KENDRIYA VDYALAYA SANGATHAN

BHUBANESWAR REGION
PRE-BOARD EXAMINATION-1:: 2024-25
Class XII - English Core (301)
Max. marks – 80 SET-1 Time allotted: 3 Hours

General Instruction:
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
(i) This paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.
(ii) This question paper contains three sections - Section A: Reading Skills, Section B : Creative
Writing and Section C : Literature
(iii) Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question
number and part thereof in your answer sheet.
(iv) Separate instructions are given with each question/ part, wherever necessary
(v) Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.

SECTION A
Reading Skills
1. Read the passage given below:

1 As a form of expression, graffiti is famously characterized by outlaw values; the

creation and display of graffiti countered societal rules and was considered by
some as vandalism. Not only was it symbolic of rebel values but was also linked to
destruction of property. These links between graffiti culture and rebellion were
age-old and some say, were popularized by hip-hop culture.

2 Imagine walking up one morning, to see your walls smeared with black paint －
names, symbols, message. The most interesting bit is that these wall artists were
never caught red-handed. It was all done stealthily. It was almost as though
people were marking their territory using painted symbols and slogans. The
change was creeping in. Mobile numbers and captivating phrases gradually
became marketing tools for free advertising. Catchy phrases tickled the curiosity
and calls were made to those numbers.

3 Over a period of time, there was a shift in perception. Blank walls beckoned
invitingly and artists saw whitewashed walls as an opportunity to display their work
in free and open settings. The city became one large canvas; the illegal ‘gang
activity’ became an art form on display in walking galleries. Graffiti was gradually
being replaced and the stigma of illegality was being dropped. There was a move
to embrace rather than condemn.

4 The colours, shapes, and subjects became cultural themes. What was once
rebellious expression is artistic talent at its vibrant best, rich in images of plants,
animals and unspoiled landscapes. The painted walls encouraged by residents
and governments have created their own ecosystem － a reconciliation of nature
with man-made forces.

5 The monotony and uniformity of urban life is today infused with human vitality and
beauty. Cities speak proudly about the painted walls and clamour to be the first to
preserve culture and history through these. Graphic displays of social awareness
issues effectively and economically reach out to the common man. Silent art
speaks volumes. Be it hygiene, conservation, education, or rights and duties －
the message is conveyed in an animated, colourful manner without being an

Page 1 of 10
 imposition.
Based on your understanding of the passage , answer the questions given below:

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. 1

Graffiti in the earlier year was
(a) Considered a valuable legacy
(b) Done by prominent artist
(c) An expression of rebellion
(d) Supported by society
(ii) The passage states a shift in attitude. Identify the best option that indicates this 1
shift.
(a) Rejection to dismissal
(b) Confusion to clarity
(c) Imposition to acceptance
(d) Dislike to acceptance
(iii) List two reasons why graffiti was not popular among people. 2
(iv) Select the word from para 2 of the passage that conveys the opposite of ‘boring’. 1
(v) The writer would agree with all of the following EXCEPT: 1
(a) Graffiti art was a paid activity
(b) Wall art was an age-old tradition
(c) Graffiti became popular as a marketing tool.
(d) People were curious by what was scribbled on walls.
(vi) Which word from the following most nearly means ‘reconciliation’ with reference to
the given context? (para 4) 1
(a) cease fire
(b) resolution
(c) combination
(d) reunion
(vii) Why does the writer say that the stigma of ‘illegality’ was dropped? 2
(viii Complete the following sentence with reference to the passage: 1
) The city became one large canvas because________________________
(ix) List two ways in which wall art is beneficial to society. 2

2 Read the passage given below:

1 Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) are products that sell quickly at relatively
low cost. FMCG is the fourth-largest sector in the Indian economy. There are three
main segments in the sector - food and beverages, which account for 19% of the
sector; healthcare, which accounts for 31 % of the share; and household and
personal care, which account for the remaining 50% share. The urban segment
contributes to about 55% of the revenue share, while the rural segment accounts
for 45%. Rise in rural consumption will drive the FMCG market. The Indian
processed food market is projected to expand US$ 470 billion by 2025, up from
US$ 263 billion in 2019-20.

2 The Indian FMCG industry grew by 16% in 2021, a 9-year high, despite
nationwide lock-downs, supported by consumption-led growth and value
expansion from higher product prices, particularly for staples. Real household
spending is projected to increase 9.1% after 2021, after a decrease of 9.3% in
2020 due to the economic impact of the pandemic. Price increase across product
categories will offset the impact of rising raw material prices, along with volume
growth and resurgence of demand for discretionary items.

