Category: CBSE

English

Section A 

(Reading) 

Q. 1. Read the passage given below.

1. When you grow up in a place where it rains live months a year, wise elders help you to get acquainted with the rain early. They tell you that it is ignorant to think that it is the same rain frilling every day. Oh no, the ruin is always doing different things at different times. There is rain that is gentle, rind there is also rain that falls Ion hard and damages the crops. hence, the prayer for the sweet rain that helps the crops to grow. 

2. The monsoon in the Naga hills goes by the native name, khuthotei (which means the rice- growing season). It lasts from May to early or mid. October, The local residents firmly believe that Durga l’un in October announces the end or rain. After that, one might expect a couple of short winter showers, and the spring showers in March and April. Finally, comes the lug rain’ in May; proper rain storms accompanied by heart-stopping lightning and ear splitting thunder. have stood eat in storms looking at lightning arc across dark skies, a light-And-sound show that can go on for hours, 

3. This is the season when people use the word sezuo or suzu to refer to the week-long rains, when clothes don’t dry and smell of mould, when fungus forms on the floor and When you can’t see the noon or the stars because of the rainclouds. But you learn not to complain: Ruin, after all, is the farmer’s friend and brings food to the table. Rituals and festivals centre around the agricultural rhythm of life, which is the occupation of about 70 percent of the population. 

4. The wise learn to understand its ways. I grew up hewing my grandfather say, It’s very windy this year. Well get good rain.” If the windy season was short and weak, he worried there might not be enough rain for the crops. I learned the interconnectedness of the seasons from childhood, and marvelled at how the wind could bring rain. Another evening, many rainy seasons ago, my paternal aunt observed the new moon and worried, its legs are in the air, we’re in for some heavy rain.” She was right. That week, a storm cut off power lines and brought down trees and bamboos. 

5. Eskimos boast of having a hundred names for snow. Norwegians in the north can describe all kinds of snow by an equal amount of names pudder, powder snow, wet snow, slaps, extra wet snow, tight snowfall, dry snow, and at least 96 more categories of snow. Likewise, in India we have names and names for rain. Some are common, some are passing into history. 

6. The rains are also called after flowering plants and people believe that the blossoming of those plants draws out rain. Once the monsoons set in, field work is carried out in earnest and the work of uprooting and transplanting paddy in flooded terrace fields is done. The months of hard Inbaur are June, July and August. In August, as the frog plant begins to bloom, a rain will fall. This August rain, also called phrogO, is a sign that the time for cultivation is over. If any new grain seeds are sown, they may not sprout; even if they do sprout, they are not likely to bear grain. The rain acts as a kind of farmer’s almanac. 

7. The urban population of school-goers and office-goers naturally dislikes the monsoon and its accompanying problems of landslides, muddy streets and periodic infections. For non- farmers, the month of September can be depressing, when the rainfall is incessant and the awareness persists that the monsoons will last out till October. One needs to have the heart of a farmer to remain grateful for the watery days, and be able to observe — from what seems to the inexperienced as n continuous downpour — the many kinds of rain- Some of t” commonly known rain-weeks ore named after the plants that alternately bloom in August and September. The native belief is that the flowers draw out the rain. 

8. Each rain period has a job to fulfil : October rain helps garlic bulbs to form, while komono rain helps the rice bear groin. Without it, the ears of rice cannot form properly. End October is the most beautiful month, in the Naga hills, as the fields turn gold Find wild sunflowers bloom over the slopes, all heralding the harvest. Prayers go up for protecting the fields from storms, and the rains to retreat because the grain needs to stand in the sun and ripen. The cycle nears completion a few weeks before the harvest, and the rain does retreat so thoroughly from the reaped furrows that the earth quickly turns hard. The months of rain become a distant memory until it starts all over again. 

On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, complete the statements given below with the help of options that follow: 

(a) The rains are called after flowering plants because 

(i) heavy rains kill plants. 

(ii) flowers grow in the rainy season. 

(iii) it is believed that the plants bring the rain. 

(iv) flowers grow all year round. 

Answer:- The rains are called after flowering plants because it is believed that the plants  bring the rain. 

 

(b) The rain is like a calendar for farmers because 

(i) it tells them when to sow and when to harvest. 

(ii) it tells them the birthdays of their children. 

(iii) each month has a time for plantation. 

(iv) different kinds of rain tell different. Things. 

Answer:- The rain is like a calendar for farmers because it tells them when to sow and when to harvest. 

 

(c) People who live in cities don’t like rain because 

(i) it brings mud and sickness with it. 

(ii) they are not bothered about the farmers. 

(iii) they don’t like the plants that grow during the rain. 

(iv) going shopping becomes difficult. 

Answer:- People who live in cities don’t like rain because it brings mud and sickness with it. 

 

(d) People pray asking the rain to retreat because 

(i) the fungus and mould need to dry. 

(ii) children don’t get a chance to play. 

(iii) the crops need the sun and heat to ripen. 

(iv) they like to pray. 

Answer:- People pray asking the rain to retreat because the crops need the sun and heat to ripen. 

Answer the following questions briefly : 

 

(e) Why do the elders want you to understand the rains in the Naga him? 

Answer:- The elders wants us to understand the rains in the Naga falls because when you grow up in a place where it rains 5 months in a year it helps you to get acquainted with the situation during the rainy season 

 

(f) What does Durga mean to the farmers of the Naga hills ? 

Answer:- Durga Puja announces the end of rain in Naga hills. 

 

(g) What kind of rain is called shizuo? 

Answer:- The week – long rains, when clothes don’t dry and small of mould, when fungus forms on the floor and when you can’t see the moon or the stars because of the rain clouds is called shizuo kind of rain. 

 

(h) What is the occupation of more than half the population of the Naga hills? 

Answer:- Farming is the occupation of more than half the population of the Naga hills. 

 

(i) How is the heart of the farmer alter-cot from that of the city person? 

Answer:- The heart of a farmer is different from that of a city person as they remain grateful for the watery days and be able to observe from what seems to the inexperienced as a continuous downpour that is the many kinds of rain. 

 

(j) When does rain become a memory in the minds of the people of the Naga hills? 

Answer:- The months of rain becomes a memory in the minds of the people of the Naga hills. 

 

(k) Find words from the passage which mean the same as the following: 

(i) flowering (para 6) 

(ii) nonstop (para 7) 

Answer:- (i) flowering (para 6) – blossoming 

(ii) nonstop (para 7) – incessant 

 

Q. 2. Read the passage given below: 

1. Every morning Ravi gives his brain an extra boast. We’re not talking about drinking strong cups (if coffee or playing one of mind-training video games advertised all over Facebook- “I jump onto my stationary bike and cycle for 45 minutes to work,” says Ravi. 

“Whoa I get to my desk, my brain is at peak activity for a few hours.” After his mental focus comes to a halt Inter in the day, he starts it with another short spell or cycle i ng to be able to run errands. 

2. Ride to work, ride, repeat. it’s a scientifically proven system that describes some unexpected benefits of cycling. In a recent study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, scientists found that people scored higher on tests of memory, reasoning. and planning after 30 minutes of spinning on a stationary bike than they did before they rude the hike. They also completed the tests faster after pedalling. 

3. Exercise is like fertilizer for your brain. All those hours spent on exercising your muscles. create rich capillary beds not only in leg rind hip muscles, but also in your brain. 

More blood vessels in your brain and muscles mean more oxygen and nutrients to help them work. When you pedal, you alga force more nerve cells to fire. The result you double or triple the production of these cells — literally building your brain. You also release neurotransmitters (the messengers between your brain cells) so tell those cells, new and did, can communicate with each other for hotter, faster functioning. That’s a pretty profound benefit to cyclists. 

4. This kind of growth is especially important with each passing birthday, because as we age, our brains shrink and those connections weaken. Exercise restores and protects the brain cells. Neuroscientists say, “Adults Who exercise display sharper memory skills, higher concentration levels, more fluid thinking, and greater problem-solving ability than those who are sedentary”. 

5. Cycling also elevates your mood, relieves anxiety, increases stress resist-once, and even banishes the blues. “Exercise works in the same way as psychotherapy and antidepressants in the treatment of depression, maybe better,” says Dr. Manjari. A recent study analyzing 26 years of research finds that even some exercise — as little as 20 to 30 minutes a day — can prevent depression over the long term. 

6. Remember although it’s healthy, exercise itself is a stress, especially when you’re just getting started or getting back into riding. When you first begin to exert yourself, your body releases a particular hormone to raise your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels, says Meher Ahluwalia, PhD, a professor of integrative physiology. As you gel fitter, it takes a longer, harder ride to trigger that same response. 

On the basis of your understanding of the passage, complete the statements given below with the help of the options that follow :

(a) Ravi gets his brain to work at peak level by 

(i) drinking three cups of coffee. 

(ii) playing games that need brain activity. 

(iii) cycling on a stationary bike. 

(iv) taking tablets to pump up his brain. 

Answer:- Ravi gets his brain to work at peak level by cycling on a stationary bike. 

 

(b) When nerve cells work during exercise then 

(i) the body experiences stress. 

(ii) the brain is strengthened by multiplying them. 

(iii) you start to lose your temper. 

(iv) your stationary cycle starts to beep. 

Answer:- When nerve cells work during exercise then the brain is strengthened by multiplying them. 

 

Answer the following questions briefly

(c) How does exercise help the rain ? 

Answer:- Exercise restores and protects the Brain cells, multiplies the nerve cells in the brain, helps in better communication and faster functioning of the brain. 

 

(d) Why does Ravi do a circuit of ‘ride, work, ride’ ? 

Answer:- Ravi does a circuit of ‘ride, work, ride’ because it is scientifically proven system that has benefits such as higher scores on tests of memory, reasoning and planning. It also helps in completing the test faster. 

 

(e) What is the work of neurotransmitters? 

Answer:- Neurotransmitters whether new or old acts as a messenger between our brain cells, helps in better communication with each other and faster functioning 

 

(f) What benefits other than greater brain activity does one get from cycling? 

Answer:- Cycling has several benefits such as it elevates our mood, relieves anxiety, increases stress resistance and even banishes the blues. 

 

(g) Why is exercise important for adults? 

Answer:- Exercise is important for adults as it works the same way like a psychotherapy and 

antidepressants helps in the treatment of depression or may be better than them. 

 

(h) How is exercise itself a stress? 

Answer:- Exercise itself is a stress especially when one just start or get back into riding because initially it exerts the body, releases a particular hormone to raise heart rate, blood pressure and blood glucose levels. 

 

(i) Find words from the passage which mean the same as the following: [1 x 2 =2] 

(i) manure (para 3) 

(ii) inactive (pare 4) 

Answer:- (i) manure (para 3) – Fertilizer 

(ii) inactive (pare 4) – Sedentary 

 

Q. 3. Read the passage given below : 

1. Keeping cities clean is essential for keeping their residents healthy. Our health depends not just on personal hygiene nutrition, but critically also on how clean we keep our cities and their surroundings. The spread of Dengue and chikungunya are intimately linked to the deteriorating state of public health conditions in our cities. 

2. The good news is that waste management to keep cities clean is now getting attention through the Swachh Bharat Mission, However, much of the attention begins and stops with the brooms and dustbins, extending at most to the collection and transportation of the mixed waste to some distant or not so distant places, preferably out of sight. 

3. The challenge of processing nod treating the different streams of solid waste, and safe disposal or the residuals in scientific Innelfills, has received much less attention in municipal solid waste management thou in expected from n health point of view. 

4. One of the problems is that instead of focusing on waste management for health, we have got sidetracked into ‘waste for energy” If only we were to begin by net mixing the biodegradable component of solid waste close to 60 percent of the total) in our cities with the dry waste, and instead use this stream of waste for composting and producing a gas called methane. 

5. City compost from biodegradable waste provides an alternative to farmyard manure. (like cow-dung), it provides an opportunity to simultaneously clean up our cities and help improve agricultural productivity and quality of the soil. Organic manure or compost plays a very important role as a supplement to chemical fertilisers in enriching the nutrient-deficient soils. City compost can be the new player in the field. 

