SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER - 2

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 following passage carefully: [12]
1. Five enterprises received approval and grants for prototype development of
sustainable educational toys.
2. The government authorities, educational institutions and EdTech start-ups are
planning to introduce state-of-the-art, made-in-India educational toys that not
only throw light on Indian values and civilisations, but also help in developing
children's critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
3. "One such enterprise is working on different types of projects that can teach
children how electromagnets and magnetic fields work. These projects can
resolve a lot of issues in many schools in tier two and three cities that don't
have proper infrastructure. Another is working on an excavation site to teach
children about ancient Indian civilizations. It has implanted a few artifacts at
the site, which the children will have to find so that they are able to learn how
to preserve and label artifacts. Another start up has proposed to create
miniaturized labs for schools in tier 2 and 3 cities where children can learn
concepts of Physics. "We will ensure that these prototypes are developed within
a year and then the production can be scaled up," says the senior manager of the
project talking about the importance of indigenously-built educational toys.
4. Playtime is vital for the cognitive development of children and toys are an
essential component that helps enhance specific cognitive abilities and skill
sets. "Well-designed toys ignite students' curiosity, increase focus and can be
very beneficial in helping them master a skill and enhance understanding.
These can be in the form of visuals, auditory aids, kinesthetic, or a mixture of
all three." says HOD, Early Childhood Education.
5. Toys offer an engaging avenue to teach mathematical, verbal, problem-solving
skills. "Toys that engage students in experiential learning enhance their special
awareness and fine motor skills. Those designed for two or more players help
students develop better social skills as they learn to negotiate, settle differences,
etc, with their peers."
6. Experiential gadgets and toys enable students to learn faster and retain lessons
longer. "A child's interest is piqued when he is taught in a contextual framework
as opposed to rote learning. The Indian education system has been witnessing
several innovations with the development of toys and gadgets that can be used
and felt in person or through VR platforms across subjects, be it Science,
Technology, Math or Engineering.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage given above:
i. By tier 2 and tier 3 cities, the author refers to (1)
A. Metro cities
B. Cities with huge population
C. Underdeveloped cities
D. Cities with less population
ii. Complete the sentence with evidence from the text. (1)
The made-in-India educational toys serves dual purpose of ________.
iii. The author's point of view that can be inferred from the above passage is that
_______. (1)
A. educational toys are the booming business.
B. educational toys are meant to entertain children.
C. educational toys will replace teachers.
D. educational toys will make education more pragmatic.
iv. Complete the following sentence appropriately: (1)
Educational toys enhance the personality of children by ________.
v. Read the five headlines (a) - (e), given below: (1)
 a. Sustainable Educational Toys are Developmentally Appropriate.
b. Sustainable Educational Toys Promote Free play.
c. Sustainable Educational Toys - Free and Widespread.
d. Sustainable Educational Toys - Experiential Learning.
e. Sustainable Educational Toys - Hinder Interaction with people.
Identify the option that displays the headline that DOES/DO NOT correspond
with what the passage highlights.
A. only (e)
B. (a) and (b)
C. (c) and (e)
D. only (d)
vi. What evidences do you gather from the passage to state that educational system
is revolutionized by educational toys? Answer in about 40 words. (2)
vii. Explain, how education at grassroot level is benefitted by these projects. (1)
viii. As opposed to learning by heart, experiential toys (1)
A. ignite interest
B. challenge the teachers
C. replace textbooks
D. confuse learners
ix. Playing is usually considered a distraction. Is it justified on the part of the
narrator to assert that playing is an important aspect of education? Write your
answer in about 40 words. (2)
x. How do experiential gadgets and toys benefit students in the learning process?
(1)

2. Read the following passage carefully : [10]

Australia’s 2019-2020 Bushfire Season was not Normal
1. Data from satellite sources assembled by the United Nations Environment
Programme’s (UNEP) World Environment Situation Room confirms that the
wildfires in Australia in the last two months of 2019 and the first six weeks of
2020 were far from normal. 2019 was the second hottest year on record since
1880, and Australia recorded its warmest temperatures ever in December 2019.
2. “Rising temperatures continue to melt records. The past decade was the hottest
on record. Scientists tell us that ocean temperatures are now rising at the
 equivalent of five Hiroshima bombs a second. One million species are in near-
term danger of extinction. Our planet is burning,” says United Nations
Secretary-General António Guterres.