3 The FMCG sector has received good investments and support from the
Government in the recent past. The sector witnessed healthy Foreign Direct

Page 2 of 10
 Investment (FDI) inflows from April 2000- March 2022. Furthermore, as per the
Union Budget 2022-23, a substantial amount has been allocated to the
Department of Consumer Affairs, an increased amount has been allocated to the
Department of Food, and Public Distribution. In 2021-22, the government
approved Production-Linked incentive scheme for Food Processing Industry
(PLISFPI) with an outlay of a larger amount to help Indian brands of food products
in the international markets.

4 The Government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme gives companies a

major opportunity to boost exports. The future outlook of the FMCG rural sector
looks on track now. Rural consumption has increased, led by a combination of
increasing income and higher aspiration levels. There is an increased demand for
branded products in rural India. The growth of organized sector in FMCG is
expected to rise with an increased level of brand consciousness, augmented by
the growth in modern retail.

Table I. FMCG Products

1. Processed foods: Cheese products, cereals
2. Prepared meals: Ready-to-eat meals
3. Beverages : Bottled water, aerated drinks, and juices
4. Baked foods: Biscuits, bread
5. Fresh foods, frozen foods, and dry foods : Fruits, vegetables, milk, butter, frozen
food, and nuts
6. Medicines : Aspirin, pain relievers, and over-the counter medication that can be
purchased without prescription
7. Cleaning products: Baking soda, washing powder
8. Cosmetics and toiletries: Beauty products, soaps, toothpastes
9. Office supplies : Pens, pencils
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:
(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in para 1? 1

Food and beverages segment dominates the Global FMCG market and is
expected to retain its dominance.

Select from the following:

True : If the statement agrees with information.

False : If the statement contradicts the information
Not Given : If there is no information on this
(ii) What do you think gives opportunities to boost exports? 1
(iii) Select the option that displays the most likely reason for FMCG rural sector being 1
on track.
(a) FMCG sector has been unable to get investments from the Government.
(b) PLI schemes don’t reach the rural sector.
(c) Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of the online grocery segment in India is

Page 3 of 10
 expected to double in the next five years.
(d) There is a desire to buy branded products in the villages too.
(iv) Complete the sentence based on the following statement: 1

The Indian FMCG industry grew by 16% in 2021, a 9-year high, despite
nationwide lock-downs because __________________ .
(v) Complete the given sentences by selecting the most appropriate option: 1

The combination of increasing income and higher aspiration levels in the rural
area has led to _____________________.
(a) The Government taking a direct interest
(b) The demand for branded products
(c) Prices increases across product categories
(d) The fall of supply in urban areas
(vi) How is the Government trying to help Indian brands of food production in the 2
international markets?
(vii) What will be the impact of increased level of brand consciousness? 2
(viii Based on the reading of the passage, correct the following statement. 1
)
The urban segment contributes to about 45% of the revenue share, while the rural
segment accounts for 55%

SECTION- B
Creative Writing Skills
3 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 4
(A) The local branch of the British Council has agreed to hold a workshop in your
school on “Writing Skills in English Language”. Draft a notice in 50 words inviting
students to register their names for participation. Mention details of day, date time
and venue. You are Sohail/Suhina, President of the Literary Society of Rise Public
School, Angul.
OR
(B) You are the Secretary of the Debate Club of your school, which is organizing a
lecture-cum-workshop on 21st Century Learning Skills for Students by Dr. Artendu
Meher, Associate Professor, Dept. Of English, APS College Roth. Draft a notice in
not more than 50 words informing students of the same. Mention day, date, time
and venue. You are Rohan/Rohini.
4 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 4
(A) Your school has scheduled the inauguration of the newly constructed Maths Park.
As a teacher-in-charge of the Maths Club, draft a formal invitation in 50 words
inviting parents and other guests to attend the ceremony. Mention day, date, time
and venue. You are Raj/Rita.
Or
(B) You are Priyanka/Piiyush. Mr. And Mrs. Satapathy invited you to the marriage
ceremony of their daughter, Sania, on 20 November, 2024 at 7:00 pm at their
residence, Ashok Nagar, Bhubaneswar. Draft a formal reply in about 50 words
accepting the invitation.

5 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 5

(A) You are Shreya/Shrey Gupta, a resident of 45, Green Park, Mumbai. You are
concerned about the increasing impact of social media on teenagers’ mental