6. Benefits of compost on the farm are well-known. The water holding capacity of the soil which uses compost helps with drought-proofing; rind the requirement of less water per crop is a welcome feature for a water-stressed future. By making the soil porous. use of compost also makes roots stronger and resistant to pests and actor. Farmers using compost, therefore, need less quantity of pesticide. There is also evidence to suggest that horticulture crops grown with compost have better flavour, size, colour and shelf-life. 

7. City compost has the additional advantage of being weed-free unlike farmyard manure which bring with it the seeds of undigested grass and requires a substantial additional labour cost for weeding as the crops grow. City compost is also rich in organic carbon, and cur soils are short in this. 

8. Farmers clearly recognize the value of city compost. If city waste was composted before making it available to the farmers for applying to the soil cities would be cleaned up and the fields around them would Lie much more productive. 

9. Quite apart from cleaning up the cities of biodegradable waste, this would be a major and sustainable contribution to improving the health of our soil without further damage by excessive chemical inputs. What a marvellous change from waste to health! 

10. The good news is that some states more regularly laying plastic roads. Plastic roads will  not only withstand future monsoon damage but will also solve a city’s problem of disposing of non-recyclable plastic. It is clear that if the mountains of waste from our cities were to be recycled into road construction material, it would tackle the problem of managing waste while freeing up scarce land. 

(a) On the basis of your understanding the above passage, make notes on it using headings and subheadings. Use recognizable abbreviations wherever necessary (minimum four) and a format you consider suitable. Also supply an appropriate title to it. 

Answer:- Clean and Green City or Swachh Bharat Mission Keeping our cities clean is ess for keeping residents healthy. The health of citizens depends on personal hygiene, nutrition and cleanliness around as. If the locality or area is unhygienic there are chances of many diseases spreading among people. 

The good news is that waste mgmt is given more attention due to Swachh Bharat mission and many dustbins are placed in the areas. Wastes are segregated for safe disposal of solid waste, especially scientific landfills. There is more emphasis on segregating waste but it recd less attention by Municipal team. 

City compost from biodegradable waste is an alternative to this. We can make use of these biodegradable waste into manure. This manure can be used as a supplement to chemical fertilisers and enrich the quality of soil. There are several other benefits of this manure such increasing the water holding capacity of soil, makes soil porous, makes it stronger and also resistant to pests and decay. It’s also weed – free which brings with it the seeds of undigested grass and requires a substantial additional labour cost for in organic carbon. 

Farmers understand the value of city compost or manure. But before making manure available to farmers we should clean the cities to gather the components of these manure. This will not only improve the quantity of soil or crop but will also contribute towards cleanliness in the city. 

Also, the good news is that some states are regularly laying plastic roads as they will not only withstand future monsoon damage but also solve city’s problem disposing non- recyclable plastic. If we manage the waste in the city or locality, we ultimately contribute towards or cleanliness of the locality. 

(b) Write a summary of the passage in about 80 words. 

Answer:- The passage clearly mentions about the segregation of waste that we need to do so that it can be recycled or reused and also helps in keeping our locality or city clean. Now–a–days, due to Swachh Bharat Mission, there is more attention to segregate the garbage compost that can be used to create manure which can be helpful to the farmer in agriculture and save the environment. Cleanliness in the locality also helps citizens to stay healthy. Also, we are trying several options to reuse plastic and trying to create plastic road. In the end, we need to learn waste management as this will help us in several ways. 

 

Section B

(Writing Skills)

Q. 4. You are FaizFalnk Muzumdar living at 39, Udhampur Colony, Shimla. You decide to hold a dinner party to congratulate your grandparents on their golden wedding anniversary. 

Draft a formal invitation in not more than 110 words to all family members to attend a grand dinner at home. 

Answer:- Faiz/ Falak Mazumdar 

Request the pleasure of your company on the auspicious occasion of the 

50^th Wedding Anniversary Celebration 

of our 

Loving Grandparents 

on 

Sunday, The 08^th of May, 2018. 

at our residence 39, Udhampur Colony, Shimla 

from 7 p.m. onwards followed by dinner. 

R.S.V.P. 

Faiz/Falak Mazumdar 

Phone : 012345678 

OR 

Q .4 You are Harish/Harshita of 12, Seva Nagar, Pune. You want to sell your flat as you are mother city for work. Draft to a suitable advertisement in not more than 50 words to be published in The Pune Times under the classified columns. 

Answer:

FLAT FOR SALE 

Available a spacious, fully furnished flat in prime localities of Pune. Close to the station. Ground floor, 2 bedrooms with attached bathroom, modular kitchen and spacious balcony. Car parking available. 24hr water and power supply. Owner going abroad. Reasonable price.

Genuine parties may contact Harsh/ Harshita Jain, Mobile – 012345678. 

 

Q. 5. You are Neeraj/Neeraja Shekhar, Principal. Vasant Public School, Pune. Your school has just started a music department. Write it letter to the Manager or Melody House, Pune wholesale suppliers of musical instruments. placing an order for musical instruments for the school. Ask for as discount on the catalogue prices.

Answer:-

Vasant Public School, 

Pune – 040008 

08^th March, 2018 

The Manager, 

Melody House, 

Pune – 040010. 

Subject : Placing an order for musical instruments 

Dear Sir, 

With the start of the new academic session, we’d like to place an order for musical instruments in the school section. 

Following are the specifications of the order: 

S.No.	Item	Quantity
1.	Piano	20
2.	Guitar	50
3.	Tabla	30
4.	Harmonium	15
5.	Flute	40

I’d be grateful if the order could reach us by 20^th March, 2018 at the school address mentioned above. Since we are your regular customer we would like to avail a discount of 15% on the order from the catalogue price. Payment would be made is cash on delivery of goods in proper condition. 

Yours Sincerely 

Neerja Shekhar. 

OR 

Q .5 Bal Vidya Public School, Bhilai, urgently requires a post-graduate teacher to teach political science for which they have placed an advertisement in The Bhilai Express. You are Sanjay/Sanjana Sharma from 21, Vasant,Draft a letter including a CV, applying for the advertised post. 

Answer:-

206, Rose Villa 

Bhilai 

18^th May 2018

The Principal 

Bal Vidya Public School 

Bhilai. 

Subject : Application for the post of political science Teacher. 

In response to your advertisement in “The Bhilai Express” dated 16^th May 2018, I wish to offer my services for the post of teacher of political science in your renowned school. I am a young teacher post graduate with B.Ed from Jaipur University. I have 2 years of experience in a reputed school. I wish to work with your school and support the growth of your organisation and also my career advancement. 

I am enclosing my bio–data herewith for your kind reference. If selected, I assure you that I shall work with utmost devotion and sincerity to your full satisfaction. I look forward to attending an interview at your earliest convenience. 

Yours faithfully Sd/ 

Sanjana Sharma. 

Enclosuress : (1) Bio – data 

(2) Copies of certificate 

(3) Passport size photograph. 

BIO – DATA 

NAME : SANjANA SHARMA 

AGE AND BATE OF BIRTH : 28 YEARS, 18TH JANE 1990.  

FATHER’S NAME : DARSHAN SHARMA

NATIONALITY : INDIAN 

GENDER : FEMALE 

MARITAL STATUS : SINGLE 

ADDRESS FOR COMMUNICATION : 21, VASANT MARG, BHILAI. 

 

Q. 6. Recent floods in many metropolitan cities of the country during the monsoon Henson laid bare the hollowness of the claims of the civic authorities of their preparedness. The poor hod to hear the brunt or the problem while no one was ever held accountable. Write an article in 150 — 200 words on the common man’s woes during the monsoons and the need for accountability of the officials concerned. You are sumit/smita Verma 

Answer:-

Mumbai Stops Again! 

By Sumit/ Smita, Class XII 

Mumbai once again came to a stand still on the amount of heavy rain. But rainfall over the last day is nowhere as overwhelming as what the city experienced on 26th July, 2005 when it received almost 95 cm of rain. The city faced a lot of problems and issues in terms of transportation as there was water – logging everywhere, telephone services where impacted, even the lifeline of the city the local trains were badly impacted and was at halt. People had a lot of difficulties reaching home and many of them were stuck at different places. But the spirit of Mumbaikars was the same were volunteers still gathered to help each other in such times and later the city was getting back to normal. The damage wrought by the rainfall on 26th August (Tuesday) could have been mitigated if the Municipal authorities and State Government cared enough over decades. The officials need to find a long term solution for Mumbai’s frequent flooding problem. 

OR 

Q. 6.You are MI/Alia Head girl/Head boy of your school. You are deeply disturbed by the rising cases of aggressive behaviour of students in your school. You decide to speak riu rig t. arming assembly about it. Write a speech on ‘Indiscipline in schools’. (150 — 20 ‘words) 

Answer:-

Respected principal, teachers and dear friends.

        Today, I Ali/Alia, am here to express my views on “Indiscipline in schools”. We have observed that these days there are a lot of indiscipline complaints with the volunteer group and also with teachers. Indiscipline among the students comes where they don’t listen to teachers/volunteers and take schools rules and regulations in hand where this used to be a generation ago. But being a head boy/ girl, I would request each one of your that we are students and we should always try to lead a disciplined life. Student life is where we build our character. This is the time when we all should try to build up a sound body and sound mind. The sole aim of student life is to gain knowledge as we are the future of our nation. This aim can only be achieved when we students respect our teachers and concentrate on studies. We should not indulge into the acts of indiscipline which will in the end spoil the life of a child and the consequences are to be faced by both the student and their parents. In the end I would request each one of you to kindly co – operate and abide by the rules of the school as we are one family and always be together to help each other in good and bad times. 

 

Q. 7. Academic excellence in the only requirement for a successful career.” Write a debate either for or against the motion. (120 – 150 words)

Answer:-

The heavy emphasis on academic performance has changed the educator’s point of view completely. The focus on acquiring skills and information through cramming is greater than the application of principles of learning about a practical life. And the obsession with marks, which are considered to be the sole indicator of one’s merit has resulted in such a phenomenon that fundamental tools of education like basic problem solving, team spirit and justice are ignored completely. What you learn in school are facts, known facts. Your job at school is to accumulate and remember facts, the better you do. 

People who are conventionally clever get jobs on their qualifications (the past), not on their desire to succeed (the future). In today’s world, especially among the youths there is the notion that success in life is not based on education. Unfortunately, many do not understand what it means to have an education or what really, an education is. A good education is essential, as it not only teaches on the necessary skills required in the world of work, but also prepares the mind to make sane, healthy and intelligent decision about any situation that one may encounter on life’s journey. If a person is educated and specialized in his field he can do all the related works and be a creative mind to bring more invention. But simply, academic excellence will not help an individual to grow in life. We need to groom our personality overall because now-a-days the market requirement is multipurpose and they want all the possible quality in one candidate who can manage things personally and professionally both. Hence, in my opinion, success requires a combination of academic excellence with other essential life skills. 

OR 

MMD School, Nashik, recently organised a science symposium on the topic : 

‘Effect of pollution on quality of life’. You are Raazdan„ editor of the school magazine. Write a report on the event for your school magazine. (120 — 150 words) 

Answer:-

Effect of pollution on quantity of life 

( By : Amit/ Amita Raazdan) 

8^th June, Nashik

Noise pollution is often ignored by all of as. It is the consequences that we face due to regular exposure to consistent elevated sound levels. This is a common issue faced by most of the citizens in their localities. We may not understand the consequences now but it really impacts all of us in fact the quality of life as well as. Noise pollution has many physical and psychological health impacts for humans. Noise induced hearing loss, cardiovascular effects and distracts a human mentally. It can lead to problems like stress, annoyance, headache, etc……… 

In the science symposium conducted recently the topic has been discussed in detail as we need to reduce pollution. As discussed, a strict law needs to be enforced to ensure that the level of noise pollution in a particular area reduces to a certain extent. We understand that celebrations are done but at the same time we need to understand its ill – effects. The major impacted are old – age group and the babies. Hence, there should be certain decibel of volume which should be permitted accordingly and time – limit that has been given till 10 p.m. should be followed. If the above rules are violated and any complaints are made then strict actions will be taken against this. We also need to understand that this noise pollution not only impacts human but animals. So, if we follow strict law and bring certain changes this will benefit all of us. 

