SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER - 3

English Core (301)

Class XII (2024-25)

Time Allowed: 3 hours Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions:
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
1. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. This question paper contains three sections - Section A : Reading Skills, Section B
: Creative Writing Skills and Section C : Literature.
3. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct
question number and part thereof in your answer sheet.
4. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.
5. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.
SECTION A – READING SKILLS
1. Read the passage given below: [12]
Punctuality is a necessary habit in public affairs of a civilized society. Without it
nothing could ever be brought to a conclusion, everything would be in a state of
chaos. Only in a sparsely populated rural community is it possible to disregard it.
In the ordinary living there can be some tolerance of unpunctuality. The
intellectual, who is working on some abstruse problem, has everything
coordinated and organized for the matter in hand. He is therefore forgiven, if late
for the dinner party. But people are often reproached for unpunctuality when their
only fault is cutting fine. It is hard for energetic, quick-minded people to waste
time, so they are often tempted to finish a job before setting out to keep an
appointment. If no accidents occur on the way, like punctured tires, diversion of
traffic, sudden descent of fog, they will be on time. They are often more
industrious, useful citizens than those who are never late. The over-punctual can
as much be a trial to others as the unpunctual. The guest who arrives half an hour
too soon is the greatest nuisance. Some friends of my family had this irritating
habit. The only thing to do was to ask them to come half an hour later than the
other guests. Then they arrived just when we wanted them. If you are catching a
train, it is always better to be comfortably early than even a fraction of a minute
too late. Although being early may mean wasting a little time, this will be less
than if you miss the train and have to wait an hour or so for the next one. And you
avoid the frustration of arriving at the very moment when the train is drawing out
of the station and being unable to get on it. An even harder situation is to be on the
platform in a good time for a train and still to see it go off without you. Such an
experience befell a certain young girl the first time she was travelling alone. She
entered the station twenty minutes before the train was due since her parents had
impressed upon her that it would be unforgivable to miss it and cause the friends
with whom she was going to stay to meet her. She gave her luggage to a porter
and showed him her ticket. To her horror, he said that she was two hours too soon.
She felt in her handbag, for the piece of paper on which her father had written
down all the details of the journey and gave it to the porter. He agreed that a train
did come into the station at the time on the paper and that it did stop, but only to
take on water, not passengers. The girl asked to see a timetable, feeling sure that
her father could not have made such a mistake. The porter went to fetch one and
arrived back with the station master, who produced it with a flourish and pointed
out a microscope ‘o’ beside the time of the arrival of the train at his station. This
little ‘o’ indicated that the train only stopped for water. Just at that moment, the
train came into the station. The girl, tears streaming down her face, begged to be
allowed to slip into the guard’s van. But the station master was adamant: rules
could not be broken. And she had to watch that train disappear towards her
destination while she was left behind.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
i. Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. (1)
It is better to reach the platform before the train arrives because ________.
i. You will have time to relax at the station
ii. It’s good to waste some time in life
iii. It can help you avoid frustrations of work
iv. It’s better than watching the train leave in front of your eyes
ii. Comment on the writer’s reference to the features of energetic and quick-
minded people. (1)
iii. List the two ways which can hinder a punctual person from reaching a place on
time. (2)
(Clue: Think about the obstruction one may face)
iv. Select the option that conveys a similar meaning of ‘inflexible’, in the passage.
(1)
i. Over-punctual
 ii. Energetic
iii. Adamant
iv. Abstruse
v. Find a word opposite in meaning to clear/obvious in the passage: (1)
i. community
ii. abstruse
iii. diversion
iv. industrious
vi. Reaching early may mean wasting a little time. Based on your understanding of
the given passage, justify how reaching early does not always mean wasting
time. (2)
vii. Why is it fair to say that punctuality necessary in a civilized society? (1)
viii. Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference, with respect to the
following: (1)
Some friends of my family has this irritating habit of arriving half an hour too
soon. We can deal with them by ________.
ix. The over-punctual can be as much a trial to others as the unpunctual (1)
i. He has everything coordinated and organized
ii. He believes that the early bird gets the worm
iii. He is wasting as much time as the unpunctual ones
iv. There is hardly any difference between the unpunctual and over punctual
x. Why are some people, who may be unpunctual, often considered more
industrious or useful? (1)

2. Read the following passage carefully : [10]

The Ganges is one of the largest rivers in Asia. It rises in the Himalayan
Mountains and flows over 2500 km through India and Bangladesh into the Bay of
Bengal.
However, the Ganges, India’s holy river, is also one of the most polluted in the
world. The Ganges River basin has a size of over 1 million square km. It lies in
one of the most populous regions on earth. About 500 million people, half of
India’s overall population, live in the Ganges river plains. There are many causes
of Ganges river pollution. About 2 million Hindus bathe in the river every day.
During religious ceremonies, up to a hundred million people clean their sins away
in the Ganges River.
They believe that bathing in the river will make them pure. In addition, thousands
of bodies are cremated near the river, especially around the holy city, Varanasi.
The ashes are often released into the Ganges. The Ganges also provides water for
farming land, which is increasing at a tremendous rate. Irrigation projects cause
water levels to go down along the river. More and more dams are being erected
along India's holy river, mainly to produce energy for Delhi and other large cities
in the area.

