SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER
Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum
Marks: 80
General Instructions:
Read the
instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:
1. This
question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question
paper contains THREE sections –
Section – A:
Reading Skills
Section – B:
Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
Section – C:
Literature Textbook
3. Attempt
questions based on specific instructions for each Part.
SECTION A: READING SKILLS (20 marks)
Q1.
(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
(2) 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.
(3) 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.
(4) 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.
(5) 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.
(6) 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.
Created for Academic Usage / 441 words
I. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘each person’s effort towards
conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital
resource’ emphasize?
Answer: It emphasizes that individual contributions, no matter how
small, can collectively lead to significant water conservation, helping to
preserve water 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 (paragraph 1)
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: Small individual actions like fixing a leaky faucet can save
significant amounts of water. When multiplied across millions of people, these
actions result in large-scale water savings, showing that no individual action
is trivial.
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. (paragraph 3)
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)
Personal efforts towards water conservation lead to greater awareness and
education.
Answer: True.
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 maximize 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:
- The importance of reducing water
waste in industrial processes. - The need to support
water-efficient technologies and farming practices.
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.
Q2.
Read the
following text. 10
(1) 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.
(2) 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.
(3) 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.
(4) 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.
(5) 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.
* a large painting or artwork that is
typically created directly on a wall or ceiling
Created for academic usage/252 words
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?
A. The writer is expressing surprise.
B. The writer is conveying boredom and frustration.
C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
D. The writer is showing disappointment.
Answer: (C) The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
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.
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, 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.
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.”
IV. How do the murals in northwest
Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness?
Answer: The murals foster a sense of pride in the local culture, depict
social messages, and serve as a tool for educating the community on important
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: (26% / 19% / 55%)
Answer: 55%.
VI. What does the highest percentage of
different mural themes suggest about the artistic preferences and cultural
priorities in northwest Indian villages?
Answer: It suggests that these villages prioritize celebrating their
mythology and cultural heritage.
VII. Complete the sentence suitably.
The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential
houses highlights:
Answer: The integration of art into daily life and its role in enhancing
the aesthetics of the village environment.
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: visually communicate complex ideas or messages to the public.
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 parameters such as demographic patterns, subject
matter, and community engagement reveals insights into how murals serve both
artistic and social functions, preserving cultural identity and promoting
community development.
SECTION B: WRITING SKILLS & GRAMMAR (20 marks)
Q3. Complete any ten of twelve of the
following tasks:
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.
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 CORRECTION
Answer: The
company continues to strives tirelessly to meet customer demands.
ERROR : strives
CORRECTION : strive
III. Rhea asked the following question
to her colleague, Deepak.
Have you finalised the magazine content to be submitted tomorrow?
Answer: Rhea asked Deepak if he had finalized the magazine content to be
submitted the next day.
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: (this) should be communicated to all students of classes IX-X.
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.
Answer: Sana apologized for having forgotten and said she would have the
presentation ready soon that day.
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 shop
CORRECTION : every shop
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 semi-finals.
A. securing
B. secured
C. will secure
D. had secured
Answer: (B) secured.
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 : can’t
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!
Answer: The teacher asked if everyone had understood the new assignment,
to which the students replied that they had, expressing their 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.
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.
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.
Answer: The student remarked that social media distorts our perception
of reality by only showing the highlight reels of people’s lives.
WRITING
NOTE: All details presented in the
questions in writing section are imaginary and created for
assessment purpose
Q4.
(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.
Answer:
Nirmal Pillai
Aluva, Kochi
Date: 8th September, 2024
The Project
Head
E-Waste Management Cell
Electronics Vatika
New Delhi
Subject:
Addressing the Adverse Effects of E-Waste Pollution
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to
express my concern about the increasing levels of e-waste pollution in our
country. Discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and
televisions contribute significantly to environmental degradation and public
health issues due to improper disposal. Harmful chemicals from e-waste seep
into the soil and water, posing a serious threat to ecosystems and human
health.
To tackle this
issue, I suggest greater community engagement through awareness campaigns on
proper e-waste disposal and recycling practices. Furthermore, government
initiatives such as setting up e-waste collection centers and promoting
sustainable electronic manufacturing can make a significant impact. Encouraging
consumers to return old electronics for recycling could also help in reducing
e-waste pollution.
Thank you for
considering these suggestions.
Yours
sincerely,
Nirmal Pillai
OR
(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:
Chhavi Pathak
Ranchi, Bihar
Date: 8th September, 2024
The Secretary
City Municipal Authority
Ranchi, Bihar
Subject:
Request for 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 vegetation has not been pruned for a long time, leading to
blocked roads, reduced visibility, and posing safety hazards, especially during
the night. The dense growth has also resulted in an increase in pest
infestations and makes the area vulnerable to accidents.
I kindly
request you to delegate personnel to carry out regular pruning of the trees and
shrubs in the area. This will not only enhance the beauty of the surroundings
but also ensure the safety of residents.
