SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER
ENGLISH COMMUNICATIVE (Code No. 101)
CLASS-X-(2024-25)
TIME- 3 Hrs. Max. Marks-80
General Instructions:
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
I. This question paper has 12 questions. All questions are compulsory.
II. This question paper contains three sections:
- Section A: Reading Skills
- Section B: Writing Skills
- Section C: Grammar
- Section D: Literature Textbook
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 (22 marks)
1. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
(1) In a world dominated by digital technology, the way we capture, store, and share memories has evolved significantly. Traditional photo albums and digital photo galleries are two primary methods for preserving personal and family memories, each with its own unique characteristics. Though both share the common goal of keeping memories alive, they offer different experiences, advantages, and disadvantages.
(2) Photo albums represent a tangible and tactile way to capture memories. A physical album filled with printed photographs provides a sense of reminiscence and can be passed down through generations, becoming a family heirloom. The process of selecting photos, printing them, and placing them in an album can be a personal and intimate experience, allowing one to reflect on the moments captured.
(3) One of the primary advantages of photo albums is their permanence. Unlike digital files, which can be lost or corrupted, physical photographs in a well-maintained album can last for decades, if not centuries. Albums also provide a sensory experience; flipping through the pages, feeling the texture of the paper, and smelling the aging prints can evoke strong emotional responses.
(4) Additionally, photo albums require little to no technology to enjoy. This makes them accessible to a wider range of people, including those who may not be tech-savvy. Albums can be taken to family gatherings or passed around during holidays, creating a shared experience among family and friends.
(5) However, photo albums come with certain disadvantages. They take up physical space and are vulnerable to damage from environmental factors like water, fire, or sunlight. Albums are also limited in capacity; once they are filled, creating additional albums can become cumbersome. Furthermore, the process of creating a photo album can be time-consuming and costly. Printing photographs, purchasing albums, and maintaining them can add up. Digital photo galleries have transformed the way we capture and share memories. With the rise of smartphones and digital cameras, taking and storing photos has become more convenient than ever.
(6) The main advantage of digital photo galleries is their convenience and capacity. With a single device, you can store thousands of photos and access them from anywhere. Digital galleries also offer powerful organization tools, allowing users to sort and categorize their photos with metadata, tags, and dates. Sharing digital photos is effortless; you can send them via email, social media, or cloud-based platforms, enabling friends and family to enjoy memories instantly. Digital galleries also allow for easy editing and enhancement of photos, helping to correct imperfections and improve quality.
(7) Despite their convenience, digital photo galleries have their drawbacks. The reliance on technology means that photos can be lost due to hardware failure, software corruption, or accidental deletion. Additionally, the ephemeral nature of digital files makes them less tangible and more prone to being overlooked or forgotten among the vast array of digital content. Security and privacy are also concerns with digital galleries. Sharing photos online opens up the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches, leading to potential misuse of personal images.
(8) Ultimately, the choice between traditional photo albums and digital photo galleries depends on personal preferences and priorities. Photo albums offer a tactile, enduring connection to memories, while digital galleries provide convenience, flexibility, and ease of sharing. A combination of both methods can offer the best of both worlds, ensuring that cherished memories are preserved and enjoyed for years to come.
Answer the following questions based on the passage:
I. What do traditional photo albums and digital photo galleries share in common?
A. Both use digital technology to store photos.
B. Both are methods of preserving personal and family memories.
C. Both are tangible and can be passed down through generations.
D. Both rely on external power sources to function.
Answer: B. Both are methods of preserving personal and family memories.
II. What aspect of traditional photo albums makes them a cherished item for families?
A. The convenience of digital technology.
B. The ability to store thousands of photos.
C. The sense of nostalgia they provide.
D. The option to access them from anywhere.
Answer: C. The sense of nostalgia they provide.
III. Complete the following suitably:
The personal experience associated with photo albums is important because _____.
Answer: it allows one to reflect on the moments captured.
IV. Rectify the given false statement:
The main benefit that photo albums have over digital files is the sensory experience.
Answer: The main benefit that photo albums have over digital files is their permanence.
V. List any ONE way the photo albums can contribute to an enjoyable family time.
Answer: Photo albums can be taken to family gatherings or passed around during holidays, creating a shared experience among family and friends.