3. “The trend is very clear: 37 of the last 40 years were the warmest recorded
since 1880, and the six warmest years recorded were the last six years,” says
Pascal Peduzzi, Director of UNEP’s Global Resource Information Database in
Geneva. “For those who think Australia is always burning, graphs clearly show
that these fires were exceptional.”

4. “This service, accessible via the UNEP’s World Environment Situation Room,
is provided for all countries at national and provincial levels. It identifies trends
in wildfire activity since 2003, when the data first became available and
monitoring began. We have sliced and diced the satellite-based data on
wildfires worldwide from 2009 to the present day. We analyse the wildfires’
data by month, type of land cover, protected area, province and nation to
produce information products,” Peduzzi adds. (Source: UN Environment)
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
i. Does the following statement agree with the information given in the extract?
(1)
When temperatures rise and ice melts, more water flows to the seas from
glaciers and ice caps, and ocean water warms and expands in volume.
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 ocean temperatures are currently rising at a rate of five
Hiroshima bombs every second? Support your answer with reference to the
text. (2)
iii. Select the option that lists the CORRECT statement. (1)
A. Pascal Peduzzi is the Director of UNEP’s Global Renaissance Information
Database
B. Pascal Peduzzi is the Director of UNO’s Global Resource Information
Database
C. Pascal Peduzzi is the Manager of UNEP’s Global Resource Information
Database
D. Pascal Peduzzi is the Director of UNEP’s Global Resource Information
Database
iv. Complete the sentence based on the following statement. (1)
In December 2019, Australia experienced its warmest temperatures ever. We
can claim that the warmest temperature is because of
_____________________.
v. The graph compiled with data from four different sources shows that the global
surface temperatures have been _. (1)
A. steady
B. falling
C. rising
D. not changed
vi. The passage talks about how Australia’s 2019-2020 Bushfire Season was not
Normal. Concerning the given statement, describe what is highlighted in the
first graph. (2)
vii. Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option. (1)
For those who believe that Australia is constantly on fire, the graph makes it
abundantly clear that these _________.
A. fires were normal
B. fires were usual
C. fires were exceptional
D. fires were steady
 viii. Complete the sentence appropriately with one word. (1)
Since 1880, 37 of the last 40 years have been the ___________ on record, and
the last six years have been the warmest on record.

SECTION B – CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS

3. The Traffic Police of your district has agreed to hold a one-day programme on road [4]
safety in your school. Draft a notice in about 50 words to be put up on the school
notice-board, informing students of classes 8 - 12 to assemble at the appointed
place. You are Shaili/Suneet, Sports Incharge. Mention day, date, time and venue.

OR
As the Principal, National Public School, Ramnagar, write a notice in about 50 words
informing the students that with effect from 20th of January the school shall start at 9
AM instead of 8 AM. Give reasons for the change.

4. Write a letter to your friend inviting him on the house-warming-ceremony of your [4]
newly constructed house.

OR
You have received an invitation to attend the prize giving ceremony for the Inter-School
Science Exhibit Competition. Write a formal letter in 50 words to the Principal of Rose
Public School, Simla informing him/her about your inability to attend the ceremony.
You are Dr. Suri. Mention day, date, time and venue.

5. Day by day lavish weddings are becoming more and more fashionable. Hotels, [5]
farm houses and banquet halls are booked months in advance. Even lower middle
class families are entertaining thousand plus guests. Write a letter to the editor of a
national daily advocating simple weddings. You are Rani/Raj, 121 Bank street,
Kanpur.

OR
You are Sudha / Sudhir resident of A-7, Shanti Park. You read the following
advertisements in a newspaper.
 SITUATION VACANT
I wanted a young and experienced graduate with fluency in English and Hindi to work
as a receptionist at Customer Care booths of NCR Groups of Hotels, Delhi. Contact
Manager along with your complete C.V. within 7 days of this advertisement.
Draft an application in response to the advertisement giving your detailed resume.

6. You are Nishi/Nishant, a social worker, you feel that progress and advancement of a [5]
India can be enhanced by educating the girl child. He/She writers an article of 120 -
150 words for the local newspaper expressing his/her views. You may use the cues
given below.
Advantages of Educating the Girl child
financial independence
lead productive lives
can participate in decisions that affect them
build better future for themselves & their families

OR
You are a staff reporter of ‘The Hindu’, New Delhi. You have witnessed a road accident
involving a lorry and a Maruti car at Mathura Road. Write a report in 100-125 words.
You are Ashok/Aruna.