Ganges River Pollution: A case Study of Causes of Ganges River Pollution.

Because of India’s lax environmental regulations, industries along the river release
chemicals and other poisonous materials into the Ganges. In some places, they are
a thousand times over the allowed limit. Especially India’s traditional leather
industry needs great amounts of water. In addition, fertilizers from the fields find
their way into the ground water, and ultimately flow into the river. Altogether, the
amount of Industrial pollution has doubled in the past 20 years.
This widespread pollution of the Ganges River has also led to major health
problems. Many diseases are common, including cholera, hepatitis and diarrhoea.
While India’s population keeps growing, more and more people are leaving the
countryside and moving to big cities along the Ganges. As a result, the river will
not be able to cope with even more people. Life in the river is also at risk. Recent
reports have shown that there is high a level of mercury in some fish. The
construction of dams is destroying forests and vegetation, killing off many
animals and plants.
India authorities are fighting an upward battle towards cleaning up Ganges River.
International organizations have offered help. The World Bank has agreed to give
India a loan of up to a million dollars to clean up the Ganges River.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
i. Does the following statement agree with the information given in the passage?
(1)
 While India's population continues to grow, an increasing number of people are
leaving the countryside and relocating to major cities along the Ganges.
Select from the following:
True - if the statement agrees with the information
False - if the statement contradicts the information
Not Given - if there is no information on this
ii. Do you think that the widespread pollution of the Ganga River is a contributing
factor to the high prevalence of influenza? (2)
iii. The bar graph shows that the River Ganges has got polluted badly. The sewage
treatment plants
had been established. Which of the following is true? (1)
A. The treatment capacity is equal to the sewage generation
B. The sewage generation is less than the treatment plant.
C. The sewage generation is more than the treatment capacity installed.
D. The treatment plant is sufficient.
iv. Complete the sentence based on the following statement. (1)
The Ganges River is polluted by industries along the river. This is because of
_______________________.
v. Which International organisation has agreed to give India a loan of a billion
dollar to clean up the Ganges River? (1)
A. WB
B. IMF
C. ADB
D. IDA
vi. Ganges river pollution has a wide range of causes. Give reasons for the
pollution in the River Ganga. (2)
vii. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option. (1)
During religious ceremonies, up to a hundred million people wash their sins
away in the Ganges River, believing that bathing in the river will __________
them.
A. wash
B. purify
C. cure
 D. corrupt
viii. Complete the sentence appropriately with one word. (1)
A high level of ___________ has been found in some fish, according to recent
reports.

SECTION B – CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS

3. You are Bala/Bandhini, school counsellor of Bala Vidyagram School, Dharti Bagh. [4]
Your school is organising a Career Counselling Fair. Write a notice encouraging
students to attend the fair. Mention the benefits and include necessary details.

OR
You are Dhruv/Nidhi, Student Editor of your school magazine, The Buds. Write a
notice in not more than 50 words to be placed on your school notice board, inviting
short stories, articles, poems, etc from students of all classes for the school magazine.
Give all the necessary details.

4. You are Dr. Mehra, an eminent educationist who has been invited to address the [4]
students of Sunshine Public School on The Benefits of Reading and release a book
written by one of the students. Draft a formal letter in 50 words expressing your
inability to attend the function. Mention day, date, time and venue.

OR
On 15th April, your school is going to hold its annual sports day. You want Mr. Dhanraj
Pillai, a noted hockey player to give away the prizes to the budding sportspersons of the
school. Write a formal invitation in about 50 words requesting him to grace the
occasion. You are Karuna/Karan, Sports Secretary, Sunrise Global School, Agra.

5. You have realized the necessity of education and financial independence of women [5]
for their family, society and in turn for the nation. Write a letter to the Editor, The
National Times highlighting your ideas on the importance of education of women
leading to a better status for them. You are Tarun/Taruna, B-7/9, Mall Road, Delhi.

OR
You have a degree in architecture and you have worked for a British firm for 5 years.
Write an application for the post of Senior Architect in ‘MIB Designs’, Lucknow. You
 are Mridul/Mridula, 56, Cross Street, Bhopal.