VI. Why has it become cumbersome to create additional photo albums, according to paragraph 5?
Answer: It has become cumbersome to create additional photo albums because once an album is filled, creating new ones requires more time, effort, and cost.
VII. Why does the writer say that digital cameras have made taking and storing photos ‘more convenient than ever’?
Answer: Digital cameras have made taking and storing photos more convenient because they allow you to store thousands of photos in a single device, and you can access them from anywhere, which simplifies the process.
VIII. How can we say that digital photographs may not always represent reality?
Answer: Digital photographs may not always represent reality because they can be easily edited or enhanced, which may lead to alterations that do not reflect the true essence of the moment.
IX. Explain why we can say that the writer did not choose sides.
Answer: The writer did not choose sides because they presented both traditional photo albums and digital photo galleries with their respective advantages and disadvantages, concluding that a combination of both methods offers the best way to preserve and enjoy memories.
2. Read the following report.
Student Council Unveils School’s First Student-Made Drone Programme
by Tanveer Siddiqui, Secretary, Student Council
Bengaluru, Nov. 10 – The Student Council at ABC School has initiated a ground-breaking project involving the construction and operation of drones made by students. The programme was introduced at the school’s monthly public presentation on November 7, attracting significant interest from students, faculty, and parents alike.
Mr. J. Rao, the school’s vice-principal, and the head of the Student Council, Priya Desai, kicked off the event by explaining the motivation behind the project. They noted that the programme aims to provide students with hands-on experience in technology and engineering while promoting teamwork and creativity. The Student Council collaborated with local engineers and technology experts to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
During the event, the council members demonstrated a live drone flight, showcasing the capabilities of the drones built by the students. They performed a variety of manoeuvres, including aerial photography and obstacle course navigation.
The Student Council has planned several future activities to keep the momentum going. These include a drone-building workshop, a photography contest using the drones, and an inter-school drone race in the spring. The programme is designed to engage students in innovative ways and foster a deeper interest in technology and engineering.
Questions, Options, and Answers:
I. Complete with a suitable reason.
The most likely reason why the student council secretary was chosen to draft the report was because_____
Answer:
The student council secretary was most likely chosen to draft the report because of their position, which likely involves responsibility for communication and record-keeping for the council.
II. Fill in the blank with an appropriate word/phrase.
The term ‘ground-breaking’ project suggests that the project is _____ and reflects a level of creativity.
Answer:
innovative
III. What was the primary goal of the Student Council’s drone programme at National Public School?
A. To encourage teamwork and creativity among students
B. To demonstrate the latest drone technology to the public
C. To generate interest in aerial photography
D. To promote engineering skills and provide hands-on experience
Answer:
A. To encourage teamwork and creativity among students
IV. Who did the Student Council turn to, to ensure safety and regulatory compliance?
1. Faculty and parents
2. Vice-Principal
3. Local Engineers
4. Head of Student Council
5. Technology experts
Select the correct option:
A. Only 1
B. Only 5
C. 2 and 4
D. 3 and 5
Answer:
D. 3 and 5
V. What was the most likely purpose of showcasing the capabilities of the drones during the event?
Answer:
The most likely purpose of showcasing the capabilities of the drones during the event was to demonstrate the students’ achievements, highlight the drones’ functionality, and engage the audience in the innovation of the project.
VI. What in the passage suggests that the live drone demonstration aimed to engage and excite the audience?
Answer:
The passage mentions that during the event, the council members performed a live drone flight, showcasing a variety of manoeuvres, including aerial photography and obstacle course navigation. This demonstration likely aimed to impress and excite the audience with the drones’ capabilities.
VII. What skills are the students expected to develop through the photography contest using drones?
Answer:
Through the photography contest using drones, students are expected to develop skills in drone operation, aerial photography, and creative problem-solving.
VIII. Explain how the Student Council’s drone programme at National Public School aligns with the school’s goals of promoting holistic education.
Answer:
The Student Council’s drone programme aligns with the school’s goals of promoting holistic education by fostering hands-on learning, teamwork, and creativity, while also encouraging an interest in technology and engineering. The programme provides a well-rounded approach by combining technical skills with creative expression, teamwork, and problem-solving.