Page 4 of 10
 health and behavior. Write a letter to the Editor of The Hindu in 120-150 words,
expressing your views on the issue and suggesting ways to promote healthier
online habits among the youth.
OR
(B) You are Shiv/Shivani, a resident of 24, Ashoka Vihar, New Delhi. You came
across an advertisement in The Times of India for the position of an English
Teacher at Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram, Delhi. Write a letter applying for the
job role in 120-150 words to the Principal, including your brief resume. Highlight
your relevant qualifications, experience, and skills that make you a suitable
candidate for this role.
6 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 5
(A) Technology is transforming teaching and learning processes, its benefits, and the
challenges it brings. Write an article in 120-150 words for your school magazine
on the topic "The Role of Technology in Modern Education". Highlight why it is
essential for students and teachers to adapt to this change for future success. You
are Akshay/Akshita, a student of grade 12.
OR
(B) You are a student reporter for The Times of India. Recently, your school organized
a cleanliness drive in collaboration with local NGOs to promote awareness about
waste management and recycling. Write a report in 120-150 words describing the
event, its objectives, activities, and the response from students and the
community. Ensure your report highlights the significance of such initiatives for a
cleaner and healthier environment. Sign yourself as Riya/Rohit Verma.
SECTION - C
Literature
7 Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below:
(A) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 6X1= 6
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) The phrase "To live …next to the theater and the store" indicates:
I. A life of cultural and social convenience
II. Freedom and independence
III. Isolation from society
IV. A return to traditional ways

Choose the most appropriate option:

(a) Only IV
(b) I, III and IV
(c) II and IV
(d) I and II
(ii) Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract.

Assertion (A): The poet criticizes the efforts of "good-doers" to bring marginalized

Page 5 of 10
 groups into modern society.

Reason (R): According to the poem, these efforts make people more self-reliant
and capable of independent thought.

Select the correct option:

(a) Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
(d) (A) is false, but (R) is true.
(iii) Complete the following sentence suitably.

The poet suggests that the relocation of marginalized groups to villages is

intended to ________________________________________ .
(iv) What is the poet's attitude towards the "good-doers" and their efforts to
"enforce benefits" on marginalized groups?
(v) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.

The excerpt tells us that the speaker ________ (condemns / glorifies) the nature
of good-doers.
(vi) Identify the figure of speech used in the expression:
"beneficent beasts of prey"
OR
(B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 6X1= 6
Aunt Jennifer’s fingers fluttering through her wool
Find even the ivory needle hard to pull.
The massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band
Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer’s hand.

When Aunt is dead, her terrified hands will lie

Still ringed with ordeals she was mastered by.
The tigers in the panel that she made
Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid.
(i) What is the attitude of the speaker towards the Aunt?
(ii) Complete the following analogy:

Tigers : strength :: __________ : constraints

Choose the most appropriate option:

(a) Wedding band
(b) Ivory needle
(c) Forest
(d) Terrified hands
(iii) What kind of ordeals did the Aunt go through?
(iv) Identify the figure of speech in the expression : “massive weight”

Page 6 of 10
 (v) Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract.

Assertion (A): Aunt Jennifer's tigers symbolize her desire for freedom and strength
in contrast to her oppressed life.
Reason (R): The poem illustrates Aunt Jennifer's struggles with her marriage
through the imagery of her fluttering fingers and the weight of her wedding band.
Choose the correct option:

Select the correct option:

(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
(vi) What kind value system is represented by the Uncle here?
8 Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below:
(A) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 4X1= 4
“You are to come to the palace”, the man said, “The old General is in pain again.”
“Oh”, Hana breathed, “Is that all?”
“All?” the messenger exclaimed. “Is it not enough?”
“Indeed it is,” she replied, “I am very sorry.”
When Sadao came to say goodbye, she was in the kitchen, but doing nothing. The
children were asleep and she sat merely resting for a moment, more exhausted
from her fright than from work.
(i) Seeing the messanger, Hana was apprehensive of ___________________
(ii) Why was Sadao summoned?
(iii) Which of the following summarizes Hana’s reason for resting momentarily?
(a) Her physical exhaustion
(b) Her fear
(c) Her infirmity
(d) Her sadness
(v) Complete the analogy correctly with a word from the extract.

Asleep : awake :: rejuvenated :__________

OR
(B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 4X1= 4
Mr. Lamb : Look boy, look…what do you see?
Derry : Just…grass and stuff. Weeds
Mr Lamb : Some call them weeds. If you like, then … a weed garden, that.
There’s fruit and there are flowers , and trees and herbs. All sorts.
But over there … weeds. I grow weeds there. Why is one green,
growing plant called a weed and another ‘flower’? Where’s the
difference ? It’s all life … growing. Same as you and me.
Derry : We’re not the same.
(i) In the above extract what best summarizes Mr. Lamb’s attitude towards growing
weeds?
(a) a celebration of life
(b) an acceptance of his poverty
(c) A manifestation of his loneliness
(d) An example of his gardening skills

Page 7 of 10
 (ii) What kind of tone does Derry demonstrate when he says “ We’re not the
same”?
(iii) Why does Mr. Lamb bring out the distinction between flowers and weeds?
(iv) What word from the above extract most nearly means the opposite of
“difference”?
9 Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below:
(A) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 6X1= 6
Rudyard Kipling expressed an even more condemnatory attitude towards the
interviewer. His wife, Caroline, writes in her diary for 14 October, 1892 that their
day was ‘wrecked by two reporters from Boston’. She reports her husband as
saying to the reporters, “Why do I refuse to be interviewed? Because it is immoral!
It is a crime, just as much of a crime as an offence against my person, as an
assault, and just as much merits punishment. It is cowardly and vile. No
respectable man would ask it, much less give it.” Yet Kipling had himself
perpetrated such an ‘assault’ on Mark Twain only a few years before. H. G. Wells
in an interview in 1894 referred to ‘the interviewing ordeal’, but was a fairly
frequent interviewee and forty years later found himself interviewing Joseph Stalin.

