Standard: 12h (CBSE) Sample Paper 2 Time:3:00

Max Hrs,
Subject:English Core
Marks: 80

General Instructions:
reading.
1. 15-minute prior reading time allotted for Q-paper
2. The Question Paper contains THREE sections-READING, WRITING and LITERATURE.
for each part. the
Attempt questions based on specific instructions Write
correct
3.
attempted. question
number in your answer sheetto indicate the option/s being

SectionA: READING SKILLS (22 Marks)

Marks
1. Read thepassage given below. 12
With increasing awareness, young boys aged 15-18 are now coming forward
and
marriages. In the past year, the
connecting with authorities to stop their Rajasthan State

Child Rights (RSCPCR) has received at least 50

Commissionfor Protection of calls
from
where boys have requested officials to come and stop their
different districts
marriages.
1
The primary reason for boys to make these calls is the tear that getting married might
affect their preparations for the armed forces or education,said officials. The officials

further said many a times, young boys do not want the additional responsibility of

marriage as they do not understand how to handle it.

"Wehave been conducting rigorous outreach programmes since the past two years. We
are now noticing that children, especially boys, have started calling us up directly

requestingtostop their marriages.The calls come on 1098 helpline or directly on my

number and attimes they do not even feel comfortabletalking to the local authorities but
2 only to me or other senior officials. They feel that locals might not understand the exttent
of their problem and might try tosolve the issue with a compromise. We have stoppedat
least 50 marriages in the past one year, where we got calls from boys," said RSCPCR
chairperson Sangeeta Beniwal.

Elaborating more on the reasons, a senior official fromn the commission said, "Boys in

Rajasthan start preparing for armed forces from the age of 13-14, and the marriages

usually take place between the age of 15-18. In such a situation, boys get scared that their
3 preparations will get hampered. Further, if someone wants to go outside for higher

education,boys fear that they might not be allowed to go beyond the nearest big city or

town because of the responsibilities back home."

Child rights experts said from 2006 (when the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act came into
effect) till 2018,most of the work by the commission and social activists was being done

4 on stopping child marriages and ensuring to declare such marriages as null and void. But
now, the focus has shifted to making sure that children know their rights and can
approach authorities with their issues through the varioushelpline numbers.

Duríng festive occasions like Akshaya Tritiya or other auspiciousdays, children call up
5 the helplines on their own seekinghelp to stop their marriage.InRajasthan, a major reason
for boys getting married early is the Aata Sata tradition. Aata Sata pratha is a tradition
 where if the elder brother of a family is getting married,then the groom's family tells the
bride's family that they will go ahead with the marriage only if the bride's familyarranges

agirl for the younger brother too. This happens due toskewed sex ratioin the state and
in such situation young boys are not able to voice their inhibitions and are forced into

marriage because otherwise the elder brother's marriage also gets impacted. Parents feel
that if both marriages carn be done together, it will
be cost effective.

Answer the following questions based on the passage above.

i Complete the given sentence in ONE word: 1

The primary reason young boys aged 15-18are reaching out to authorities to stop their
marriages is
ii What is the antonym of "hampered" as used in the third paragraph?
1

A) hindered B) facilitated
impeded D) obstructed
C)
1
iii According to chìld rights experts, what was the focus of their work from 2006 to
2018?

iv
)
A) Promoting child marriages
B) Invalidating child marriages
Educating childrenabout
D) None of the above
their rights

Explain in 40 words the primary reason why young boys aged 15-18 are calling
2
authorities to stop their marriages,as mentioned in the first paragraph.
2
Why do young boys in Rajasthan feel uncomfortable talking to local authorities
about their marriage concerns instead of seniorofficials? State your reasons in
40 words.
2
vi According to the second paragraph, what are the key concerns of young boys
in Rajasthan regarding their marriages, especially in relation totheir education
and future plans?Describe in 40 words.
1
vii Complete the sentence from the third paragraph:
"Parents feel that if both marriages can be done together, it will be effective."
the
true about the "Aata Sata" tradition as mentioned in
viii Which of these is

passage?
A) It encourages marry young.
girls to

B) It is a traditional dance.
involves simultaneous marriages of elder and younger
brothers.
C) It

occasions.
D) It is more prevalent during non-festive

ix State TRUE orFALSE:

child marriages to
Child rights experts' focus has shifted from nullifying

educating childrenabout their rights.

[10]
2. Read the following text.
Statistics released by the US Census Board show that legal and illegal
recently
population of 33-odd crore, as of July 2022.
immigrants togetherformed 13.9 % of the US
of
1 In other words, it can be said that one out
This ratio was 13.6% the previous year.
US residents is foreign-born,a term used in the report.
seven
 6%
each of thetotalimmigration
Indianand Chineseimmigrants comprised countin 2022.
The number of Indians as per the 2022 census was 28.4 lakh, as against
27.09 lakh
the
4.8%. Chinese immigrants showed an increase
increase of of
previous

totalling
year-an

28.3 lakh - an increaseof nearly 3%. Though

Mexicans continued to tor
79,000,,
at 106.8lakh(or23% of the immigrant population),there was a slight drop of less than 19
2 Compared to the number
immigrants from these of
from the previous year's statistic.
top
three countries, numbers of those from Atghanistan and Venezuela are less significant

4.07 lakh and 6.7 lakh respectively.