From:
Preeti Saraswat
Uttarakhand
To:
Principal, [School Name]
Cc:
principal.vjschool@gmail.com
Date:
February 20, 2024, 05:10 PM
Subject:
Request for Early Commencement of Winter Uniform Usage
Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request the early commencement of winter uniform usage for all students, as the weather has become significantly colder. The current uniforms are no longer suitable, and allowing the winter uniform will ensure students’ comfort and well-being during the chilly weather.
Thank you for considering this request.
Sincerely,
Preeti Saraswat
4. Write a factual description, in not more than 100 words, of a puzzle that you purchased for yourself recently.
Answer:
I recently purchased a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle featuring a vibrant cityscape at sunset. The puzzle pieces are made from durable cardboard and fit together perfectly. The design showcases rich colors and fine details, which made it both challenging and enjoyable to complete. This puzzle is not only a relaxing activity but also a decorative piece that I plan to frame once finished. It’s a great way to engage my mind while creating a beautiful image to display in my living room.
5 A. Write a letter to the Mayor of your city, addressing the issue of carelessness in transportation habits and advocating for initiatives to promote car-lessness in the community. Deliberate on the environmental, health, and social benefits of reducing reliance on cars and propose specific measures to encourage alternative modes of transportation. Also, emphasise the importance of community engagement and collaboration in achieving a more sustainable and liveable city.
Use ideas from Unit 3: Science, along with your own to write this letter in not more than 120 words.
Answer:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
To
The Mayor
[City Name]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to address the growing carelessness in transportation habits within our community. Over-reliance on private cars is contributing to traffic congestion, air pollution, and health issues like obesity and respiratory problems. Encouraging car-lessness and promoting alternative modes of transportation such as cycling, walking, and using public transport can bring several benefits.
I propose measures like developing more bike lanes, improving pedestrian pathways, and enhancing public transport facilities. Engaging the community and collaborating with local businesses will be vital in reducing car dependence and creating a more sustainable, healthier, and liveable city.
Thank you for considering this important issue.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
5 B. Write a letter to the Director of the Geological Survey advocating for concerted efforts to preserve and protect geological heritage sites. Discuss the importance of these sites and highlight the threats they face. Propose specific measures to conserve these valuable natural assets and request her for proactive action to safeguard them for future generations.
Use ideas from Unit 4: Environment, along with your own to write this letter in not more than 120 words.
Answer:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
To
The Director
Geological Survey
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to advocate for the preservation of our geological heritage sites, which are valuable natural assets. These sites face significant threats from urbanization, mining, and climate change, which could result in the loss of important geological features.
I urge the Geological Survey to implement stricter regulations, raise awareness, and promote local involvement in conservation efforts. Protecting these sites will not only safeguard our environmental heritage but also enhance educational and scientific research. I kindly request proactive action to preserve these irreplaceable resources for future generations.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6 A. Tourism in India has been on the rise. Write an article in about 150 words, as Gaurav Taneja, X-B, discussing the surge in tourism in India since 2021, highlighting the key factors contributing to its growth. Propose additional recommendations to further boost tourism and predict the trajectory of the industry for the upcoming decade. Use the given cues, along with your own ideas and those you may have gathered from Unit 5: Travel and Tourism, to create this article.
- Factors contributing to the tourism boom.
- Additional recommendations to sustain and enhance tourism.
- Prediction for the future of Indian tourism: Plus, and Minus.
Answer to 6 A:
Tourism Boom in India: A Glimpse into the Future
By Gaurav Taneja, X-B
Tourism in India has been on a rapid rise since 2021, marking a strong recovery after the pandemic disruptions. The key factors contributing to this surge include the easing of international travel restrictions, a renewed interest in domestic tourism, and the Indian government’s efforts to promote lesser-known destinations. The “Incredible India” and “Dekho Apna Desh” campaigns have further encouraged people to explore India’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Additionally, the rise of wellness tourism, particularly in regions like Rishikesh and Kerala, has drawn health-conscious travelers from across the globe.
To sustain this growth, India should focus on developing infrastructure in underexplored areas, enhancing digital tourism services, and promoting eco-tourism. Public-private partnerships could be leveraged to create more eco-friendly tourism options.
