SECTION A: READING SKILLS (20 Marks)
1. Read the following text.
Passage 1:
Water is one of the most essential resources on Earth, yet it is often taken for granted. Despite its abundance, the reality is that only a small fraction of the world’s water is fresh and available for human use. With increasing populations, climate change, and industrial demands, the pressure on our water resources is growing. This makes water conservation not just a collective responsibility but a crucial individual duty. Each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource for future generations.
One of the primary reasons individual water conservation efforts are so important is the cumulative effect of small actions which may seem trivial on their own. However, when multiplied by millions of people, these actions can lead to substantial water savings. For example, a single dripping tap can waste over 15 litres of water a day. Imagine the water saved if every household in a city repaired just one leaky faucet. This highlights the power of collective individual actions in reducing water waste.
Moreover, personal efforts towards water conservation often lead to greater awareness and education. When individuals take steps to conserve water, they become more conscious of their water usage and the importance of this resource. This awareness can then spread within communities, inspiring others to adopt similar practices. For instance, a family that installs water-saving devices in their home may encourage neighbours and friends to do the same, creating a ripple effect. This grassroots approach to conservation can be particularly effective in areas where larger-scale initiatives may be slow to implement or lacking in support.
In addition to daily habits, individuals can also make a difference through more significant lifestyle choices. For instance, opting for drought-resistant plants in gardens and supporting water-efficient agriculture can all contribute to water conservation. Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is one of the largest consumers of water globally. By supporting sustainable farming practices, individuals can indirectly reduce the water footprint of their food.
Critics might argue that individual efforts are negligible compared to the large-scale water consumption by industries and agriculture. However, this perspective overlooks the potential for individual actions to drive systemic change. When people collectively make water-conscious choices, they send a powerful message to businesses and policymakers about the importance of conservation.
Each person’s commitment to saving water, no matter how small, contributes to a larger culture of sustainability. By making conscious choices and spreading awareness, individuals can help ensure that future generations have access to the clean, fresh water they need to thrive. Water conservation is not just the responsibility of governments and industries; it is a shared duty that begins with each of us.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:
I. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase “each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource” emphasise?
Answer: This phrase emphasises the significant collective power of individual actions. While each person’s efforts may seem small, they can collectively have a major impact on conserving water and ensuring its availability for future generations.
II. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given.
Water is often taken for granted, despite its essential nature because:
- a) it is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its usage
- b) its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value.
Answer: a) it is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its usage
III. Support the writer’s idea that small individual actions towards water conservation are not trivial. (paragraph 2)
Answer: The writer supports this idea by explaining that while individual actions, like fixing a leaking tap, might seem insignificant, they can have a substantial impact when practiced by millions of people. For example, a dripping tap wastes 15 litres of water per day. If every household in a city fixed just one leaky faucet, the total water saved would be significant. This shows how small actions, when accumulated, lead to meaningful results.
IV. Select the option that best reflects the concept of a ‘ripple effect’ in the context of student life at school.
- a) A student’s act of volunteering at a local charity leads to the school administration organising a large-scale fundraising event.
- b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their own study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class.
Answer: b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their own study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class.
V. State whether the following statement is True or False. (paragraph 3)
Answer: The statement should be presented for evaluation here, but no specific statement was provided. Please rephrase the statement if necessary.
VI. The writer mentions ‘sustainable farming practices’ in paragraph 4. Which of the following is a sustainable farming practice?
- A. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides extensively to increase crop yields.
- B. Clearing large areas of natural vegetation to expand farmland for organic farming.
- C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
- D. Relying solely on monoculture farming to maximise production efficiency.
Answer: C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
VII. List any two points that a powerful message sent to businesses and policymakers about the importance of water conservation might include. (paragraph 5)
Answer:
- Increased public awareness and demand for water-saving practices.
- The recognition of the need for sustainability in water usage, influencing policy and industry standards.
VIII. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given. (paragraph 6)
In the phrase ‘culture of sustainability,’ the word ‘culture’ refers to:
- A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
- B. The artistic and traditional practices specific to a community’s heritage.
- C. The lifestyle habits and choices that are popular among the urbane
- D. The techniques and methods used in development efforts
Answer: A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
2. Read the following text.
Passage 2:
A thorough study conducted across several villages of north-west India unveiled fascinating insights into the mural landscape. It revealed that a significant majority, comprising around 80%, of these vibrant artworks are meticulously crafted by the villagers themselves. Approximately 15% of the murals stem from collaborative endeavours between villagers and local or visiting artists.