However,owing to the influx of asylum seekers and
refugees from these two countries, the percentage increase in 2022 over 2021
data i

significant at 229% and 22% respectively.

by some sectionsover the rise in number of immiorant
Commenting on the alarm raised

David J Bier, associate director immigration studies at Cato Institute, a Washington

of

based think-tank, points out in his post that "the immigrant share of the US population
July 2021 to July 2022." He goes
3 rose just 0.3 percerntage points from 13.6%% to 13.9% trom
the population over the last decado
on to explain that the increasein immigrant share of
(2012-2022) was the lowest ever. Immigrarnts were 13.1% of the US population in 2012
which has now increased by just 0.7 percentage points.
Bier adds that the growth in the immigrant share is down
by 76% since the 1990s. On the
flip side, the Center for Immigration Studies, a think-tankthat takes a hardened stance on
of 4.61 crore is the largest
immigration numbers, points out that the figureof foreign-born
that the ACS has ever shown. Ten years ago, in 2012, the foreign-
born number was 4.08
4
crore. Given the ageing slower population growth and worker shortage,
dermographic,

Bier sayS,"America needs people in both the short and long term, and it needs workers of

all Immigrants can help,and they should be allowed to do so legally."

skill types.

Answer the following questions,based on the passage above.

Complete the given sentencein ONE word.
1

The percentage increase in immigrantsfrom Afghanistanin 2022 over 2021

is

and 1
Acording the passage,What percentage of the
to US population did legal

illegal immigrants together form in July 2022?

a) 13.6% b)13.9%
c) 23% d) 6%
iii Doyou agree with David J Bier's assertion that the increasein the immigrant 2
share of the US population is not a cause foralarm? Why or why not?
ív 1
Which country had the largest number of immigrants in 2022?
a) India b) China
c) Mexico d) Afghanistan
Which of these is true about the immigrant share of the US population over the 1

last decade (2012-2022)according to the passage?

a) It increasedby 6%
b) It decreased by 0.7%
c) It remained the same
d) It doubled
 vi 2
In your opinion, should the US encourage immigration in light of demographic
changes and worker shortages? State a reason for your stance in about 40 words.

vii In thecontext of immigration statistics, if the US population is compared to a

1

pie, what could the immigrants be compared to, and why? Answer in one
sentence.

viü State TRUE or FALSE. 1

The immigrant share of the US population in 2022 increased by 0.3 percentage

pointscompared to 2021.

SECTION B: CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18MARKS)

Note: All details presented inthe questions are imaginary and created for assessment purp0ses
3. Attempt ANY ONE of two in about 50 words. 14]

A In collaboration with the Municipal Health Department your school is

organizing aHealth Camp with an emphasis on fit living and healthy eating for

the benefit of students between the ages of 12 years to 17 years. Draft a notice
in 50 words informing students of the event. Also state the day, date, time and
venue. You are Amit/Amita - Secretary,Student council.
OR
B Members of the Resident Welfare AsSociation have decided to visit the senior

residentsof the society as a gesture of affectionand sensitivity. Draft a notice in

50 words inviting residents to volunteer for these visits. Mention relevant
You are Ritika/Rahul, Secretary,R.W.A.
details.

4. Attempt ANY ONE of two in about 50 words. [4]

A You are Sarla Dutta, proprietor of Child's Planet, a showroom of children's

educational toys.Draft a formal printed invitationin50 words to be sentto your
patrons, friends and relatives inviting them to the opening of the new
showroom. Give detailssuch asday, date, time and venue.
OR
B You have received an invitation to attend the prize giving ceremony for the
Inter-School Sciernce Exhibit Competition. Write a formal letter in 50 words to
the Principal of Rose Public School, Shimla informing him/her about your
inability to attend the ceremony. You are Dr.
Suri.Mention day, date, time and
venue.
120-150words. [5]
5. Attempt ANY ONEof two in about
A Bal Vidya Public School, Bhilai, urgenty requires a post-graduate
teacher to
in The
teach political science for which they have placed an advertisement
Express. You are Sanjay/Sanjana Sharma from 21, Vasant Marg,
Bhilai.
Bhilai

Draft a letter including a CV, applying for the advertised post. (120- 150words)
OR
 university is not providing
B You are a student of Mahaan University,Indore. The
are
the students because of which students
proper curriculum and guidance to
a student magazine, Yuva Chetna
unable to learn. Write a letter to the editorof
to highlight this issue.
-
Clues -lack of clarity -differencesb/w sudents & faculty-stressedstudents
Concerrn to be addressed.

6. Attempt ANY ONEof two in about 120-150 words. (5]

of Bharatischool, Lucknow. You

A You are Praveen/Prerna, Secretary, Eco-club
school
of environment pollution for the
write an article on the hazards
words)
cues given below. (120-150
magazine.You may use the
bodies, improper disposal of e
Causes- dumping of industrial waste in water
construction work.
waste and medical waste, indiscriminate
in spreading awareness / initiative
by
-
Solutions stricter laws /role of media
NGO
OR
B on a one-day inter-schoolcricket match
Write a Report for the school magazine
Calicut. You are Sujatha/Anil,Student
held in SurajPublic School,Chalapuram,
use the inputs given below:
reporter. (120-150 words). You may
outstanding individual scores.
day,date, time, venue, scores of each team,
prizes and awards.
READING
SECTION C: LITERATURE TEXTBOOKAND SUPPLEMENTARY
TEXT (40 MARKS)
and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two [1x6=6]
7 Read the given extracts

given.
A For once onthe faceof the Earth

let's not speak in any language,

let's stop forone second,
and not move our arms somuch.
It would be an exotic
moment
withoutrush, without engines,
we would all be together
(Keeping Quiet)
in a sudden strangeness.
1
move our arms so much"?
What does the speaker imply by the phrase "not
stillness to experience a
A. The speaker suggests maintaining physical
unique moment of quietude.
body language to
B. The speaker encourages using gestures and
communicate without words.
stillness, promoting active
C. The speaker advises against complete physical
engagement.
of arms to break the silence
D. The speaker advocates forrapid movement
and create energy. 1

ii Complete the given sentence appropriately.