SECTION C - LITERATURE
7. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: [6]
And
looked out at Young
Trees sprinting, the merry children spilling
out of their homes, but after the airport’s
security check, standing a few yards
away, I looked again at her, wan, pale
as a late winter’s moon and felt that old
familiar ache ...
i. What is the most likely reason the poet capitalised Young Trees?
a. convey a clearer meaning.
b. highlight the adj.-noun combination.
c. enhance the contrast.
 d. draw a connection with the title.
ii. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two
statements given below.
(1) The poet knows her mother has aged.
(2) She is struck with the pain of separation.
a. (1) can be inferred from the extract but (2) cannot.
b. (2) can be inferred from the extract but (1) cannot.
c. Both (1) and (2) can be inferred from the extract.
d. (2) is the reason for (1) and can be inferred from the extract.
iii. Choose the option that completes the sentence given below.
Just as the brightness of the winter’s moon is veiled behind the haze and mist,
similarly, ________.
a. the pain of separation has shaded mother’s expression.
b. age has fogged mother’s youthful appearance.
c. growing up has developed a seasoned maturity in the poet.
d. memories warm the heart like the pale moon in winter.
iv. Choose the correct option out of the ones given below.
a. Simile- then merry children spilling
Metaphor- old familiar ache
b. Metaphor- pale as a late winter's moon
Imagery- Young Trees sprinting
c. Imagery- all I did was smile
Personification- the merry children spilling
d. Personification- Young Trees sprinting
Simile- Pale as a late winter's moon
a. Option (a)
b. Option (b)
c. Option (c)
d. Option (d)
v. What do young sprinting trees signify?
a. Active
b. Cheerful
c. Bright
 d. All of these
vi. Familiar ache refers the poet's ________ fear.

OR
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
“It is in the news that all these pitiful kin
Are to be bought out and mercifully gathered in
To live in villages, next to the theatre and the store,
Where they won’t have to think for themselves anymore,
While greedy good-doers, beneficent beasts of prey,
Swarm over their lives enforcing benefits
That are calculated to soothe them out of their wits,”
And by teaching them how to sleep they sleep all day,
Destroy their sleeping at night the ancient way.
i. Fill the blank with an appropriate word, with reference to the extract.
'... And by teaching them how to sleep' here 'they' are the ________
ii. Complete the following analogy correctly.
greedy good doers: alliteration :: beneficent beasts of prey :________
iii. The phrase in the extract greedy good-doers implies
a. the people who work for bettement of poor
b. politicians who are well aware of their duties
c. selfish people who also raise false hopes
d. Both (a) and (b)
i. option (a)
ii. option (b)
iii. option (c)
iv. option (d)
iv. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to (1) and (2)
given below.
(1) The city dwellers make promises for the betterment of the villagers.
(2) The city dwellers have ulterior motives.
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.
v. Fill in the blank with an appropriate word:
Identify the phrase which refers to the deprived villages ________.
vi. Choose the one which is not the part of the news:
a. Resettlement of poor
b. They will enjoy the facilities of theatre and store
c. They will be given extra land
d. They will enjoy all the comforts

8. Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow: [4]
I cried aloud, shaking my head all the while until I felt the cold blades of the
scissors against my neck, and heard them gnaw off one of my thick braids. Then I
lost my spirit. Since the day I was taken from my mother I had suffered extreme
indignities. People had stared at me. I had been tossed about in the air like a
wooden puppet. And now my long hair was shingled like a coward's! In my anguish
I moaned for my mother, but no one came to comfort me. Not a soul reasoned
quietly with me, as my own mother used to do; for now I was only one of many
little animals driven by a herder.
i. Then I lost my spirit. Choose the option that DOES NOT refer to spirit. (1)
1. resolve
2. energy
3. determination
4. indifference
5. enthusiasm
6. will power
a. 1, 2 and 5
b. 2, 4 and 6
c. 1, 3 and 6
d. 3, 4 and 6
ii. Choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given below. (1)
Statement 1 The author had been subjected to humiliation when she was
separated from her mother.
Statement 2 Nobody was able to ease her distress and empathise with her.
a. Statement 1 is true but Statement 2 is false.
 b. Statement 1 is false but Statement 2 is true.
c. Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 cannot be inferred from the passage.
d. Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred from the passage.
iii. What is the tone of the given extract?
iv. Complete the sentence appropriately, with reference to the extract. (1)
In her community, ________ hair was worn by mourners and cowards wore
________. (1)