Looking ahead, India’s tourism industry is poised for continued expansion, though challenges like overtourism and sustainability will require strategic planning. In the next decade, India’s tourism sector could become one of the top global destinations if managed wisely, offering both growth and environmental responsibility.
OR
6 B. Write an article, in about 150 words, as Gaurav Taneja, X-B, advocating for the implementation of inclusive education practices in schools, focusing on the benefits for students with diverse learning needs. Share advantages and discuss the importance of fostering an inclusive school environment. Additionally, propose any one recommendation for policymakers and educators to promote inclusivity in the education system. Use the given cues, along with your own ideas and those you may have gathered from Unit 2: Education, to create this article.
- Benefits of inclusive education for students with diverse learning needs.
- Importance of fostering an inclusive school environment.
Answer to 6 B:
Inclusive Education: Empowering Every Student
By Gaurav Taneja, X-B
Inclusive education ensures that students with diverse learning needs—whether physical, intellectual, or emotional—are given equal opportunities to succeed in the classroom. By integrating all students into the same educational environment, schools foster empathy, cooperation, and respect. Students with disabilities benefit from the support of specialized teaching methods, while their peers learn valuable lessons in diversity and understanding.
An inclusive environment also boosts academic performance, as teachers employ creative and adaptive teaching techniques that cater to all students. This benefits the entire classroom, enriching the learning experience for everyone.
For policymakers and educators, it is essential to invest in professional development programs for teachers to equip them with the skills needed for inclusive teaching. Training teachers in diverse learning strategies will not only benefit students with special needs but will also create an overall inclusive school environment where every child can flourish.
Section C: Grammar (10 marks)
7 A. Complete the tasks (I) to (III), as directed. Fill the blanks (I) – (III) with the appropriate option from those in the brackets.
(3×1=3)
In order to maintain a balanced lifestyle, we (I) ____ (can/ should/ must) prioritise self-care practices, such as regular exercise and healthy eating habits, to promote overall well-being.
Individuals should also (II) ____ (have engaged/ engage/ being engaged) in mindfulness activities, such as meditation or yoga, to improve mental health.
Additionally, seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals (III) _____ (every / some / any) time one feels overwhelmed can contribute to a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Answer to 7 A:
- (I) must
In order to maintain a balanced lifestyle, we must prioritise self-care practices, such as regular exercise and healthy eating habits, to promote overall well-being. - (II) engage
Individuals should also engage in mindfulness activities, such as meditation or yoga, to improve mental health. - (III) any
Additionally, seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals any time one feels overwhelmed can contribute to a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
7 B. In the following paragraph, one word has been omitted in each line. In your answer sheets, remember to write the missing word along with the word that comes before and after it, as shown below. The first one has been done as an example.
(4×1=4)
Example:
The science is clear: to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, emissions to be reduced by almost half by 2030 and net-zero by 2050.
Missing word: “the”
Paragraph with missing words:
- The science is clear: to avoid worst impacts of climate change, emissions to be reduced by almost half by 2030 and net-zero by 2050.
- Achieve this, we need to end our reliance on fossil fuels and invest in alternative sources of energy that clean, accessible, affordable, sustainable, and reliable.
- The goal is clear, and to achieve it, the world needs to implement policies that emphasize both economic and environmental sustainability.
- These measures should ensure that energy is produced in a way that is both eco-friendly and efficient, reducing the overall carbon footprint while addressing needs of future generations.
Answer to 7 B:
| No. | Text | Word before | Omission | Word after |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | The science is clear: to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, emissions to be reduced by almost half by 2030 and net-zero by 2050. | the | the | worst |
| II | Achieve this, we need to end our reliance on fossil fuels and invest in alternative sources of energy that clean, accessible, affordable, sustainable, and reliable. | on | that | clean |
| III | The goal is clear, and to achieve it, the world needs to implement policies that emphasize both economic and environmental sustainability. | The | policies | that |
| IV | These measures should ensure that energy is produced in a way that is both eco-friendly and efficient, reducing the overall carbon footprint while addressing needs of future generations. | ensure | needs | of |
Summary of Answers for 7 B:
-
- I: the
- II: that
- III: The
- IV: ensure
C. Do as directed. (3 marks)
a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence.