complete silence and perfect stillness
Based on the extract, the poet advocates
in order to
iii It would be an exotic monent without rush, without engines,
1

In the above line from the poem 'Keeping Quiet,why is the moment of
silence called exotic?

A. because it is unfamiliar to most of us

B. because it containsperfect peace and harmony
C. because it is a step towards understanding ourselves

D. because we wouldfinally start realising the solutions to our problems

1
iv Describe the pun in the word 'arms'.
1
For once on the face of the Earth let's not speak in any language,

Why does the poet saytheaboveline in the poem Keeping Quiet?

1
vi Why do youthink the poet has used conversational style and personal pronouns
such as'you','our and 'us'? Give a reason.
OR
B. Therefore, onevery morrow, are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth,

Spite ofdespondence, of the inhuman dearth

Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,

Of all the unhealthyand o'er-darkened ways
Made forour searching: yes, in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
From our dark spirits. Such the sun, the noon, (A Thing of Beauty)
1
i What are the flowery bands that bind us to the earth? Answer in one

sentence.
1

i In the abovelines, thespeaker is suggestingthat we.

A. fight evils which plague the earth with our own strength
B. reconnect with the earth by stepping into its uncharted territory
C. create a string of flowers
from the earth and bind it to our bodies
to its joyous
D. bask in the natural beauty of the earth and be
tethered

strength 1
ii Complete the given sentence appropriately.
refer to
The 'unhealthy and oer-darkened ways'
iv What does 'in spite of all' refer to? 1
the extract?
Which line evokes the optimistic tone of
A. A floweryband to bind us tothe earth

B. Spite ofdespondence, ofthe inhuman dearth

and o'er-darkened ways

C. Ofall the unhealthy
away the pall
D. Some shapeofbeauty moves from the
the same literary device as the below line
vi Select the option that uses
extract.

ofthe inhuman dearth

Spite of despondence,

Of noble natures, ofthe gloomy days,

A. Sing to me, Autumn,with the rustle of your leaves.

the forests of the night.

B
Tyger Tyger, burning bright, in
of night, Like a rich jewel.
C. Her beauty hangs upon the cheek
D. All the world's a stage, and all the
men and women merely players.
 8. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for
ANY ONE ofthe
given. two
(x4=41
A Butthis by formula was not the hardest trial in
eating
that first day.
my friend Judewin gave me a terrible Latein the
warning.Judewin knew a
and she had overheard the paleface few words of morrning,
woman talk about cutting our long, English;
mothers had taught us that only heavy
unskilled warriors who were captured hair. Our
shingled by the enemy. had
Among our people, short hair was their
worn by mourners hair
shingled hair by cowards! We discussed our fate some
moments, and when
"Wehave to submit, because they are strong,"I Judewin
rebelled. said,

(Memories of Childhood:The
Which of these can be inferred from the extract? Cutting of My Long Hain
A. The speaker did not understand or 1
speak English.
B. The speaker did not think
highlyof her own culture.
C. The speaker did not have any living
family members.
D. The speaker did not know what a knife or fork were
used for.
ii
How was the speaker feeling when Judewin gave her the warning about cutting
their hair?Why did she feel this way?
iii Complete the given sentenceappropriately.
1

The speaker rebels againstthe idea of submittingbecause

iv Based on the extract, why does thespeaker
compare her experience of eating to
that of a trial?

OR
B
In the convictionof her own superiority shebent
impulsivelyand untied the knotted rugs
that kept the white man covered.When shehad
his breast bare she dipped the small clean
towel that Yumi had brought into the steaming hot water
and washed his face carefully.
The man's skin, though rough with exposure,was of a fine texture and must have been
very blond when he was a child.
While shewas thinking these thoughts, though not really liking the man better now that

he was no longer a child, she kept on washing him until his upper body was quite clean.
But she dared not turn him over. Where was Sadao? Now her anger was ebbing, and she
was anxious again and she rose, wiping her hands on the wrong towel. Then lest the man
be chilled, she put the quiltover him. (TheEnemy)
i
Complete the given sentence appropriately. 1
The woman'sdecision to wash the white man's face and upper body reflects her

How does the woman's attitude toward the white man change over the course
of the extract? Whatemotions does she experience?
iüi Which of these can be inferred from the extract?
A.The white man is unconscious.
B. The woman is resentful of the white man's presence.
C.The woman admires the white man's physical appearance.

D.The woman is a skilled nurse.

