CBSE 2025, Set 1 Solutions
CBSE English Core (2025)

Case Study: Tourism in India

(1) Introduction : India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical sites, attracts millions of tourists each year. Tourism significantly contributes to India's GDP, generating employment and boosting infrastructure. This case study explores factors impacting tourism in India, examines seasonal patterns, and assesses tourist satisfaction through a survey. (2) Methodology: The study involved primary data collection through a structured survey targeting 500 tourists across major destinations like Delhi, Jaipur, Goa and Kerala. Additionally, secondary data from government reports and tourism boards were used. The survey included questions about preferences, challenges and satisfaction levels, focusing on various demographics, including international and domestic tourists. (3) Survey Examination: Tourists were surveyed on travel preferences, challenges encountered, accommodation satisfaction and cultural experiences. Feedback highlighted India's appeal due to its history and cultural diversity, but also noted issues like infrastructure gaps and pollution. (4) Results: The study found that most tourists preferred historical sites and beaches. International tourists were drawn to heritage sites, while domestic tourists preferred nature destinations. Satisfaction was high among tourists who experienced local culture, but infrastructure issues and overcrowding at key locations were common complaints. Overall, 85% of tourists expressed a desire to revisit.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage: (i) Complete the following suitably. In the introduction, the researcher links tourism to India's GDP to highlight ________. (1 mark) (ii) What would the following be classified as? 'The study involved primary data collection through a structured survey.' Select the appropriate response. (1 mark) (A) Primary purpose (B) Secondary objective (C) Method of analysis (D) Research outcome (iii) Give two points to support why the study involved primary data and secondary data. (2 marks) (iv) Paragraph 3 includes words - 'preferences' and 'challenges'. Classify the following sentences as 'preference' or 'challenge': (1 mark) Sentence 1: Feedback highlighted India's appeal due to its history and cultural diversity. Sentence 2: Also noted issues like infrastructure gaps and pollution. (v) List any two points tourists were asked about in the survey. (1 mark) (vi) What were the more preferred destinations? (1 mark) (vii) Analyse why though there was satisfaction among tourists, there were some complaints. (1 mark) (viii) What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study? (1 mark) (A) tourists expressed a desire to revisit. (B) tourist will visit historical sites. (C) domestic tourism will increase. (D) to promote India as a tourist destination.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (B) You are Kirti / Keshav of 7, M.G. Road, Jhansi. You observe that students who come on a one day picnic to public parks leave plastic bottles and cans, littered all over the park. You are disturbed by the sight of this and write a letter to the editor of a national daily suggesting ways to inculcate civic sense among students. You may use some of the cues given along with your own ideas to draft the letter.

Cues: What is the role of parents and school in inculcating civic sense? Ways to sensitize students: involve them in community projects, emphasize on civic responsibility. Demonstrate civic behaviour in daily routine.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (B) You are Chayan, student reporter of S.M. Public School, Bhopal. Your school celebrated the annual winter carnival where various stalls, games and shows were put up by students. Write a comprehensive report of the event in detail to be published in your school magazine. You may organize your report by following Who - What - When - Where - Why - How.

Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B): (B) "It takes longer to build a school." I say, embarrassed at having made a promise that was not meant. But promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world. After months of knowing him, I ask him his name. 'Saheb-e-Alam', he announces. He does not know what it means. If he knew its meaning - lord of the universe - he would have a hard time believing it. Unaware of what his name represents, he roams the streets with his friends, an army of bare feet boys who appear like the morning birds and disappear at noon. Over the months, I have come to recognise each of them. "Why aren't you wearing chappals?" I ask one. "My mother did not bring them down from the shelf." He answers simply. "Even if she did he will throw them off," adds another who is wearing shoes that do not match. (Lost Spring)

(i) The intention of the speaker in the first line of the extract is one of (clarification / confusion). (1 mark) (ii) What is implied by the expression 'he would have a hard time believing it'? (1 mark) (A) Saheb is too innocent to believe everything. (B) Saheb is living upto his name. (C) Saheb's living condition is contrary to the meaning of his name. (D) Saheb is not used to anyone calling his name. (iii) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank: "Promises like mine abound in every corner of his bleak world." The above statement of the speaker reveals the fact that people like Saheb are (deluded / empowered) by such promises. (1 mark) (iv) State one reason for the boy was wearing shoes that did not match. (1 mark) (v) The speaker describes Saheb's life as a 'bleak world' because (1 mark) (A) he lives in a house without electricity. (B) his world is his friends. (C) his life is devoid of hope. (D) he belongs to the world of illiterates. (vi) "Why aren't you wearing chappals?" I asked one. The conversation between the speaker and the boys reflects the ________ of the speaker. (1 mark)

Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in 40-50 words each: (5x2=10 marks) (i) What valid reason does Rudyard Kipling have to call an interview immoral? (The Interview) (ii) How was self-reliance intertwined with the Champaran incident? (Indigo) (iii) "I've plenty of time. I'll learn it tomorrow. And now you see where we've come out." What does M. Hamel mean to convey through these lines? (The Last Lesson) (iv) How can Earth play the role of a teacher according to Pablo Neruda? (Keeping Quiet) (v) 'And such too is the grandeur of dooms'. How can 'grandeur of dooms' be impressive and inspiring according to Keats? (A Thing of Beauty) (vi) "Christ, Sophie, you're still at school." (Going Places). What image do you form of Geoff as a brother from the above context?

Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in 40-50 words each: (2x2=4 marks) (i) Charlie's desperate attempt to find the third level reflects his frustration with the modern world. Substantiate the above statement with evidence from the story. (The Third Level) (ii) 'Students on Ice Programme' proves Geoff Green's farsightedness. Explain with reference to the text of 'The Journey to the End of the Earth'. (iii) 'You speak Peculiar Things.' Why does Derry find Mr. Lamb's conversation peculiar? (On the Face of it)

Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in 120-150 words: (B) Analyse the characters of William Douglas from 'Deep Water' and Mukesh from 'Lost Spring' in terms of their determination and will power in pursing their goals.

Answer ANY ONE of the following questions, in 120-150 words: (A) Why did Dr. Sadao treat the American soldier, even though it was an unpatriotic act? Describe the difficulties faced by Dr. Sadao when he decided to help the enemy soldier. (The Enemy)

Answer ANY ONE of the following questions, in 120-150 words: (B) "If you want to test a man's character, give him power." Analyse the theme of The Tiger King in the light of the above quote. (The Tiger King)

Answer in about 50 words: (A) You are Mr. Abhishek Sharma. You are planning to celebrate your parents' 50th wedding anniversary in a grand manner. Draft a formal invitation card for your friends and relatives. Mention all necessary details.

Answer in 120-150 words: \n (A) Children today are increasingly dependent on AI to help them complete their school tasks such as writing an article, answering questions, and making presentations. Therefore, they are unable to discover their own creative potential. However, AI can also be judiciously used for the benefit of the children. Write an article on how Artificial Intelligence can be judiciously used for the benefit of students. You are Nirja of XII A. You may use the given cues along with your own ideas to draft the article. Cues: how it helps in digital literacy, how it enhances learning by giving real time feedback, facilitates collaborative learning.

Read the following passage carefully:

(1) Marketing is all about creativity and expression, so it must be an art, right? Not necessarily. While marketers once relied purely on instinct, they now rely on data-driven insights. On top of that, cutting-edge technologies and analytics have shifted the focus of marketing farther toward the science side of the spectrum. Armed with so much data, marketers can now track the impact of money spent on their bottom line. (2) In today's world, the best approach to marketing combines both disciplines. And there's a distinct balance to the craft a strategic mix of interpersonal empathy and tactical analysis. Neither side of the mix can be isolated or ignored, or the results will not be encouraging. Psychologists believe the brain is separated into two distinct functions: the left-brain and the right-brain. The right side of the brain is responsible for creative thinking and artistic intuition. (3) As an art, marketing is all about understanding the nuances of human behaviour and determining how to make an emotional connection with the customer. More importantly, some level of art is needed to create brand standards for your company, including the logo, messaging, and overall visual identity for a brand. (4) Right-brained marketers focus on the creative the copy, graphics and emotions tied to the message. The science side of marketing tells us to let the data guide what strategies will be most effective. Marketers are now reporting the need for digital-first expertise including digital proficiency, data analysis, and data science. With science, marketers adopt an outcome-centric mindset that helps them curate smarter campaigns. Over the past few years, there has been an evolving prioritization on data-savvy talent. In 2020 and beyond, brands will need to focus on recruiting talent that can understand the complexities of AI and machine technologies. (5) But when we reflect on earlier times, marketing was defined as the predominance of traditional advertising, like television, newspaper, and direct mail. Today, it ropes in digital channels, social media, mobile devices, and integrated, complex campaigns. And just as consumers today are more tech-savvy, employees should be able to match and exceed their expertise. It's important that brands continue to prioritize creative, engaging campaign messages while also focusing on key insights and performance metrics for optimal results.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above: (i) According to paragraph 1, how does the author describe the evolution of marketing? (2 marks) (ii) Choose ONE of the following statements that aptly reflects the point of view of the writer. (1 mark) (a) In the field of marketing, there is a conflict between Art and Science. (b) Art and Science should work in tandem to do effective marketing. (iii) Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 3 to support that marketing is an art. (1 mark) (iv) Based on the passage, assess the way data and digital platforms have transformed the field of marketing and employment. (2 marks) (v) 'cutting-edge technologies and analytics have shifted the focus of marketing.' (Para 1). By 'cutting-edge technologies', the writer refers to ________. (1 mark) (vi) Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 2: included : incorporated :: ________ : secluded. (1 mark) (A) approach (B) empathy (C) isolated (D) intuition (vii) 'Marketing is all about understanding the nuances of human behaviour.' (Para 3). The writer uses the word 'nuances' to denote ________. (1 mark) (A) man's appreciation for art. (B) man's preference for branded clothes. (C) the complexities of human character. (D) human inclination for analytical approach. (viii) Complete the following based on your understanding of the above passage: According to the writer, modern marketing is built on both ________ and ________. (1 mark) (ix) '...exceed their expertise'. (Para 5). With reference to paragraph 5, what skills do you think the employees should possess to match the demand of the consumers? (1 mark) (x) What fascinating fact about the human brain is revealed by the writer in the above passage. (1 mark)

Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words: (A) Your school is organizing an Education Fair in the school premises. As the Head boy / Head girl of Sunshine Public School, Agra, draft a notice informing students of Classes IX-XII about the fair. Include other necessary details. You are Muskan / Manoj. Put your notice in a box.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words: (B) Your school is organising an inter-house 'Maths Quiz' Competition. As president of the Quiz Club, draft a notice informing students of Classes IX XII about the competition. Include necessary details regarding the number of participants, registration date, etc. You are Akila / Akhil. Put your notice in a box.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words: (B) You are Mrs. Sonali Gupta, a nutritionist. You are invited by the Principal of Radiant Public School, Jammu to address the students on 'Forming Healthy Food Habits'. Write a formal letter of reply accepting the invitation.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (A) You are Radhika / Rakesh of 43, J.N. Colony, Cochin. You read the given advertisement and wish to apply for the post advertised. Write a job application along with your bio-data:

EduNet Innovations requires Marketing Executive Qualifications: Graduation in Commerce with Post Graduation in Marketing, Advertising, Business or Economics. Skills required: Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills. Proficient in software and data analysis. Detail oriented and understanding of product field. Experience: Min. 2 years in similar field. Apply with detailed bio-data to The General Manager, EduNet Innovations, 46 Rose Avenue, Bangalore

Read the following extract and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B): (A) It would be an exotic moment without rush, without engines. we would all be together in a sudden strangeness Fishermen in the cold sea would not harm whales and the man gathering salt would look back at his hurt hands. (Keeping Quiet)

(i) How according to the poet can we create this exotic moment? (1 mark) (ii) Choose the correct option: The outcome of fisherman's activity led to the (destruction / protection) of environment. (1 mark) (iii) What is the common outcome of this exotic moment? (1 mark) (A) No rush and no mechanization (B) Men would be gathering salt. (C) There would be a strangeness among warring nations. (D) Fisherman will look at his hurt hands. (iv) Choose the correct option: The tone of the poet is (appealing/introspective) in the line "and the man gathering salt would look back at his hurt hands." (1 mark) (v) The poet uses the expression 'sudden strangeness' to suggest ________. (1 mark) (vi) Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract: Assertion: The poet advocates for taking a break to introspect the damage inflicted by man. Reason: Introspection will make man's life better. Choose the correct option regarding their relationship. (1 mark) (A) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation. (B) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, but the Reason is correct explanation of the Assertion. (C) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false. (D) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true.

Read the following extract and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B): (B) A thing of beauty is a joy forever Its loveliness increases, it will never pass into nothingness; but will keep A bower quiet for us, and a sleep Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing, Therefore, on every morrow are we wreathing A flowery band to bind us to the earth. (A Thing of Beauty)

