks, organizing comprehension
quizzes to enhance learning, and reading newspapers to encourage discussions and informa-
tion sharing. The club provides these children with not only academic guidance but also an
opportunity to develop critical thinking and communication skills.
Such initiatives demonstrate the power of community efforts in fostering education and
creating a positive impact on society. This Reading Club is a shining example of how small
steps can bring significant changes to the lives of those in need.

Quick Tip
A report should include the purpose, key activities, and impact of the initiative. Use
clear and concise language while highlighting the community’s efforts.

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 SECTION C- Literature

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

(a) A thing of beauty is a joy forever.

Its loveliness increases, it will never
Pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.
(A Thing of Beauty)

(i) Which of the following themes is best represented in the given extract?
(A) Beauty provides security and peace.
(B) Beauty lies in possession of expensive things.
(C) Beauty is synonymous with power and riches.
(D) Beauty lies in our rich heritage and palaces and temples.

Correct Answer: (A) Beauty provides security and peace.

Solution: The lines emphasize that beauty is eternal and provides joy, comfort, and peace.
The phrase ”a bower quiet for us” symbolizes tranquility and refuge, making beauty a source
of security and solace for the human soul.

Quick Tip
Focus on how the poet portrays beauty as a timeless and peaceful entity, providing a
haven of joy and restfulness.

(ii) A thing of beauty never passes into nothingness because it is .

Correct Answer: eternal.
Solution: The poet emphasizes that beauty is everlasting and never fades away. It continues

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to inspire and bring joy across generations.

Quick Tip
When answering descriptive questions, focus on key phrases in the text that highlight
the meaning and intent of the author.

(iii) ‘Quiet bower’ means a pleasant, shady, quiet place under trees or in the woods. This
creates a sense of .
Correct Answer: peace and calm.
Solution: ‘Quiet bower’ means a pleasant, shady, quiet place under trees or in the woods.
This creates a sense of peace and calm, highlighting the soothing and restorative power of
nature.

Quick Tip
When interpreting poetic phrases, focus on the imagery and emotions they evoke to
understand their deeper meaning.

(iv) State whether the given statement is True or False with reference to the extract: The
quality of a thing ensures that its beauty lasts forever.

Correct Answer: True.

Solution: The statement is True. The extract highlights how a thing of beauty is a joy forever,
never fading into nothingness, and continues to provide solace and inspiration.

Quick Tip
Pay attention to the key ideas in a poetic extract to identify statements that align with
the poet’s intended message.

(v) Based on the rhyme scheme in lines 3 and 4 of the given extract, which word will

22
rhyme with them?
(A) please
(B) sweep
(C) help
(D) self

Correct Answer: (B) sweep.

Solution: The rhyme scheme in lines 3 and 4 suggests that the word sweep rhymes with keep
and fits naturally within the rhythm and structure of the poem.

Quick Tip
Identifying the rhyme scheme requires matching the ending sounds of lines to determine
the correct rhyming word.

(vi) The use of the word ‘health’ in the extract suggests that beautiful things will give us
a happier and more wholesome life. It creates a powerful image of .
(A) rejuvenation
(B) attachment
(C) long life
(D) eternity

Correct Answer: (A) rejuvenation.

Solution: The word ‘health’ conveys how beauty rejuvenates us, providing emotional and
physical well-being. Beautiful things act as a source of positivity, replenishing our spirit and
giving a sense of renewal and happiness.

Quick Tip
Analyze the emotional and symbolic meaning of words like ‘health’ in poetry to uncover
their impact on the theme.

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(b) Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers prance across a screen,
Bright topaz denizens of a world of green.
They do not fear the men beneath the tree;
They pace in sleek chivalric certainty.
(Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers)

(i) Which of the following are symbolised by the ‘tigers’ in the extract above?
I. Masculine world
II. Feminine world
III. World of bold, fearless creatures
IV. World of beautiful handicrafts
(A) I, II and III
(B) II, III and IV
(C) III and IV
(D) I, III and IV

Correct Answer: (D) I, III and IV

Solution: The tigers symbolize the bold, fearless spirit Aunt Jennifer aspires to, while also
representing the creativity in her embroidery. The feminine world of handicrafts contrasts
with her suppressed life.