Over 1
iv Based on the extract, how does the woman's gestureof putting the quilt

the white man demonstrate her character or her attitude toward him?
9. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two [1x6=6]

given.
A Then, from onething to another, M. Hamel wenton to talk of the French language,sayng

that was the most beautiful language in the world

it –
the clearest, the most logical; that
we must guard it among us and never forget it, because when a people are enslaved, as
long as they hold fast to their language it is as if they had the key to their prison. Then he
opened a grammar and read us our lesson. Iwas amazed to see howwell Iunderstood it.
All he said seened so easy, so easy! I think, too, that I had never listened so carefully, and

that he had never explained everything with so much patience. It seemed almostas if the
poor man wanted to giveus all heknew before going away, and to put it all into our heads
at one stroke. (TheLast Lesson)
1
Based orn the extract, which of these can we infer about M. Hamel?
A. He believed that the French language was unimportant.
B.He was a lenient and patient teacher.
C. He wanted to ensure that the students understood the French language.
D. He erncouraged thestudentsto forget their native language.
1
i What does M. Hamel mean when he says that holding fast to their language 1s
like having the key to their prison?
1
iii Complete the given sentence appropriately.

Based on the extract, Franz was able to conmprehendthe grammar lesson easily
because

iv Which of the following can be credited to M. Hamel'sassertion of the French

language?
subject expertise
B
linguistic chauvinism
A.
C. D. chauvinistic nostalgia
patriotic intensification
how well they understood the 1
Why might the studentshave been amazed at

lesson in this extract? State a reason.

1
vi Justify any one trait of M. Hamel that the extract reveals.
OR
hundred strong, visited
B When Frank Buchman's Moral Re-Armament army, some two
found a warmer host in India than the
Madras sometime in 1952, they could not have
an international circus. They weren't very
Gemini Studios. Someone called the group but
with animalswas only at the dinner table,
good on the trapeze and their acquaintance
amost professional manner.Their 'JothamValley' and "The
they presented two plays in of the
Forgotten Factor ran several
shows in Madras and along with the other citizens
six hundred saw the plays over and
over again. The message of
city, the Gemini familyof
were first
simple homilies, but the sets and costumes
the plays were usually plain and some years
community were terribly impressed and for
rate. Madras and the Tamildrama
of Jotham Valley'
sunrise and sunsetin the manner
almost all Tamil plays had sceneof a

It was some
and a tune played on the flute.
with a bare stage, a white background curtain
years later thatI learnt that the
MRA was a kind of counter - movement to international
played into their hands.
Communism and the big bosses of Madras like Mr. Vasan simply
(Poets andPancakes)
and explain it in one 1
i Identifyany one exampleof situational irony in the extract
sentence in your own words.
of Frank Buchman's 1

Based on the extract, what can we infer

about the reception

Moral Re-Armament armny in Madras?

open arms by the Gemini studios.
A. They were welcomed with
from the local community.
B. They faced skepticism and resistance
 C. They had a strongbackground in circus performance.
D.They were primarily known for their expertise with animals.
iii
In Moral Re-Armament army's visit, what does the statemernt
the context of the

"they presented two plays in a most professional manner" suggest about their
performance skills?

iv
Which of these sentencesuses first-rate'in a similar way as the extract does? 1

A.The train service was first-rate, offering excellent amenities to passengers.

B. He was first-rate at making excusesfor his tardiness.

The food at the restaurant was first-rate,but the service was terrible.
C.

D. The team's performance in the game was first-rate, with each player
contributing to the victory.
V What effect did the Moral Re-Armament army's plays have on theTamil drama 1

community, according to the extract?

Complete the given sentenceappropriately. 1
The Moral Re-Arnmament army'splays were known for their simple homilies, but
their sets and costumes were

10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following sixquestions in about 40-50 words [2×5-10]

It had happened when I was ten or eleven years old. 2

Well-known author Ursula K.Le Guin once said, "First sentencesaredoors to
worlds." Describehow the first sentence of 'Deep Water' given above sets the
tone of the text.

ii
Rich with a sprinkling offair musk-rose blooms: 2
And such too is the grandeurof the dooms
Why is the'grandeur of the dooms' being compared to 'musk-rose blooms'in 'A
Thing of Beauty?

Whydoes Anees Jung spend a significant portion of 'LostSpring'talking about 2

shoes? Explain any onereason with relevant examplesfrom the
story.
iv In smaller localities, the Indians were afraid show sympathy for advocates
to of home 2
rule.

Based on the statement abovefrom Indigo',what inferencecan be

drawn about
the political climate in India at that time?

Do you think Sophie had actually met Danny Casey at the Royce's? Give 2
reasonsin support of your ansSwer.
(Going Places)
vi In 40-50 words, explain what the poet of 'Keeping
Quiet means in the lines
below. What does he want us to learn from this?
Perhaps the Earth can teach us
as when everything seems dead
and later proves to be alive.

11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions in about40-50 words [2×2-4]

i Do you think the author of the story "The Tiger King" has faith in 2
astrology?
Give reasons in support of your answer.
ii In what respect, Tishani Doshi's encounter with Antarctica is a chilling 2
prospect? (Journey to the End of the Earth)
 2
iii Why did the Gerneral not order immediate arrest of Dr Sadao who had sheltered
a white man?
(TheEnemy)

[5]
12. Answer ANY ONE of the following twoquestions in about 120-150 words.

A. The story "TheRattrap' shows the loneliness of manucharacters and the human need to bond with
others in society.

In 120-150 words, explain any threeinstances to prove the above statement.