 

Section B

(Literature : Textbooks and Long Reading Text)

Q. 8. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: 

…..and clear rills 

That for themselves a cooling convert make 

Against the hot season: the mid forest brake. 

Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms: ……….. 

(a) identify the poem And the poet. 

Answer:- The poem is “ A thing of Beauty” and the port is John Keats. 

 

(b) What is the role of the clear rills ? 

Answer:- The clear rills make a cooling cover for themselves. 

 

(c) How has the mid forest brake become rich? 

Answer:- The mid forest brake became rich with a sprinkling of fair musk – rose blooms. 

 

(d) Name the figure of speech in ‘cooling covert’. 

Answer:- Alliteration – The sound ‘C’ is repeated. 

OR 

…….On their slag heap, them children. 

Wear ‘skins pooped through b bones null spectacles of steel 

With mended glass, like bottle bits on stones. 

(a) Name the poem and the poet. 

Answer:- The poem is “An Elementary school classroom in a slum” and the poet is Stephen Spender. 

 

(b) Explain : ‘slag heap’. 

Answer:- The ‘slag heap’ means that the poet is pointing to the children of the slum who are extremely starved & malnourished. They appear so thin like a skeleton. Their world is full of dirt & garbage & they spend their life raking these slag heaps. 

 

(c) What future awaits these children? 

Answer:- The future of these children is miserable & uncertain. 

 

(d) Name the figure of speech used in the third line. 

Answer:- Simile: The children are compared directly to the bottle bits of stone. 

 

Q. 9. Answer any four of the following questions in 30- 40 words each 

(a) What does the poet’s smile in the poem, ‘My Mother at Sixty-six’ show? 

Answer:- The poet’s smile in the poem signifies that it was difficult to hide her feelings of insecurity. The pale and senile appearance of her mother bring back her childhood fear of losing her mother. She can definitely experience the pain of separation, yet she bids her farewell in a pleasant manner. She reassures her mother that all will be well and they would meet again. 

 

(b) Listening to them, I see two distinct worlds . In the context of Mukesh, the bangle maker’s son, which two worlds is Anees Jung referring to? 

Answer:- The author is referring to two different worlds. The families of the bangle – makers belong to one of these worlds. These workers are caught in the web of poverty. They are also burdened by the stigma of the caste in which they are born. They know no other work. The other world is the vicious. Circle of the money lenders, the middlemen, the policemen, the keepers of the law, the bureaucrats and the politicians. 

 

(c) Though the sharecroppers of Chain ran received only one-fourth of the compensation, how can the Champaran struggle still be termed a huge success and victory ? 

Answer:- The Champaran episode began as an attempt to ease the sufferings of large number of poor peasants. Gandhiji admits that what he had done was a very ordinary thing. He declared that the British could not order him about his own country. He got spontaneous support of thousands of people. The efforts of Gandhiji and support of people made Champaran struggle a huge success and victory. 

 

(d) Which article in Mcleery’s suitcase placed perhaps the most significant role in Eva’s escape and how? 

Answer:- The suitcase that McLerry had a sealed question paper envelope, a yellow invigilation form, a special authentication card for the Examination Board, a paper knife, a Bible, the current copy of church times and a small semi-inflated rubber ring. But Mccleery’s semi-inflated ring played a significant role. McLerry told Jackson that he is suffering from haemorrhoids (piles) and the ring helps him when he has to sit for a long time. In reality, the ring contained pig blood, which Evans would splatter on his head and escape from the hospital as Mc Lerry who has been injured. 

 

(e) Why does Derry’s mother does not want him to go back to visit Mr. Lamb. 

Answer:- Derry’s mother oppose him to visit Mr. Lamb as she says that she has heard things about him. Infact, she has been warned. Though they have lived there for three months, she knows what is worth knowing & Derry will not go. 

(f) What considerations influenced the Tiger King to get married? 

Answer:- In 10 years, Tiger king killed 70 tigers and didn’t find any in Pratibandapuram which influenced him to get married to a girl from a royal family so that he had more tigers to compete his target. 

 

Q. 10. Answer the following question in 120 -150 words. 

In one’s approach to life one should be practical and not live in a world of dreams. How is Jansie’s attitude different from that of Sophie? 

Answer:- In one’s approach to life one should be practical & not live in a world of dream is a fact. But Jansie & Sophie both had different attitude & approach life. Sophie and Jansie are poles apart in tastes and temperament. Sophie has fantastic dreams and oats in a fairy land. She is an incurable escapist who won’t come out of her dreams. Jansie is down to earth—a realist. Sophie wants to do something sophisticated. Jansie knows that these things require a lot of money which their families do not possess. Jansie also knows that they were earmarked for the biscuit factory. She even advises Sophie to be sensible and practical. Sophie considers Jansie ‘nosey’ and does not want to concede in her. 

OR 

Q. 10. Fear is something that we must overcome if we want to succeed in life. How did Douglas get over his fear of water? 

Answer:- It is rightly said that fear is something that we must learn to overcome if we want to succeed in life and that’s what Douglas did to overcome his fear of water. Even after the swimming training was over, Douglas wasn’t confident about his swimming or that he had overcome the fear. He was determined to completely get rid of it forever. He swam alone in the pool. He went to Lake Wentworth to dive. There, he tried every possible stroke he had learnt. He fought back the tiny vestiges of terror that gripped him in the middle of the lake. Finally, in his diving expedition in the Warm Lake, he realised that he had truly conquered his old terror. 

 

Q. 11. Answer the following question in 120 — 150 words.

At the end of the storytelling session, why does Jock consider Himself “caught in an ugly middle position’ ? 

Answer:- Jack feels that he has been caught in an ugly middle position physically, emotionally as well as mentally. The woodwork, a cage of mouldings and rails and skirting boards all around them was half old tan and half new ivory. He was conscious of his duties as a father and as a husband. Little Bobby was already asleep. His efforts to make Jo fall asleep proved quite fatiguing. She kept on interrupting him, asking for clarifications, pointing errors and suggesting alternatives. Jack did not like that women should take anything for granted. He liked them to be apprehensive. So, he extended the story, though he was in haste to go down stairs and help his pregnant wife in her hard work of painting the woodwork. The result of the extension to the story proved unfruitful and unpleasant for Jo, Jack and Clare. Jo wanted him to change the ending of the story. Clare complained that he had told a long story. Jack felt utter weariness and did not want to speak with his wife or work with her or touch her. He was really caught in an ugly middle position. 

OR 

Q. 11. It may take a long time for oppression to be resisted, but the seeds of rebellion are sown early in life. How did Zitkala-Sa face oppression as a child an did she overcome it? 

Answer:- Zitkala-Sa was a victim of social and cultural oppression by the victors who had overpowered them by their sheer strength. They were prejudiced towards Native American culture and women. They adopted force and oppression to compel the natives to shed their age-old traditions and customs. The cutting of the long hair of Zitkala-Sa is a symbol of their oppression. She opposed this prejudice and oppression by rebelling against it. She protested with all her strength. Bama was a victim of caste system. She had seen, felt and experienced the evils of untouchability when she was studying in the third standard. She felt humiliated by what it was. She struggled hard against this social discrimination. She studied hard and topped in her class. Many students became her friends. Thus, both Zitkala-Sa and Bama fought the existing circumstances with courage and determination and ended the prejudice, discrimination and oppression. 

 

Q. 12.Answer the following question in 120 — 150 words: 

How does the perception and attitude of the villagers of Raveloe towards Silas Marner change from the beginning to the end of the novel ? 

Answer:- The change In the villagers^. perception of Silas was very gradual and directly proportional to the changes.Silas was scary, ignorant even mean and unapproachable. This was because Silas himself had made life unapproachable, isolated and prone to enigma with his attitude towards people and his lack of Interest in being a part of the community. When the day came that his gold was stolen, Silas began to lose his mind, ventured out of the house and ended up at the Rainbow Inn in a form of pan, attack- which caused panic in a way in those present. When he began to accuse people, he was angry so he made them angry as well, But when a finally cowed down and broke down his pain was so sincere, and his frustration so evident that he touched the hearts of the people. They immediately quit their ideas about him and saw a very real person, immensely wounded and who has hit rock bottom. Then compassion hit because they saw themselves In his position, identified with him greatly, and offered their condolences and help to at least bring him back to sanity. In general, the people of Raveloe, brought together the most significant characteristics of a close-knit community: Charity, cooperation, and unity because even though they were clearly aware that Silas Marner was still one of them, regardless of being an isolated person. Silas was part of Raveloe . 

OR 

Q. 12. How do you perceive Dr. Kemp based on his in interaction with Griffin? (The Invisible Man). 

Answer:- Griffin and Dr Kemp were old acquaintances and both were scientists. However, Griffin wanted to establish a reign of terror and Dr Kemp thought about the social conditions of the future. Griffin was an eccentric scientist. He wanted to smite everyone who came in his way. On the other hand, Dr Kemp thought of the greater good. Even before Griffin had mentioned his sinister plans, Dr Kemp had decided to turn him over to the police. After hearing his plans, Dr Kemp was shocked. Realising the threat that Griffin posed to the society, he was hell bent upon capturing him. Therefore, it is not right to call Dr Kemp a traitor. Though he had cheated Griffin, he was thinking about the betterment of the society. He wanted to save the society from the devil that Griffin was. 

 

Q. 13.Answer the following question in 120 — 150 words:

How is Godfrey Cass different from his younger brother, Dunstan? 

Answer:- The two sons of Squire Cass, Godfrey and Dunstan (Dunsey) known by way or their father who is a respectable and relatively wealthy man in on with the rest of the people of Raveloe. As children don’t upper-class home the two grew up in idleness from what the narrator tells us. Yet, out of the two sons the highest hope is laid on Godfrey, the eldest of the two sons, who is described as a fine, open-faced good-natured young man. Godfrey seems to appear to the public as the elder, kinder, and nicer of the two brothers, only these clays the townsfolk agreed that Mr. Godfrey didn’t look halls fresh-colored and open as he used to do.The suspicion is that Godfrey is following the steps of his wayward brother. Dunsey, who is quite possibly his exact opposite, raking them an allusion to Cain and Mel. Dunstan’s influence in Godfrey has made the latter change the good-humored, affectionate-hearted Godfrey was now becoming a bitter man & visited Mid cruel wishes. Although Godfrey does enjoy more respect than his brother, we that he is weak of character, prone to being misled and easily fooled. The evidence or this lies In that Godfrey now drinks and covers up for his brother’s wrongdoings. To make matters worse Godfrey married a laudanum addicted fathered a child with her I best to hide the truth from his father. Godfreys physique contrasts with his lack of character. He is also described as lacking resolution, and of being morally coward. That muscular frame of his held plenty of animal courage, but helped him to no decision when the dangers to be brave where such as could neither be knocked down nor throttled. Dunstan Cass described with more negatively than Godfrey. Physically, he is described as a thick-set, heavy-looking young man entered, with the Pushed are and the gratuitously elated bearing which mark the first stage of intoxication. Dunstan, is the leader of the two. He is arrogant senseless and selfish. He Is also younger than Godfrey, who is twenty-six yrs old. In terms of his behavior he is more lose and daring than Godfrey; Eliot also says that Dunstan Is Intellectually dull in comparison. It is dear that Dunstan holds a lot of contempt against Godfrey, and it is evident Int:hew,’ that speaks to him disrespectfully despite him being his older brother. The had marriage choice Mat Godfrey made was like fuel for Dunstan, who obviously tries to bring his brother down to his level. His overall character is described as “spiteful” and “jeering”, with a taste for swapping and betting and with humus disregard for the well-being or safety of others, especially his brother. Godfrey and Dunstan are actually quite different. However, Dunstan’s presence and influence on Godfrey is what brings out Godfrey’s negative traits at the beginning of the novel. Once Dunstan is out of the picture, things become better for his elder brother. 

OR 

Q. 13. “Misdirected and self-serving ambition essentially remains an exercise in futility.” Describe Grillin’s character in the light of the above statement. 