6. Social media today has become an unavoidable element in the lives of people. You [5]
are concerned when you see young people spending increasing number of hours on
free platforms and chat rooms. Write an article highlighting the consequences of
Fear of Missing Out addiction. You may use the following cues along with your
ideas. You are Radhu/Rakesh.
Social Media
Advantages
connectivity
information and updates
stress reliever
Disadvantages
affects socio-emotional connection
invades privacy
causes distress
cyber bullying
distracting
peer pressure
Suggestions
set reasonable timings
encourage face-to-face interaction

OR
 Last week National Public School, Ramnagar celebrated Holi, the festival of colours in
a neat and orderly way. Write a report on the same for the school magazine in 100-125
words. You are Rani/Raj, Cultural Secretary.

SECTION C - LITERATURE
7. Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow: [6]
I saw my mother,
beside me,
doze, open mouthed, her face
ashen like that
of a corpse and realized with
pain
that she was as old as she
looked but soon
put that thought away, and
looked out at Young
Trees sprinting, the merry children spilling
out of their homes. (My Mother at Sixty-six)
i. The phrase ashen like that of a corpse gives the impression that the mother is
(1)
A. frustrated
B. depressed
C. dead
D. weak
ii. State whether the following statement is True or False, with reference to the
extract. (1)
'The mother was suffering from some fatal disease.'
iii. Which of the following themes is best represented in the given extract? (1)
A. Life is short and one must enjoy it
B. Ageing and Mortality
C. Sleeping and Playing
D. Art of Parenting
iv. Pick the option in which the word 'spilling' is used in the same sense as in the
extract. (1)
A. Rahul was responsible for spilling the beans by telling everyone the secret.
 B. He opened the bag, spilling all its contents on the table.
C. Try to keep that crowd from spilling onto the main street.
D. The cat spilled all the milk.
v. The phrases 'Young Trees sprinting and merry children spilling' represent: (1)
A. Youth
B. Old age
C. Disease
D. Travel
vi. Complete the sentence appropriately. (1)
'She was as old as she looked.'
The repetition of the word as suggests that ________.

OR
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
“The hurt to the scenery wouldn’t be my complaint
So much as the trusting sorrow of what is unsaid:
Here far from the city we make our roadside stand
And ask for some city money to feel in hand
To try if it will not make our being expand,
And give us the life of the moving-pictures’ promise
That the party in power is said to be keeping from us.”
i. Who made the roadside stand and where?
a. City people, near their homes
b. Villagers, at their courtyards
c. Poor people, far from the city
d. Local people, on the mountains
i. option (a)
ii. option (b)
iii. option (c)
iv. option (d)
ii. Identify the phrase from the extract, that suggests the following:
Rural people want to sell their products for some brisk income.
iii. Complete the following analogy correctly.
greedy good doers: alliteration ::________ : metaphor
 iv. In the extract, what does the phrase hurt to the scenery indicate?
a. the mismatching paint of the roadside stand
b. harm caused to the natural scenery
c. the painting of the mountains
d. Both (a) and (b)
i. option (a)
ii. option (b)
iii. option (c)
iv. option (d)
v. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to (1) and (2)
given below.
(1) The villagers had little earnings and have not seen much money.
(2) The government had fulfilled the promise they had made.
a. (1) is true but (2) is false.
b. (2) is true but (1) is false.
c. (2) is the reason for (1).
d. Both (1) and (2) cannot be inferred from the extract
vi. Fill in the blank with an appropriate phrase from the extract.
The government had promised dreamy life in the form of ________.

8. Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow: [4]
When I heard this, I didn't want to laugh any more, I felt terribly sad. How could
they believe that it was disgusting if one of us held that package in his hands, even
though the vadai had been wrapped first in a banana leaf, and then parcelled in
paper? I felt so provoked and angry that I wanted to touch those wretched vadais
myself straightaway. Why should we fetch and carry for these people, I wondered.
Such an important elder of ours goes meekly to the shops to fetch snacks and hands
them reverently, bowing and shrinking, to this fellow who just sits there and stiffs
them into his mouth. The thought of it infuriated me.
i. The elder handing snacks reverently, bowing and shrinking to the fellow
indicates that the fellow was (1)
1. condescending
2. unassuming
3. submissive
 4. disdainful
5. aggressive
6. domineering
a. 2, 3 and 6
b. 1, 4 and 5
c. 1, 4 and 6
d. 2, 3 and 4
ii. Based on the given context, choose the option that illustrates when a person can
be provoked, out of the examples given below. (1)
1. The employees organised a peaceful protest outside the firm.
2. The manager ill-treated one of the employees and wrongfully terminated him.
3. The employees wrote a letter of complaint against the manager.
4. The director of the firm scheduled a meeting for reconciliation.
a. Option 1
b. Option 2
c. Option 3
d. Option 4
iii. What changed the mood of the narrator? (1)
iv. Complete the sentence appropriately, with reference to the extract. (1)
The narrator of the given extract is a Tamil Dalit woman whose penname is
________.