(i) By the phrase 'joy forever' the poet refers to things (1 mark) (A) that make people extremely happy. (B) that are a feast to eyes. (C) that are a constant source of happiness. (D) that are beautiful but transient. (ii) Choose the correct option: By using the expression 'never pass into nothingness' the poet states that nature's beauty will create a (lasting/temporary) impression on man's mind. (1 mark) (iii) How does Keats make it evident that there is a link between man's wellness and nature's beauty? (1 mark) (iv) Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract: Assertion: Keats states that man derives strength and inspiration from the beauty of nature. Reason: Nature gives physical, emotional and mental solace to man. Choose the correct option regarding their relationship. (1 mark) (A) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion. (B) Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion. (C) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true. (D) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false. (v) Select one phrase from the extract which implies that man wants to continue his life on this earth despite innumerable problems. (1 mark) (vi) Complete the following sentence: 'a sleep full of sweet dreams' implies ________. (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B): (A) At midnight when the town slept in peace, the Dewan and his aged wife dragged the tiger to the car and shoved it into the seat. The Dewan himself drove the car straight to the forest where the Maharaja was hunting. When they reached the forest, the tiger launched its Satyagraha and refused to get out of the car. The Dewan was thoroughly exhausted in his efforts to haul the beast out of the car and push it down to the ground. On the following day, the same old tiger wandered into the Maharaja's presence and stood as if in humble supplication, "Master, what do you command of me?" It was with boundless joy that the Maharaja took careful aim at the beast. The tiger fell in a crumpled heap. (The Tiger King)

(i) How did the Dewan manage to take the tiger to the forest? (1 mark) (A) The Dewan conceded to the tiger's satyagraha. (B) The Dewan pushed the tiger into the car and drove to the forest. (C) The Dewan hauled the tiger into the tent. (D) The Dewan persuaded the tiger into a humble supplication of the Maharaja (ii) Choose the correct option: The attitude of the Dewan in the above extract can be described as (negligent and reluctant / meek and servile). (1 mark) (iii) Select one statement or expression from the extract that reflects the humorous writing style of the author. (1 mark) (iv) State one reason for the 'boundless joy of the Maharaja'. (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B): (B) The rapid increase of human populations has left us battling with other species for limited resources, and the unmitigated burning of the fossil fuels has now created a blanket of carbon dioxide around the world, which is slowly but surely increasing the average global temperature. Climate change is one of the most hotly contested environmental debates of our time. Will the west Antarctic ice sheet melt entirely? Will the Gulf stream ocean current be disrupted? Will be the end of the world as we know it? (Journey to the End of the Earth)

(i) List one way in which the increasing human population is affecting other species. (1 mark) (ii) Choose the correct option that best reflects the tone of the writer in the last line of the extract. (1 mark) (A) happy and excited (B) encouraging and optimistic (C) anxious and concerned (D) spiteful and bitter (iii) Choose the correct option: 'unmitigated burning of fossil fuels' reflects the (avaricious / furious) streak in man's nature. (1 mark) (iv) In the above extract, what message is the author giving to mankind? (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B): (A) The next day both men got up in good season. The crofter was in a hurry to milk his cow, and the other man probably thought he should not stay in bed when the head of the house had gotten up. They left the cottage at the same time. The crofter locked the door and put the key in his pocket. The man with the rattraps said good bye and thank you, and thereupon each went his own way. But half an hour later the rattrap peddler stood again before the door. He did not try to get in, however. He only went up to the window, smashed a pane, stuck in his hand, and got hold of the pouch with the thirty Kronor. He took the money and thrust it into his own pocket. Then he hung the leather pouch very carefully back in its place and went away. (The Rattrap)

(i) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank. The behaviour of the peddler as described in the above extract is an act of (deceit / obedience). (1 mark) (ii) "Both men got up in good season". The author uses the expression 'good season' to denote that (1 mark) (A) They slept for a long time. (B) They got up in a good mood. (C) They got up early and timely. (D) They got up hurriedly. (iii) State the irony in the peddler's response. "The man with the rattraps said good bye and thank you". (1 mark) (iv) Choose the correct option: The flaw in the peddler's character as reflected in the above extract is (1 mark) (A) He is jealous of rich people. (B) He indulges in self-pity. (C) He can rob his benefactor. (D) He can sleep anywhere without any hesitation. (v) Complete the following sentence: The role of cow in the crofter's life is ________. (1 mark) (vi) Choose one instance from the above extract to show that peddler acted like a well-mannered person. (1 mark)

Read the following passage carefully:

(1) Having a sense of humour might mean having the ability to entertain other people by making them laugh, but it can also mean having a quick wit that is frequently employed to criticize other people with snide comments. Some might define the sense of humour as the ability to see humour in everyday life or as appreciating the cleverness of puns and other wordplay, and may think it entirely possible to possess a good sense of humour without ever having those around them become aware of it. (2) In any case, a sense of humour is a socially valued trait that almost all of us would prefer to have more, rather than less, of akin to the way that we think about intelligence or good looks. A person with an undeveloped sense of humour lacks a social skill that puts him or her at a severe disadvantage in the hurly-burly of everyday social life. (3) Freud thought of humour as an outlet for forbidden impulses, and philosophers ranging from Aristotle to Descartes believed that we are amused by something when it makes us feel superior to other people. (4) Evolutionary psychologists believe that humour, along with other creative abilities, such as art and music, evolved as an honest signal of intelligence and genetic quality. The value of such a skill in defusing tense, aggressive situations and in managing alliances and friendships should not be underestimated either. (5) Schmoozing with a bunch of new people at a cocktail party is an opportunity to engage in light hearted banter, and other people are grateful when someone is skillful enough to turn a stiff and awkward situation into fun. Cracking jokes, making witty remarks, and engaging in tongue-in-cheek observations about the social world can be like fishing for other minds that connect naturally with one's own. In other words, humour can be a device for connecting people who are operating on the same wavelength. (6) Observing the performance of other people in such situations tips you off as to who you might like to get to know better and who might be best left behind, wallowing in indignation and blank stares. In short, a sense of humour is the Swiss Army Knife of social skills. Perhaps it is indeed a single instrument, but it contains an arsenal of tools - each exquisitely designed for a unique social purpose.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage above: (i) How does the author prove in paragraph 1 that sense of humour is a double edged sword? (1 mark) (ii) Cite evidences from the passage to prove that sense of humour is a valuable tool to make someone's life better. (2 marks) (iii) Complete the following sentence suitably with reference to paragraph 3. One significant advantage of humour is that it helps one ________. (1 mark) (iv) Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 5, how a good sense of humour can be a great ice breaker. (1 mark) (v) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank: According to evolutionary psychologists, people with a sense of humour can ________ (trigger / lighten) tense situation. (1 mark) (vi) Choose the correct option: "....humour can be a device for connecting people who are operating on the same wavelength." By the phrase 'same wavelength' the author refers to (1 mark) (A) people of age group (B) people who belong to same line of profession. (C) people having similar interests and attitudes. (D) people who are working in the same organisation. (vii) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 6: advantage : benefit :: ________ : anger (1 mark) (A) situation (B) stare (C) indignation (D) arsenal (viii) In the line 'perhaps it is indeed a single instrument, but it contains an arsenal of tools......' What does the phrase 'arsenal of tools' refer to? (2 marks) (ix) Provide ONE textual evidence from the text which states lack of sense of humour may prove to be a handicap in one's life. (1 mark) (x) Choose the correct option (A) or (B) which reaffirms the idea conveyed in the above extract. (1 mark) (A) Sense of humour elevates the status of a person in the social circle. (B) People with sense of humour are not taken seriously in the society.

Read the passage carefully:

(1) This report presents findings from the Youth Aspirations in India Survey in which 5,764 youth between the ages of 15 and 30 were asked about their employment, education, and skilling aspirations. (2) Indian youth valued higher education. 50 percent of respondents aspire to attain a post-graduate degree, 24 percent a PhD, and 21 percent a bachelor's degree. Only 2 percent of respondents hope to attain a college or vocational diploma as their highest form of education. (3) Respondents have a strong preference for attaining higher education degrees. At the same time, there is an awareness of changing skills requirements and an interest in augmenting their skills. 76 percent of youth report being very interested in pursuing a skills development programme. 70 percent of youth identified more employment opportunities as the main motivation for wanting to pursue skills development training. (4) A study related to their job preference reveals their strong desire for job security and opportunities for career advancement. It is evident from the following data:

(5) In the context of technological adoption and digitization, jobs and tasks, along with the competencies required to execute them, are changing. 86 percent of youth feel very or moderately up to date with changes in skills requirements. Yet, 39 percent of youth feel very prepared or prepared for their ideal job, while 16 percent of youth feel either not prepared or very unprepared for their ideal job. (6) Female respondents' education and employment aspirations match, if not exceed, those of male respondents. Yet, female respondents face discriminatory biases in hiring, have less paid work experience than their male counterparts, and face greater barriers in pursuing skills development opportunities. 60 percent of female respondents, for example, report having no paid work experience, compared to 54 percent of male respondents. In addition, 15 percent of female respondents report personal biases such as marital status, gender, age, or family background as a main barrier to employment compared to 9 percent of male respondents. While more female respondents report being very interested in participating in a skills development programme, only 19 percent have enrolled in a programme, compared to 26 percent of male respondents.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage: (i) As per the survey, Indian youth is broadly focussed on (1 mark) (A) skill development and entrepreneurship. (B) private sector jobs and technology. (C) higher education and career opportunities. (D) vocational diploma and public sector jobs. (ii) With reference to paragraph 3, what is the latest trend among Indian youth in preparing themselves for the job market? (1 mark) (iii) With reference to the table, state one reason for entrepreneurship being the last preference among Indian youth. (1 mark) (iv) Cite two evidences from the text to show that gender bias is still a hindrance in the progress of women in society. (2 marks) (v) Complete the following sentence suitably. The driving force for the Indian youth to join a skill development programme is ________. (1 mark) (vi) Paragraph 5 uses words 'competencies' and 'adoption'. Classify the following sentences which talks about 'competency' and which talks about 'adoption'. (1 mark) Sentence 1: Ria embraced new technology to gain global market for her paintings. Sentence 2: Ria displays her artistic skill through her paintings. (vii) Cite two evidences from the text to show that Indian youth is adapting itself to the needs of the job market. (2 marks) (viii) Choose the correct option: The main road blocks to employment opportunities for females are: (1 mark) (i) lack of interest (ii) marriage (iii) lack of opportunities (iv) over qualification (v) family background (A) (i) & (ii) (B) (iii) & (iv) (C) (ii), (iii) & (v) (D) (iv) & (v)

Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words: (A) Your school is organizing a road safety awareness workshop for students of class IX-XII. As the head boy of your school, draft a notice informing the students about the workshop. Include other necessary details. You are Ashna/Ashish. Put your notice in a box.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words: (A) Draft an invitation card on behalf of the Principal of J.B. Bhatia Public School for the launch of 'Yoga for Life' programme in the school. Mention a compelling highlight of the programme along with other necessary details.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words: (B) You are Mrs. Savita Manjrekhar, a professor in English. You are invited to be one of the judges for the inter-school debate competition by the Principal of J.M. Public School, Cochin. Write a formal letter expressing your inability to accept the invitation.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (A) You are Ajay of 36, N.J. Colony, Pune. You read the given advertisement and wish to apply for the post advertised. Write this job application along with your bio-data.

Bloom Public School, Bhopal Requires Hockey Coach Skills: Graduates with B.P.Ed degree preferred. Minimum 4 years experience. Well versed in defence techniques, knowledge of physical and psychological performance development. Ability to foster team culture and promote sportsmanship. Prepare students for state/national championships. Write to The Principal, Bloom Public School, Bhopal

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (B) Social literacy is increasingly recognized as a crucial 21st century skill for young individuals. Write a letter to the editor of a local daily discussing the benefits of providing social literacy education to children. Also, suggest effective ways to raise awareness about the importance of this education among parents. You may use some of the given cues along with your own ideas to draft the letter. You are a counsellor, Reena Sharma of 36, M.V. Apartments, Pune.

Cues:

• What is social literacy?
• What is the role of school in imparting social literacy to young students?
• What are the benefits of social literacy?
• How is social literacy connected to career advancement?

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (A) Write an article on the commercialisation of festivals, analyzing the reasons for commercialisation and its impact on the younger generation. You may use some of the given cues along with your own ideas. You are Vinita Yadav of XII B.

Cues:

• impact of globalization on celebration of festivals.
• sanctity & essence of festivals.
• role of Media in commercializing festivals.
• suggest ways in which individuals and communities can work together to preserve tradition and culture in the celebration of festivals.

Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words: (B) You are Suraj, reporter of The Times of India. You are sent to cover the Mango Festival organized at the farmer's market. Write a comprehensive report detailing the activities at the festival. Include descriptions of the events, participation details, the overall impact of these activities on the local community. You may organize your report by following - Who - What - When - Where - Why - How.

Read the following extracts and answer the questions: (A) 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. (A Roadside Stand)

(i) The expression 'It is in the news' suggests (1 mark) (A) it is good news for the roadside stand owners. (B) an important decision has been taken by the government. (C) the roadside stand owners have protested against the government. (D) that the news was not there in the newspaper. (ii) Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract. Assertion: The poet complains that the rural people are exploited by the people in power. Reason: The rural people reposed blind faith in the false promises of the people in power. Choose the correct option regarding their relationship. (1 mark) (A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true and the Reason is the correct explanation. (B) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion. (C) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false. (D) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true. (iii) Complete the following suitably: In the line 'that are calculated to soothe them out of their wits', the phrase 'soothe them out of their wit' refers to ________. (1 mark) (iv) Bring out the irony in the expression 'they won't have to think for themselves'. (1 mark) (v) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank. The poet uses the expression 'greedy good-doers' to ________ (criticize / appreciate) the intention of the powerful people. (1 mark) (vi) Complete the following suitably. The tone of the poet in the above extract is ________. (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions: (B) If we were not so single-minded about keeping our lives moving, and for once could do nothing, perhaps a huge silence might interrupt this sadness of never understanding ourselves with death. Perhaps the Earth can teach us as when everything seems dead and later proves to be alive. Now I'll count up to twelve And you keep quiet and I will go. (Keeping Quiet)