Quick Tip
Identify the symbolic elements in the poem to understand the deeper meaning of the
imagery used by the poet.

(ii) State whether the given statement is True or False:

The creator of the tigers was fearless and assertive like the tigers.

Correct Answer: false.

Solution: The statement is False. Although Aunt Jennifer was timid and oppressed, her cre-

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ation, the tigers, symbolizes fearlessness and assertiveness, reflecting her unfulfilled desire
for strength and freedom.

Quick Tip
When analyzing poetry, focus on the contrast between the creator and their creation to
identify underlying themes and emotions.

(iii) Complete the following sentence:

The use of the word ‘topaz’ suggests that the image of the tiger on the screen is .

Correct Answer: bright and glowing.

Solution: The word ‘topaz’ refers to a precious gem known for its bright, radiant glow. Its
use in the poem emphasizes the vivid and striking appearance of the tigers.

Quick Tip
Focus on symbolic words like ‘topaz’ in poetry to understand the imagery and connota-
tions they bring to the text.

(iv) ‘Tigers do not fear the men beneath the tree’ because they are:
(A) tamed
(B) in a cage
(C) fearless
(D) kings of the jungle

Correct Answer: (C) fearless.

Solution: The tigers are portrayed as bold and confident creatures. They symbolize strength
and fearlessness, which stands in stark contrast to Aunt Jennifer’s timid and suppressed life.

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 Quick Tip
Understand the symbolic traits of characters or objects in poetry to grasp the poem’s
deeper meaning and themes.

(v) Based on the poem’s rhyme scheme evident in lines 1 and 2, which of the following
will rhyme?
mean, akin, cream

Correct Answer: mean

Solution: The rhyme scheme in lines 1 and 2 suggests that ‘mean’ rhymes as they share a
similar ending sound.

Quick Tip
Identifying rhyme schemes helps in understanding the poem’s structure and the rhyth-
mic flow of its lines.

(vi) ‘Chivalric certainty’ refers to which poetic device?

(A) Alliteration
(B) Metaphor
(C) Simile
(D) Repetition

Correct Answer: (A) Alliteration.

Solution: ‘Chivalric certainty’ is an example of alliteration, as the repetition of the ‘c’ sound
in consecutive words creates a rhythmic effect, emphasizing the bold and confident nature of
the tigers.

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 Quick Tip
Identify alliteration by looking for the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning
of closely connected words.

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

(a) Derry: I....there....I thought this was an empty place. I didn’t know there was anybody
here....
Mr. Lamb: That’s all right. I’m here. What are you afraid of, boy? That’s all right.
Derry: I thought it was empty....an empty house.
Mr. Lamb: So it is. Since I’m out here in the garden. It is empty. Until I go back inside. In
the meantime, I’m out here and likely to stop. A day like this. Beautiful day. Not a day to be
indoors.
Derry : (Panic) I,ve got to go. (On The Face Of It)

(i) Derry was stammering because of:

(A) A speech defect.
(B) Excitement.
(C) Anger.
(D) Fear.
Correct Answer: (D) Fear.
Solution: Derry was stammering out of nervousness and discomfort, which stemmed from
his fear and hesitation in social situations.

Quick Tip
Understand the emotions and behavior of characters to interpret their dialogue and ac-
tions correctly.

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(ii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
Derry insisted on going back because .

Correct Answer: He wanted to prove his determination and build his self-confidence.

Solution: Derry insisted on going back to Mr. Lamb to overcome his fears and doubts, show-
ing his determination to rise above his insecurities and take control of his life.

Quick Tip
When analyzing characters, focus on their motives and emotional development as re-
flected in their actions and dialogues.

(iii) Mr. Lamb was trying to tell Derry that:

(A) It was a matter of perception.
(B) Derry could stay with him.
(C) He spent all his days in the garden.
(D) He was fond of company.

Correct Answer: (A) It was a matter of perception.

Solution: Mr. Lamb emphasized that Derry’s view of his scar was shaped by his perception.
He encouraged Derry to embrace positivity and focus on his inner self rather than external
appearances.