OR
Read the extract 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. What burden had the men to carry?
a. Dr. Sadao himself
b. Dead body of Tom
c. The General
d. The things they have stolen from Sadao's house.
ii. What quality of Sadao has been depicted here?
iii. Why did Sadao awake again and again?
iv. Who are the men referred to?
a. General and his subordinate
b. Servants
c. Assassins
d. Messengers from General

9. Read the following text carefully and answer the questions that follow: [6]
I heard M. Hamel say to me, "I won't scold you, little Franz: you must feel bad
enough, see how it is ! Everyday we have said to ourselves. Bah! I've plenty of time
I'll learn it tomorrow. And now you see where we've come out. Ah, that's the great
trouble with Alsace; she puts off learning till tomorrow. Now those fellows out
there will have the right to say to you. 'How is it; you pretend to be Frenchmen, and
yet you can neither speak nor write your own language ?' But, you are not the
worst, poor little Franz. We've all a great deal to reproach ourselves with".
(The Last Lesson)
 i. 'And now you see where we've come out.' (1)
The tone of M. Hamel in the above line is that of:
A. kindness
B. happiness
C. regret
D. enthusiasm
ii. 'We've all a great deal to reproach ourselves with.' (1)
Select the option, which conveys the meaning of reproach as reflected in the
above line.
A. The player received a reprimand for breach of rules.
B. The students approached the management with a demand for new canteen.
C. The clerk received a letter of appreciation for his innovative ideas.
D. She could not find a way to broach the subject with her boss.
iii. State whether the following statement is true or false with reference to the
extract. (1)
M. Hamel endorses the belief that there is plenty of time to learn their language.
iv. Complete the sentence appropriately. (1)
'You must feel bad enough.' Through these words M. Hamel urges the people
________.
v. Identify the line from the text that reinforces the theme of patriotism in the story.
(1)
vi. She puts off learning till tomorrow. The phrase 'puts off' suggests ________. (1)

OR
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
“I sometimes find a rupee, even a ten rupee note”, Saheb says, his eyes lighting up
when you can find a silver coin in a heap of garbage, you don’t stop scrounging, for
there is hope of finding more. It seems that for children, garbage has a meaning
different from what it means to their parents. For the children it is wrapped in wonder,
for the elders it is a means of survival.
One winter morning I see Saheb standing by the fenced gate of the neighbourhood club,
watching two young men dressed in white, playing tennis. “I like the game”, he hums,
content to watch it standing behind the fence. “I go inside when no one is around” he
admits. “The gate keeper lets me use the swing.”
i. Saheb found a rupee
 a. on the street
b. in the garbage dump
c. in Firozabad
d. on the tennis court
ii. Which emotion of Saheb is revealed in the phrase his eyes lighting up?
a. anxiety
b. envy
c. happiness
d. greed
iii. For the elders garbage is ________ and for children it is ________.
iv. On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to I and II given
below:
I. Saheb watches the game from outside.
II. Saheb had lost the previous match.
a. I is true but II is not
b. II is true but I is not
c. Both I and II are true
d. Both I and II are untrue
v. Scrounging in the passage most nearly means.
a. digging
b. searching
c. flinging
d. burying
vi. There is hope for finding more. Explain with reference to the above extract.

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

(i) Why did Douglas fail to come to the surface of the pool as he hoped to? [2]

(ii) How can suspension of activities help in making life better? (Keeping Quiet) [2]

(iii) The tigers in the panel that she made [2]

Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid.
What is the tone of the poet reflected in the above lines?
(Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers)
 (iv) How is Jansie wiser than Sophie? [2]

(v) Who was the English visitor to the studio in the lesson Poets and Pancakes? [2]

(vi) What evidence from the text reveals that Rudyard Kipling did not walk the [2]
talk? (The Interview)

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

(i) What was the objective of the Students on Ice Programme? (Journey to the [2]
End of the Earth)

(ii) How was the hundredth tiger made available to the king? [2]

(iii) Tishani Doshi considered the program I Do you agree with her? Why/Why not? [2]
(Journey to the End of the Earth)