(i) Kipling viewed interviews with

(a) compassion
(b) condemnation
(c) reconciliation
(d) gratitude
(ii) Complete the analogy with a word from the extract:

attack : assault :: committed : ____________

(iii) Kipling violated his own observation on interviewing by __________________
(iv) Why does Kipling use the phrase ‘it is a crime’ to describe interview?
(v) Identify the irony in the conduct of H. G. Wells.
(vi) Kipling assaulted ___________ with an interview.
(a) H. G. Wells
(b) Joseph Stalin
(c) T. S. Eliot
(d) Mark Twain
OR
(B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 6X1= 6
My acquaintance with the barefoot rag pickers leads me to Seemapuri, a place on
periphery of Delhi yet miles away from it, metaphorically. Those who live here are
squatters who came from Bangladesh back in 1971. Saheb’s family is among
them. Seemapuri was then an wilderness. It still is, but it is no longer empty. In
structures of mud, with roofs of tin and tarpaulin, devoid of sewage, drainage or
running water, live 10000 rag pickers.

(i) What is the most logical reason for the author stating that Seemapuri is
metaphorically very far away from Delhi?
(ii) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank.

Saheb’s name is _________________ (satirical/ironical) as his name stands in

stark contrast to its reality.
(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately.

Page 8 of 10
 The writer makes the given observation on Seemapuri on the basis of _________
(iv) What can be inferred from the line ‘Those who live here are squatters’?
(v) In the extract, Seemapuri is described as being "on the periphery of Delhi yet
miles away from it, metaphorically."

Which of the following analogies best captures this relationship?

(a) a boat near the shore but unable to reach land due to high waves.
(b) a desert located far from an oasis, making water inaccessible.
(c) a person standing close to a window but unable to see through it due to fog.
(d) a river flowing into a forest that provides resources and prosperity.
(vi) “Periphery” in the extract means _______________
(a) something central
(b) Something on the borders
(c) something collected
(d) something scattered
10 Answer any five of the following six questions in 40-50 words each : 5X2= 10
(i) Why does the peddler compare the world to a rattrap, and how does this
metaphor influence his actions?
(ii) How did the instructor “build a swimmer” out of Douglas?
(iii) What, according to John Keats, makes human beings love life in spite of
troubles and sufferings?
(iv) Do you think Pablo Neruda advocates total inactivity and death in the poem
Keeping Quiet?
(v) Why didn’t Sophie want Jansie to know about her story with Danny?
(vi) How did Franz’s feelings about M. Hamel and school change?
11 Answer any two of the following three questions in 40-50 words each : 2X2= 4
(i) What were Tishani Doshi’s initial emotions on setting foot on Antarctica?
(ii) How would you assess Tiger King as a ruler?
(iii) Comment on the ending of the story The Third Level.
12 Answer any one of the following in about 120-150 words: 5X1= 5
(A) Analyze the character of Subbu in the context of his role at Gemini Studios. How
does his versatility and loyalty to the boss contribute to both his success and
resentment he faces from others? Elaborate.
OR
(B) How did Gandhi's approach to resolving the Champaran issue reflect his principles
of non-violence and satyagraha? Discuss how his actions in Champaran not only
addressed the immediate plight of the peasants but also contributed to the larger
movement for Indian independence.

13 Answer any one of the following in about 120-150 words: 5X1= 5

(A) Zitkala-Sa and Bama survived brutal onslaught of socio-cultural stereotypes
unleashed by the White supremacist and caste elites respectively through strength
and resilience.
Imagine that you are either Zitkala-Sa or Bama, writing a letter to a close friend
who also belongs to a marginalized community but lives in a different part of the
world. In your letter, describe the challenges you face in daily life and the emotions
they bring up. Share any personal goals, dreams, or strategies you have for
overcoming these struggles, and ask your friend if they experience anything

Page 9 of 10
 similar. How might you both support each other in finding strength and resilience?
OR
(B) The actual pain or inconvenience caused by a physical impairment is often much
less than the sense of alienation felt by the person with disabilities. Discuss the
Derry’s response to the world around him in the light of your reading of the play
“On The Face Of It”

**********************

Page 10 of 10
 KENDRIYA VDYALAYA SANGATHAN
BHUBANESWAR REGION
PRE-BOARD EXAMINATION-1:: 2024-25
Class XII - English Core (301)

MARKING SCHEME Maximum Marks – 80

SET-1
Important Instruction:
(i) The answers given below are suggestive. Credit should be given for any relevant point which
is not included in the value points listed below.
(ii) Any independent interpretation can be considered for awarding marks as long as it stands
relevant to the context and showcase creativity, critical thinking and the ability to extrapolate
beyond the text.
(iii) No mark shall be deducted for exceeding the word-limit.
(iv) If a spelling error is recurring, it shall be penalized only once.