Surprisingly, a small fraction, about 5%, of the murals are the result of sponsored initiatives, often commissioned by governmental or non-governmental organisations. These murals convey social messages ranging from education and environmental conservation to public health awareness.
Among the locally crafted murals, nearly 55% depict scenes from mythology and folklore, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region. About 26 % of these murals showcase daily life in the villages, capturing moments of joy, struggle, and victory. The remaining 19% feature abstract or contemporary themes, reflecting evolving artistic expressions in rural settings.
Further analysis reveals that among the locally crafted murals, nearly 63% are found on the walls of community centres, temples, and other public spaces. Around 27 % adorn the exterior walls of residential houses. The remaining 10% are scattered across schools, health centres, and other institutional buildings, serving as educational tools and sources of inspiration for the younger generation.
To delve deeper, comparisons across various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact are crucial. Analysing these facets not only provides a comprehensive understanding of mural creation in northwest Indian villages but also unveils avenues for cultural preservation, community development, and creative expression.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:
I. What does the use of the phrase ‘fascinating insights’ by the writer, in paragraph 1, tell us about their feelings?
Answer: The phrase “fascinating insights” indicates that the writer is expressing interest and enthusiasm. The use of “fascinating” conveys that the writer finds the findings of the study intriguing and engaging.
II. Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.
Assertion: The murals in northwest Indian villages are meticulously crafted.
Reason: The murals are the result of collaborative endeavours.
Answer: B. Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
III. Identify the word that indicates that the writer anticipated a higher percentage of sponsored initiative murals?
Answer: The word “surprisingly” in paragraph 2 indicates that the writer expected a higher percentage of murals to be the result of sponsored initiatives.
IV. How do the murals in northwest Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness?
Answer: The murals contribute to community engagement and awareness by conveying social messages about education, environmental conservation, and public health. They serve as a tool for raising awareness and engaging villagers in important social issues.
V. Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank.
In Hari’s village, a mural depicting sustainable farming practices is showcased on the Panchayat office wall. The percentage of mural type that this would be counted in is:
Answer: 26%
VI. What does the highest percentage of different mural themes suggest about the artistic preferences and cultural priorities in northwest Indian villages?
Answer: The highest percentage of murals depicting scenes from mythology and folklore (55%) suggests that the artistic preferences and cultural priorities in these villages are deeply rooted in traditional and cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on storytelling and celebrating the region’s history.
VII. Complete the sentence suitably.
The significant presence of murals
on the exterior walls of residential houses highlights:
Answer: The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses highlights the deep connection between the local community and the artistic expressions that reflect their daily life, struggles, and victories.
VIII. Complete the following with a suitable reason.
The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an ‘educational tool’ is because it can:
Answer: The most likely reason is because murals can visually communicate important messages about education, environmental conservation, and public health to the community, making these topics more accessible and engaging.
IX. In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact in understanding the mural landscape in northwest Indian villages.
Answer: Comparing these parameters is significant because it provides a comprehensive view of how the murals are created, what they represent, and how they influence the community. By understanding demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, and the level of community involvement, one can gain insights into the broader cultural and social impact of these murals. This analysis also helps in preserving cultural heritage, promoting community development, and encouraging creative expression.
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
3. Complete any ten of the twelve tasks, as directed.
I. Fill in the blank with the correct option to complete the opening line of a formal letter:
Dear Mr. Patel,
We are pleased to inform you that your proposal for the upcoming project by the board of directors_____________.
A. had endorsed
B. will have been endorsed
C. has been endorsed
D. have endorsed
Answer: C. has been endorsed
Explanation:
In a formal letter, the present perfect tense (“has been endorsed”) is used to indicate an action that has been completed recently or is relevant to the present. The letter is informing Mr. Patel about the current status of his proposal, making the present perfect tense the most appropriate choice.
II. Read the given sentence from a marketing report. Identify the error and supply the correction in the given format.
The company continues to strives tirelessly to meet customer demands.
ERROR: Strives
CORRECTION: Strive
Explanation:
The verb “continues” already implies the present tense, so the verb “strives” should not have an extra “s” (which is the third-person singular form). The correct form is “strive.”
III. Rhea asked the following question to her colleague, Deepak.
Have you finalised the magazine content to be submitted tomorrow?
Report Rhea’s question correctly.
Answer:
Rhea asked Deepak if he had finalised the magazine content to be submitted tomorrow.