Jumbled Words:
Person X: We, as a nation are integrated into one unit. You know this, right?
Person Y: Er… I do but I’d appreciate knowing a little more please.
Person X: (i) A NATION INTO / NATIONAL INTEGRATION, / UNIFYING DIVERSE COMMUNITIES / A COHESIVE WHOLE, /REFERS TO /IS ESSENTIAL FOR / WITHIN / FOSTERING SOCIAL HARMONY /THE PROCESS OF/ AND STABILITY /WHICH/
Answer to 7a:
Rearranged Sentence:
Person X: The process of national integration, which refers to unifying diverse communities into a cohesive whole, is essential for fostering social harmony and stability within a nation.
b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraph that follows.
Direct Dialogue:
- Student 1: I’ve decided to become a mathematician.
- Student 2: Really? Why?
- Student 1: Because I already excel at dividing my attention between homework and video games!
Reported Speech:
Student 1 told Student 2 that they wanted to become a mathematician. Student 2 was taken by surprise and asked why. Student 1 exclaimed that they excelled at dividing their attention between homework and video games.
Summary of Answers:
- 7a: “The process of national integration, which refers to unifying diverse communities into a cohesive whole, is essential for fostering social harmony and stability within a nation.”
- 7b:
- (I) asked why
- (II) that they excelled at dividing
Section D: Literature Textbook (26 marks)
8. Read the given excerpts and answer the questions briefly, for any two excerpts, of the three, given. (2×4=8)
Excerpt A:
“How amused everyone would be if they knew what really happened,” said Louisa Mebbin a few days after the ball.
“What do you mean?” asked Mrs. Packletide quickly.
“How you shot the goat and frightened the tiger to death,” said Miss Mebbin, with her disagreeably pleasant laugh.
(Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger)
Questions for Excerpt A:
I. What impact did Louisa Mebbin wish to create on Mrs. Packletide with her statement, “How amused everyone would be if they knew what really happened”?
Answer: Louisa Mebbin’s statement was intended to create a sense of unease or embarrassment in Mrs. Packletide. She wanted to hint at the truth behind the incident and imply that it was humorous in a way that would mock Mrs. Packletide’s boasting about killing the tiger. The phrase suggests that Mrs. Packletide’s version of the event was far from accurate, and Louisa’s comment was meant to subtly undermine her.
II. Why did Mrs. Packletide ask Louisa Mebbin what she meant by her comment?
Answer: Mrs. Packletide asked Louisa Mebbin what she meant because she was caught off guard and felt uneasy about Louisa’s remark. She likely did not want Louisa to reveal the truth behind the incident or draw attention to the embarrassing way in which the tiger had been killed (or rather, the way the tiger had been frightened to death by the goat). Mrs. Packletide’s quick response shows her anxiety about the potential of being exposed.
III. What feelings did the speed of Mrs. Packletide’s response reflect? (Any two)
Answer: The speed of Mrs. Packletide’s response reflected:
- Anxiety – She was nervous about Louisa’s comment and wanted to quickly clarify or deflect the conversation to avoid further discomfort.
- Fear – Mrs. Packletide likely feared that Louisa might reveal the embarrassing truth behind the tiger incident, leading to public humiliation.
IV. What does the writer mean by ‘disagreeably pleasant laugh’?
Answer: The phrase “disagreeably pleasant laugh” means that Louisa’s laugh was not genuinely warm or friendly. It was a sarcastic or mocking laugh, which sounded pleasant on the surface but was meant to discomfort or subtly criticize Mrs. Packletide. The “disagreeable” quality indicates that while Louisa’s tone might have seemed lighthearted, it was actually intended to be irritating or unpleasant.
Excerpt B:
“O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts,
And men have lost their reason. Bear with me;
My heart is in the coffin there with Caesar,
And I must pause till it come back to me.”
First Citizen: Methinks there is much reason in his sayings.
Second Citizen: If thou consider rightly of the matter,
Caesar has had great wrong.
(Julius Caesar, Act 3, Scene 2)
I. What does the phrase ‘O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts’ tell us about the speaker’s thoughts?
Answer: The phrase “O judgment! thou art fled to brutish beasts” reflects the speaker’s deep frustration and sense of despair over the loss of reason and rationality in people. The speaker, Mark Antony, is lamenting that judgment (reason) has been replaced by mindless violence and animalistic behavior. He feels that the mob has lost the ability to think logically and has been swayed by emotions, particularly after the assassination of Caesar.