Answer:- “Misdirected and self-serving ambition essentially remains and exercise in futility” best describes the character of Griffin in the lesson. He is an albino, a prodigy, a meritorious student but extremely short-tempered by nature. In the beginning of the novel, he comes to Iping (a small hillside village of London) as a wrapped up mystery who remains covered with bandages from top to bottom. Initially, he starts his career as a teacher but soon gets attracted towards the formula of being invisible under the supervision of Professor Oliver. He leaves no stone unturned to succeed in his mission but argues with his mentor due to credit-taking issue. He forsakes the profession & company of Prof. Oliver to work single handedly. Therefore, he changes his abode and goes to stay in The Great Portland Street where he almost succeeds in being invisible. Due to his stealing of his father’s money, his father commits suicide but he remains unaffected and focused At first, he feels extremely proud of his invisibility but soon he realised the shortcomings of being invisible. In his anger, he burns his landlords house and escapes from there. He comes across many problems being naked and isolated. He reaches Dr.Kemp’s house where he discloses his all secrets and offers him a partnership in his misdeeds. Dr. Kemp, being an altruist, plans to get him arrested but fails in his plan. Griffin, knowing the intention of Dr. Kemp, threatens him to be killed but in his pursuit of killing him, becomes a prey to masons who hit him a spade and later suffocates him. He becomes visible after his death and his desire of being visible remains a dream till he survives. His arrogance and pride leads him to death in the end. 

English

SECTION – A

(READING) 30

Q.1. Read the passage given below and answer the Questions that follow: [20]

1. The sage of science, Einstein, was sitting in a depressive and pensive mood one evening. His eyes were brimming with tears. The pain was evident on his face. He peeped out of the window of his room. The sun had set a few minutes back. The sky was filled with a reddish glow. At this sunset, he felt that it was humanity that had sunk into devilish darkness and the reddish glow in the sky was the blood of humanity spilling all over the sky from earth. With tired steps, he walked back to his chair and settled down. It was the 9th of August 1945. Three days back, he had felt the same agony as if someone had tom him apart. He was deeply hurt and depressed when he heard on the radio that America had dropped an atom bomb on the Japanese city, Hiroshima. Today, within three days another bomb was dropped on another city, Nagasaki and lakhs of people had been killed.

2. He had heard that the blast released so much energy that it had paled all past destructions in comparison and death had played out a pitiable dance of destruction. The flames that broke out of the bomb were burning, melting and exploding buildings. Scared of the heat of the bomb, people had jumped into lakes and rivers, but the water was boiling and the people too were burnt and killed. The animals in the water were already boiled to death. Animals, trees, herbs, fragrant flowering plants were all turned into ashes. The atomic energy destruction had just not stopped there. It had entered the atmosphere there and had spread radiation that would affect people for generations to come and would also bring about destructive irreversible biological change in animals and plants.

3. As the news of the atomic attack reached Einstein, and he became aware of the glaring horror of the abuse of atomic energy, his distress and restlessness knew no bounds. He could not control himself and picked up his violin to turn his mind on to other things. While playing the violin, he tried to dissolve his distress in its sad notes, but couldn’t. He was burning on the embers of destruction; his heart was filled with an ocean of agony and tears just continued streaming uncontrollably out of his eyes. Night had fallen. His daughter came up and asked him to eat something as he had not taken anything for the last four days. His voice was restrained and he said, “I don’t feel like eating.”

4. He could not sleep that night. Lying down, he was thinking how he had drawn the attention of the then American President Roosevelt towards the destructive powers of an atomic bomb. He had thought that this would be used to scare Hitler and put an end to the barbarism that Hitler was up to. However, Roosevelt kept him in the dark and made false promises. Eventually, he had abused Einstein’s equation of E = mc²that resulted in the destructive experiments. His actions had made science and scientists as murderers. Einstein kept on thinking for a long time. Eventually, he slipped into sleep. When he woke up at dawn, there was a new dawn in him too. The atomic threat had transformed his heart.

5. The next day, he decided to disassociate himself from the scientific policy of the government and all governmental institutions. He decided to open educational institutions for children, adolescents and youth—institutions where along with science, spirituality will be compulsorily taught.

6. To inaugurate this institution, he had invited two great philosophers, Bertrand Russell and Albert Schweitzer. Ten other great scientists who had own Nobel Prizes in different fields were also invited. They all saw a different Einstein, not a great scientist but a sage in him. The institution was opened by garlanding a photo of Mahatma Gandhi. While garlanding the Mahatma, he became emotional and said with a lump in his throat, “I bow down to the great man who fought for the independence of his country through non-violence. He could do so because he was a truthful man and true spiritualist.”

7. Those who teach science should be taught, spirituality too. Without harmony between science and spirituality, the destruction would continue unabated. A few years after this institution was built, a Japanese delegation came to meet him. Einstein broke down in the meeting and said. “You can give me any punishment and I will accept it. Anyway, I have decided to lead my life in penitence.” The Japanese were moved by this sincerity and forgot their grief.

 

Q.1.1.On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, answer each of the Questions given below by choosing the most appropriate option : [1 × 5 = 5]

(a) Besides two great philosophers how many other scientists were invited by Einstein to inaugurate the institution where spirituality would be compulsorily taught?

(i) Five

(ii) Ten

(iii) Eight

(iv) Fifteen

Answer:

(ii) Ten

 

(b) Which musical instrument did Einstein play when he was in grief?

(i) Harmonium

(ii) Guitar

(iii) Violin

(iv) Flute

Answer:

(iii) Violin

 

(c) Einstein came to know that America had dropped an atom bomb on the Japanese city, Hiroshima through

(i) television

(ii) newspaper

(iii) radio

(iv) a telephonic message

Answer:

(iii) Radio

 

(d) Which American President was told about the destructive power of an atomic bomb?

(i) Kennedy

(ii) Bill Clinton

(iii) Lincoln

(iv) Roosevelt

Answer:

(iv) Roosevelt.

 

(e) Einstein said to the Japanese delegation,

 (i) “You can give me any punishment and I will accept it.”

(ii) “I am not at fault.”

(iii) “What could I do?”

(iv) “The President didn’t agree to my advice.”

Answer:

(i) “You can give me any punishment and I will accept it.”

 

Q.1.2.Answer the following Questions briefly: [1 × 6 = 6]

(a) What did Einstein do to overcome his distress after getting the news of the atomic attack?

(b) Which event in 1945, according to Einstein, turned science and scientists into murderers?

(c) What did Einstein do to show his displeasure over the atomic attack?

(d) Whose photo was garlanded at the inauguration of Einstein’s institute for children, adolescents and youth?

(e) Name the philosophers that Einstein invited to inaugurate the new institution.

(f) Why did Einstein want harmony between science and spirituality while teaching in educational institutes?

Answer:

(a) Einstein was extremely distressed after getting the news of the atomic attack. To distract his mind from this serious news, he picked up his violin and began playing sad notes on it. He did not even eat for four days.

(b) In 1945, America had dropped atom bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombs made to scare Hitler and put an end to barbarism had been misused to kill many innocent lives. This event according to Einstein, turned science and scientists into murders.

(c) To show his displeasure over the atomic attack, Einstein decided to disassociate himself from the scientific policy of the government and all its institutions. He decided to open educational institutions where science and spirituality would be compulsorily taught to children, adolescents and youth.

(d) The photo of Mahatma Gandhi was garlanded at the inauguration of Einstein’s institute for children, adolescents and youth.

(e) Two great philosophers, Bertrand Russell and Albert Schweitzer were invited by Einstein to inaugurate the new institution.

(f) Einstein’s fear of destruction due to the atomic bomb attacks transformed his thinking. He felt the need for bonding between science and spirituality to bring about harmony. This could bring a decrease in destruction of life and peace would prevail in the world.

 

Q.1.3. Answer any three of the following Questions in 25-30 word each: [2 × 3 = 6]

(a) What did Einstein feel while looking at the sunset from his room’s window? 

(b) Give a brief description of the disaster when the atomic bomb was dropped on the Japanese city, Nagasaki.

(c) What did Einstein think of Mahatma Gandhi?

(d) What was Einstein’s reaction when the Japanese delegation met him?

Answer:

(a) Einstein with tears brimming from his eyes and pain evident in his face, peeped out of the window of his room. Looking at the sunset, he felt the sinking of humanity into a devilish darkness and the reddish glow in the sky felt like human blood spilling all over the sky from the earth. He was tom apart.

(b) The explosion at Nagasaki caused death, burning, melting and exploding of buildings. The water in the lakes and rivers was boiled hot leading humans as well as aquatic animals to death. All living and non-living things were turned into ashes.

(c) Einstein thought of Mahatma Gandhi as a great man who used non-violence as his tool while fighting for his country’s independence. Einstein referred to the Mahatma as a truthful and spiritualist man.

(d) Einstein, on meeting the Japanese delegation, broke down and announced that he was ready for any punishment given to him. He also spoke of his decision to lead the rest of his life in penitence.

 

Q.1.4. Find words/phrases from the passage which are similar in meaning to each of the following : 

(a) mental pain (para 1)

(b) agreement (para 7)

(c) regret/remorse (para 7)

Answer:

(a) agony

(b) harmony

(c) penitence

 

Q.2. Read the passage given below carefully and answer the Questions that follow: 

1. To live in harmony with oneself and the environment is the wish of every human. However, in modem times greater physical and emotional demands are constantly placed upon many areas of life. More and more people suffer from physical and mental tension such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, and there is an imbalance in physical activity and proper exercise. This is why methods and techniques for the attainment and improvement of health, as well as physical, mental and spiritual harmony, are of great importance, and Yoga meets this requirement.

2. The word “Yoga” originates from Sanskrit and means “to join, to unite”. Yoga exercises have a holistic effect and bring body, mind, consciousness and soul into a balance. In this way Yoga assists us in coping with everyday demands, problems and worries. Yoga helps to develop a greater understanding of our self, the purpose of life and our relationship with God.

3. On the spiritual path, Yoga leads us to supreme knowledge and eternal bliss in the union of the individual Self with the universal Self. Yoga is that supreme, cosmic principle. It is the light of life, the universal creative consciousness that is always awake and never sleeps, that always was, always is, always will be.

4. Many thousands of years ago in India, Rishis (wise men and saints) explored nature and the eosmos in their meditations. They discovered the laws of the material and spiritual realms and gained an insight into the connection within the universe. They investigated the cosmic laws, the laws of nature and the elements, life on earth and the powers and energies at work in the universe—both in the external world and on a spiritual level. The unity of matter and energy, the origin of the universe and the effects of the elementary powers have been described and explained in the Vedas. Much of this knowledge has been rediscovered and confirmed by modem science.

5. From these experiences and insight a far-reaching and comprehensive system known as Yoga originated and gave us valuable, practical instructions for the body, breathing, concentration, relaxation and meditation. The system “Yoga in Daily Life” is taught worldwide in Yoga Centres, Adult Education Centres, Health Institutions, Fitness and Sports Clubs, Rehabilitation Centres and Health Resorts. It is suitable for all age groups—the name itself indicates that Yoga can be and should be used “in Daily Life”.

6. The exercise levels have been worked out in consultation with doctors and physiotherapists and can therefore — with observation of the stated rules and precautions—be practiced independently at home by anyone. “Yoga in Daily Life” is a holistic system, which means it takes into consideration not only the physical, but also the mental and spiritual aspects. Positive thinking, perseverance, discipline, orientation towards the Supreme, prayer as well as kindness and understanding form the way to Self-Knowledge and Self-Realisation.

 

Q.2.1. On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, make notes on it using headings and subheadings. Use recognizable abbreviations (wherever necessary — minimum four) and a format you consider suitable. Also supply an appropriate title to it. 

 

Q.2.2. Write a summary of the above passage in about 100 words. 

Answer: TITLE : YOGA IN DAILY LIFE

1. Need for Yoga

(i) Decreases mental and physical stress in daily life

(ii) Attnt. and improv. of physical and mental health and spiritual harmony

2. Benefits of Yoga

(i) Bal. of body, mind, consciousness and soul

(ii) Cope with daily probs.

(iii) Supreme knwldg. of union of indvl. self and univ. Self

3. Practice of Yoga

(i) Practical instructions for – body, breathing, concentration, relaxation, meditation

(ii) Taught worldwide in Yoga Centres, Health Institutions, Rehabilitation Centres etc.