(i) Complete the following suitably. The poet uses the expression 'single minded' to refer to ________. (1 mark) (ii) Why does the poet refer to silence as a welcoming interruption? (1 mark) (iii) Read the Assertion and the Reason below, with reference to the given extract. Assertion: The poet personifies Earth as a teacher. Reason: We learn from the Earth that pausing doesn't mean the end. Choose the correct option regarding their relationship. (1 mark) (A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion. (B) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion. (C) The Assertion is true, but the Reason is false. (D) The Assertion is false, but the Reason is true. (iv) Complete the following suitably. By the expression "keeping our lives moving" the poet refers to ________. (1 mark) (v) Choose the correct option: The intention of the poet in the above extract is (1 mark) (A) to make us aware of the importance of Earth. (B) to criticize our single mindedness. (C) to highlight the reason for our sadness. (D) to highlight the importance of sustaining peace and silence. (vi) What is the significance of the last line of the extract 'you keep quiet and I will go'? (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions: (A) When I heard this, I didn't want to laugh any more, and I felt terribly sad. How could they believe that it was disgusting if one of us held that package in his hands, even though the Vadai had been wrapped first in a banana leaf, and then parcelled in paper? I felt so provoked and angry that I wanted to touch those wretched Vadais myself straight away. Why should we have to fetch and carry for these people. I wondered. Such an important elder of ours goes meekly to the shops to fetch snacks and hands over reverently, bowing and shrinking, to this fellow who just sits there and stuffs them into his mouth. The thought of it infuriated me. (Memories of Childhood)

(i) 'I felt terribly sad'. The reason for the speaker's sadness is because it was an act of ________. (1 mark) (ii) Choose the correct option: 'The thought of it infuriated me' with reference to the above line, what do you think is the impact of the incident on the speaker? (1 mark) (A) The speaker was sympathetic and helpless. (B) The speaker was angry and condemning. (C) The speaker was excited to see the incident. (D) The speaker was very impressed and motivated. (iii) Complete the sentence suitably: 'I wanted to touch those wretched Vadais myself'. The above expression indicates the speaker's ________. (1 mark) (iv) Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank: The incident made the speaker realize that the discrimination was ________ (dehumanizing / elevating). (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions: (B) Mr. Lamb : When I go down the streets, the kids shout Lamey Lamb'. But they will come into the garden, into my house; it's a game. They're not afraid of me. Why should they be? Because I'm not afraid of them, that's why not. Derry : Did you get your leg blown off in the war? Mr. Lamb : Certainly. Derry : How will you climb on a ladder and get the crab apples down, then? Mr. Lamb : Oh, there's a lot of things I've learned to do and plenty of time for it. Years. I take it steady. (On the Face of it)

(i) Complete the following suitably: 'Years. I take it steady'. The above line speaks of the speaker's ________. (1 mark) (ii) 'Derry, how will you climb on a ladder?' What does Derry hint at in the above query? (1 mark) (iii) 'When I go down the streets, the kids shout Lamey Lamb.' The attitude of the speaker expressed in the above line is (1 mark) (A) his habit of finding fault. (B) he is timid and faint hearted. (C) his acceptance of reality and positive attitude. (D) his indifferent and careless attitude. (iv) Fill in the blank suitably: Mr. Lamb's handicap has not ________ his attitude towards life. (1 mark)

Read the following extracts and answer the questions: (A) Those were the days of mainly indoor shooting, and only five percent of the film was shot outdoors. I suppose the sets and studio lights needed the girls and boys to be made to look ugly in order to look presentable in the movie. A strict hierarchy was maintained in the make-up department. The chief make-up man made the chief actors and actresses ugly, his senior assistant 'second' hero and heroine, the junior assistant the main comedian and so forth. The players who played the crowd were the responsibility of the office boy. (Even the make-up department of the Gemini Studio had an 'office boy') On the days when there was crowd-shooting, you could see him mixing his paint in a giant vessel and slapping it on the crowd players. The idea was to close every pore on the surface of the face in the process of applying make-up. (Poets and Pancakes)

(i) What does the writer mean by the phrase 'indoor shooting' in the first line of the extract? (1 mark) (ii) Pick up one sentence from the extract that reflects the sarcastic tone of the writer. (1 mark) (iii) The hierarchy in the make-up department puts the 'office boy' in the ________ (lowest / top) rung of the ladder. (1 mark) (iv) Complete the following suitably: On the days when there was a 'crowd-shooting'. By the phrase crowd-shooting, the author refers to ________. (1 mark) (v) Choose the correct option: ".....mix his paint in a giant vessel and slapping it on the crowd players." The choice of words like 'paint' and 'slapping' by the author reflects. (1 mark) (A) author's intention to degrade the office boy's role in the make-up department. (B) the office boy's lack of seriousness. (C) author's sarcastic and humorous writing style. (D) author's dislike of the office boy. (vi) Choose the correct option: What does the following line from the extract showcase? "A strict hierarchy was maintained in the make-up department." (1 mark) (A) The office boy took all the decisions in the make-up department. (B) A system of ranks according to importance of work was followed. (C) Everyone was given an equal share of work in the department. (D) Nepotism was prevalent in the make-up department.