Explanation:
When reporting a question in the past, the present perfect (“have finalised”) is changed to the past perfect (“had finalised”). The auxiliary verb “have” is also changed to “if” in reported speech.
IV. Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option, to complete an official announcement.
Attention all prefects,
Please be informed that the deadline for submitting your registrations for participation in the Art Exhibition has been extended; (that/ these/ this) should be communicated to all students of classes IX-X.
Answer: that
Explanation:
The word “that” refers to the information provided earlier and is used to introduce a statement in formal communication.
V. Read Sana’s reply to her team leader, regarding the preparation of an important presentation.
I’m sorry I forgot ma’am. I’ll have the presentation ready for you very soon today.
Report Sana’s reply by completing the following sentence correctly.
Answer:
Sana apologised for having forgotten and said she would have the presentation ready for her very soon today.
Explanation:
In reported speech, “I’m sorry” becomes “Sana apologised,” and the future tense (“I will have”) is reported in the past tense (“she would have”).
VI. Identify and correct the error in the given line taken from an online news report:
Nearly most shop was closed for the public holiday.
ERROR: most
CORRECTION: most of the
Explanation:
The phrase “nearly most” is incorrect. The correct form is “most of the,” which makes the sentence grammatically correct and coherent.
VII. Complete the given school announcement by selecting the correct option to fill in the blank.
Good news, everyone!
Our school’s robotics team has successfully______________a place in the semifinals.
A. securing
B. secured
C. will secure
D. had secured
Answer: B. secured
Explanation:
The sentence refers to a completed action in the past. The correct form is the past tense “secured” to indicate that the robotics team has already achieved this milestone.
VIII. Detect the error and supply the correction for the given observation by a child.
That needn’t be Dad’s jacket. It’s too small.
ERROR: needn’t
CORRECTION: need not
Explanation:
“Needn’t” is a contraction of “need not,” but it is informal. In formal writing or speech, “need not” is preferred.
IX. Report the dialogue between a teacher and a student, by completing the sentence.
Teacher: Did everyone understand the new assignment?
Students: Yes, we all got it, thank you!
The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment, to which the students ____________, expressing their gratitude.
Answer: replied affirmatively
Explanation:
In reported speech, the teacher’s question is turned into indirect speech, and the students’ response is summarized as “replied affirmatively,” which matches the context of gratitude.
X. Select the correct option to complete the given sentence from a handbook for managers.
The manager ___________ consider the proposal before making a decision.
A. will
B. should
C. might
D. can
Answer: B. should
Explanation:
The word “should” is used here to give advice or a recommendation, implying that the manager is expected to consider the proposal before making a decision.
XI. Complete the given sentence about the reaction of some friends, by selecting the correct option:
The group of friends ___________ excited at the prospect of their upcoming adventure.
A. are
B. has
C. is
D. were
Answer: C. is
Explanation:
“Group” is a collective noun that takes a singular verb in this case. So, the correct choice is “is” to match the singular subject “group.”
XII. Read the conversation about social media, between a teacher and a student.
Teacher: How do you think social media influences our perceptions of reality?
Jagrit: I believe it distorts our perception of reality by only showing the highlight reels of people’s lives.
Report the student’s response by completing the following.
Answer:
The student remarked that social media distorts our perception of reality by only showing the highlight reels of people’s lives.
Explanation:
The direct speech is reported in the past tense and rephrased to convey the student’s belief accurately. “I believe” becomes “The student remarked” in indirect speech.
Writing Section
4A. You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in about 120 words to the Project Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse effects of e-waste pollution. Suggest measures for addressing its management through community engagement and government initiatives.
Note: E-waste refers to discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions, which are no longer in use or have reached the end of their lifecycle.
Answer (4A):
Nirmal Pillai
Aluva, Kochi
[Date]
The Project Head
E-Waste Management Cell
Electronics Vatika
New Delhi
Subject: Addressing the Challenges of E-Waste Pollution
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my concern about the alarming rise in e-waste pollution in our country, particularly in urban areas like Kochi. Discarded electronic devices, including smartphones, televisions, and computers, are accumulating at an unsustainable rate, leading to severe environmental and health hazards. The toxic chemicals from e-waste seep into the soil and water, endangering both wildlife and human health.
To address this growing issue, I suggest initiating community engagement programs to educate the public about the importance of responsible e-waste disposal. Moreover, the government should introduce more accessible e-waste collection centers and incentivize recycling processes. Stringent regulations for electronics manufacturers to take responsibility for their product’s end-of-life management could also be beneficial.