4. Yoga in daily life

(i) Use of yoga daily for positivity in life

(ii) Holistic system, considers physical, mental and spiritual aspects

SUMMARY: Today, people face greater physical and mental problems in their daily lives. These problems are related to lack of physical, mental and spiritual harmony. Yoga helps bridge this gap. “Yoga” originated from a Sanskrit word that means “to join” or “to unite”. Yoga exercises balance of body, mind, consciousness and soul. This in a way, helps us to tackle various problems that afflict us in our day-to-day life. The practice of Yoga has been prevalent since ancient times as prescribed in the Vedas. “Yoga in daily life” provides practical instructions for the body, breathing, concentration, relaxation and meditation. Yoga paves the way from self-knowledge to self-realization.

 

SECTION – B

(ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS)

Q.3. You are Dhruv/Deepa. Your father, Shri Dheeraj Garg of Gurugram wants you to draft an invitation to be sent to friends and relatives on the occasion of your elder sister’s marriage. Prepare the invitation giving necessary details in not more than 50 words. 

OR

Q.3.Water is precious and each one of us must stop its wastage to avoid its scarcity in the near future. Prepare a poster requesting people of your colony to adopt means to save water, prevent its wastage, etc. You are Rama/Rohan of Ashima Vihar, Saket, Ahmedabad. (50 words)

Answer:

OR

 

Q.4. The elderly living alone in cities are not safe. Reports of violence against them are really very disturbing. The recent murder of two elderly persons has rocked the city. It seems the police are not taking adequate steps to make the elderly feel safe and secure. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor, ‘Modern Times’ to draw the attention of the law and order authorities to the problem and take effective steps to deal it. You are Sohan/Sangeets, 12, Roshan Colony, Alampur. 

OR

Q.4. You have read an advertisement in the newspaper, ‘Pune Times’ for the post of software engineer in Alex Software, Pune. You believe that you possess the requisite qualifications and experience and your innovative ideas will prove an asset to the company. Write an application in 120-150 words emphasising your strong points and your suitability for the post. Also include your biodata. You are Saurabh/Shikha, 12, Mall Road, Chandigarh.

Answer:

12 Roshan Colony,

Alampur

3rd March 20XX

The Editor

Modem Times

Alampur

Subject : Safety precautions for the elderly in the city.

Sir/Madam,

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I, on behalf of the residents of Roshan Colony, wish to bring to your kind attention, the murder of the two elderly people that have taken place recently. As a resident of the area in which the attack took place, I write to point out the lack of protection that the seniors are offered.

The recent murders, while brutal, are not a surprising phenomenon considering the lack of proper precautions taken to ensure the safety of the elderly. While I mourn the loss of the two souls that were attacked, I also fear for those who are still with us. It is even more surprising to see that despite these attacks, very little is done to ensure their safety. It is important, in today’s times that the authorities take proper precaution for those in our communities who are the most vulnerable i.e., the elderly.

I believe that highlighting it through your newspaper would bring it to the attention of the proper authorities so that they can take appropriate and legal steps to ensure the safety of the elderly at the earliest.

Thanking you,

Yours respectfully,

Sangeeta/Sohan

OR

12, Mall Road

Chandigarh

10th March 20XX

The Manager

Alex Software

Pune

Subject: Application for the post of a Software Engineer

Sir/Madam,

In response to your advertisement in the Pune Times dated January, 20XX for the post of a software engineer, I hereby offer my candidature for the same. I believe that my skills and qualifications match your requirements.

I have worked as a software engineer at GnC for the last eight years. It has been my dream to work in this sector which is playing such an important role in the development of society. My area of specialty is user interface and coding. I have been appreciated for my efficiency by my previous employers. If given the opportunity, I am sure I will be able to prove my capabilities to you as well.

I would be glad to get this opportunity and speak more about my work in a personal interview. I am available to come to Pune at your convenience. Thank you so much for reading my letter and for considering me for this position. I am enclosing my detailed resume for your perusal.

Sincerely,

Shikha / Saurabh

Encl. : Detailed Resumeand Work Experience

Certificate

RESUME

 

Q.5. Respect for law, concern for others and maintaining a clean environment are some of the qualities of a civilized person. It is sad that we do not pay much attention to them. You are Shoma/Sonu. Write a speech in 150-200 words to be delivered in the morning assembly on the topic, ‘Importance of Civic Sense’. [10]

OR

Q.5. Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion:‘Money is the only thing that matters in today’s life’.

Answer:

IMPORTANCE OF CIVIC SENSE

Dear Friends and Faculty, I, Shoma/Sonu of class XII-C, wish all of you a very good Morning. I am privileged to present my views on the importance of civic sense with you today.

How often have we seen people spitting on the roadside? How often have we seen people standing, watching someone else in pain? How many of us leave the lights on when we don’t really need it?

We see these things on a daily basis. We curse the people who do these things but then we do it ourselves too. We say to ourselves, “Why should I stop when no one else is?” We forget that every single person’s actions matter.

We live in a time where we stand at the edge of irreversible changes. In such a time, it becomes more important than ever that we hold on to our civic sense. If we continue to live as individuals rather than a society on this planet, just functioning based on rules that ensure our mere survival, then there will come a time when the society will never be the same. Knowing this, it becomes even more important to emphasize the importance that civic sense can have in our very lives. It is high time that we all start to live with civic sense and social mannerism for a cleaner and healthier environment. This will help us change the society at the earliest.Thank you.

OR

MONEY IS THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IN TODAY’S LIFE

Honourable judges, teachers and my worthy opponents, today, I am glad to receive this opportunity to present to you my side for the argument “Money is the only thing that matters in today’s life”.

In today’s society, having money can be the difference between life and death. It has become common knowledge to know that one can get anywhere if the right people are on your side. The way our society is built, the value placed on money and having more of it has lead to the rise of Billionaires with so much wealth that they no longer are in touch with how the common man survives and in the same place, we have people who cannot access basic necessities because of the lack of funds.

This disparity does not reduce as time goes on, it grows. This is because access to good education, high-paying jobs and better accommodations are available only to those who have the money to afford it. While it is easy to say that the younger generations place less importance on money, it is only those with money that can say this. Without money, one cannot get anywhere in today’s society. At the end of the day, one can’t help but agree that money moves the world around .

 

Q.6.The tendency to use violence at the slightest provocation and thus to solve personal and general problems is growing among people in our society. This is not a civilized way of dealing with the problems. Violence solves no problem; it must be shunned. Write a article in 150-200 words on the topic, You are Shan/ Shobha. [10]

OR

Q.6. The Fine Arts Club of your school celebrated its tenth anniversary in a grand manner. Distinguished artists Pt. Jasraj, Hariprasad Chaurasia and the veteran Kathak dancer Shovana Narayan graced the occasion and enthralled the audience by their mesmerizing compositions. Shovana Narayan’s graceful movements were a delight to watch. The function ended with two lilting songs by Shambu, a class 10th student of your school. Write a report in 150-200 words on the event, to be published in your school magazine. You are Sohan/Sakhi, Secretary of the Club.

Answer:

‘DON’T TAKE LAW INTO YOUR OWN HANDS

By Shobha / Shan“An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.” This was stated by Mahatma Gandhi when our nation was fighting for its independence from the British Raj. Yet, today our nation faces the growing problem of violence at the slightest provocation.

All it takes for a violent attack on another person is their presence. Women have been attacked for working at officer or studying in colleges because others believe they do not have the right to be there, people of different race or colour are abused and attacked verbally or physically simply for existing in a certain space. The tendency to hate is strong. There is a growing crowd of both victims and perpetrators and sometimes one can’t help but wonder if the need to rely on the laws of the land is indeed worthwhile.

Sadly, taking matters into ones hands are not the methods through which problems are truly solved. All violence does is to breed more violence. It is important to take steps to help people find the right way to solve problems, through the use of words over actions. This can only be done if there are proper precautions in place for people who act out aggressively with the barest hint of provocation. It is time that we, as a society, look at the problem of violence more seriously and try to find a solution together.

OR

10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE FINE ARTS CLUB

By Sakhi / Sohan, Secretary of Fine Arts Club Last Friday marked the tenth anniversary of our school’s Fine Arts Club. To commemorate this achievement, a grand celebration was held to honour the milestones achieved by the club. The celebration, lasting nearly an entire day, included a variety of renowned artists and veterans of the business as well as performances by the club members. Held at the School Auditorium, the Club is proud to say that the entire hall was full of guests as well as audiences. Aside from the notable faces, the crowd also held parents of the club members as well as outsiders who had bought tickets to attend the event.

The audience was treated by performances of the distinguished artists such as Pt. Jasraj and Hariprasad Chaurasia. Their performances captivated the audience and their compositions moved the audience changing the air of the entire celebration. We were also graced with the veteran Kathak dancer Shovana Narayan who gave us the honour of performing on the stage. In grand finale of the show, there was two songs performed by Shambu, a class 10 student and a club member. The talented and heart-wrenching performance earned a standing ovation from the audience and there were requests for an encore, which we were unable to perform due to time constraints. The President of the club presented the vote of thanks after which light refreshments were served.

 

SECTION – C

(LITERATURE : TEXTBOOKS AND LONG READING TEXT)

Q.7.Read the extract given below and answer the Questions that follow : [1 × 4=4]

Perhaps the Earth can teach us

as when everything seems dead

and later proves to be alive.

Now I’ll count up to twelve

and you keep quiet and I will go.

(a) Name the poem and its poet. [1]

(b) What does the Earth teach us? [1]

(c) What does the poet want to achieve by counting up to twelve? [1]

(d) Give an example of what now seems to be dead but later on becomes alive. [1]

OR

 

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) Name the poem and its poet. [1]

(b) How does a thing of beauty remain a joy forever? [1]

(c) Explain : ‘never pass into nothingness’. [1]

(d) How does the bower help us in our life? Give two examples. [1]

Answer :

(a) The poem is ‘Keeping Quiet’ and the poet is Pablo Neruda.

(b) The earth teaches us to be patient, productive and to live in tranquility.

(c) The poet wants to enlighten us on the importance of patience and meditation by counting up to twelve. By remaining still and through reasoning, we can achieve to be positive and overthrow the negativity within us.(d) A seed when falls into the earth and dies, grows into a plant which bears fruit, gives shade when it grows into a tree, and helps the environment.

OR

(a) The poem is ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and the poet is John Keats.

(b) A thing of beauty is eternal as it revives our memories and leaves a positive influence on our minds. As time passes by, its beauty only increases with time. This only helps in providing everlasting joy to the eye of the beholder.

(c) Joy that lasts in beauty is everlasting, its importance never diminishes but grows with time.

(d) Bower is a peaceful dwelling place that helps us is our life. Under the shade of the tree, it provides us protection from the sun and rain. It is also a safe and quiet place for rest and meditation.

 

Q.8.Answer any four of the following Q .s in 30 – 40 words each: [3 × 4 = 12]

(a) What steps did Gandhiji take to remove the cultural and social backwardness in the rural areas of Champaran ?

(b) Why was the crofter so kind and generous to the peddler ?

(c) Give examples from ‘Keeping Quiet’ to show that Neruda was peace loving.

(d) How did Annan’s advice to his sister Bama impact her ?

(e) What dilemma did Sadao and his wife face when they saw the wounded American soldier ?

(f) How did Jo want the story narrated by her father to end ?

Answer:

(a) The social and cultural backwardness in the rural areas of Champaran caused Gandhi a great pain. His appeal for teachers was responded by several people. In about six villages, primary schools were opened. Gandhi’s wife and youngest son also came to Champaran to help him. Kasturba taught personal cleanliness and community sanitation to the people. Gandhi also managed to get the help of a doctor who with three medicines, tried to fight the miserable health conditions of Champaran.

(b) The crofter was a lonely old man living all alone with no family. He craved for a human company. Therefore, when the peddler requested the old man for a shelter the old man, in his generosity and need for someone to talk, welcomed the peddler for supper.

(c) We know that the poet Neruda is a peace-loving person through several instances in the poem. He cares for both humans and nature. In the poem, Neruda wishes that fishermen do not hunt whales, he wants the man who is collecting salt to stop for a while and see the self-harm it is doing and lastly, he wishes that people who run about indulging in wars, to stop what they are doing and instead, embrace peace with their brothers.