1. SUGGESTED VALUE POINTS

SECTION A (Reading Skills)
NOTE: The objective of the reading section is to focus on testing a candidate’s
ability to comprehend. No mark(s) should be deducted for mistakes in usages and
grammar, spelling or word-limit. Full marks may be awarded if a student has been
able to identify the core ideas. If a student has been able to identify the core ideas.
If a student literally lifts a portion of the given passage as an answer to a question,
no mark(s) to be deducted for this, as long as it is relevant.
PASSAGE-1
1 Based on your understanding of the passage , answer the questions given below:
(i) (c) an expression of rebellion 1
(ii) (d) dislike to acceptance 1
(iii) The answer must include any two of the following points: 2
- elements of rebellion
- destruction of property
- counter societal rule
- induce vandalism
- outlaw values
(iv) Interesting / captivating 1
(v) (a) Graffiti art was a paid activity 1
(vi) (d) reunion
1
(vii) The answer must reflect two of the following points: 2
- emergence as art form
- perception shift
- socio-cultural awareness
- reconciliation of nature and man-made values
- preserve culture and history
- move to embraced than condemn
(viii) - because the artists saw blank walls of the city as an invitation/ opportunity to 1
display their work in free and open settings.
- their work became an art art form on display in walking galleries.
 (ix) Any two of the following points 2
- helps to preserve cultural history
- create social awareness
- message conveyed in animated colourful manner
- without being an imposition, reaches out to common man

Passage - 2
2 Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below:
(i) False 1
(ii) The Government’s production linked Incentive (PLI) scheme gives companies 1
major opportunity to boost exports.
(iii) (d) There is a desire to buy branded products in the villages too. 1
(iv) It was supported by consumption-led growth and value expansion from higher 1
product prices, particularly for staples.
(v) (b) The demand for branded products 1
(vi) In 2021-22, the Government approved Production Linked Incentive scheme for 2
Food Processing Industry with an outlay of a larger amount to help Indian brands
of food products in the international market.
(vii) There is an increased demand for branded products in rural India. The growth of 2
organized sector in FMCG is expected to rise with an increased level of increased
consciousness, augmented by the growth in modern retail.
(viii) The urban segment contributes about 55% of the revenue share, while the rural 1
segment accounts for 45%.
SECTION- B
Creative Writing Skills
OBJECTIVE: To test the ability that demonstrate

- Conceptual understanding
- application of rules & conventions
- Analysis, Reasoning,
- appropriacy of style and tone
- appropriate format and evaluation of the given situation
- fluency, inference, coherence in style & content
- relevance of ideas.
3 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 4X1= 4
(A) NOTICE WRITING - WORKSHOP ON “WRITING SKILLS IN ENGLISH
LANGUAGE”

Format - 1, Content -2, Expression -1

Notice content to be placed within a box

Suggested value points:

- appropriate format & style

- mention target group for the notice
- mention host/organizer
- mention event
- mention, date , time and venue
- any other relevant point
[All the input in the question to be included]
(B) OR
 NOTICE WRITING - WORKSHOP ON LECTURE-CUM-WORKSHOP on 21st
Century Learning Skills for Students

Format - 1, Content -2, Expression -1

Content to be placed within a box

Suggested value points:

- appropriate format & style

- mention target group for the notice
- mention of organizer
- mention of event
- mention date , time and venue
-any other relevant point.
[All the input in the question to be included]
4 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 4X1= 4
(A) FORMAL INVITATION - CARD STYLE/LETTER STYLE

Format - 1, Content -2, Expression -1 (Content to be placed within a box)

Suggested value points:
- Name of the host
- mention of event/occasion
- mention, date, time and venue
- appropriate format & style
- cordial tone of invitation, appropriate language

[All the input in the question to be included]

OR
(B) FORMAL REPLY TO INVITATION - LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE

Format - 1, Content -2, Expression -1 (Content to be placed within a box)

Suggested value points:

- appropriate format & style

- reference to the invitation
- mention, date , time and venue
- acceptance and congratulatory expression
- appropriate language

[All the input in the question to be included]

5 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 5X1= 5
(A) LETTER TO THE EDITOR - IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON MENTAL HEALTH