I hope the
necessary steps will be taken at the earliest.
Yours
sincerely,
Chhavi Pathak
Q5.
(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 organizers - Reflective strips for visibility
and safety - Water-resistant fabric
- Available in various vibrant
colors and patterns
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:
The
eco-friendly school bag is an excellent choice for both students and the
environment. Made from recycled materials, it promotes sustainability and
reduces waste, making it an eco-conscious purchase. The ergonomic design, with
padded shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel, ensures comfort for
students, even when carrying heavy books. Its spacious main compartment with
multiple pockets offers great functionality, helping students stay organized.
Additionally, the reflective strips enhance visibility and safety, particularly
when traveling during low-light conditions. The water-resistant fabric protects
belongings from getting wet, while the vibrant color options and patterns make
it appealing to students. Overall, this school bag provides an ideal
combination of comfort, practicality, safety, and style.
OR
(5B) Read the given details of a playground
intended for your residential 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:
The proposed
playground offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it suitable for
children of various age groups. The central climbing structure, modeled after a
miniature fort, provides multiple levels of engagement and physical activity,
catering to both younger and older children. Safety is ensured through the
design, with proper seating areas and shaded spaces for parents and guardians.
The swings, monkey bars, and zip line offer fun and adventurous options, while
the water play feature introduces an exciting element for toddlers. The design
also includes ample open space and greenery, creating a serene and safe
environment. The shaded seating areas, inspired by traditional chaupals, allow
the playground to be inclusive, encouraging social interaction for families and
communities.
SECTION C: LITERATURE TEXTBOOK (40 marks)
Q6. Read the given extracts and answer any
one of the two questions given below. (5 Marks)
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)
I. 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.
A. exhilarates
B. overwhelms
C. energises
D. confuses
Answer: (B) overwhelms
II. How does the author’s use of
descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the paragraph?
Answer: The author’s use of descriptive language vividly portrays the
fear and excitement felt by the baby seagull during its first flight. Words
like “monstrous terror” and “rushed” intensify the tension,
while “soaring gradually” conveys a sense of relief, creating a
dynamic and engaging narrative.
III. 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.
IV. How does the seagull’s feelings
towards the end of the extract contrast with the initial feeling of terror?
Answer: Initially, the seagull feels intense fear and terror, but by the
end of the extract, these feelings give way to a sense of confidence and
freedom as it experiences the joy of flying for the first time.
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)
I. 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
Answer: (C) settling
II. How does the author’s use of
Bholi’s perspective help build the narrative in the extract?
Answer: The author’s use of Bholi’s perspective allows readers to empathize
with her vulnerability and fear. It highlights her feelings of insecurity and
humiliation, making her emotional transformation later in the story more
impactful.
III. 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.
IV. How does the teacher’s comforting
demeanour contrast with the behaviour of the other girls in the classroom?
Answer: The teacher’s comforting and soothing demeanor contrasts sharply
with the cruel and mocking behavior of the other girls, who laughed at Bholi.
While the girls make her feel small and inadequate, the teacher’s kindness
helps her regain some confidence.
Q7. Read the given extracts and answer the
questions for any one of the two given. (5 Marks)
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)
I. What is the most likely reason the
poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of just stating the colours of the
stripes?
Answer: The poet chooses to say “vivid” stripes to emphasize
the striking, bold appearance of the tiger, which contrasts with its confined
and restrained existence within the cage.
II. Fill the blank with ONE word.
The tiger’s stalking suggests a movement that is within the confines of its
________.
Answer: cage.
III. 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 with its
internal feelings by describing the “quiet rage” it experiences.
Though physically restrained, the tiger’s emotions and instincts remain wild
and powerful, highlighting its frustration with captivity.
IV. 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,
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
B. Perched on a branch green,
Sings aloud in a voice sweet,
Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
C. This bird sings without a care,
A song with the world to share,
With its feelings so keen.
D. This bird so small and sweet,
Sings aloud in the morn
Perched on a green branch
Singing its own melody.
Answer: (A) Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet.
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)
I. Examine the portrayal of Blink in
the given lines.
Answer: Blink, the mouse, is portrayed as quick-witted and strategic.
When danger arises, he immediately finds a hiding spot, showing his instinct
for self-preservation.
II. Complete the following suitably.
The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda ________.
Answer: was frightened and lost color in her face due to fear.
III. 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 humorous and somewhat exaggerated picture of a
chaotic situation, where Ink, the cat, is so terrified that it almost melts or
flows down to the bottom of the house.
IV. What kind of atmosphere is created
through these lines?
Select the correct option:
- Urgency
- Apprehension
- Uncertainty
- Mystery
- Aggression
A. 1 and 4
B. Only 2
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 4 and 5
Answer: (C) 1, 2, and 3.