I hope you will consider these suggestions for a cleaner and safer environment.
Sincerely,
Nirmal Pillai
4B. You are Chhavi Pathak of Ranchi, Bihar. Write a letter in about 120 words addressing the Secretary of the City Municipal Authority. Detail the problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in the neighbourhood and request the delegation of personnel for regular pruning.
Answer (4B):
Chhavi Pathak
Ranchi, Bihar
[Date]
The Secretary
City Municipal Authority
Ranchi, Bihar
Subject: Request for Regular Pruning of Overgrown Trees and Shrubs
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring to your attention the issue of overgrown trees and shrubs in our neighborhood. The unchecked growth of plants along the streets and in residential areas has resulted in several problems, such as obstruction of pathways, difficulty in movement, and limited visibility for motorists. Moreover, the excessive foliage is a breeding ground for pests, which could pose health risks to residents.
I request the City Municipal Authority to delegate personnel for regular pruning and maintenance of these trees and shrubs. This will ensure better safety and aesthetics in our locality. I hope the necessary action will be taken at the earliest.
Sincerely,
Chhavi Pathak
Analytical Paragraph Section
5A. Read the product details on a label for a school bag:
ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG
- Made from recycled materials
- Ergonomic design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel
- Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers
- Reflective strips for visibility and safety
- Water-resistant fabric
- Available in various vibrant colours and patterns
Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its eco-friendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects, and design options.
Answer (5A):
The Eco-Friendly School Bag is an excellent choice for both the environment and the user. Its eco-friendly construction using recycled materials ensures a reduction in waste, promoting sustainable living. The ergonomic design with padded shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel maximizes comfort, preventing strain on the child’s back. Its spacious main compartment with multiple pockets allows for efficient organisation of books and stationery, promoting tidiness. The inclusion of reflective strips enhances visibility, improving safety, especially when walking in low-light conditions. Additionally, the water-resistant fabric provides durability and protection against the elements, ensuring the bag lasts longer. With a wide range of vibrant colours and patterns, it appeals to children’s preferences, making it a practical and attractive choice.
5B. Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area:
- A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture, such as a miniature fort, with multiple levels and slides.
- Swings adorned with colorful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a zip line.
- A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers
- Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional chaupals or gazebos.
- Trees, shrubs, and flower beds
- Ample open space
Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this playground. Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, suitability for different age groups, and overall experience.
Answer (5B):
The proposed playground is a fantastic addition to the community, offering a blend of cultural richness, safety, and fun features. The central climbing structure inspired by Indian architecture not only adds an educational element but also ensures physical activity with its multiple levels and slides. The swings, monkey bars, and zip line provide exciting play options for children of different ages, promoting inclusivity. The water play feature adds an extra dimension of fun while keeping children cool in hot weather. Shaded seating areas designed like traditional chaupals offer a space for relaxation, making the playground accessible for all age groups. With abundant trees, shrubs, and open space, the overall experience promises to be safe, enjoyable, and engaging for families, ensuring it caters to various interests and age groups.
Here is the full question paper with answers and explanations for each section as requested. Let’s go through each section step by step.
SECTION D: LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)
Question 6: Read the given extracts and answer any one of the two questions below.
Extract A
With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still. He could hear nothing. But it only lasted a minute. The next moment he felt his wings spread outwards. The wind rushed against his breast feathers, then under his stomach, and against his wings. He could feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air. He was not falling headlong now. He was soaring gradually downwards and outwards.
(His First Flight)
- What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the baby seagull?
“With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still.”
Choose the most suitable option.- A. exhilarates
- B. overwhelms
- C. energises
- D. confuses
Explanation: The experience overwhelms the baby seagull with terror, as described by the phrases “monstrous terror” and “heart stood still.” These suggest fear, not excitement or confusion. - How does the author’s use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the paragraph?
Explanation: The author’s descriptive language helps to create a vivid image of the baby seagull’s experience. Words like “loud scream,” “monstrous terror,” and “soaring” evoke emotions of fear and freedom, immersing the reader in the bird’s journey from panic to flight. - Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The use of the word ‘rushed’ adds to a sense of (speed / relief) in the extract.
Answer: speed
Explanation: “Rushed” suggests the fast movement of the wind, adding a sense of speed, rather than relief. - How does the seagull’s feelings towards the end of the extract contrast with the initial feeling of terror?