12. The tramp had a dream while asleep in deep slumber. [5]
In his dream, Robert Frost (poet of A Roadside Stand’) seconds his philosophy of
the world being a rattrap citing the miserable condition of the poor people of the
countryside.
But Pablo Neruda (poet of Keeping Quiet) disagrees with him and emphasizes the
significance of mindfulness, introspection, and retrospection which leads to unity
and brotherhood.
While Gandhi (Indigo) dissuades him from making wrong choices and explains to
him the value of self-reliance even during tough times.
Write a personal account in the form of a diary entry as the peddler and explain the
value that he derives from this dream.
You may begin this way:
In a strange dream, I encounter several individuals who enlighten me on…

OR
Keats presents the idea of beauty as eternal that has a timeless lifelong attraction.
According to him,
"...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."
In the same vein, Neruda manifests the beauty of quietness to obtaining inner clarity.
"Now I’ll count up to twelve
and you keep quiet and I will go."
 Pen down your thoughts in the form of a descriptive essay by exploring a common
connection that runs into the phrases like “pass into nothingness”, “quiet breathing” and
“you keep quiet and I will go”.

13. Imagine yourself as one of the children of the locality, who had been mocking Mr. [5]
Lamb and called him Lamey Lamb. Create a diary entry as a grown-up mentioning
the loneliness and disappointment of Mr. Lamb which you didn't notice at that time
but now you can understand the excruciating pain he had to go through then and
how he struggled to overcome these feelings.
You may begin like this:
Lamey Lamb, yes that's what we called that man who lived alone in a big house...

OR
In the story, 'The Enemy', Hana plays an important role in saving the life of the injured
person.
In an attempt to regard his wife's contribution to his life, Dr. Sadao expresses his
gratitude towards his wife in a diary entry.
As Sadao, Hana's husband, write this diary entry. Support your response with reference
to the story.
You may begin this way:
Most often I wonder whom I would have married if I had not met Hana. She has been
such a great support to me...
 Solution
SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER - 2
English Core (301)
Class XII (2024-25)