(d) Annan told his sister Bama that they were born into the untouchable caste and they did not have any honor or dignity. The only way to earn their due respect was to go ahead in life by studying hard. These words changed Bama’s attitude towards life. She took her brother Annan’s advice seriously and excelled in her academics. She stood first in her class and this gained her the respect of people as well as friends.

(e) Dr. Sadao and his wife found the wounded American soldier on the beach near their house. The soldier needed an immediate medical attention which Dr.Sadao could give. If Dr. Sadao sheltered the American soldier, they could be arrested. However, if they handed the soldier to the police he would surely die. Thus, Dr. Sadao was in a dilemma.

(f) The story narrated by Jo’s father ended with Roger the skunk’s mother hitting the wizard for making her son smell like roses. Jo did not like this ending. She wanted the wizard to hit Roger’s mother back for not letting his.

 

Q.9. Answer any one of the following Questions in 120 -150 words : [6]

(a) Everybody during the last lesson was filled with regret. Comment.

(b) Why is the Champaran episode considered to be the beginning of the Indian struggle for independence?

(c) It is not unusual for a lower middle class girl to dream big. How unrealistic were Sophie’s dreams?

Answer:

(a) The story, “The Last Lesson” is set during the Franco-Prussian War when the French districts of Alsace and Lorraine passed into the hands of Prussia. The Prussian government then made the declaration that only German was to be taught in the schools in Alsace and Lorraine. This order affected the local public badly and each one of them was repenting for wasting time and not learning French. Each person in the class was filled with regret. The French language teacher, M. Hamel felt guilty for sending his students to complete his personal tasks. The parents of the students never bothered to send their children to class but instead preferred that the children work on the farm or at mills. Even the older people in the room like old Hauser, the former mayor, the former postman and other elders of the village showed regret on neither learning French themselves nor encouraging their children to learn the language.

(b) India was under the suzerainty of the British power for more than a hundred years before the incident at Champaran. The people of India were tired of the unjust rules and policies of the British. The landlords at Champaran were forced to grow indigo in 15% of the available land and then surrender the entire harvest as rent. When the peasants learned about the development of synthetic indigo, they demanded for their money. Gandhiji managed to get the amount back and provided courage to the peasants. The incident at Champaran was an attempt to alleviate the distress of large numbers of poor people. At Champaran, Gandhiji received the support of thousands of people. The peasants became aware of their rights, grew more courageous and began to contribute to the movement. Gandhiji successfully implemented the method of non-violence and non-cooperation. Therefore, it can be said that the Champaran episode is the beginning of the Indian struggle for independence.

(c) Sophie the protagonist of the story “Going Places” comes from a lower middle-class background and like most girls, she tends to have escapist tendencies. Her background limits her aims and ambitions. Comparatively, her best friend Jansie and her family try to limit her from day dreaming. Sophie dreams of things that she cannot have like buying a boutique. When Q .ed about how she would go about achieving this dream, she mentions that she would do that through a manager job like Mary Quant or by being an actress, or a fashion designer. She constantly dreams of upgrading her life despite the unrealistic demands of her dreams. The sad reality is that these unrealistic dreams simply distract a person from their goals. It makes a person crave for excuses and separates them from the realities of the world. Sophie’s dreams and ambitions coupled with her crush on Daney Casey are so unrealistic that they separate her from the realities of her world.

 

Q.10. Answer any one of the following Questions in 120-150 words: [6]

(a) Describe the efforts made by the Tiger King to achieve his target of killing a hundred tigers.

(b) Explain the reaction of Dr. Sadao’s servants when he decided to give shelter to an enemy in the house.

(c) Describe Jack’s art of storytelling.

Answer: 

(a) The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram was known as the Tiger King. At the time of his birth, the astrologers had declared that the prince would die one day. At that prophecy, the ten-day-old prince asked the astrologers to reveal the manner of his death. The wise men, though baffled by this miracle, declared that the prince’s death would come from a tiger. When the Prince came of age, he took matters in his own hands and killed a tiger. On sharing these details with the astrologer, he stated that it did not mean that the King was safe. As a matter of fact, he must be careful about the hundredth tiger. Thereafter, the King decided to kill a hundred tigers. He, thus, got the name ‘Tiger King’. In his initial years as a king, he killed around seventy tigers. He also killed around twenty-nine tigers in the forest belonging to his father-in-law. Somehow a hundredth tiger was arranged for him to kill but the tiger did not die when it was shot. Later, the soldiers killed the tiger and with this, the King achieved his dream of killing a hundred tigers.

(b) Dr Sadao Hoki resided along the coast in Japan with his wife Hana. During the war, he was not sent along with the other troupes because the General was under his treatment and needed Dr Sadao’s services. On one occasion, Dr Sadao saw an injured young American soldier in need of his help. He brought the soldier home and began treating him. The servants were frightened and puzzled. As a matter of fact, the old gardener declared that Dr Sadao ought not to heal the wound of that white man because he should have been dead also as he was their enemy. He also believed that the soldier was first shot and then the sea caught him and wounded him with her rocks. If Dr Sadao healed what the shot and the sea had done, then Dr Sadao and the servants would have to suffer. They were also skeptical because the man was their enemy and if the news of the man at the house spread, then their lives would be in danger. The servants finally chose to leave the house altogether.

(c) Storytelling is a ritual for Jack and his four-year-old daughter Jo. He aims to express his wisdom, art and creativity infused with cunningness through his stories. Jack begins his story telling sessions in the evenings and before Saturday naps. The originality of these stories are that they all revolve around a tiny creature called Roger. His stories more or less follow one pattern with minor variations depending on the theme for the day. Each story begins and describes a Roger who may be a squirrel, a fish or a chipmunk. The stories also have a wise owl and a magic wand wielding wizard. Each story is a lesson in morals. Jack successfully manages to capture the attention of his daughter because he understands her span of attention while using his creativity to create the desired effect. He can imitate different voices and uses this positive attribute to communicate his ideas in an enthusiastic manner. Each of these stories are his own invention and he uses this talent along with his other talent of adopting the right facial expressions to capture his daughter’s interest and provide life lessons along the way.

 

Q.11.Answer any one of the following Questions in 120-150 words : ** [6]

(a) Describe the burglary that took place at Mr. Bunting’s house. (The Invisible Man)

(b) How did Griffin move about in the village of lping?

(c) Why does Silas return to Lantern Yard after having lived and prospered at Raveloe? How does his visit prove useful to him?

(d) How was Silas transformed completely with the arrival of a child?

 

Q.12.Answer any one of the following Q .s in 120 -150 words : ** [6]

(a) Describe Nancy Lammeter’s personality and approach to life. (Silas Marner)

(b) Writer a character sketch of Godfrey Cass. (Silas Marner)

(c) Marval is the only character in ‘The Invisible Man’ who interacts with Griffin and gains something. Elaborate.

(d) How did Dr. Kemp use the information given to him by Griffin himself to get him arrested? Was he successful in doing so?

English

SECTION – A

(READING) 30

Q.1. Read the passage given below and answer the Questions that follow: [20]

1. The sage of science, Einstein, was sitting in a depressive and pensive mood one evening. His eyes were brimming with tears. The pain was evident on his face. He peeped out of the window of his room. The sun had set a few minutes back. The sky was filled with a reddish glow. At this sunset, he felt that it was humanity that had sunk into devilish darkness and the reddish glow in the sky was the blood of humanity spilling all over the sky from earth. With tired steps, he walked back to his chair and settled down. It was the 9th of August 1945. Three days back, he had felt the same agony as if someone had tom him apart. He was deeply hurt and depressed when he heard on the radio that America had dropped an atom bomb on the Japanese city, Hiroshima. Today, within three days another bomb was dropped on another city, Nagasaki and lakhs of people had been killed.

2. He had heard that the blast released so much energy that it had paled all past destructions in comparison and death had played out a pitiable dance of destruction. The flames that broke out of the bomb were burning, melting and exploding buildings. Scared of the heat of the bomb, people had jumped into lakes and rivers, but the water was boiling and the people too were burnt and killed. The animals in the water were already boiled to death. Animals, trees, herbs, fragrant flowering plants were all turned into ashes. The atomic energy destruction had just not stopped there. It had entered the atmosphere there and had spread radiation that would affect people for generations to come and would also bring about destructive irreversible biological change in animals and plants.

3. As the news of the atomic attack reached Einstein, and he became aware of the glaring horror of the abuse of atomic energy, his distress and restlessness knew no bounds. He could not control himself and picked up his violin to turn his mind on to other things. While playing the violin, he tried to dissolve his distress in its sad notes, but couldn’t. He was burning on the embers of destruction; his heart was filled with an ocean of agony and tears just continued streaming uncontrollably out of his eyes. Night had fallen. His daughter came up and asked him to eat something as he had not taken anything for the last four days. His voice was restrained and he said, “I don’t feel like eating.”

4. He could not sleep that night. Lying down, he was thinking how he had drawn the attention of the then American President Roosevelt towards the destructive powers of an atomic bomb. He had thought that this would be used to scare Hitler and put an end to the barbarism that Hitler was up to. However, Roosevelt kept him in the dark and made false promises. Eventually, he had abused Einstein’s equation of E = mc²that resulted in the destructive experiments. His actions had made science and scientists as murderers. Einstein kept on thinking for a long time. Eventually, he slipped into sleep. When he woke up at dawn, there was a new dawn in him too. The atomic threat had transformed his heart.

5. The next day, he decided to disassociate himself from the scientific policy of the government and all governmental institutions. He decided to open educational institutions for children, adolescents and youth—institutions where along with science, spirituality will be compulsorily taught.

6. To inaugurate this institution, he had invited two great philosophers, Bertrand Russell and Albert Schweitzer. Ten other great scientists who had own Nobel Prizes in different fields were also invited. They all saw a different Einstein, not a great scientist but a sage in him. The institution was opened by garlanding a photo of Mahatma Gandhi. While garlanding the Mahatma, he became emotional and said with a lump in his throat, “I bow down to the great man who fought for the independence of his country through non-violence. He could do so because he was a truthful man and true spiritualist.”

7. Those who teach science should be taught, spirituality too. Without harmony between science and spirituality, the destruction would continue unabated. A few years after this institution was built, a Japanese delegation came to meet him. Einstein broke down in the meeting and said. “You can give me any punishment and I will accept it. Anyway, I have decided to lead my life in penitence.” The Japanese were moved by this sincerity and forgot their grief.

 

Q.1.1.On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, answer each of the Questions given below by choosing the most appropriate option : [1 × 5 = 5]

(a) Besides two great philosophers how many other scientists were invited by Einstein to inaugurate the institution where spirituality would be compulsorily taught?

(i) Five

(ii) Ten

(iii) Eight

(iv) Fifteen

Answer:

(ii) Ten

 

(b) Which musical instrument did Einstein play when he was in grief?

(i) Harmonium

(ii) Guitar

(iii) Violin

(iv) Flute

Answer:

(iii) Violin

 

(c) Einstein came to know that America had dropped an atom bomb on the Japanese city, Hiroshima through

(i) television

(ii) newspaper

(iii) radio

(iv) a telephonic message

Answer:

(iii) Radio

 

(d) Which American President was told about the destructive power of an atomic bomb?

(i) Kennedy

(ii) Bill Clinton

(iii) Lincoln

(iv) Roosevelt

Answer:

(iv) Roosevelt.

 

(e) Einstein said to the Japanese delegation,

 (i) “You can give me any punishment and I will accept it.”

(ii) “I am not at fault.”

(iii) “What could I do?”

(iv) “The President didn’t agree to my advice.”

Answer:

(i) “You can give me any punishment and I will accept it.”

 

Q.1.2.Answer the following Questions briefly: [1 × 6 = 6]

(a) What did Einstein do to overcome his distress after getting the news of the atomic attack?

(b) Which event in 1945, according to Einstein, turned science and scientists into murderers?

(c) What did Einstein do to show his displeasure over the atomic attack?

(d) Whose photo was garlanded at the inauguration of Einstein’s institute for children, adolescents and youth?

(e) Name the philosophers that Einstein invited to inaugurate the new institution.