II. Select the line that indicates the speaker’s deep grief and emotional connection with Caesar.
Answer: The line “My heart is in the coffin there with Caesar” indicates the speaker’s deep grief and emotional connection with Caesar. Mark Antony is expressing that he is emotionally devastated by Caesar’s death, and he feels as if a part of him (his heart) has died with Caesar.
III. What do the responses of the First and Second Citizens reflect about the impact of the speaker’s words?
Answer: The responses of the First and Second Citizens reflect the growing influence of Mark Antony’s speech on the crowd.
- First Citizen’s response, “Methinks there is much reason in his sayings,” shows that the crowd is beginning to sympathize with Antony’s viewpoint and sees his words as reasonable and logical.
- Second Citizen’s response, “If thou consider rightly of the matter, Caesar has had great wrong,” reveals that the crowd is now reconsidering the actions taken against Caesar, feeling that Caesar’s murder was unjust. This indicates that Antony’s emotional appeal is starting to sway public opinion.
IV. What about the extract signifies shifting sentiments among the citizens?
Answer: The extract signifies shifting sentiments among the citizens through their changing attitudes towards Caesar’s death. Initially, the citizens may have been swayed by Brutus’s justification for the assassination. However, after hearing Mark Antony’s emotional speech, which highlights Caesar’s virtues and expresses deep grief, the citizens begin to feel sympathy for Caesar and question whether his death was justified. The responses of the First and Second Citizens show that Antony’s words are making them reconsider their stance, signaling a shift from support for the assassination to regret and sorrow for Caesar’s loss.
9. Answer any five of the following six questions in about 40 words each. (5×2=10)
I. How do Jacopo and Nicola show their dedication and love for their family member in Two Gentlemen of Verona?
Answer: In Two Gentlemen of Verona, Jacopo and Nicola demonstrate immense love and dedication by working tirelessly to support their sister, Lucia, who is suffering from tuberculosis. They take on various jobs, despite their young age, and never complain, showing selflessness and deep familial affection.
II. Interpret imagery and symbolism in The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, as elements that contribute to the poem’s overarching themes of retribution and redemption.
Answer: In The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, the albatross symbolizes nature and the divine, while the mariner’s killing of the bird represents a violation of natural law. The retribution comes when the mariner is forced to suffer and endure a curse, leading to his redemption when he learns to appreciate all of God’s creatures, symbolized by the sea creatures he finally blesses.
III. How does Lawrence explore the internal conflict in Snake?
Answer: In Snake, Lawrence explores the internal conflict of the speaker between societal expectations and personal instinct. The speaker is torn between his initial, natural impulse to honor the snake as a guest and the conditioned response to kill it, showing the tension between human social conditioning and nature’s authenticity.
IV. Analyze Brutus’s reasoning for joining the conspiracy against Julius Caesar in the excerpt of Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar.
Answer: In Julius Caesar, Brutus justifies joining the conspiracy because he believes that Caesar’s ambition would lead to tyranny, threatening the freedom of Rome. He loves Caesar but fears that Caesar’s rise to power would harm the republic, leading him to act for the greater good of Rome.
V. Discuss how Shakespeare’s sonnet Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments conveys the theme of immortality through poetry.
Answer: In Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments, Shakespeare conveys the theme of immortality by asserting that poetry preserves the beauty of the beloved far better than physical monuments. He claims that the poem will immortalize the beloved’s qualities, outliving all material structures and defying time.
VI. Evaluate how The Letter by Dhumaketu portrays the impact of separation on human emotions.
Answer: In The Letter, Dhumaketu portrays the emotional pain of separation through the protagonist’s deep longing and sorrow when he receives a letter from his wife. The letter reminds him of the emotional distance and the change in their relationship, highlighting the anguish caused by physical separation and the inevitable passage of time.
9. Answer any five of the following six questions in about 40 words each. (5×2=10)
I. How do Jacopo and Nicola show their dedication and love for their family member in Two Gentlemen of Verona?
Answer: In Two Gentlemen of Verona, Jacopo and Nicola demonstrate immense love and dedication by working tirelessly to support their sister, Lucia, who is suffering from tuberculosis. They take on various jobs, despite their young age, and never complain, showing selflessness and deep familial affection.