OR
Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Sadao slept badly that night. Time and time again he woke, thinking he heard the
rustling of footsteps, the sound of a twig broken or a stone displaced in the garden - a
noise such as men might make who carried a burden.
i. Why did Sadao awake again and again? (1)
a. He was tired badly
b. He was helpless
c. He was waiting eagerly for someone's arrival
d. He was worried about General's health
ii. The men referred to in the given extract could be ________. (1)
 iii. What does burden refer to in the line: men might make who carried a burden
here? (1)
iv. What quality of Sadao has been depicted here? (1)
a. a good doctor
b. a professional man
c. a true patriot
d. serving humanity

9. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: [6]
"My children, this is the last lesson I shall give you. The order has come from
Berlin to teach only German in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. The new master
comes tomorrow. This is your last French lesson. I want you to be very attentive.”
What a thunderclap these words were to me!
Oh, the wretches; that was what they had put up at the town hall!
i. Complete the sentence with an appropriate explanation, as per the extract.
M Hamel wanted the students to be attentive because _________.
ii. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two
statements given below.
(1) M. Hamel wanted his students to pay attention as it was the last lesson.
(2) Nobody except Franz was able to realise the pain in M. Hamel's eyes.
a. (1) Can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot.
b. (1) cannot be inferred from the extract but (2) can.
c. (1) is true but (2) is false.
d. (2) is the reason for (1).
iii. How would you describe Franz's tone when he says- What a thunderclap these
words were to me?
a. Angry
b. Gloomy
c. Perplexed
d. Irritated
iv. In which of the following options can the underlined words not be replaced with
wretche(s)?
a. That beggar has broken my car window.
b. Items like a stick and grenadier are now variable.
 c. He is a lonely and miserable rogue.
d. Before the poor knave had time to speak, he was shot.
v. Henceforth, only ________ would be taught in the schools of Alsace and
Lorraine.
vi. Write another similar word for the underlined word that is used in the extract.
It was startling for Franz to know that he could not learn French any longer.

OR
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
She still has bangles on her wrist, but no light in her eyes. “Ek waqt ser bhar khana bhi
nahin khaya.” she says, in a voice drained of joy. She has not enjoyed even one full
meal in her entire lifetime-that’s what she has reaped! Her husband, an old man with a
flowing beard says, “I know nothing except bangles. All I have done is make a house
for the family to live in.”
Hearing him one wonders if he has achieved what many have failed in their lifetime. He
has a roof over his head!
The cry of not having money to do anything except carry on the business of making
bangles, not even enough to eat, rings in every home. The young men echo the lament
of the elders. Little has moved with time, it seems in Firozabad, years of mind-numbing
toil have killed all initiative and the ability to dream.
i. Identify the textual clue that allows the reader to infer that the young men followed
their elders. (Clue: a phrase)
ii. Select the option that completes the given sentence appropriately.
Years of mind-numbing toil have killed all initiative and the ability to dream.
This shows that:
a. the bangle makers are exhausted yet they are enterprising and have dreams.
b. the drudgery of work has destroyed their willingness to improve their lot.
c. the daily grind has stolen the dreams of the bangle makers and made them dull.
d. the bangle makers have been working so hard that there’s no time to dream.
iii. Based on the above extract, choose the statement that is TRUE about the elderly
woman.
a. She was a senior in the factory and her hands were dyed red with henna.
b. Her head was covered with red-coloured veil.
c. She had not enjoyed even one full meal in her entire lifetime.
d. She was the owner of the bangle factory.
 iv. Complete the sentence with an appropriate explanation, as per the extract.
The writer through the line 'She still has bangles on her wrist, but no light in her
eyes' coveys that though she is married, ________.
v. Select the correct option to fill in the blank
He has a roof over his head! The tone of the author is ________.
a. pessimistic
b. empathetic
c. sympathetic
d. optimistic
vi. Select the suitable word from the extract to complete the following analogy:
As her hands move mechanically like the tongs of a machine : Simile :: Bangles on
her wrist, but no light in her eyes : ________

10. Answer any five of the following questions in 40-50 words each: [10]

(i) What did Douglas experience when he went down to the bottom of the pool for [2]
the first time?

(ii) What kind of war it would be when there are no survivors? Answer the question [2]
based on your understanding of the poem Keeping Quiet.

(iii) How do the words, ‘denizens’ and ‘chivalric’ add to our understanding of Aunt [2]
Jennifer’s tigers?

(iv) Why was Jansie feeling sad when she heard about Sophie's desire to open a [2]
boutique? (Going Places)

(v) What caused the lack of communication between the Englishman and the [2]
people at Gemini Studios?

(vi) When and how did Umberto Eco learn the technique of writing scholarly [2]
books?

