Maharashtra State Board Class 12th English Sample Paper Set 4 with Solutions Answers Pdf Download.
Maharashtra Board Class 12 English Model Paper Set 4 with Solutions
General Instructions:
- Each activity has to be answered in complete sentence/sentences. Answers written in only one word will not be given complete credit. Only the correct activity number written in case of options will not be given any credit.
- Web diagrams, flow charts, tables etc. are to be presented exactly as they are with answers.
- In point 2 above, only the words written without the presentation of activity format/design, will not be given credit. Use of colour pens/pencils etc. is not allowed. (Only blue/black pens are allowed.)
- Multiple answers to the same activity will be treated as wrong and will not be given any credit.
- Maintain the sequence of the Sections/ Question Nos./Activities throughout the activity sheet.
Section I: Prose
(Reading for Comprehension, Language Study, Summary, Mind Mapping)
Question 1.
(A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: [12 Marks]
Soapy was seized with a sudden fear that some dreadful enchantment had rendered him immune to arrest. He was in a state of panic, and, when he came upon another policeman lounging grandly in front of a glittering theatre, he caught at the immediate straw of ‘disorderly conduct’. On the sidewalk Soapy began to yell drunken gibberish at the top of his harsh voice.
He danced, howled, raved and otherwise disturbed the skies. The policeman merely twirled his club, turned his back to Soapy and remarked to a citizen : “Tis one of them Yale lads celebratin the goose egg they give to the Hartford College. Noisy; but no harm. We’ve instructions To let them be.” Disconsolate, Soapy stopped his unavailing racket. Would never a policeman lay hands on him? In his fancy, the island seemed an unattainable Arcadia. He buttoned his thin coat against the chilling wind. In a cigar store he saw a well-dressed man lighting a cigar at the swinging light.
He had set his silk umbrella by the door on entering. Soapy stepped inside, grabbed the umbrella and sauntered off with it slowly. The man at the cigar light followed hastily. “My umbrella,” he said sternly. “Oh, is it?” sneered Soapy, adding insult to petty larceny. “Well, why don’t you call a policeman? I took it. Your umbrella ! Why don’t you call a cop? There stands one on the comer.” The umbrella owner slowed his steps. Soapy did likewise, with a premonition that luck would again run against him. The policeman eyed at the two curiously.
“Of course,” said the umbrella man “Well, you know how these mistakes occur if it’s your umbrella. I hope you’ll excuse me – I picked it up this morning in a restaurant if you recognize it as yours, why I hope you’ll”. “Of course it’s mine,” said Soapy savagely. The ex-umbrella man retreated. The policeman hurried to assist a tall blonde in an opera cloak across the street in front of a street car that was approaching two blocks away. Soapy walked eastward through a street damaged by improvements. He hurled the umbrella angrily into an excavation.
He muttered against the men who wear helmets and carry clubs. Because he wanted to fall into their clutches, they seemed to regard him as a king who could do nothing wrong.
A1. State whether the following statements are True or False. Correct the False statements. (2)
i. When Soapy began to yell drunken gibberish the policeman arrested him.
ii. Soapy picked up a well-dressed man’s briefcase at the cigar store.
Answer:
i. False. When Soapy began to yell drunken gibberish the policeman let him be.
ii. False. Soapy picked up a well-dressed man’s silk umbrella at the cigar store.
A2. Pick out the lines from the text which show that:
i. Soapy was afraid that he won’t be able to enter the prison.
ii. Soapy was feeling cold.
Answer:
i. Soapy was seized with a sudden fear that some dreadful enchantment had rendered him immune to arrest.
ii. He buttoned his thin coat against the chilling wind.
A3. Discuss the meaning in the context:
he caught at the immediate straw of ‘disorderly conduct’ (2)
Answer:
In the context of the passage, the line “he caught at the immediate straw of ‘disorderly conduct’” means that the moment Soapy saw the policeman, he realised that he had the opportunity of getting himself arrested by misbehaving in front of the policeman. Once the policeman noticed that Soapy is drunk and causing nuisance, he would surely arrest Soapy. Thus, Soapy quickly made use of the opportunity and started yelling gibberish to sound like a drunk.
A4. Personal response:
Do you think the umbrella man was telling the truth? What could be the motive behind his decision to not call the cop?
Answer:
Yes, the umbrella man was telling the truth. He must have actually picked up the umbrella at a restaurant. So, when Soapy asked him to call the cop, he must have thought that Soapy was trying to get him arrested for stealing his umbrella. The man did not want to make a scene and therefore decided not to call the cop.
A5. Language study: (2)
i. He muttered against the men who wear helmets and carry clubs.
(Identify and analyse the Clauses)
ii. The umbrella owner slowed his steps.