OR
B. Suppose you are Mukund Padmanabhan from The Hindu newspaper. Imagine that you
have to interview the rattrap peddler of "The Rattrap" who led a miserable life and was
never welcome arnywhere.
Ask him questions thatwould highlight his miseries, sufferings, his thought process of the
world being a rattrap; how he actually happened to fall in it himself and the manner
in

which he redeemed himself by raising himself to the rank of a Captain seeking inspiration
from the kind and compassionate Ms Edla Willmansson. Write his responses to each of
the questions based on the chapter's text.

You may begin this way:

Mukund:

Rattrap Peddler:
13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 120-150 words. 5]
A. Apparent illogicality sometimes turns out to be a futuristic projectiorn. Discuss.
(TheThird Level)
OR
B. In which section does Mr Lamb display signs of loneliness and
of the play
disappointment? What are the ways in which Mr Lamb tries to overcome these feelings?
(Onthe face of it)
 SAMPLE PAPER 2 (ANSWER KEY)

Section A: READING SKILLS (22 Marks) Marks

1, Read the passage given below. 12
to
Ihe primary reason young boys aged 15-18 arereaching out
i to authorities 1

stop their marriages is EDUCATION.

ii 1
B) facilitated
iii B) Invalidating child marriages
to stop their marriages 2
Young boys aged 15-18 are reaching out to authorities

might affect their preparations

primarilybecause they fear that getting married
stems from the fact that in Rajasthan.,
for the armed forces or education. This fear
from the age of 13-14.
boys start preparing for the armed forces
talking to local authorities 2
Young boys in Rajasthan might feel uncomfortable
the extent of their problem
because they believe that locals might not understand
seek more
and might try to solve the issue with a compromise. They
understanding and support from senior officials.
marriages relate to their 2
The key concerns of young boys regarding
vi their

education and future plans. They fear that early marriages may disrupt their
and limit their opportunities for higher
preparations for the armned forces
education.
vii both marriages can be done together, it wil be COsT 1
"Parents feel that if

effective."

involvessimultaneousmarriages of elder and younger

1

vii brothers.
C) It

1
ix TRUE
[10]
2. Read the following text.
over 2021 is
The percentageincrease in immigrants from Afghanistan in 2022
1

229%.
1
ii b) 13.9%
iii Answers may vary. Example: Yes, I agree with David J Bier because a 0.3% 2

increase in the immigrant share is relatively small, and immigrants can

contribute to addressing workforce shortages.
iv c)Mexico
1
b) It decreased by 0.7%
Yes, the US should encourage immigration because it can mitigate the impact
2
of an aging population andlabour shortages, ensuring economic growth.
1
vii Immigrants can be compared to additional slices of the pie, as they contribute
to the diversity and growth of the population, just as extra slices add variety to

a pie.
vii TRUE 1

SECTION B: CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18MARKS)

3. Attempt ANY ONEof two in about 50 words. [41

A ABC PUBLIC SCHOOL,JAIPUR

22Jan 2024 NOTICE

Health Camp
 The school, in with the Municipal Health Department, is
collaboration
organizinga Health
Camp with an emphasison ht living and healthy eating for the benefit of studentsbetween
a ages of 12 years to 17
years.Students in the age group of 12-17 years are
requested to
attend the health camp and benefit from it. The camp shall be
organised on 28 Jan 2024
from 9AM to 2 PM in the School Auditorium.
For further details/queriesplease contactthe undersigned.

signature
[Amit/Amita]
(Secretary, Student Council)
OR
B RESIDENT WELFARE ASSOCIATION, MOHAN NAGAR

22Jan 2024 NOTICE

Volunteer for Senior Residents'Visits

This is to inform all the residents of Mohan Nagar Housing Societythat the members of

RWA have decided to visit the senior residents of the society asa gesture of affection and
sensitivity. R.W.A. invites residents to volunteer for visits to our seniormembers. A small
gesture can make a big difference. Join us in fostering a sense of community.
Interested residents, please contact the undersigned.

signature
[Ritika/Rahul]

(Secretary, R.W.A)
4. Attempt ANY ONE of two in about50 words. [4]
A MS.SARLA DUTITA & DAUGHTERS
Announces the opening of
CHILD'S PLANET
a showroom ofchildren's educationaltoys
in Deeparnjali Enclave,Mansarovar, Jaipur
INAUGURATION
On
SUNDAY,
THE 15TH OF NOVEMBER, 20XX
At 11AM
All arecordially invited

Visit for all kinds of Children'stoys & Gift Items

AVAIL INAUGURAL DISCOUNT OF 10% ON ALL GOODS

RSVP
Ms. Sarla Dutta
Phone: 0141-2XXXXXX
OR
B 26/79, Akshay Villa
Vasant Nagar, Delhi
 12 Jan 2024

The Principal
Rose PublicSchool
Shimla

Sub: Inability to attend the prize giving ceremony

Dear Sir

Thank you very much forinviting me to attend the prize giving ceremony for the
Inter-
School Science Exhibit Competition on 20 Jan 24 at 11 AMin the school premises. I
feel

honoured and obliged. However, I shall not be able to attendthe ceremony due to
some
previous commitments on that day. I wish you and the students all the very best.