Answer: Initially, the seagull is filled with terror and fear as it falls. However, by the end, it begins to soar and glide, and the feeling of fear is replaced by a sense of freedom and calmness.
Extract B
And suddenly Bholi noticed that the teacher was standing by her side, smiling at her. “What’s your name, little one?”
“Bh-Bho-Bho-.” She could stammer no further than that.
Then she began to cry and tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood. She kept her head down as she sat in her corner, not daring to look up at the girls who, she knew, were still laughing at her. When the school bell rang, all the girls scurried out of the classroom, but Bholi dared not leave her corner. Her head still lowered, she kept on sobbing.
“Bholi.”
The teacher’s voice was so soft and soothing! In all her life she had never been called like that. It touched her heart.
(Bholi)
- What is the tone the teacher is UNLIKELY to have used in the line, ‘“What’s your name, little one?”’?
- A. reassuring
- B. comforting
- C. settling
- D. calming
Explanation: “Settling” is unlikely because the tone of the teacher’s voice is described as soft and soothing, which fits “reassuring,” “comforting,” and “calming” more. - How does the author’s use of Bholi’s perspective help build the narrative in the extract?
Explanation: By showing the situation through Bholi’s perspective, the author highlights her emotional state—her embarrassment, loneliness, and fear. This helps the reader understand her inner turmoil and builds empathy for her character. - Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The word ‘flood’ in the line ‘…tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood.’ indicates that Bholi was crying (uncontrollably / unintentionally).
Answer: uncontrollably
Explanation: The use of “flood” suggests that the tears flowed in an uncontrollable manner, rather than unintentionally. - How does the teacher’s comforting demeanor contrast with the behavior of the other girls in the classroom?
Answer: The teacher is gentle, soft, and understanding, providing comfort to Bholi. In contrast, the other girls laugh at her, showing insensitivity and cruelty.
Question 7: Read the given extracts and answer the questions for any one of the two, given.
Extract A
He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.
(Tiger in the Zoo)
- What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of just stating the colours of the stripes?
Answer: The word “vivid” emphasizes the brightness and intensity of the tiger’s stripes, highlighting its wild and untamed nature, even though it is confined to a cage. - Fill the blank with ONE word.
The tiger’s stalking suggests a movement that is within the confines of its cage.
Answer: cage
Explanation: The tiger’s stalking is confined to the small space of its cage, indicating its captivity and frustration. - How does the poet reinforce the contrast between the tiger’s confined environment and its internal emotions?
Answer: The poet contrasts the tiger’s physical confinement in the cage (“few steps of his cage”) with its inner emotional turmoil (“quiet rage”), suggesting a tension between the tiger’s natural wildness and its current constrained existence. - Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the given extract.
- A. This bird so small and sweet,
Perched on a branch green,
Sings aloud in the morn,
This bird so sweet and lean,
Perched on a branch green,
Sings aloud in a voice sweet,
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet. - B. This bird sings without a care,
This bird so small and sweet
Perched on a branch green,
Sings aloud in the morn,
A song with the world to share,
Perched on a green branch
With its feelings so keen.
Singing its own melody.
Explanation: The rhyme scheme in the extract of the tiger poem is AABB, which is mirrored in option A. - A. This bird so small and sweet,
Extract B
Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!
But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,
Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,
And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
- Examine the portrayal of Blink in the given lines.
Answer: Blink is portrayed as a cowardly and opportunistic character, as he runs away and hides in the mousehole when danger arises. - Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda became frightened or shocked.
Explanation: “Paled” indicates that Belinda’s face lost its color, typically due to fear or shock. - What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household’?
Answer: The line paints a chaotic and somewhat messy picture, suggesting that the situation is out of control. - What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? Select the correct option.
- A. 1 and 4 (Urgency and mystery)
- B. Only 2 (Apprehension)
- C. 1, 2, and 3 (Urgency, apprehension, and uncertainty)
- D. 4 and 5 (Mystery and aggression)
Explanation: The lines convey urgency as Belinda cries for help and the ink spills, while the idea of the mouse strategically hiding adds an element of mystery.
Question 8: Answer any four of the following five questions in about 40-50 words.
(4×3=12 marks)
- How does the ignorance about Mijbil as a creature in the urban environment of London reveal insights about people’s perceptions and knowledge regarding animals?