SECTION A – READING SKILLS

1. i. (C) Underdeveloped cities.
ii. Promoting Indian values and civilizations while also developing children’s critical
thinking and decision-making skills.
iii. The author's point of view that can be inferred from the above passage is that -
educational toys will make education more pragmatic.
iv. Educational toys enhance the personality of children by - promoting specific cognitive
abilities and skill sets.
v. (C) (c) and (e)
vi. Educational toys offer opportunities for hands-on learning in a variety of subject areas,
which transform the educational system. Students learn more effectively and efficiently
with these toys because they encourage hands-on learning.
vii. By building miniature labs and excavation sites, the projects listed in the passage
address infrastructure problems in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. As a result of these projects,
students have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the subjects they are
studying through practical experience.
viii. (A) ignite interest
ix. In fact, the narrator is right when he says that play is an essential part of education. By
igniting children’s interest, sharpening their focus, and enhancing particular cognitive
abilities, well-made toys promote their cognitive development.
x. Experiential gadgets and toys help students learn faster and retain lessons longer by
piquing their interest through contextual learning rather than rote memorization.
2. i. Not Given - There is no information on this
ii. Yes.
Rising temperatures continue to melt records. The past decade was the hottest on
record. Scientists tell us that ocean temperatures are now rising at the equivalent of five
Hiroshima bombs
iii. D. Pascal Peduzzi is the Director of UNEP’s Global Resource Information Database.
iv. wildfires in Australia
v. rising
vi. The first graph clearly highlights the alarming rising temperature trend that set the
scene for our Australian 2019/2020 bushfire season.
vii. C. fires were exceptional
viii. warmest
 SECTION B – CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS
ABC school
NOTICE
Date: 11th September 2024
Road Safety Program
Attention Students of Classes 8-12!!!
The Traffic Police of our district will conduct a one-day road safety program in our
school. All students of classes 8 to 12 are requested to assemble at the designated venue
on time. Your presence is highly encouraged. Please ensure that you behave properly
during the program.
Day/Date: Monday, 18th September 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Venue: School Auditorium
Shaili/Suneet
Sports In-charge
3. ABC School
OR
NATIONAL PUBLIC SCHOOL, RAMNAGAR
NOTICE
Change in School Timings
4th January 20XX
Students are hereby informed that with effect from 20th of January, school shall start at 9
AM instead of 8 AM, due to certain contractual issues with the private buses plying for
the school. Timings will remain as it is until these issues are completely resolved, . Any
inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.
Principal
4. 27, Urban Estate,
Sector 15,
Karnal.
29 March 2019.
Dear Vineet,
I cordially invite you to the house warming ceremony of our newly constructed house in
Urban Estate. With God's grace, the Hawan Ceremony is scheduled to be at 10 a.m.
followed by lunch at 1.00 p.m. Kindly join us with your family on this auspicious day. I'll
introduce you to my parents and close relatives. My family will be glad by your presence.
 With regards,
Kartik Verma
OR
AK/91 Bank Street
Simla - 20
15 February, 2024
The Principal
Rose Public School
Simla, HP
Subject: Inability to attend Exhibit Competition
Sir,
Thank you for extending the invitation for the prize distribution of Inter-School Science
Exhibition. I regret my inability to attend the event on 23rd Friday, 2024 at your school
auditorium at 10:00 a.m. because of some prior commitments. Please accept my sincere
apologies. I wish best of luck to the entire school team for the same.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Suri
5. 121, Bank street
Kanpur
10th December, 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
Kanpur
Subject: Simple weddings better than exuberant ones
Sir,
Through the medium of this letter, I would like to express my concern over the
meaningless display of wealth during weddings these days. In the present day, lavish
weddings have become a trend. Hotels, farmhouses and banquet halls are booked months
in advance. Even lower-middle-class families are entertaining more than a thousand guests
and consequently, they have to pay debts for months and sometimes for years too. No
stone is left unturned to fulfill the desire of pretentiousness of being affluent in front of
society. There is no denying of the fact that a wedding is indeed an important occasion but
this moment of joy should not become a burden for families. We need to invite only our
relatives and close friends for a wedding. An overcrowded gathering only leads to chaos
and unnecessary expenditure. It is always better to have a simple wedding ceremony and
an amount can be set aside to give to the couple to start their new life.
I hope my letter gets some space in your newspaper so that, through this trusted medium,
people understand that money should not unnecessarily be wasted on exuberant wedding
celebrations but should be used to invest in building the foundation of a happy married
life.
Yours sincerely
Ram
OR
A-7, Shanti Park
Delhi
16 December 2019
The Manager
NCR Group of Hotels
Delhi
Subject: Application for the Post of Receptionist
Sir,
In response to your advertisement in the Hindustan Times dated December 20, 2019, for
the post of a receptionist, I hereby offer my candidature for the same.
I possess the requisite qualifications and experience. I want to join your hotels to fully
utilize my potential.