(f) Why did Einstein want harmony between science and spirituality while teaching in educational institutes?

 

Answer:

(a) Einstein was extremely distressed after getting the news of the atomic attack. To distract his mind from this serious news, he picked up his violin and began playing sad notes on it. He did not even eat for four days.

(b) In 1945, America had dropped atom bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombs made to scare Hitler and put an end to barbarism had been misused to kill many innocent lives. This event according to Einstein, turned science and scientists into murders.

(c) To show his displeasure over the atomic attack, Einstein decided to disassociate himself from the scientific policy of the government and all its institutions. He decided to open educational institutions where science and spirituality would be compulsorily taught to children, adolescents and youth.

(d) The photo of Mahatma Gandhi was garlanded at the inauguration of Einstein’s institute for children, adolescents and youth.

(e) Two great philosophers, Bertrand Russell and Albert Schweitzer were invited by Einstein to inaugurate the new institution.

(f) Einstein’s fear of destruction due to the atomic bomb attacks transformed his thinking. He felt the need for bonding between science and spirituality to bring about harmony. This could bring a decrease in destruction of life and peace would prevail in the world.

 

Q.1.3. Answer any three of the following Questions in 25-30 word each: [2 × 3 = 6]

 

(a) What did Einstein feel while looking at the sunset from his room’s window? 

(b) Give a brief description of the disaster when the atomic bomb was dropped on the Japanese city, Nagasaki.

(c) What did Einstein think of Mahatma Gandhi?

(d) What was Einstein’s reaction when the Japanese delegation met him?

 

Answer:

(a) Einstein with tears brimming from his eyes and pain evident in his face, peeped out of the window of his room. Looking at the sunset, he felt the sinking of humanity into a devilish darkness and the reddish glow in the sky felt like human blood spilling all over the sky from the earth. He was tom apart.

(b) The explosion at Nagasaki caused death, burning, melting and exploding of buildings. The water in the lakes and rivers was boiled hot leading humans as well as aquatic animals to death. All living and non-living things were turned into ashes.

(c) Einstein thought of Mahatma Gandhi as a great man who used non-violence as his tool while fighting for his country’s independence. Einstein referred to the Mahatma as a truthful and spiritualist man.

(d) Einstein, on meeting the Japanese delegation, broke down and announced that he was ready for any punishment given to him. He also spoke of his decision to lead the rest of his life in penitence.

 

Q.1.4. Find words/phrases from the passage which are similar in meaning to each of the following : 

(a) mental pain (para 1)

(b) agreement (para 7)

(c) regret/remorse (para 7)

Answer:

(a) agony

(b) harmony

(c) penitence

 

Q.2. Read the passage given below carefully and answer the Questions that follow: 

1. To live in harmony with oneself and the environment is the wish of every human. However, in modem times greater physical and emotional demands are constantly placed upon many areas of life. More and more people suffer from physical and mental tension such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, and there is an imbalance in physical activity and proper exercise. This is why methods and techniques for the attainment and improvement of health, as well as physical, mental and spiritual harmony, are of great importance, and Yoga meets this requirement.

2. The word “Yoga” originates from Sanskrit and means “to join, to unite”. Yoga exercises have a holistic effect and bring body, mind, consciousness and soul into a balance. In this way Yoga assists us in coping with everyday demands, problems and worries. Yoga helps to develop a greater understanding of our self, the purpose of life and our relationship with God.

3. On the spiritual path, Yoga leads us to supreme knowledge and eternal bliss in the union of the individual Self with the universal Self. Yoga is that supreme, cosmic principle. It is the light of life, the universal creative consciousness that is always awake and never sleeps, that always was, always is, always will be.

4. Many thousands of years ago in India, Rishis (wise men and saints) explored nature and the eosmos in their meditations. They discovered the laws of the material and spiritual realms and gained an insight into the connection within the universe. They investigated the cosmic laws, the laws of nature and the elements, life on earth and the powers and energies at work in the universe—both in the external world and on a spiritual level. The unity of matter and energy, the origin of the universe and the effects of the elementary powers have been described and explained in the Vedas. Much of this knowledge has been rediscovered and confirmed by modem science.

5. From these experiences and insight a far-reaching and comprehensive system known as Yoga originated and gave us valuable, practical instructions for the body, breathing, concentration, relaxation and meditation. The system “Yoga in Daily Life” is taught worldwide in Yoga Centres, Adult Education Centres, Health Institutions, Fitness and Sports Clubs, Rehabilitation Centres and Health Resorts. It is suitable for all age groups—the name itself indicates that Yoga can be and should be used “in Daily Life”.

6. The exercise levels have been worked out in consultation with doctors and physiotherapists and can therefore — with observation of the stated rules and precautions—be practiced independently at home by anyone. “Yoga in Daily Life” is a holistic system, which means it takes into consideration not only the physical, but also the mental and spiritual aspects. Positive thinking, perseverance, discipline, orientation towards the Supreme, prayer as well as kindness and understanding form the way to Self-Knowledge and Self-Realisation.

 

Q.2.1. On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, make notes on it using headings and subheadings. Use recognizable abbreviations (wherever necessary — minimum four) and a format you consider suitable. Also supply an appropriate title to it. 

 

Q.2.2. Write a summary of the above passage in about 100 words. 

Answer: TITLE : YOGA IN DAILY LIFE

1. Need for Yoga

   (i) Decreases mental and physical stress in daily life

   (ii) Attnt. and improv. of physical and mental health and spiritual harmony

2. Benefits of Yoga

  (i) Bal. of body, mind, consciousness and soul

  (ii) Cope with daily probs.

  (iii) Supreme knwldg. of union of indvl. self and univ. Self

3. Practice of Yoga

   (i) Practical instructions for – body, breathing, concentration, relaxation, meditation

   (ii) Taught worldwide in Yoga Centres, Health Institutions, Rehabilitation Centres etc.

4. Yoga in daily life

  (i) Use of yoga daily for positivity in life

  (ii) Holistic system, considers physical, mental and spiritual aspects

SUMMARY:

Today, people face greater physical and mental problems in their daily lives. These problems are related to lack of physical, mental and spiritual harmony. Yoga helps bridge this gap. “Yoga” originated from a Sanskrit word that means “to join” or “to unite”. Yoga exercises balance of body, mind, consciousness and soul. This in a way, helps us to tackle various problems that afflict us in our day-to-day life. The practice of Yoga has been prevalent since ancient times as prescribed in the Vedas. “Yoga in daily life” provides practical instructions for the body, breathing, concentration, relaxation and meditation. Yoga paves the way from self-knowledge to self-realization.

 

SECTION – B

(ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS)

Q.3. You are Dhruv/Deepa. Your father, Shri Dheeraj Garg of Gurugram wants you to draft an invitation to be sent to friends and relatives on the occasion of your elder sister’s marriage. Prepare the invitation giving necessary details in not more than 50 words. 

OR

Q.3.Water is precious and each one of us must stop its wastage to avoid its scarcity in the near future. Prepare a poster requesting people of your colony to adopt means to save water, prevent its wastage, etc. You are Rama/Rohan of Ashima Vihar, Saket, Ahmedabad. (50 words)

Answer:

OR

 

Q.4. The elderly living alone in cities are not safe. Reports of violence against them are really very disturbing. The recent murder of two elderly persons has rocked the city. It seems the police are not taking adequate steps to make the elderly feel safe and secure. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor, ‘Modern Times’ to draw the attention of the law and order authorities to the problem and take effective steps to deal it. You are Sohan/Sangeets, 12, Roshan Colony, Alampur. 

OR

Q.4. You have read an advertisement in the newspaper, ‘Pune Times’ for the post of software engineer in Alex Software, Pune. You believe that you possess the requisite qualifications and experience and your innovative ideas will prove an asset to the company. Write an application in 120-150 words emphasising your strong points and your suitability for the post. Also include your biodata. You are Saurabh/Shikha, 12, Mall Road, Chandigarh.

Answer:

12 Roshan Colony,

Alampur

3rd March 20XX

The Editor

Modem Times

Alampur

Subject : Safety precautions for the elderly in the city.

Sir/Madam,

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I, on behalf of the residents of Roshan Colony, wish to bring to your kind attention, the murder of the two elderly people that have taken place recently. As a resident of the area in which the attack took place, I write to point out the lack of protection that the seniors are offered.

The recent murders, while brutal, are not a surprising phenomenon considering the lack of proper precautions taken to ensure the safety of the elderly. While I mourn the loss of the two souls that were attacked, I also fear for those who are still with us. It is even more surprising to see that despite these attacks, very little is done to ensure their safety. It is important, in today’s times that the authorities take proper precaution for those in our communities who are the most vulnerable i.e., the elderly.

I believe that highlighting it through your newspaper would bring it to the attention of the proper authorities so that they can take appropriate and legal steps to ensure the safety of the elderly at the earliest.

Thanking you,

Yours respectfully,

Sangeeta/Sohan

OR

12, Mall Road

Chandigarh

10th March 20XX

The Manager

Alex Software

Pune

Subject: Application for the post of a Software Engineer

Sir/Madam,

In response to your advertisement in the Pune Times dated January, 20XX for the post of a software engineer, I hereby offer my candidature for the same. I believe that my skills and qualifications match your requirements.

I have worked as a software engineer at GnC for the last eight years. It has been my dream to work in this sector which is playing such an important role in the development of society. My area of specialty is user interface and coding. I have been appreciated for my efficiency by my previous employers. If given the opportunity, I am sure I will be able to prove my capabilities to you as well.

I would be glad to get this opportunity and speak more about my work in a personal interview. I am available to come to Pune at your convenience. Thank you so much for reading my letter and for considering me for this position. I am enclosing my detailed resume for your perusal.

Sincerely,

Shikha / Saurabh

Encl. : Detailed Resumeand Work Experience

Certificate

RESUME

 

Q.5.Career conscious students focus primarily on academics and neglect participation in games and sports, not realising how important physical activities are. You are Vineet/Vinita. Prepare a speech in 150-200 words to be delivered in the morning assembly of your school on the topic, ‘Balancing Academics and Sports/ [10]

OR

Q.5.Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion: 21st century is an age of greed’.

Answer:

BALANCING ACADEMICS AND SPORTS

Dear audience, Good morning to all. I, Vineet/ Vinita, feel extremely happy as it’s a matter of great privilege for me to deliver a speech on the topic, “Balancing Academics and Sports”.

Today is a beautiful day for playing outside, and yet, many of our students and my fellow classmates, will skip the chance to play in favour of another round of revision of our study materials. This is done in hopes of improving their scores and having a better career, a better future. However, in doing so, they are ignoring one very important factor that is essential for a successful future i.e., health.

While pulling away from the books to play or participate in sports for a while might sound like a huge sacrifice, it is a necessity. Finding a balance between sports and academics ensures success in the future. It has been proven that our brain cannot process all the information given to it without breaks. Sports and other physical activities help our brain process things faster. Focusing solely on academics leads to anxiety, distress and depression in students.

I would like to conclude this speech by saying that health is something to be treasured, we can never regain it if lost. Hence, Sports should be an integral part of the curriculum. Focusing all our energy on academics at such a crucial age can have a huge effect that can change our lives. Thanks to all for being so generous in listening to my views so attentively and patiently.

OR

21st CENTURY IS AN AGE OF GREED

Respected chairperson, members of the jury and my worthy opponents, I, xyz of class XII am glad to have the opportunity today to argue against the motion that “21st Century is an age of greed”.

The notion that the 21st century is full of greed is one that is easy to arrive at. Today we have more material comfort than we probably know what to do with and a great divide in the incomes that people earn. Yet, we are in a time when more people are giving to charity than ever before. In the past few years, those who can, have started donating generously to multiple causes. There exist NGO’s and charities that help people with everything from getting back onto their feet after a natural disaster to curing terminal illnesses. What is important to note is not just that these charities exist, but that there is an increasing number of people giving generously towards various causes. As a matter of fact, social media has played an important role in encouraging people to donate to the right medium.

To conclude, I would like to point out that while there is an increasing number of products, technological advances and services people are paying for, there is a balanced increase in the amount that people are giving to those in need. Thank You!