11. Answer any two of the following questions in 40-50 words each: [4]

(i) How the programme, Students on Ice was an attempt to equip the future [2]
generation with knowledge to save Earth? (Journey to the End of the Earth)

(ii) The astrologer’s prediction about the death of the Tiger King came to be true. [2]
Do you agree with this statement?
 (iii) What do you think is the reason behind the success of the programme, [2]
Students on Ice? (Journey to the End of the Earth)

12. The different portrayal of men in the texts The Rattrap and Aunt Jennifer's [5]
Tigers offers insights into the tendency of men to change or remain rigid.
You have been asked to address your peers and share:
The ways these portrayals highlight the willingness to improve and accept
mistakes.
The importance of updating and adapting our nature and knowledge according to
changing times.
You may begin this way:
Good morning, everyone.
As I analysed the allotted texts...
You may end this way.
To conclude, I’d like to say that
Compose this draft, with reference to the prescribed texts listed above.

OR
Imagine you are John Keats, the poet of A Thing of Beauty
What advice might you offer to Kamala Das, the poet of My Mother at Sixty-Six, in
the context of her pain of separation after her mother’s departure, as displayed in the
given lines:
…felt that old
familiar ache, my childhood’s fear,
but all I said was, see you soon, Amma,
all I did was smile and smile and
smile……
Pen down a letter as Keats, to soothe her melancholic heart referring to the poem A
Thing of Beauty.
You may begin this way:
Dear Kamala
I recently read your poem, My Mother at Sixty-Six, and...
You may end this way:
I hope my words would comfort you and help in gulping the bitter reality of the
transient life. As I have said earlier, nothing but a thing of beauty can only be a
perpetual source of joy.
 Warmly,
John Keats

13. Mr. Lamb kept on telling Derry to think of the positive things. You as a grown-up [5]
Derry, recount the story narrated by Mr. Lamb to convince him to think positively.
You may begin like this:
My childhood days were surrounded by negativity until I met Mr. Lamb who
became my inspiration. I remember once he narrated to me a story of a man who
locked himself up in his room…

OR
After having escaped from Japan with the help of Dr. Sadao, Tom (the prisoner of war)
writes an article highlighting how Sadao’s actions demonstrated the importance of
humanity and living in harmony. (The Enemy)
You may begin like this:
Humanity is a value that binds us together ......
 Solution
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER - 3
English Core (301)
Class XII (2024-25)