You may call me for an interview on any date at your convenience. I shall be able to join
my duties at one month's notice if appointed. I am enclosing my detailed resume for your
perusal.
Thank You
Sudha/Sudhir
Enclosure: Detailed Resume
Resume / Bio Data
Name: Sudha / Sudhir
Father's Name: Mr. Subhas
Age: 25 Years
Address: A-7, Shanti Park, Delhi
Hobbies: Music, Net Surfing, Photography, Sports
Languages Known: Hindi, English
Nationality: Indian
Educational Qualifications:
Passed Secondary Exam. from CBSE with 8.5 CGPA
Passed Senior Secondary Exam. from CBSE with distinction
Passed Graduation from Delhi University with first division
 Professional Qualification:
Diploma in Computers from Aptech with first division
Experience:
Worked as a receptionist with the ABC group of companies for 2 years
Expected Salary: Negotiable
References:
i. Dr. Mohit Aggarwal
(Surgeon), GTB Hospital, Delhi
ii. Mr. Ashok Kumar
Principal
AB Public School, Delhi
6. Why Should We Educate Our Girls?
- Nishi/Nishant
In terms of growth and progress, India has come a long way, but it still has a long way to
go. Empowering young children through education is a pathway toward advancement and
improvement. When girls attend school, they are more inclined to exert effort, assist
others, and create improved prospects for themselves and their families Education
provides girls with financial independence that is crucial for poverty eradication and
gender equality. Besides, it converts the non-productive population into productive ones.
Educated girls can engage in decision-making, fostering a fairer society. Additionally,
educating females breaks poverty cycles and enhances family health. In conclusion,
educating girls is morally imperative and strategically beneficial for our nation's future.
Investing in their education enhances opportunities for all.
OR
Road Accident Claims Three Lives
by Aruna, Staff Reporter
New Delhi, 20th December, 20XX: Two persons lost their lives and three others,
including a child, are on the verge of losing their lives as a result of their grievous injuries.
It all happened when an over-speeding lorry hit a Maruti car in which they were travelling.
The accident took place on Mathura Road at about 10 PM.
The lorry driver was driving very rashly. His vehicle was at a very high speed. He soon
lost control over the vehicle while trying to overtake a bus. In an attempt to save a
collision with the bus, he hit a Maruti car. Out of the five people who were travelling in
the car, two died on the spot and three were seriously injured. They had been admitted to
Safdarjung hospital.
The accident caused a major traffic jam as the lorry blocked the road for almost an hour.
 The lorry driver has been arrested and a case of rash driving and causing death due to
negligence has been registered against him.
SECTION C - LITERATURE
7. i. enhance the contrast.
ii. d. (2) is the reason for (1) and can be inferred from the extract.
iii. age has fogged mother’s youthful appearance.age has fogged mother’s youthful
appearance.
iv. Option (d) All of these
v. The young sprinting trees signify the active, cheerful bright, and energetic youth.
vi. childhood,
OR
i. villagers
ii. oxymoron
iii. option (c)
iv. (2) is the reason for (1)
v. Pitiful kin,
vi. They will be given extra land
8. i. 1, 3 and 6
ii. Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 can be inferred from the passage.
iii. Dismal/gloomy/depressing/sombre
iv. Short; Shingled
OR
i. Dead body of Tom.
ii. serving humanity/helping nature/loyal professional
iii. He was waiting eagerly for someone's arrival.
iv. Assassins
9. i. (C) regret
ii. (A) The player received a reprimand for breach of rules.
iii. False
iv. to take stock of the fact that they let the chance of learning their language slip away, and
they might never get that opportunity again.
v. The line that reinforces the theme of patriotism in the story is the line where M. Hamel
wrote on the blackboard - "Vive La France!" It translates to 'Long Live France',
highlighting M. Hamel's patriotism towards his country.
vi. The phrase 'puts off' suggest procrastination.
OR
i. in the garbage dump
 ii. happiness
iii. survival
iv. I is true but II is not
v. searching
vi. While they scrounge they find something useful or some money, that forces them to
look for more.
10. Answer any five of the following questions in 40-50 words each:
(i) Douglas failed to come to the surface as he had hoped to because he ended up
swallowing a lot of water after being thrown into the pool. He was gripped by his fear
and could not move his limbs.
(ii) The poet believes that suspension of activities will allow a man to introspect which in
turn would help him in analyzing his own actions, in solving many of his problems and
in mending his destructive ways. He will also know the reasons behind his
dissatisfaction and mental agitation.
(iii)The poem depicts Aunt Jennifer's entrapment through the contrasting images of the
vibrant, free-spirited tigers and her own passive, subservient existence. The tigers
symbolize the power and independence that Aunt Jennifer lacks, while the weight of her
husband's wedding band represents the oppressive forces she endures.
(iv)We can see Jansie's sensibility and maturity in her attempts to remind her friend that
they were earmarked for the biscuit factory. She believed that costly dreams were
inappropriate for their real life conditions. In this way, she is wiser than Sophie.
(v) The English visitor to the Gemini Studios was Stephen Spender. He was the editor of
The Encounter, a British Periodical, and a famous English poet, essayist, and novelist of
the twentieth century.
(vi)The evidence is that Kipling's own son was not allowed to read his works despite
Kipling's public persona of advocating for children’s literature and education. This
contradiction between his public statements and private actions shows he did not
practice what he preached.