II. Interpret imagery and symbolism in The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, as elements that contribute to the poem’s overarching themes of retribution and redemption.
Answer: In The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, the albatross symbolizes nature and the divine, while the mariner’s killing of the bird represents a violation of natural law. The retribution comes when the mariner is forced to suffer and endure a curse, leading to his redemption when he learns to appreciate all of God’s creatures, symbolized by the sea creatures he finally blesses.
III. How does Lawrence explore the internal conflict in Snake?
Answer: In Snake, Lawrence explores the internal conflict of the speaker between societal expectations and personal instinct. The speaker is torn between his initial, natural impulse to honor the snake as a guest and the conditioned response to kill it, showing the tension between human social conditioning and nature’s authenticity.
IV. Analyze Brutus’s reasoning for joining the conspiracy against Julius Caesar in the excerpt of Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar.
Answer: In Julius Caesar, Brutus justifies joining the conspiracy because he believes that Caesar’s ambition would lead to tyranny, threatening the freedom of Rome. He loves Caesar but fears that Caesar’s rise to power would harm the republic, leading him to act for the greater good of Rome.
V. Discuss how Shakespeare’s sonnet Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments conveys the theme of immortality through poetry.
Answer: In Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments, Shakespeare conveys the theme of immortality by asserting that poetry preserves the beauty of the beloved far better than physical monuments. He claims that the poem will immortalize the beloved’s qualities, outliving all material structures and defying time.
VI. Evaluate how The Letter by Dhumaketu portrays the impact of separation on human emotions.
Answer: In The Letter, Dhumaketu portrays the emotional pain of separation through the protagonist’s deep longing and sorrow when he receives a letter from his wife. The letter reminds him of the emotional distance and the change in their relationship, highlighting the anguish caused by physical separation and the inevitable passage of time.
10. Answer any one of the following two questions in about 150 words. (1×8=8)
I. In the poems The Frog and the Nightingale and Ozymandias, discuss how the characters’ attitudes towards power and influence contribute to their respective outcomes.
In The Frog and the Nightingale, the frog’s manipulative attitude towards power and influence leads to the downfall of the nightingale. The frog, envious and self-serving, claims to be a mentor to the nightingale, using his supposed wisdom to control her and make her sing according to his desires. The nightingale, overly trusting and naïve, allows the frog to dominate her, ultimately leading to her death when the pressure becomes unbearable. The frog’s misuse of power results in tragic consequences for the innocent nightingale.
In Ozymandias, the poem depicts the arrogance of a king who believed his power and empire were eternal. His boastful inscription on the ruined statue, “Look on my works, ye mighty, and despair,” reflects his overconfidence in his influence. However, time has eroded his empire, leaving only ruins, demonstrating the transient nature of power and the eventual decay of all human achievements. Both poems highlight the destructive nature of unchecked power.
*II. The story Virtually True has elements of virtual reality and advanced technology that contrast with the traditional ghostly occurrences in Shady Plot. How do these contrasting themes and narrative styles contribute to the overall tone and meaning of each story?
In Virtually True, the use of virtual reality and advanced technology shifts the story into the realm of modern science fiction, creating a tone of suspense and innovation. The protagonist’s experience of “virtual” ghosts blurs the lines between reality and technology, exploring the psychological impact of virtual experiences. This contrast between the real and the virtual creates a sense of unease, as the boundaries of reality seem to break down.
On the other hand, Shady Plot relies on traditional ghostly occurrences, with its eerie atmosphere rooted in classic supernatural horror. The tone is nostalgic, relying on familiar ghost story tropes to create tension. However, the humor in the story’s twist—where the ghosts themselves are actors for a play—adds a layer of irony, highlighting the absurdity of ghostly conventions.
The contrasting themes—virtual reality in Virtually True and traditional supernatural elements in Shady Plot—reflect the different ways in which human beings grapple with the unknown. Virtually True reflects modern anxieties about technology’s potential to distort reality, while Shady Plot plays on the timeless appeal of the supernatural, with a humorous twist on the genre.