Quick Tip
Understand the deeper message of dialogue to identify life lessons imparted by charac-
ters in literature.

(iv) From the extract, one can infer that Mr. Lamb was a/an:
(A) Compassionate man.

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(B) Mysterious character.
(C) New neighbour.
(D) Unreasonable man.

Correct Answer: (A) Compassionate man.

Solution: The extract shows Mr. Lamb’s empathy and wisdom as he attempts to comfort
Derry and help him build his self-confidence, highlighting his compassionate and kind nature.

Quick Tip
Empathy and kindness are key traits that define impactful characters in literature. Ob-
serve their actions and words to understand their personality.

(b) Anyway, here’s what happened at Grand Central. One night last summer I worked
late at the office. I was in a hurry to get uptown to my apartment, so I decided to take
the subway from Grand Central because it’s faster than the bus.

(i) List any two details about how Charley was dressed up.

Correct Answer: Charley was dressed in:

1. A tan gabardine suit.
2. A straw hat with a fancy band.
Solution: Charley’s description of his attire provides a vivid picture of his appearance, which
reflects the fashion trends of a past era.

Quick Tip
Descriptions of attire and setting are often used to establish the time period or mood in
a narrative.

(ii) Charley decided to use the subway because it was:

(A) Quicker.

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(B) Cheaper.
(C) More fashionable.
(D) Safer.

Correct Answer: (A) Quicker.

Solution: Charley chose the subway as it was faster than taking the bus, indicating his ur-
gency to reach his apartment quickly.

Quick Tip
Analyze choices made by characters in specific situations to understand their priorities
or constraints.

(iii) Complete the following sentence appropriately.

Landing at the third level was due to Charley’s flight of .

Correct Answer: Imagination.

Solution: Charley’s experience at the third level symbolizes his escapism, driven by his imag-
ination and a longing to escape the harsh realities of life.

Quick Tip
Imagination in literature often serves as a medium to explore alternative realities and
emotional coping mechanisms.

(iv) Which time frame is represented through the kind of outfit mentioned in the extract?
(A) Pre-World War era.
(B) The present times.
(C) The eighteenth century.
(D) In the future.

Correct Answer: (B) The present times

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Solution: The outfit described, including the tan gabardine suit and straw hat with a fancy
band, reflects the fashion style prevalent aligning with the narrative’s nostalgic setting.

Quick Tip
Fashion and cultural references in a story can help pinpoint the timeline of the narrative.

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

(a) They have lived here for more than thirty years without an identity, without permits
but with ration cards that get their names on voters’ lists and enable them to buy grain.
Food is more important for survival than identity.“If at the end of the day we can feed
our families and go to bed without an aching stomach, we would rather live here than
in the fields that gave us no grain”, say a group of women in tattered saris when I asked
them why they left their beautiful land of green fields and rivers. Wherever they find
food, they pitch their tents.

(i) The ragpickers have been living there for decades.

(A) three
(B) four
(C) two
(D) five

Correct Answer: (A) three.

Solution: The extract states that the ragpickers have been living there for more than thirty
years, which corresponds to approximately three decades.

Quick Tip
Focus on numerical details in the text to determine the correct time periods or durations.

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(ii) Why do these people have ration cards?

Correct Answer: To get their names on voters’ lists and buy grain for survival.
Solution: Ration cards ensure access to essential resources, helping them secure food and
basic rights despite their lack of identity or permits.

Quick Tip
Understand how basic necessities like food and identity documents shape the lives of
marginalized communities.

(iii) What do you infer about their lifestyle from the phrase ‘pitch their tents’?

Correct Answer: It indicates a nomadic and uncertain lifestyle.

Solution: The phrase reflects their transient existence, dictated by their need for food and
survival. They move from place to place, setting up temporary shelters wherever sustenance
is available.

Quick Tip
Focus on figurative expressions like ”pitch their tents” to infer the lifestyle or conditions
described in the text.

(iv) In spite of the hardships, they are not willing to go back to their homeland because
.

Correct Answer: Their homeland provided no grain or sustenance.

Solution: The extract shows that the people prioritize food and survival over identity and
comfort. Their homeland lacked resources to sustain them, forcing them to leave in search of
a better life.

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