Q8. Answer any four of the following five
questions, in about 40-50 words. (4×3=12 Marks)
I. 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? (Mijbil the Otter)
Answer: People’s ignorance about Mijbil, mistaking him for a variety of
animals, reveals their lack of knowledge about exotic creatures. It shows how
urban populations are often unfamiliar with wildlife, leading to misconceptions
and amusing assumptions about lesser-known species.
II. 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 imagery of trees moving from the house to the forest
symbolizes the theme of liberation from confinement. Just as the trees move
toward their natural habitat, it reflects the human desire for freedom and
growth, breaking free from the restrictions of societal expectations.
III. What does the postmaster’s reaction
to Lencho’s letter reveal about his character? (A Letter to God)
Answer: The postmaster’s reaction reveals his kind-heartedness and
empathy. Despite finding Lencho’s faith in God somewhat amusing, he is moved by
his sincerity and takes it upon himself to collect money to help Lencho,
showing his generosity and good nature.
IV. 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 this tension through Valli’s
conflicting emotions. She feels safe and secure in her familiar surroundings
but is also drawn to the excitement and adventure of exploring new places. This
internal struggle between curiosity and caution is central to the story.
V. What kind of picture is painted by
the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household’?
Answer: The poet creates a humorous image of chaos and fear, where Ink
the cat, so frightened by Custard’s bravery, tries to hide by slinking down in
terror. This line emphasizes the absurdity and irony of the situation.
Q9. Answer any two of the following three
questions, in about 40-50 words. (2×3=6 Marks)
I. How does Matilda’s desire for
material wealth drive the plot of ‘The Necklace’?
Answer: Matilda’s desire for material wealth is the driving force of the
plot. Her longing for a luxurious lifestyle leads her to borrow the necklace,
which ultimately results in her downfall when she loses it. This desire causes
her to live a life of hardship and regret after losing what she considered
valuable.
II. Justify the opinion that Ebright’s
early successes were essential for his later achievements in science. (The
Making of a Scientist)
Answer: Ebright’s early successes, like his work on butterflies and
winning prizes in science fairs, were crucial in building his scientific
foundation. These achievements nurtured his curiosity, instilled discipline,
and motivated him to pursue higher goals in science, leading to significant
contributions in later years.
III. How does ‘The Book that Saved the
Earth’ include elements of satirical science fiction?
Answer: The play includes satirical elements by exaggerating human
characteristics like fear and ignorance in a futuristic, alien-invaded Earth
scenario. It pokes fun at how something as trivial as a book of nursery rhymes
could be misunderstood as a weapon, highlighting the absurdity of overblown
fears and misinterpretations.
Q10. Answer any one of the following two
questions, in about 100-120 words. (6 Marks)
I. 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,” the poet uses a simple act of nature — a crow
shaking snow onto the speaker — to convey a moment of change and upliftment,
symbolizing the positive impact of nature on human emotions. On the other hand,
“Fire and Ice” explores the destructive aspects of human emotions through
natural imagery. Fire symbolizes desire and passion, while ice represents
hatred and indifference, both capable of leading to the world’s end. While
“Dust of Snow” offers a message of hope and transformation, “Fire and Ice”
delves into the darker side of human nature, showing how extreme emotions can
lead to destruction.
II. 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 “For Anne Gregory” and “The Sermon at Benares” focus on the
theme that external beauty and material attributes are temporary. In “For Anne
Gregory,” the speaker suggests that physical beauty is not the essence of love,
as it is fleeting and superficial. Similarly, in “The Sermon at Benares,”
Buddha teaches that life is transient, and worldly possessions or external
attributes do not provide lasting happiness. Both texts emphasize the
importance of inner virtues and spiritual understanding over physical or
materialistic concerns.
Q11. Answer any one of the following two
questions, in about 100-120 words. (6 Marks)
I. 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 shaped by his intense personal ambition
and desire for recognition, which drives him to push the boundaries of science.
His discovery of invisibility reflects his genius, but his lack of foresight
and moral responsibility leads to unintended consequences. As his scientific
pursuits spiral out of control, Griffin becomes increasingly alienated from
society. His inability to control the consequences of his experiments, coupled
with society’s fear and rejection of his condition, turns him from an ambitious
scientist into a tragic figure. His character is defined by his struggle
between the pursuit of knowledge and the ethical and social implications of his
actions.
II. Evaluate how James Herriot’s
characterisation contributes significantly to the overarching theme of
responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
Answer: James Herriot’s characterization as a compassionate and
dedicated veterinarian highlights the theme of responsible pet ownership and
animal welfare. Through his interactions with various pet owners and farmers,
Herriot demonstrates the importance of caring for animals with kindness and
understanding. His patience and empathy towards both animals and their owners
underscore the responsibility humans have towards their pets. Herriot’s
experiences reflect the broader message that animal welfare is not just about
medical treatment, but also about creating a loving and supportive environment
for animals to thrive. His deep connection with animals reinforces the idea
that responsible pet ownership goes hand-in-hand with emotional care.