Thanking you once again for your kind invitation

Yours truly,

Dr Akshay Suri
5. Atempt ANY ONE of two in about 120-150 words. (5]
A 21,Vasant Marg
Bhilai

01 March, 20XX

The Principal

Bal Vidya PublicSchool

Bhilai

Subject- Applicationfor the post of a post-graduateteacher

Sir/Madam
In response to your advertisementin The Bhilai Express,dated February 25,20XX for the
post of a political science teacher in your renowned school, I wish to offer my candidature.
I am enclosing a copy of my bio-data for your perusal and kind consideration. I am
available for the interview on any day of your convenience.If given a chance to serve you,
I assureyou that Ishall work with utmost sincerity and dedicationup to your satisfaction.
Thank you

Yours faithfully

Sanjay/SanjanaSharma

Encl.: Bio-data
BIO- DATA
NAME - Sanjay/SanjanaSharma
FATHER's NAME - Mithun Sharmna
DATE OF BIRTH - 25 July, 1984
 - 21, Vasant
ADDRESS Marg,Bhilai
PHONE -98100XXXXX
E-MAIL -
[email protected]
MARITAL STATUS -single

AGE 28 years
NATIONALITY
- Indian
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS.
i. B.A. in Political Science
ii. M.A. Political
Science
iii. B. Ed

HOBBIES -Trekking and

reading
STRENGTHS -Good
communication skills,
computer literate,
Languages prohcient in - English, Hindi and German

)
NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF REFERENCES
Mr. Vijay Mathur,
Principal,D.A.V.
i)Mr. Satish Ohri,Head of
School,Gurudwara Rd. Delhi
Commerce Department,PunjabUniversity, Chandigarh
OR
B Phase-1

Silicon City
Indore

12th June 2022

The Editor

Yuva Chetna
Indore

Subject: To highlight the problems faced by students at Mahaan University, Indore

Sir/Madam
I live in Indore and am a student at Mahaan University. I would like to bring to light a
few problems faced by the studentsat the University.
There is a lack of clarity regarding our curriculumbecause of which there have been
frequent differences between the studentsand the faculty in recent months. Studentsare
not notified about critical dates, which puts them under more stress. The teachers are not
discussing all the topics and so studentsare facing difficultieswhile attempting the
examS.
Itwould be good if you address this concern in one of your columns in order to improve
departmentalefficiency. It would also benefit future students who wish to attend
Mahaan University.
Ihope you will engrave the preceding.

Thank you
Yours Sincerely
ABC

[5]
6.
Attempt ANY ONE of two in about 120-150words.
 A Hazards of Environmental Pollution
By: Praveen (Secretary, Eco-Club, BharatiSchool)

Intoday's world, pollution is a serious threat. While great advances have b

been
such as medicine,
industries transportation, andlifestyle, the environmental madein
has resulted is unbearable. Pollution can be caused bya variety of lpollution that
factors,
indiscriminate discharge toxic chemicalsinto bodies water, smoke indcuding the
of of
from
factories, and vehicles, which causes respiratory diseases, the disposal of chimneys,
e-waste
medical waste, which pollutes soil and water, and noise pollution from and
machinery and
construction, which causes deafnessin millions of people.
It is critical to create public awareness and educatethe public about the need
of
the environment clean, and the media may play an important role inthis keeping
regard.
Strict
should be adopted to deter violators, and non-governmental organisations
rules
should take the lead in educating the public about the importance of (NGOS)
keeping their
surroundings clean. To promote these projects, public lectures,
workshops, and
exhibitions should be held on a regular basis.
OR
B Thrilling Cricket Showdown at Suraj Public School
By Sujatha / Anil (Student Reporter)

March 15, 2023

Time: 9:00 AM
to 6:00 PM

Venue: SurajPublicSchool,Chalapuram, Calicut

The cricket field at Suraj Public School witnessed an exhilarating one-day inter-schosl

cricket match on March 2023.The event brought togetherschoolsfrom

15, across Calicut

creating an electrifying atmosphere of sportsmanship.

Teams showcased a series of intense matches, with Suraj Public Schonl
their skills in
emerging victorious with a commendable score of 180 runs. The outstanding individual
performance of Anil, who scoreda remarkable 75 runs, was a highlight of the day. The
opposing team,City High School,displayed resilience but fell short with a score of 150
runs.

The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, honoring the best performers.

Anil, for his exceptional innings, received the 'Best Batsman' award, while City High
School'sbowler, Rahul, was recognized as the 'Best Bowler.'The day servedas a testament
to the spirit of competitionand camaraderie,leaving everyone eagerlyanticipating future

sporting events.
SECTION C: LITERATURETEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY READING
TEXT (40 MARKS)
7
Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two [1x6-6]
given.
A For once on the face of the Earth
(Keeying Quiet)
The speaker suggests maintaining physical stillness to experience a unique moment of
quietude.
i
Based on the extract, the poet advocates complete silence and perfect stillness in order to

experienceunity and peace of entire mankind.

ii because it is unfamiliarto most of us
 the physical body part of the human being: it can also mean
the
Arms' can mean
iv used in the war. Here the the use of
ammunition poet uses pun by suggesting to stop

physical
|
body part but also hints not to use warfare gadgets.
He wants us to dissociate ouridentity with our nativetongue. OR
language breeds linguistic chauvinism which furtherbreeds the desire to dominate. If for

Some time, no one spoke, all these negativesentiments would fade awayin the depths of

silence.
he tries to reach out to the readers.
Because

OR
Therefore, on every morroW, are we wreathing (AThing Beauty)
B of

i
The 'lowery bands', an expression of our admiration for Nature, are the beautifulthings
that keep our bond with Nature constant and unbroken.
bask in the natural beauty of the earth and be tethered to its joyousstrength

Thefunhealthy and o'er-darkened ways refer to the trials and tribulations (harms /
|
problems/ troubles misfortunes) one encounters in the journey of life.