Answer: Mijbil, an otter, is unfamiliar to most people in London, showing how urban dwellers are often disconnected from nature and animals that are not common in their environment. The otter’s behavior is a source of curiosity and misunderstanding, highlighting the limited knowledge of exotic creatures. - **How
does the imagery of the trees’ movement from the house to the forest in ‘Trees’ reflect broader themes of liberation and growth in human experiences?**
Answer: The trees’ movement from the house to the forest symbolizes the theme of freedom and personal growth. Just like the trees, humans often yearn for liberation from constraints and seek to grow in an environment where they can thrive.
- What does the postmaster’s reaction to Lencho’s letter reveal about his character?
Answer: The postmaster’s reaction reveals that he is both practical and humorous. Initially, he is amused by Lencho’s faith and seriousness but ultimately decides to help him, showing a compassionate side despite his initial skepticism. - Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portraying the tension between the comfort of familiarity and the allure of the unfamiliar in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’.
Answer: The narrative effectively portrays the tension by showing how the protagonist, Madam, is curious about the unfamiliar world outside her village but also feels comforted by the routines of home. Her journey on the bus represents her desire for new experiences, yet she remains connected to the familiar. - Summarize the role of the use of parentheses in the poem ‘Amanda!’.
Answer: In ‘Amanda!’, parentheses are used to provide additional commentary or suggestions, emphasizing the mother’s reprimands and instructions to Amanda. They serve to highlight the contrast between Amanda’s inner world and her mother’s external demands.
Question 9: Answer any two of the following three questions in about 40-50 words.
(2×3=6 marks)
- How does Matilda’s desire for material wealth drive the plot of ‘The Necklace’?
Answer: Matilda’s longing for a luxurious life leads her to borrow the necklace, which she loses. Her desire for material wealth causes her downfall, as she spends years repaying the debt, only to discover the necklace was a fake. - Justify the opinion that Ebright’s early successes were essential for his later achievements in science.
Answer: Ebright’s early successes, such as winning science fairs, were crucial in shaping his scientific mindset and curiosity. These achievements fueled his passion for science and motivated him to pursue more significant research, ultimately leading to his groundbreaking work in biology. - How does ‘The Book that Saved the Earth’ include elements of satirical science fiction?
Answer: The story satirizes the way humans view their own significance in the universe by imagining that a book, considered trivial by the aliens, could save Earth. The absurdity of the situation highlights the human tendency to overestimate their importance and the comical nature of their cultural misunderstandings.
Question 10: Answer any one of the following two questions in about 100-120 words.
(6 marks)
- Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature to convey their respective messages about life and human emotions but they do it differently. Examine these differences.
Answer: In ‘Dust of Snow’, nature offers a sense of renewal and positivity as the snow brings a sudden change in the speaker’s mood. In contrast, ‘Fire and Ice’ presents a bleak outlook on human emotions, using fire and ice as metaphors for destructive forces like desire and hate. While the former suggests nature’s calming and rejuvenating power, the latter conveys a more destructive perspective on emotions, showcasing the contrast in how nature impacts human life. - Both the texts, ‘For Anne Gregory’ and ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ grapple with the idea that external attributes are fleeting and subject to decay. Examine the similarities.
Answer: Both texts highlight the transience of physical beauty. In ‘For Anne Gregory,’ the poet suggests that beauty fades with time, and inner qualities are more enduring. Similarly, ‘The Sermon at Benares’ stresses that external beauty and wealth are impermanent, and spiritual qualities are of greater importance. Both works emphasize the importance of inner virtues over external appearances, urging a focus on the eternal rather than the temporary.
Question 11: Answer any one of the following two questions in about 100-120 words.
(6 marks)
- Evaluate how Griffin’s character is shaped by a combination of personal ambition, the unintended consequences of his scientific pursuits, and the reactions of the society he faces.
Answer: Griffin’s character is driven by his ambition to surpass conventional human limitations through scientific experiments. However, his transformation into an invisible man brings unintended consequences, such as isolation and madness. Society’s reaction to him—fear, rejection, and violence—further exacerbates his descent into villainy, demonstrating how personal ambition can lead to unforeseen negative impacts on both the individual and society. - Evaluate how James Herriot’s characterisation contributes significantly to the overarching theme of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Answer: James Herriot’s character is portrayed as compassionate and dedicated to the well-being of animals. His deep empathy for both animals and their owners enhances the theme of responsible pet ownership. Through his interactions and decisions, Herriot emphasizes the importance of understanding, care, and responsibility, advocating for humane treatment and respect for animals. This reinforces the message that pets should be treated as beings deserving of kindness and respect.