 

Q.6. Abundance of advertisements in newspapers, magazines and even on television is a wastage of both time and money of readers and viewers. You are Shobha/Sameer. Write an article in 150 – 200 words on the topic, ‘Excessive Use of Advertisements in Media’. 

OR

Q.6. An NGO, ‘Health for All’ organised a health check-up camp in a slum at Amritsar. You are Ruchika/Raunak, and you visited the camp. Write a report in 150-200 words covering arrangements such as registration, check-up, tests carried out, etc.

Answer:

EXCESSIVE USE OF ADVERTISEMENTS IN MEDIA

By Shobha/Sameer, XIIA

Mark Twain once said, “Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising”. Today’s media platforms contain more ads than the content itself and this applies to all form of media that we choose to entertain ourselves with. To the media, advertising is more profitable than the content they provide.

Televisions today show more advertisements than the actual content and newspapers contain more ads per page than it does the actual information. Magazines are even more confusing, often giving articles that serve no purpose other than to convince the reader to buy the product advertised on the next page. These advertisements waste the money of those who have subscribed to the product or service for the sake of information. Furthermore, it is statistically shown that the advertisements make people believe that they are missing out on trends leading to excessive consumerism and materialism.

Taking everything into account, it is important to note that reducing the amount of advertising present in the media might have a positive impact. Perhaps, the space allotted to advertisements can be kept as a percentage of information and content presented in order to ensure that the content takes precedence over the advertisements.

OR

HEALTH CHECK UP CAMP IN A SLUM

By Ruchika/Raunak

Amritsar, March 20XX : A health camp was organised in a slum in Amritsar by the NGO ‘Health for All.’ The camp was set up in such a way that each person who opted to get the health checkup first had to register at the counter by giving his name and age. Once the check-up was completed, the people were requested to submit the forms at the registration desk.

Upon registration, the people were required to visit a general physician, a dentist, and an optometrist. Once the available doctors had examined them, the participants were required to get a blood test done. For most people tested, it was a basic work-up of their non-fasting blood sugar and other related tests. However, for those who suffered from other diseases, the doctors made a note of it in the form given to them, requesting specific tests be done to understand the severity of the condition. Financing for additional tests were also covered by the medical laboratories associated with the NGO.

The results of these tests shall be available to the NGO in a few weeks’ time and then the doctors and volunteers will return to the slum to treat or advice as necessary to the participants that require it. It was refreshing to see a huge tum-up for this eye-opening event.

 

SECTION – C

(LITERATURE : TEXTBOOKS AND LONG READING TEXT)

Q.7.Read the extract given below and answer the Questions that follow : [1 × 4=4]

Perhaps the Earth can teach us

as when everything seems dead

and later proves to be alive.

Now I’ll count up to twelve

and you keep quiet and I will go.

(a) Name the poem and its poet. [1]

(b) What does the Earth teach us? [1]

(c) What does the poet want to achieve by counting up to twelve? [1]

(d) Give an example of what now seems to be dead but later on becomes alive. [1]

OR

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) Name the poem and its poet. [1]

(b) How does a thing of beauty remain a joy forever? [1]

(c) Explain : ‘never pass into nothingness’. [1]

(d) How does the bower help us in our life? Give two examples. [1]

Answer :

(a) The poem is ‘Keeping Quiet’ and the poet is Pablo Neruda.

(b) The earth teaches us to be patient, productive and to live in tranquility.

(c) The poet wants to enlighten us on the importance of patience and meditation by counting up to twelve. By remaining still and through reasoning, we can achieve to be positive and overthrow the negativity within us.(d) A seed when falls into the earth and dies, grows into a plant which bears fruit, gives shade when it grows into a tree, and helps the environment.

OR

(a) The poem is ‘A Thing of Beauty’ and the poet is John Keats.

(b) A thing of beauty is eternal as it revives our memories and leaves a positive influence on our minds. As time passes by, its beauty only increases with time. This only helps in providing everlasting joy to the eye of the beholder.

(c) Joy that lasts in beauty is everlasting, its importance never diminishes but grows with time.

(d) Bower is a peaceful dwelling place that helps us is our life. Under the shade of the tree, it provides us protection from the sun and rain. It is also a safe and quiet place for rest and meditation.

 

Q.8. Answer any four of the following Q .s in 30 – 40 words each: [3 × 4 = 12]

(a) What are the two most admirable qualities in Mukesh ?

(b) What is wrong with Jansie’s outlook on life?

(c) What does Neruda wish fishermen and warmongers to do ?

(d) How is the Derry we meet at the beginning different from the Derry at the end ? 

(e) Why was the General apologetic when Sadao told him that the prisoner had escaped?

(f) Why did Zitkala-Sa oppose tooth and nail the shingling of her long hair ?

 

Answer:

(a) Two admirable qualities in Mukesh are that he dares to dream and is focused on achieving them. Mukesh refuses to accept his destiny as a bangle-maker like his father and ancestors. He is ready to walk the long distance from his house to the garage where could learn to be a motor mechanic which he aims to be.

(b) Jansie is too pragmatic towards how she percieves things to be. She is not flexible about her dreams and believes that she will continue to be in the position that they currently live in Jansie is realistic and constantly keeps Sophie’s day-dreaming in check.

(c) Neruda is a lover of peace and non-violence. He wishes that the fishermen do not hunt the whales in the cold regions. He also wishes that the warmongers who normally indulge in wars and violence, walk with their brothers in some of their best clothes in the shade of trees, doing nothing.

(d) Derry at the beginning of the story is a very negative person and because of his ugly appearance, hides away from the crowds. He believes that the acid has eaten his skin and him alive. He feels that he doesn’t need any second chance to live. However, Derry at the end of the story is more optimistic and practical. He decides to live happily by being friendlier with people.

(e) The General believed that Sadao was indispensable to his life as none were as skilled as Dr Sadao. When Sadao told him about the prisoner who had escaped, he was apologetic as he had forgotten about his promise of sending assassins to kill the enemy, that he made to Sadao, in his greed and selfish needs.

(f) Zitkala-Sa opposed tooth and nail the shingling of her long hair because she remembered her mother’s words. Her mother told her that shingling of the hair was done to the prisoners of the war. In their culture, only mourners and cowards kept short hair.

 

Q.9. Answer any one of the following Questions in 120 -150 words : [6]

(a) Everybody during the last lesson was filled with regret. Comment.

(b) Why is the Champaran episode considered to be the beginning of the Indian struggle for independence?

(c) It is not unusual for a lower middle class girl to dream big. How unrealistic were Sophie’s dreams?

Answer:

(a) The story, “The Last Lesson” is set during the Franco-Prussian War when the French districts of Alsace and Lorraine passed into the hands of Prussia. The Prussian government then made the declaration that only German was to be taught in the schools in Alsace and Lorraine. This order affected the local public badly and each one of them was repenting for wasting time and not learning French. Each person in the class was filled with regret. The French language teacher, M. Hamel felt guilty for sending his students to complete his personal tasks. The parents of the students never bothered to send their children to class but instead preferred that the children work on the farm or at mills. Even the older people in the room like old Hauser, the former mayor, the former postman and other elders of the village showed regret on neither learning French themselves nor encouraging their children to learn the language.

(b) India was under the suzerainty of the British power for more than a hundred years before the incident at Champaran. The people of India were tired of the unjust rules and policies of the British. The landlords at Champaran were forced to grow indigo in 15% of the available land and then surrender the entire harvest as rent. When the peasants learned about the development of synthetic indigo, they demanded for their money. Gandhiji managed to get the amount back and provided courage to the peasants. The incident at Champaran was an attempt to alleviate the distress of large numbers of poor people. At Champaran, Gandhiji received the support of thousands of people. The peasants became aware of their rights, grew more courageous and began to contribute to the movement. Gandhiji successfully implemented the method of non-violence and non-cooperation. Therefore, it can be said that the Champaran episode is the beginning of the Indian struggle for independence.

(c) Sophie the protagonist of the story “Going Places” comes from a lower middle-class background and like most girls, she tends to have escapist tendencies. Her background limits her aims and ambitions. Comparatively, her best friend Jansie and her family try to limit her from day dreaming. Sophie dreams of things that she cannot have like buying a boutique. When Q .ed about how she would go about achieving this dream, she mentions that she would do that through a manager job like Mary Quant or by being an actress, or a fashion designer. She constantly dreams of upgrading her life despite the unrealistic demands of her dreams. The sad reality is that these unrealistic dreams simply distract a person from their goals. It makes a person crave for excuses and separates them from the realities of the world. Sophie’s dreams and ambitions coupled with her crush on Daney Casey are so unrealistic that they separate her from the realities of her world.

 

Q.10. Answer any one of the following Questions in 120-150 words: [6]

(a) Describe the efforts made by the Tiger King to achieve his target of killing a hundred tigers.

(b) Explain the reaction of Dr. Sadao’s servants when he decided to give shelter to an enemy in the house.

(c) Describe Jack’s art of storytelling.

Answer: 

(a) The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram was known as the Tiger King. At the time of his birth, the astrologers had declared that the prince would die one day. At that prophecy, the ten-day-old prince asked the astrologers to reveal the manner of his death. The wise men, though baffled by this miracle, declared that the prince’s death would come from a tiger. When the Prince came of age, he took matters in his own hands and killed a tiger. On sharing these details with the astrologer, he stated that it did not mean that the King was safe. As a matter of fact, he must be careful about the hundredth tiger. Thereafter, the King decided to kill a hundred tigers. He, thus, got the name ‘Tiger King’. In his initial years as a king, he killed around seventy tigers. He also killed around twenty-nine tigers in the forest belonging to his father-in-law. Somehow a hundredth tiger was arranged for him to kill but the tiger did not die when it was shot. Later, the soldiers killed the tiger and with this, the King achieved his dream of killing a hundred tigers.

(b) Dr Sadao Hoki resided along the coast in Japan with his wife Hana. During the war, he was not sent along with the other troupes because the General was under his treatment and needed Dr Sadao’s services. On one occasion, Dr Sadao saw an injured young American soldier in need of his help. He brought the soldier home and began treating him. The servants were frightened and puzzled. As a matter of fact, the old gardener declared that Dr Sadao ought not to heal the wound of that white man because he should have been dead also as he was their enemy. He also believed that the soldier was first shot and then the sea caught him and wounded him with her rocks. If Dr Sadao healed what the shot and the sea had done, then Dr Sadao and the servants would have to suffer. They were also skeptical because the man was their enemy and if the news of the man at the house spread, then their lives would be in danger. The servants finally chose to leave the house altogether.

(c) Storytelling is a ritual for Jack and his four-year-old daughter Jo. He aims to express his wisdom, art and creativity infused with cunningness through his stories. Jack begins his story telling sessions in the evenings and before Saturday naps. The originality of these stories are that they all revolve around a tiny creature called Roger. His stories more or less follow one pattern with minor variations depending on the theme for the day. Each story begins and describes a Roger who may be a squirrel, a fish or a chipmunk. The stories also have a wise owl and a magic wand wielding wizard. Each story is a lesson in morals. Jack successfully manages to capture the attention of his daughter because he understands her span of attention while using his creativity to create the desired effect. He can imitate different voices and uses this positive attribute to communicate his ideas in an enthusiastic manner. Each of these stories are his own invention and he uses this talent along with his other talent of adopting the right facial expressions to capture his daughter’s interest and provide life lessons along the way.

 

Q.11.Answer any one of the following Questions in 120-150 words : ** [6]

(a) Describe the burglary that took place at Mr. Bunting’s house. (The Invisible Man)

(b) How did Griffin move about in the village of lping?

(c) Why does Silas return to Lantern Yard after having lived and prospered at Raveloe? How does his visit prove useful to him?

(d) How was Silas transformed completely with the arrival of a child?

 

Q.12.Answer any one of the following Q .s in 120 -150 words : ** [6]

(a) Describe Nancy Lammeter’s personality and approach to life. (Silas Marner)

(b) Writer a character sketch of Godfrey Cass. (Silas Marner)

(c) Marval is the only character in ‘The Invisible Man’ who interacts with Griffin and gains something. Elaborate.

(d) How did Dr. Kemp use the information given to him by Griffin himself to get him arrested? Was he successful in doing so?