SECTION A – READING SKILLS

1. i. (iv) It’s better than watching the train leave in front of your eyes
ii. Energetic, quick-minded people do not waste time.
They are often tempted to finish a job before setting out to keep an appointment.
If no accidents occur on the way, like punctured tires, diversion of traffic, sudden
descent of fog, they will be on time. (any one)
iii. Accidents that occur on the way, like
a. punctured tires,
b. diversion of traffic,
c. sudden descent of fog, may obstruct a punctual person from being on time. (any two)
iv. (iii) adamant
v. (ii) abstruse
vi. Although being early may mean wasting a little time, this will be less than if you miss
the train and have to wait an hour or so for the next one.
vii. To avoid chaos in the society and to reach conclusion.
viii. asking them to come half an hour later than the other guests.
ix. (iii) He is wasting as much time as the unpunctual ones
x. Some people who may be unpunctual are considered more industrious or useful because
they tend to be energetic and quick-minded, often trying to complete tasks right up until
the time of their appointment. If no unforeseen delays occur, they usually manage to be
on time.
2. i. True, the statement agrees with the information
ii. No, it is not true
It is given that many diseases are common, including cholera, hepatitis, and diarrhea
due to the great amount of pollution being spread in the Ganges. 'Influenza' is not
mentioned in the passage. Hence, according to the passage, influenza is not common
due to the widespread pollution of the Ganga River
iii. C. The sewage generation is more than the treatment capacity installed.
iv. India's lax environmental regulations
v. A. WB
vi. Any 1 relevant cause
1. About 2 million Hindus bathe in the river every day.
2. During religious ceremonies, up to a hundred million people clean their sins away in
the Ganges River.
 3. Thousands of bodies are cremated near the river, especially around the holy city,
Varanasi. The ashes are often released into the Ganges.
vii. B. purify
viii. Mercury
SECTION B – CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS
3. Bala Vidyagram School, Dharti Bagh
NOTICE
DATE: September 13, 2024
Dear Students,
We are excited to announce the upcoming Career Counselling Fair at Bala Vidyagram
School, Dharti Bagh. This event is designed to help you explore various career options and
make informed decisions about your future.
Benefits:
Expert Guidance: Engage with professionals from diverse fields.
Career Exploration: Discover a wide range of career paths.
Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry experts.
Details:
Date: 25/09/2024
Time: 11:00 am
Venue: School auditorium
We encourage all students to attend this valuable event. Your future starts here!
Best regards,
Bala/Bandhini, School Counsellor
OR
Girish Public SCHOOL
DELHI
NOTICE
09 Sept. 2020
INVITING ARTICLES FOR MAGAZINE
All the students are informed that the next edition of the School Magazine will be
published very soon. They are invited to make contributions for the same. Interested
students are requested to hand over their articles to Rohan, Asst. Editor of the magazine,
latest by 25 September 2020.
For further details, kindly contact:
Dhruv
Student Editor
 AK/91 Shalimar Bagh
Delhi - 110089
15 February 2024
The Principal
Sunshine Public School
Rohini Sector 22, Pocket 8
Delhi-110056
Subject: Inability to Attend Book Release Function
Respected Sir,
I regret to inform you that due to prior commitments, I am unable to attend the book
release function to address on The Benefits of Reading on Friday 24 July 2024 at 10.00
a.m. at Sunshine Public School. Please extend my heartfelt congratulations to the student
author. I wish the event a great success.
Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Mehra
4. [Educationist]
OR
Sunrise Global School,
Agra
29 March 2019
Dear Sir,
Our school is going to organise its Annual Sports Day on 15 April 2019. Your gracious
presence will motivate students and inspire all of us. We request you to come and hand
over the prizes to the budding sportspersons of our school at 2 pm.
Looking forward to your acceptance by 5 April.
Yours faithfully
Karuna
Contact no. XXXXXXXXXX
Sports Secretary
5. B-7/9, Mall Road Delhi
14th March, 20XX
The Editor The National Times New Delhi
Subject: Importance of Women Education
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to draw the attention of
one and all towards the importance of women's education. Women are the pillars on which
the growth and development of a family, society, and nation depend. But she is the victim
of patriarchal outlook and conservative mindset in the society. She is not given much
importance in the field of education. This is more so in rural India. People do not take into
consideration that both genders have equal interests and are equally efficient in learning.
Imparting education to women will make them financially independent. More
opportunities for farming girl children should be introduced. I request you to publish this
letter of mine so that people may think over it and start educating their girl child also.
Initiatives should be taken to spread awareness regarding the education of females for
their better tomorrow.
Thanking you
Yours sincerely
Taruna
OR
56, Cross Street
Bhopal
11th February, 20XX
The Managing Director
MIB Designs
Lucknow
Sir,
Subject Application for the post of Senior Architect
This is in reference to your advertisement in 'The Hindu' dated 10th January, 20XX for the
post of Senior Architect in your reputed company. I hereby wish to apply for the same.
Please find attached my resume. If I am considered for the above-mentioned position in
your esteemed firm, I would devote my best towards the responsibilities entrusted to me. I
assure you professionalism and hardwork on my part.
I would be readily available for a personal interview if selected. Awaiting a positive
response!
Yours sincerely,
Mridul
Resume
Name: Mridul
Father's name: Suraj Singh
Date of birth: 5th April 1991
Address: 56, Cross Street, Bhopal
Academic Qualifications:
Degree Board/ University Year Division
Graduation CBSE 2008 First
 Bachelor of Architecture Institute of planning and Architecture 2012 First
Experience: Asstt. Architect, British Construction Company, Bhopal (December 2013 -
Present)
Expected salary: Rs. 55,000 per month
Languages fluency: English, Hindi
Hobbies: Sports, traveling
Contact information: 8059XXXXXX / [email protected]
6. The Consequences of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) Addiction
By Radhu/Rakesh
In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. It offers
numerous advantages, such as connectivity, access to information and updates, and even
serving as a stress reliever. However, the increasing number of hours young people spend
on these platforms has given rise to a concerning phenomenon known as the Fear of
Missing Out (FOMO) addiction.
FOMO is the anxiety that others might be having rewarding experiences from which one
is absent. This fear is exacerbated by the constant stream of updates and images on social
media, leading individuals to feel left out or inadequate. The consequences of FOMO
addiction are far-reaching and can significantly impact one's mental and emotional well-
being.
One major consequence is the negative effect on socio-emotional connections. Instead of
fostering genuine relationships, FOMO can lead to superficial interactions and a sense of
isolation. It also invades privacy, as individuals feel compelled to share every aspect of
their lives online, often leading to distress when their posts do not receive the expected
attention.
Moreover, FOMO can cause significant distress, contributing to feelings of inadequacy,
loneliness, and dissatisfaction with one's life. It can also lead to cyberbullying, as
individuals may engage in negative behaviours to fit in or gain approval.
To combat FOMO addiction, it is essential to set reasonable timings for social media use.
Encouraging face-to-face interactions can help build stronger, more meaningful
relationships.
In conclusion, while social media has its benefits, it is crucial to recognize and address the
adverse effects of FOMO addiction. By fostering a balanced approach to social media use,
we can ensure that it enhances rather than detracts from our lives.
OR
Neat & Clean Holi Day
by Rani, Cultural Secretary
 Ramnagar, 16th March, 20XX: Last week, our school celebrated the festival of colours,
Holi, in perhaps the most neat, clean and orderly way. The whole school gathered in the
playground and played Holi with flower petals and organic dry colours made by the
students. Afterwards, they enjoyed sweets, snacks and cold drinks. Holi is a festival of
love, respect and enjoyment and that is exactly how it should be celebrated.
Traditionally, Holi was played by making colours from flowers. We tried to live upto the
traditional way of celebrating this vibrant festival of colours by celebrating it in such an
orderly fashion. It also gave us a unique opportunity of interacting with our principal and
teachers in a relaxed scenario. Seeing the zest and enthusiasm of our teachers and students,
our principal assured us that our school would get together to celebrate other festivals with
the same spirit in the future too.
SECTION C - LITERATURE
7. i. (D) weak
ii. False
iii. (B) Aging and Mortality.
iv. (C) Try to keep that crowd from spilling onto the main street.
v. (A) Youth.
vi. It is a simile. The mother was as old, pale, weak as her age reflected.
OR
i. option (c)
ii. city money to feel in hand
iii. Trusting Sorrow
iv. option (b)
v. a. (1) is true but (2) is false.
vi. Moving pictures
8. i. 1, 4 and 6
ii. Option 2
iii. The fact behind the comic story changed the mood of the narrator.
iv. Bama
OR
i. He was waiting eagerly for someone's arrival
ii. Assassins
iii. Here, burden refers to a dead body (of American man Tom)
iv. Serving humanity
9. i. it is his last French lesson.
ii. a. (1) Can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot.
iii. Perplexed
 iv. Items like a stick and grenadier are now variable.
v. German,
vi. Thunderclap
OR
i. young men echo the lament of their elders.
ii. b. the drudgery of work has destroyed their willingness to improve their lot.
iii. c. She had not enjoyed even one full meal in her entire lifetime.
iv. her eyes are devoid of happiness
v. optimistic
vi. Paradox/Contrast
10. Answer any five of the following questions in 40-50 words each:
(i) When Douglas went down to the bottom of the pool for the first time, he got terribly
frightened. Those nine feet felt almost like ninety feet to him. His lungs ached and were
ready to burst.
(ii) Pablo Neruda here talks about chemical wars involving nuclear weapons and toxic
gases resulting in mass destruction. There is no point in winning such wars as there will
be no survivors to celebrate the victory. The weapons may actually eradicate the face of
human existence on earth.
(iii)Tigers are the denizens of forests. They love to live in their natural habitat. So the poet
has correctly defined it as 'denizens of a world of green'. Tigers are characteristically
the masters of their domain. They are not afraid of human beings. The Tigers are a
symbol of chivalry as they have exceptional courage to face their enemy. Since the
tigers are brave, ferocious and gallant creatures, the poet has, thus, used the term
chivalric for them.
(iv)Sophie aspired to open her own boutique, become an actress, or pursue a career as a
fashion designer. However, Jansie, being more practical and realistic, disapproved of
these dreams. Knowing they came from a lower economic background, she believed it
was more likely they would end up working at the biscuit factory.
(v) The accent of Stephen Spender, the Englishman, was the main cause of the lack of
communication between him and the people at Gemini Studios. The people did not have
any idea about what he was talking about.
(vi)At the age of 22, Umberto Eco presented his first Doctoral dissertation. He told the
story of his research, even including his trials and errors. At that point, he realised that
scholarly books should be written the way he had done - by telling the story of the
research. That is why his essays always had a narrative aspect.