11. Answer any two of the following questions in 40-50 words each:
(i) The objective of the 'Students on Ice programme' was to take High School students to
the limits of the world and provide them not only with inspiring opportunities in
education but also enable them to understand and respect our planet. The idea was to
provide them with a life-changing experience at an age when they are ready to absorb,
learn and most importantly act.
(ii) In The Tiger King by Kalki, the Dewan had brought a tiger from the People's Park in
Madras and kept it hidden in his house. When the Maharaja threatened him with dire
 consequences, he understood that the only way to save himself was to 'plant' a tiger for
the kill. So, he and his aged wife dragged the tiger to the forest where the king was
hunting.
(iii)In “Journey to the End of the Earth,” Tishani Doshi reflects on her experience with the
“Students on Ice” program, which takes high school students to Antarctica to educate
them about climate change and the environment. She considers the program invaluable
because it provides young people with a firsthand understanding of the planet’s fragility
and the urgent need for environmental conservation.

12. In a strange dream, I encountered several individuals who enlightened me on their

philosophies. Robert Frost, the poet of ‘A Roadside Stand’, agreed with my philosophy of
the world being a rattrap. He cited the miserable condition of the poor people of the
countryside who are ignored by the city people and the government. He highlights the
innocence and ignorance of these poor people who expect from the rich and government
agencies for support in vain. He believed that the truths like sympathy and humanity that
he seeks, and presents are innate in the human heart and the common objects, which
people may and often do know, but forget.
On the other hand, Pablo Neruda, the poet of Keeping Quiet, disagreed with Frost and
emphasized the significance of mindfulness, introspection, and retrospection which leads
to unity and brotherhood. He believed that we should take a moment to pause and reflect
on our actions and thoughts to create a better world.
Lastly, Gandhi from Indigo dissuaded me from making wrong choices and explained to
me the value of self-reliance even during tough times. He believed that we should not rely
on others to solve our problems and should take responsibility for our own lives.
This dream has taught me that there are different perspectives on life, and it is essential to
consider them all before making any decisions. I have learned that it is important to reflect
on my actions and thoughts and take responsibility for my own life. I will try to
incorporate these lessons into my life and become a better person.
OR
Beauty, in its various forms, has long captivated the minds and hearts of poets and thinkers
throughout history. John Keats and Pablo Neruda, two renowned poets, explore the
concept of beauty in their works, drawing attention to the enduring nature of its allure and
the tranquility it brings.
In Keats' poem, he presents the idea that beauty will never "pass into nothingness." It will
always remain, providing a serene refuge for us. This notion of eternal beauty resonates
with the idea of a "bower quiet," a peaceful sanctuary where one can find solace and rest.
Keats further describes this state as a sleep full of sweet dreams, health, and quiet
 breathing. It evokes a sense of tranquility and inner peace that beauty can bring.
Similarly, Neruda's poem emphasizes the beauty of quietness. He invites the reader to
keep quiet while he counts up to twelve, suggesting that in moments of silence, one can
attain inner clarity and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. The act of
keeping quiet allows for introspection and reflection, enabling one to find peace and
stillness amidst the chaos of life.
The common connection that runs through these phrases is the idea of finding serenity and
tranquility through beauty and quietness. Both Keats and Neruda highlight the importance
of embracing moments of stillness and appreciating the enduring allure of beauty. They
remind us of the value of finding solace in the simple pleasures of life and the significance
of inner peace.
In a world filled with noise and distractions, it is essential to pause, reflect, and appreciate
the beauty that surrounds us. Whether it is the timeless beauty that Keats describes or the
quietness that Neruda advocates, these moments of respite allow us to rejuvenate our souls
and find balance in our lives.
In conclusion, the writings of Keats and Neruda offer profound insights into the enduring
nature of beauty and the tranquility it brings. They remind us to cherish moments of
stillness, appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, and seek inner clarity. By embracing
these concepts, we can find solace, peace, and a deeper connection with ourselves and the
world around us.
13. 'Lamey Lamb', yes that's what we called that man who lived alone in a big house. Then
one day a boy called Derry entered his garden and we saw them getting well along with
each other and having long chats in the garden. We had found the common connection
between the two, which was their uniqueness, Derry had a burnt face and Mr. Lamb had a
tin leg. As a child, it was due to our prejudice against those who could not be categorized
as "normal" because of their physical deformity that we behaved that way. Now, I
apprehend how lonely the old man would have been. The whole day he sat in the sun and
read books which proved that books were his only true friends. Once he told Derry that he
was interested in anybody or anything that God has created. It may be a person, flower,
fruit, grass, weeds, or rubbish. I mean who on earth has such a big heart to be interested in
everything? This man did not use curtains in his house because he wanted to enjoy both
light and darkness. When I contemplate now, I realise that all these were the signs of his
loneliness and also his ways of overcoming it.
OR
Most often I wonder whom I would have married if I had not met Hana. She has been such
a great support to me through my thick and thins that words of thanks would not just be
sufficient. The incident where she went against herself to stand by me was my decision to
help the American prisoner of war. I could very well notice how she had to struggle to
reconcile her loyalty to her country with her moral duty. Not only she went against her
loyalty but also assisted me in the medical operations and the anesthetics while I was
operating on Tom (the American prisoner) because Yumi, the nurse had refused to do so.
She even managed all the chores herself when the servants left our home in protest.
Despite being married for so many years, she is still the same loving wife. She has been
my emotional anchor and has helped me navigate any moral dilemma that I have faced
until now.