FORMAT - 1 Mark (Sender’s Address, date, receiver’s address, subject,

salutation, closure with subscription) - Block and Indented Format of paragraph
are not be mixed.
CONTENT - 3 Marks
Expression - 1 Mark

Suggested value points:

- Introduction and Purpose of the letter

 - Concern about social media's growing influence on teenagers.
- Mention observations of its impact on mental health and behavior.
- Negative Impacts of Social Media
- Suggestions for Healthier Online Habits

OR
(B) LETTER WRING - JOB APPLICATION - Job Role of an English Teacher at Delhi
Public School, R.K. Puram, Delhi

FORMAT -1 Mark (Sender’s Address, date, receiver’s address, subject, salutation,

closure with subscription) - Block and Indented Format of paragraph are not be
mixed.
CONTENT - 3 Marks
EXPRESSION - 1 Mark

Cover letter:
-Introduction
-Reference to the advertisement

Bio-Data/CV/Resume:
- Personal Profile
- Qualifications
- Experience
- Skills
- References

NOTE: No marks to be deducted if the Resume is integrated with body of the letter
or under a separate heading
6 Answer any one from (A) and (B) given below: 5X1= 5
(A) ARTICLE WRITING -

FORMAT - 1 Mark (Title/ Heading - by line)

CONTENT - 3 Marks
Expression - 1 Mark

Suggested value points:

- Introduction -define the importance of technology in modern education.

- changing scenario in education
- Transformation in Teaching and Learning
- Benefits and challenges
OR
(B) REPORT WRITING - Newspaper Report on cleanliness drive to promote
awareness about waste management and recycling.
FORMAT - 1 Mark (Heading - by line - place and date of reporting)
CONTENT - 3 Marks
Expression - 1 Mark

Suggested value points:

- event, date, time, venue

- include all the inputs given in the question
SECTION - C
Literature
 NOTE:
The objective of this section is to test a candidate’s ability to understand, evaluate,
interpret and respond according to the prescribed text through short and long
answer type questions. All responses may be accepted as correct, if they relate to
he questions and have been duly supported by the fact drawn from the text. The
students should be able to justify his/her viewpoint.
7 Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below: 6X1= 6
(A) (i) (d) I and II
(ii) (c) (A) is true, but (R) is false.
(iii) The poet suggests that the relocation of marginalized groups to villages is
intended to :
- make them passive and dependent on external control,
- ultimately stripping them of their independence and traditional ways of life.
- fool them and take away their present home.
- or any other relevant response
(iv) The poet's attitude toward the "good-doers"
- is critical and satirical,
- expose their efforts to "enforce benefits" as self-serving and harmful,
- blame them for depriving marginalized groups of autonomy and fair choice
- show their exploitative tactics OR other relevant response.
(v) condemns
(vi) Alliteration / metaphor / oxymoron (any one)
OR
(B) (i) The poet's attitude towards Aunt Jennifer is one of sympathy and critique,
highlighting her struggles and oppression while contrasting her constrained
existence with the freedom and strength symbolized by the tigers she creates.
(ii) (a) Wedding band
(iii) ordeal - oppression, unhappy marital relation, anxiety, fear, humiliation etc.
(iv) hyperbole / exaggeration
(v) (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(vi) The value system represented by Uncle in "Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers"
- traditional patriarchal norms
- prioritize male authority and control within the marriage
- emphasizes dominance, oppression, and the subjugation of women
- OR other relevant point (Any One)
8 Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below: 4X1= 4
(A) (i) Hana was apprehensive of:
- arrest because of treachery
- authority’s knowledge of prisoner of war harboured at their house
- servant informing the police about prisoner of war (Any one)
(ii) Sadao was summoned because the old General was in pain again.
- because it was a medical emergency
- because General needed urgent attention of Dr. Sadao
(iii) Her fear
(iv) exhausted
OR
(B) (i) (a) a celebration of life
(ii) Bitter or an other relevant emotion
(iii) To illustrate that there should be no distinction
(iv) same
9 Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below: 6X1= 6
(A) (i) (b) condemnation
(ii) perpetrated
 (iii) by committing same assault on Mark Twain / taking interview of Twain
(iv) Kipling uses the phrase ‘it is a crime’ to describe interview
- because he feels it is an offence against his person.
- because it is immoral/ an assault on a person that merits punishment.
- because it is cowardly and vile act that attempts to violate/defile the sanctity of a
person’s private life.
(any one of the above OR a similar relevant response)
(v) H. G. Wells, in an interview in 1894, referred to ‘the interviewing ordeal’, but
was a fairly frequent interviewee and forty years later found himself interviewing
Joseph Stalin.
(vi) (d) Mark Twain
OR
(B) (i) Seemapuri is metaphorically far away from Delhi in the sense that the former
lack basic amenities to live properly. (OR any other relevant response)
(ii) ironical
(iii) her in-person tour of the place / her experience
(iv) it can be inferred that the nature of residence of the people in Seemapuri is
temporary/
- they live in transit homes.
- they have no legal rights over the place they occupy
- they are refugees (any one OR any other relevant response)
(v) (c) a person standing close to a window but unable to see through it due to fog.
This choice reflects the idea of physical closeness (being near the city) but
experiencing metaphorical distance from the benefits it offers.
(vi) (b) something on the borders
10 Answer any five of the following in about 40-50 words: 5X2= 10
NOTE: Applicable to all SAQs under Q. No. 10
Content : 1 mark (any 2 relevant value points)
Expression: 1 mark ( appropriate words, coherence & grammatical correctness)
(i) The peddler compares the world to a rattrap because he believes that the
world’s riches and joys are like bait that tempt people into traps. This metaphor
justifies his cynical view of life and his deceitful actions, as he sees everyone as
trapped by their desires just like he is. (OR other similar and relevant response)
(ii) The instructor used a combination of physical support, through a belt and rope
system, and step-by-step skill development to help Douglas build confidence in
the water. This process involved breaking down the act of swimming into
manageable parts, such as breathing exercises and kicking practice, which
Douglas repeated until he could integrate them into a fluid swimming motion.
(OR other similar and relevant response)
(iii) John Keats, in “A Thing of Beauty,” suggests that it’s the beauty in life that
makes it worthwhile, despite all the troubles and sufferings. He believes that
beautiful things/object like nature, art, and noble deeds, create lasting joy. These
experiences offer comfort and hope, making life more bearable. Beauty, for Keats,
is a powerful force that can soothe and uplift the human spirit, helping people
persevere through hardships. (OR other similar and relevant response)
(iii) In “Keeping Quiet,” Neruda isn’t advocating for total inactivity or death.
Instead, he’s suggesting a reflective pause. He urges us to stop our frenzied
activities and take a moment to introspect, to find peace and unity in silence.
It’s a call for mindful stillness to appreciate life more deeply and reconsider our
actions. So, it’s more about rejuvenation and contemplation rather than total
inactivity.
(OR other similar and relevant response)
 (v) Sophie didn’t want Jansie to know about her story with Danny because
- she knew that Jansie was a realist and would likely dismiss her dreams and
fantasies.
- Jansie’s pragmatic nature would burst her bubble and make her face harsh
realities.
- Jansie can’t keep a secret – she is voluble/gossipy
- Sophie feared Jansie would tell the whole neighbourhood.
(vi) In “The Last Lesson,” Franz starts off dreading school and disliking M. Hamel,
the strict teacher. But when he learns it’s their last French lesson because of the
new German rule, his perspective shifts. He feels regretful for not paying attention
in class and starts appreciating M. Hamel’s dedication and passion for teaching.
Franz is struck by a sense of loss and a newfound respect for his language and
teacher, realizing the true value of what he’s about to lose.
11 Answer any two of the following in about 40-50 words: 2X2= 4
NOTE: Applicable to all SAQs under Q. No.11
Content : 1 mark (any 2 relevant value points)
Expression: 1 mark ( appropriate words, coherence & grammatical correctness)
(i) Value points:
- sense of relief
- immediate profound wonder
- wonder at its immensity and isolation
- wonder at how there could ever have been a time when India and Antarctica
were part of the same landmass.
(any two of the above points or relevant ideas)
(ii) Value points :
- an absurdly brave king obsessed with hunting tigers.
- He’s a satire on rulers who ignore their responsibilities
- fixating instead on personal vendettas and ego
- Instead of ensuring his kingdom’s prosperity, he spends his time obsessing over
a prophecy that claims a tiger would be the cause of his death.
- misuse of power and the folly of arrogance.
- not a leader to emulate. (any two of the above points or relevant ideas)
(iii) Value points :
The ending of “The Third Level” leaves readers
- with a sense of ambiguity and hope
- Charley’s unresolved search for the elusive third level,
- suspense heightened with Sam’s disappearance,
- suggests a longing for escape and a connection to a simpler past,
- inviting reflection on the nature of reality and dreams.
(any two of the above points or relevant ideas)
12 Answer any one of the following in about 120-150 words: 5X1= 5
NOTE: Applicable to all LAQs under Q. No.12
Content : 3 mark (relevant value points)
Expression: 2 mark ( appropriate words, coherence -1
Spelling & grammatical correctness - 1)
(A) Kothamangalam Subbu was considered a genius at Gemini Studios due to his
adaptability and resourcefulness. He was a creative powerhouse, able to provide
quick solutions to complex problems, which made him indispensable to the studio.
Subbu’s ability to come up with multiple interpretations for a single scene allowed
the studio’s production process to run smoothly, and his unwavering loyalty to the
boss further solidified his position. Unlike others, he didn't strive for fame or the
lead roles; instead, he excelled in the background, taking on supportive and
secondary roles with remarkable skill.
 Despite his success, Subbu’s position invited envy, particularly from the office boy
in the make-up department, who felt frustrated by his own unfulfilled dreams. The
contrast between Subbu’s success and the office boy's disappointment highlights
how Subbu's success was a result not only of talent but also of his adaptability
and loyalty. His contributions were critical to Gemini Studios, making him an asset
in a collaborative and competitive environment.