11. Answer any two of the following questions in 40-50 words each:
 (i) According to Geoff Green, High School students are the future policy-makers and
through this programme, they would be able to save this planet from the environmental
hazards and the harmful effects of global warming. Antarctica, with its simple
ecosystem and lack of biodiversity, is the perfect place to study how little changes in the
environment can have major repercussions.
(ii) I do agree with the statement that the astrologer's prediction about the death of the Tiger
King came to be true. The state astrologer,at the time of his birth, had predicted that the
Tiger King would be killed by a tiger and that he should be cautious of the hundredth
tiger. When the king heard about this prediction ,he wanted to prove the astrologer
wrong and this led him to go on a killing spree. He killed ninety-nine tigers and asked
his Dewan to arrange for the 100th tiger. But ,somehow,the hundredth tiger was not
killed by the king himself. The other hunters, who found out that the old tiger had not
died by the bullet of the king but only fainted when the bullet whizzed past him, killed
that tiger. The story took a turn and the king was happy that he finally proved the
astrologer's prediction wrong. He bought a wooden tiger for his three year old son, as a
birthday gift. That wooden tiger became the 100th tiger as it killed the king when
merely a sliver of the wood protruding from it pierced his right hand. The wound
developed pus and it soon spread all over his arm. The best surgeons failed to save the
king and thus the astrologer's prediction about the death of the Tiger King proved to be
correct.
(iii)The programme 'Students on Ice' was a success because it offered a life-changing
exposure to the future generation of policymakers at an age when they could absorb,
learn and act. It provided them with inspiring educational opportunities which would
help them foster a new understanding and respect for our planet.