Itrefers to all the negative and gloomy thoughts that obstruct our way to happiness.
D.Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
Tyger Tyger, burning bright, the forests of the night. (Alliteration)
in

8. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two [1x4-4]

given.

A But this eating.....I

rebelled. Memories of Childhood: The Cutting of My Long Hair)
A.The speaker did not understand or speak English.
The speaker was feeling rebellious when Judewin gave her the warning. She rebelled
against the idea of submitting because she believed it was a sign of weakness, as their

mothers had taught them that only cowards had shingled hair, which was the
consequence of being captured by theenemy.
because shebelieved it was a sign of weakness and going against their cultural teachings
regarding hair and bravery.
iv Because the structured and unfamiliar process of picking up the knife and fork and
beginning to eat felt like a challenging and intimidatingordeal,similarto a trial or test.
OR
B In the conviction .quilt over him. (TheEnemy)

The woman's decision to wash the white man's face and upper body reflects her sense of
duty and compassion.
The woman's attitude changes from initially being angry to becoming anxious. She goes
from resenting the man's presence to being concerned about his well-being.
ii
B. The woman is resentful of the white presence.
man's
iv
Putting the quilt over the white man demonstrates the woman's kindness and concern for
his comfort. It reflects her evolving attitude from angerto compassion.
9.
Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two [1x6=6]
given.
A
Then, from one .......heads at one stroke. (The Last Lesson)
C He wanted to ensure that the students understood the French language.
 M. Hamel means that maintaining their own language, in this case, French, is
crucial
because it is a source of cultural identity and resistarnce. When people hold onto
their
language, even in times of oppression or enslavement, it symbolizes their
ability to
preserve their heritage and resist external forces.

ii
Franz was able to comprehend the grammar lesson easily because he was recent.
attentive.

C. patriotic intensification
|> The students might have been amazed because M. Hamel explained the lesson with
great
patience, making it easier for them to understand. Additionally,it could be due to the
realization that they were at risk of losing their language, which made them more attentive

and eager to learn.

The extract reveals M.Hamel's dedicationto preserving the French language and culture
among his students, even in difficult times. He makes an effort to teach the lesson with
patience and wants to ensure that the students understand the importance of their
language. This shows his commitment to their education and cultural heritage.
OR
B When Frank Buchman's ..played into their hands. (Poets and Pancakes)

The MRA was welcomed by the big bossesof Madras like $S Vasan of Gemini studios.
a communist even though it was a kind of counter movement to international
communism.
ii A. They were welcomed with open arms by the Gemini studios.
iüi
They were highly skilled and polished in their presentations.
iv
The train service was first-rate, offering excellent amenitiesto passengers.
A.
V They inspiredthe creation of more elaborate and intricate sets and costumes.
vi costumeswere EXTRAVAGANT /FIRST RATE.
10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 40-50 words [2x5-10]

i
The first sentence creates a sense of fear and mystery aboutan event that had causeda
significant change in the narrator's life that the readers would soon get a glimpse into.

The 'grandeur of the dooms refers to the beautiful tales ofmartyred warriors.The poet
says that their stories are asbeautiful and inspiring as thenaturalbeauty of the musk roses

(thestories of themighty dead areso beautiful that it can inspireothersjust like the natural
beauty of blooming flowers).
iii
The rich take their shoes for granted but poor people have tocome up with justifications
fornot having shoes.Anees Jung tries to highlight the difference between the rich and the
poor by showing how shoes are a luxury to Saheb and his friendswho either don't own
them or wear them only occasionally.
Based on the statement,it can be reasonably inferred that thepolitical climatein Indiawas
marked by feelings of apprehension and anxiety. The Indians, specifically in smaller

localities lived in fearof being surveilled by the British authorities, and as such did not
wish to commit any acts that could put their lives in jeopardy.

Sophie didn't meet the Irish prodigy, Casey, at the Royce's.Had she met him, he would
have turned up while she waited for him near the canal, Also, she would not have felt
relieved at the thought that her fatherwould not reach home before her to find the truth.
 is making a case for peace. He states that though the trees or soil don't seem to
The poet
life and appear dead as they are not mobile but they are indeed alive and are
possess
for many other life forms. We toocan learn from this and coexist harmoniously
ecosystems
h our fellow beings.(humans should learnt to co-exist with nature like plants, micro

etc./inactivity does not mean that we are not alive/we too can grow steadily
organisns
being restless or it beingtoo obvious)
without
ocwer ANYTWO
of the following three questions in about 40-50 words [2×2-4]
11.
have faith in astrology because the Tiger eventually dies due to a tiger,
Kalki does King
on the
even if a woodern one, as per the astrologer's prophecy. This prophecy was based
belief
that Taurus(Bull), the sign under which the prince born, and Leo (Tiger) are

is
enemies.
South Indian like Tishani, being facetoface with ninety of earth's
For a sun-baked percent

ice volume was a mind boggling and chilling prospect. It had a chilling effect not
total

on the blood circulation and her metabolic functions, but also on herimagination
only
left her awestruck in amazement.
since the experience
The Ceneral did not usually keep in good health and trusted no other surgeon but Dr
jü
dao in his time of need and could have needed his services anytime.This is why he did
t order immediate arrest thedoctor for harbouring an enemy in his house.
of

Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 120-150words. [5]
12.

main themes of the story is of loneliness. All the characters of the story
One of the
A. were victims of
whether it was Edla, the ironmaster, the crofter or the peddler

loneliness. The peddler is a lonely man who has always been shunned by society's cold
and bitter attitude. When he goes knocking does he expect
at the old cottage door, little

him with open arms, as

thehospitality that he eventuallyreceives. The crofter welcomes
the peddler hot food,
he is thrilled to have someoneto talk to, after so long. He serves
cards with him as well. He is an
gives him tobacco for his pipe and plays a game of
Pxcellent host who goes on to share some secrets
with the strangertoo. The ironmaster
company and this mnakes Edla extend
and his daughter,on the other hand, miss having
this invitation to the peddler.
Thus, the need for human bonding emerges as one of the

main themes ofthe story.

OR
Mukund from The Hindu. I understand life has been quite
B. Mukund: Hello, I'm
light on
challenging foryou, often feeling unwelcome everywhere. Can you shed somne
the miseries and sufferings you've faced?
struggle. People seldom had
any
Rattrap Peddler(RP): Yes, life has been a constant
shut its doors on me. I
me.The world seemed to have
kindness for a rattrap peddler like
on the fringes, facing indifference and sometimes
wandered from place to place, always for survival.
loneliness and the perpetualstruggle
even hostility. It was a life marked by your
is quite intriguing. Can you share
Mukund: The concept of the world being a rattrap
world in such a manner?
thoughts on why you perceive the In my
a reflection of the harsh realities I've experienced.
RP:Ah, the rattrap metaphor is material
pleasures and
enticing people with momentary
View, the world is like a rattrap,
of suffering and despair.
Everyone, in away, is a victim
|gains,only to trap them in acycle
of this rattrap, ensnared
by the pursuitof worldly desires and illusions.
What led to
caught in this metaphorical rattrap?
Mukund: How did you find yourself
your predicament?
 RP: Life's circumstances. Poverty and desperation can drive a person to do
of stealing, things
never imagined. I succumbed to the temptation hoping for a they
better
However, my actions only led me deeper into the rattrap, alienating nme from life.
society
trapping me in a cycde ofcrime and misery. and
Mukund: Can you tell us how you managed to redeem yourself?
RP: The turning point was meeting Ms. Edla. She reated mne with unexpected

and compassion, offering me shelter and warmth. Her generosity kindness

inspired me
reconsider my path. Instead of being a prisoner of the rattrap, I saw the to

redemption. I decided to turn my lifearound, working hard andleventually

possibility of

achieving the
rank of a Captain. Ms. Edla's kindness acted as the keyto my escapefrom the
metaphorical
rattrap, allowingme to regain my dignity and find a purpose beyond thievery.
Mukund: That's a remarkable transformation. How has this experience shaped
your
perspective on the world?

RP: My journey has taught me that kindness and compassion can break the
cycle of

despair. It's essential to recognize the humarity in everyone, regardless of

their
circumstances. If we extenda helping hand to those who are trapped, we might justooid.

them out of the rattrap and into a life of dignity and purpose.
Mukund:Thank you for sharingyour compelling story with us. It's truly a testament t
the transformative power of compassion and kindness.
RP:Thank you. Ihope my journey serves as a reminder that everyone deserves a chace
at redemption and that a little kindness can go a long way in changing lives.
13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions inabout 120-150 words. I5]

A. The visualisation of something that the world is unfamiliar with, usually seems to be
illogical. In fact a good number of scientific inventions sounded ridiculous when some
fertile mind imagined them for the first time. Aeroplane,railway-engine, telephone, radio,

television, mobile phone -all of them must have sounded illogical impossibilities some till

brilliant minds gave them a concrete shape.Jules Verne's contraptions- a century before

they actually came into shape - must have sounded interesting but possible only in the
realm of imagination. Similarly the make- believe world of science fiction and alltalk
about aliens and extra-terrestrial life may sound a bit unlikely and unbelievable today but
whoknows tomorrow man may be travelling to planets inhabited by aliens and aliens too
might come to visit Earth. However, the apparent illogicality of the past like the
submarines did prove to be futuristic projections. The idea of going back in time, as shown
in The Third Level', is illogical yet some day in future, it may become possible and one

may get transported back in time whenever one may be bored with the present world.
OR
B. Mr Lamb displays signs of loneliness and disappointment in the monologue towards the
end of the first scene when Derry wants to go back to his mother but promises to come
back.Mr Lamb simply walks off to tend his beeswithout saying anything. When Derry is
gone he mutters to himself. "Ah...you know. We all know. I'll come back. They never do,
though. Not them. Never do come back." These words reveal the terrible loneliness
suffered by Mr Lamb.
However, in order to overcome these feelings Mr Lamb shares the bounty of his garden

with everyone.The children from his neighbourhood come to his garden for apples and
pears. Some of them talk to him and many call him lamey-Lamb.
But he is large-hearted
and keeps
and ignorestheir adverse comments. He considers these children as his friends
his doors and windows open for all. He believes that everything that belongs to him

actually belongsto others.