(The above observations are suggestive; they are neither exhaustive nor exclusive
in nature )

(OR any other independent relevant, interpretation)

OR
(B) Gandhi's approach in Champaran embodied his principles of non-violence and
satyagraha (truth-force), focusing on peaceful resistance and moral persuasion
rather than force. He responded to Rajkumar Shukla’s persistence by committing
to a cause affecting the poorest, signaling his dedication to addressing grassroots
issues. By choosing not to rely on legal battles and instead directly confronting
British injustices, Gandhi highlighted the power of non-violent, collective action
over mere court procedures, which he viewed as inadequate for deeply oppressed
peasants.

Gandhi’s method of involving himself directly—investigating conditions, collecting

depositions, and peacefully protesting—demonstrated his belief that real change
arises from personal sacrifice and solidarity with the affected. His stance
encouraged peasants to overcome their fear of British authority, fostering a new
spirit of resistance. The 25% refund settlement was a strategic victory that
illustrated his focus on practical outcomes rather than total victory, proving to the
peasants that they had rights and could demand fair treatment.

This episode became a turning point by proving that peaceful defiance could
succeed against British authority. Gandhi’s actions in Champaran expanded the
scope of the Indian independence movement from elite-led political discourse to
mass, grassroots activism. It underscored his commitment to making India’s
freedom struggle a broad-based movement, merging political independence with
social justice.

(The above observations are suggestive; they are neither exhaustive nor exclusive
in nature )

(OR any other independent, relevant interpretation)

13 Answer any one of the following in about 120-150 words: 5X1= 5
NOTE: Applicable to all LAQs under Q. No.13
Content : 3 mark (relevant value points)
Expression: 2 mark (appropriate words, coherence -1
Spelling & grammatical correctness - 1)
(A) (from the perspective of Zitkala-Sa): IN LETTER FORMAT

Dear Friend,

Life here has been challenging in ways I never imagined. They try to change us,
force us to abandon our heritage, and make us believe that our ways are lesser.
The worst was when they cut my hair—something sacred to us. I felt stripped of
my identity, as if they were trying to erase who I am. Each day, I struggle to hold
on to my spirit and resist becoming what they want me to be.

I dream of a day when we can freely be ourselves without judgment. My goal is to

 find a way to preserve our traditions while living in this new world. Do you feel this
same struggle? I hope we can encourage each other, sharing strength to stand tall
and proud of who we are, despite their attempts to diminish us.

Yours in hope,
Zitkala-Sa

(The above representations are suggestive; they are neither exhaustive nor
exclusive in nature )

(OR any other independent, relevant representation)

OR
(B) In Susan Hill's play "On The Face of It," the character Derry, a young boy with a
facial disfigurement, experiences profound feelings of alienation and isolation that
overshadow the physical challenges posed by his impairment. His response to the
world around him is shaped by his interactions with others and his internal
struggles with self-acceptance.

Alienation and Isolation: Derry's disfigurement leads to a sense of alienation

from his peers and society. He often feels judged and misunderstood, which
exacerbates his emotional pain. This alienation is more significant than the
physical discomfort he endures, highlighting how societal perceptions can impact
individuals with disabilities.

Defensive Mechanism: To cope with his feelings of alienation, Derry adopts a

defensive attitude. He often lashes out at others, pushing them away before they
can reject him. This behavior is a protective mechanism, stemming from his fear of
being ridiculed or pitied.

Connection with Mr. Lamb: Derry's encounter with Mr. Lamb, an older man who
also has a physical impairment but embraces life, serves as a turning point. Mr.
Lamb's positive outlook and acceptance of his own differences challenge Derry's
negative self-image. Through their conversations, Derry begins to see that his
worth is not defined by his appearance.

Transformation of Perspective: Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to look beyond his

disfigurement and to engage with the world. This interaction helps Derry realize
that he can choose how to respond to others' perceptions. The play illustrates that
the real pain often lies in the emotional and psychological impact of societal
attitudes rather than the physical impairment itself.

Hope and Acceptance: By the end of the play, Derry's perspective begins to
shift. He starts to understand that he can find acceptance and connection despite
his differences. This transformation signifies a move towards self-acceptance and
a rejection of the alienation he initially felt.

(The above observations are suggestive; they are neither exhaustive nor exclusive
in nature )

(OR any other independent, relevant representation of ideas)