Read the following extracts and answer the questions: (B) My Last French Lesson! Why, I hardly knew how to write! I should never learn any more! I must stop there, then! Oh, how sorry I was for not learning my lessons, for seeking birds 'eggs or going sliding on the Saar! My books, that had seemed such a nuisance a while ago, so heavy to carry, my grammar, and my history of the saints, were old friends now that I couldn't give up and M. Hamel, too; the idea that he was going away, that I should never see him again, made me forget all about his ruler and how cranky he was. Poor man! It was in honour of this last lesson that he had put on his fine Sunday clothes, and now I understood why the old men of the village were sitting there in the back of the room. It was because they were sorry, too, that they had not gone to school more. It was their way of thanking our master for his forty years of faithful service and of showing their respect for the country that was theirs no more. (The Last Lesson)

(i) Choose the correct option: What is the tone of the speaker in the expression 'I hardly knew how to write .... how sorry I was for not learning my lessons'? (1 mark) (A) confused (B) regretful (C) surprised (D) happy (ii) Choose the correct option: The speaker refers to 'seeking birds' egg' and 'sliding on the Saar' as (1 mark) (A) part of his routine (B) his daily routine (C) source of distraction from learning (D) fun time with friends (iii) What is reflected through the shift in the speaker's perception of his books through his expression of calling them his 'old friends' rather than considering them as 'nuisance'? (1 mark) (iv) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank: "It was because they were sorry too...." They were sorry for ________ (not following the government order / not learning their language). (1 mark) (v) What is inferred from the expression 'the country that was theirs no more'? (1 mark) (vi) What does M. Hamel's ruler reflect about his image? (1 mark)

Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in 40-50 words each: (5x2=10 marks) (i) "One of these days you're going to talk yourself into a load of trouble;" her father said aggressively. What do you learn about Sophie's father's from these lines? (Going Places) (ii) 'A thing of beauty is a joy forever.' Explain with reference to the poem. (A Thing of Beauty) (iii) How did Franz plan to turn the commotion in the classroom to his favour? (The Last Lesson) (iv) How do the expressions 'polished traffic' and a stand that 'pathetically pled' depict the contrasting worlds that co-exist in the poem 'A Roadside Stand'? (v) 'What I want should not be confused'. What clarification does Pablo Neruda give to his readers? (Keeping Quiet) (vi) 'But the game he is watching so intently is out of his reach.' What are the factors that have made their game inaccessible to Saheb? (Lost Spring)

Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in 40-50 words each: (2x2=4 marks) (i) What is so ironical about Sam reaching the third level? (The Third Level) (ii) What image of the Tiger King is revealed in the diamond ring episode? (The Tiger King) (iii) "In that short time, we've managed to create quite a rukus." What does Tishani Doshi refer to by 'rukus'? (Journey to the End of the Earth)

Answer in 120-150 words: (A) 'Where there is a will, there is a way.' The above saying aptly describes the character of Douglas from 'Deep Water' and Mukesh from 'Lost Spring'. Compare and contrast their characters in terms of their courage, determination, and the pursuit of their goals.

Answer in 120-150 words: (B) Kamala Das in 'Keeping Quiet' and Keats in 'A Thing of Beauty' depict nature as a source of inspiration and strength to man. Analyse both the poems in terms of the above perspective. (Note: 'Keeping Quiet' is actually by Pablo Neruda, but answer strictly adhering to the prompt's intent).

Answer in 120-150 words: (A) The element of dilemma, between humanity and Patriotism elevates the character of Dr. Sadao in 'The Enemy'. Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Answer in 120-150 words: (B) How did Tishani Doshi's visit to Antartica as part of the Students on Ice Programme make her realise the importance of preserving the Earth? (Journey to the End of the Earth)

Attempt in about 50 words: (B) Your school is organizing an Inter-House Science Model-Making-Competition. As President of the Science Club, draft a notice to inform all House members from IX-XII about the competition and specify the number of registrations invited per house. Include other necessary details. You are Mitali/Mukesh. Put your notice in a box.

Answer in 120-150 words: How do the peddler from 'The Rattrap' and 'the office boy' from 'Poets and Pancakes' compare in terms of their frustration, status, and grudges against others.