12. Good morning, everyone.

As I analyzed the texts 'The Rattrap' and 'Aunt Jennifer's Tigers', I noticed how they
portrayed men's tendency to change or remain stiff. In 'The Rattrap', the protagonist
changes his ways and accepts his mistakes, while in 'Aunt Jennifer's Tigers', Aunt Jennifer
creates an alternate world of freedom in her art to escape male dominance since her
marriage had put a lot of burden and stress on her.
These portrayals highlight the willingness to reform by accepting our mistakes. In 'The
Rattrap', the protagonist mends his ways following Edla’s kindness which brings a change
in the peddler’s heart. Similarly, in 'Aunt Jennifer's Tigers', the uncle is tyrannical and
represents patriarchy, a system that needs to be changed. However, Aunt Jennifer finds a
way to vent her emotions through her art to escape her stark reality, which shows her
adapting nature.
 Moreover, these texts emphasize the importance of updating and adapting our nature and
knowledge according to changing times. In 'The Rattrap', the protagonist changes his ways
and adapts to his new life, which leads to a better life. Similarly, in 'Aunt Jennifer's Tigers',
Aunt Jennifer longs for freedom and tries to achieve that by embroidering a motif of tigers
on a tapestry which represents her ferocious personality and her need for freedom and self-
expression.
In conclusion, I'd like to say that these texts offer valuable insights into the willingness to
improve and accept mistakes and the importance of updating and adapting our nature and
knowledge according to changing times. We should learn from these portrayals and strive
to improve ourselves as everyone is capable of change to lead a better life.
OR
Dear Kamala,
I recently read your poem "My Mother at Sixty-Six," and I can understand the pain of
separation that you are going through. Departure from a loved one is never easy, and it can
leave us feeling lost and melancholic. However, I want to remind you of the beauty that
surrounds us, even in moments of sorrow.
In my poem "A Thing of Beauty," I talk about how beauty has the power to take away our
sorrows and provide us with a sense of peace and tranquility. I believe that beauty is not
just about the external appearance of things, but it is also about the emotions and feelings
that they evoke in us. Even in moments of sadness, we can find beauty in the memories we
have shared with our loved ones.
I understand that it may be difficult to see the beauty in life right now, but I encourage you
to keep looking. Remember that beauty is eternal and will never pass into nothingness. It
will always be there to provide us with a bower quiet, full of sweet dreams, and quiet
breathing.
I hope my words would comfort you and help in gulping the bitter reality of the transient
life. As I have said earlier, nothing but a thing of beauty can only be a perpetual source of
joy.
Warmly,
John Keats
13. My childhood days were surrounded by negativity until I met Mr. Lamb who became my
inspiration. I remember once he narrated to me a story of a man who locked himself up in
his room as he was afraid of everything. The man thought that he would meet with an
accident with a bus, he would catch an infection from someone, a donkey would kick him
to death, the lightning may hit him or he may die because the girl whom he loved may
leave him or he may even slip off a banana and people would laugh at him. In order to
safeguard himself from all such incidents, he locked himself in his room. I was so
surprised to hear this that I couldn't stop asking Mr. Lamb if he locked himself forever. He
replied that no, he did so for a while. I was curious to know what happened next. Mr.
Lamb replied that a picture fell on his head and he died. I burst into laughter as I found it
strange. This story had a deep impact on my life when I realised its inherent meaning. It
made me confident and helped me to lead a life full of happiness and positivity.
OR
Humanity and Harmony: Lessons from Dr. Sadao
Humanity is a value that binds us together, transcending borders, cultures, and conflicts.
My experience in Japan, where I was saved by Dr. Sadao Hoki, a Japanese surgeon, during
World War II, profoundly demonstrated the importance of humanity and living in
harmony.
When I was washed ashore, wounded and desperate, I expected to be captured or left to
die. Instead, Dr. Sadao, despite being a loyal Japanese citizen and aware of the risks, chose
to save my life. His decision was not driven by political allegiance but by his unwavering
commitment to his medical oath and his deep sense of compassion. He stated, "that if the
man were whole I could turn him over to the Police... But since he is wounded,"
highlighting his belief that a doctor's duty to save lives transcends national and racial
boundaries.
Dr. Sadao's actions were a powerful testament to the ability to rise above prejudices. In a
time of intense nationalism and conflict, he chose to see me not as an enemy but as a
fellow human being in need of help. This act of kindness not only saved my life but also
challenged the deeply ingrained biases of his society.
Dr. Sadao's decision to treat me, despite the potential risks to himself and his family,
underscores the importance of humanity. By prioritizing my life over his safety, he showed
that true courage lies in doing what is right, even when it is difficult.
The story of Dr. Sadao and his wife Hana, who also supported his decision, illustrates the
importance of living in harmony. Their willingness to help me, despite the danger, reflects
a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all human beings. It is a reminder that
our actions, driven by empathy and compassion, can bridge the divides between us and
foster a sense of global unity.