(Pick out the Determiners and state their type)
Answer:
i. He muttered against the men – Main Clause who wear helmets and carry clubs – Subordinate Adjective Clause [1 Mark]
ii. The – Indefinite Article Determiner
his – Possessive Determiner
A6. Vocabulary: (2)
Write the synonyms of the following from the passage:
i. behaviour
ii. nonsense
iii. quickly
iv. intuition
Answer:
i. conduct
ii. gibberish
iii. hastily
iv. premonition
B1. Grammar / Language Study (Non-Textual Grammar) –
Do as directed: (3)
i. His voice was pleasant. (Rewrite as an exclamatory sentence)
ii. No other metal is as precious as gold. (Change the degree of comparison to Superlative)
iii. “Why did you open it?” said the father to his son. “I couldn’t wait anymore” said the son.
(Change to Indirect speech)
Answer:
i. How pleasant his voice was! [1 Mark]
ii. Gold is the most precious of all metals. [1 Mark]
iii. The father asked his son why he opened it. The son replied that he couldn’t wait any longer.
B2. Spot the error in the given sentence and rewrite the correct sentence.
i. Does she has a pen and a notebook? (1)
Answer:
Does she have a pen and a notebook?
Question 2.
(A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: [18 Marks]
My own faith in Chaitanya started giving me abundant strength. I no longer wanted to hide % myself from the glaring eyes of the world. I took him around with me. He went with us everywhere like any normal child. We were not sorry or uncomfortable carrying him around.
If I required help for him in public places, I was not embarrassed to seek it from people around. I did not mind telling them that he was a special child. I was no more scared of people’s curious looks and awkward questions. I could talk about Chaitanya’s problem calmly. As my mind opened up further, I could discern a new hope springing in my heart. I felt happy I was a Special Mother.
The special school did Chaitanya a lot of good. He was now a much more confident person, adored by his teachers, his friends and his school staff. His speech improved and expression became clearer. His social manners became laudable.
Early in 1977-98, when he returned from state level inter-school sports, he had two prizes to his credit and a silver medal. He had won his laurels in athletic events and the silver medal in a running race.
When I saw the prizes and read the citation Chaitanya had received, 1 was stupefied, in total disbelief, then – hugged him, kissed him and cried unabashedly to my heart’s content. That day, I cried for the first time out of joy and a sense of being vindicated. Without practice he had completed with approximately 1,800 children drawn from various schools all over the state. He was subsequently selected for the marathon race, but he could not participate due to a health problem. “May be next year, he would”, I assured myself.
A1. Name the following: (2)
i. The name of the special child.
ii. Chaitanya won this medal in the running race.
iii. Chaitanya had competed with approximately these many of children in the state level inter-school sports.
iv. Chaitanya could not participate in this event due to a health problem.
Answer:
i. Chaitanya
ii. Silver medal
iii. 1800
iv. Marathon race
A2. Complete the following statements based on the passage: (2)
i. The special school helped Chaitanya by ____.
ii. Chaitanya won ____.
Answer:
i. The special school helped Chaitanya by making him a more confident person, improving his speech, his expression became clearer and manner laudable.
ii. Chaitanya won two prizes in athletic events and a silver medal in a running race.
A3. When Chaitanya won prizes, his mother cried and felt vindicated. Explain this sentence. (2)
Answer:
- Chaitanya was a special child who went to a ‘special’ school. Due to his disability, he was lagging behind, but his mother could see several other improvements in him.
- When Chaitanya won laurels in athletic events and a silver medal in a running race by competing with 1800 children from various schools all over the state, his mother cried out of sheer joy as she felt vindicated.
A4. Personal Response:
It’s challenging to help a special child. Enlist four ways in which you can help a special person. (2)
Answer:
To be with a special child, one needs a lot of patience. Given an opportunity, I would help them in the following ways:
- I would give them time and care.
- I would make the child feel at ease by telling them a story or spending some time with him them.
- I would try and behave as normally as possible with the child.
- I would help the family by supporting them when they need me and try to inspire them to focus on the areas where the special child can excel.
A5. Grammar:
Do as directed. (2)
i. I did not mind telling them that he was a special child. (Identify the Clauses)
ii. I could talk about Chaitanya’s problem calmly. (Rewrite using ‘be able to’)
Answer:
i. I did not mind telling them – Main Clause that he was a special child – Subordinate Noun Clause
ii. I was able to talk about Chaitanya’s problem calmly.
A6. Vocabulary:
Give meaning of the following word/phrase and make a meaningful sentence with it.
abundant
Answer:
i. plentiful
Rice needs an abundant supply of water to grow.
(B) Summary Writing: [3 Marks]
With the help of the given points, write a summary of the above passage and suggest a suitable title for it.
i. Having a special child
ii. Acceptance
iii. Special school
iv. Achievements in sports
Answer:
A special mother
I took Chaitanya around with me like any normal child. If required help I was not embarrassed to seek it from people around. I was no more scared of people’s looks and questions. As my mind opened up I felt happy I was a special mother. After some time at the special school his speech improved and expression became clearer. In 1997-98 he had two prizes and a silver medal from inter-school sports. When I saw them I hugged him, kissed him and cried unabashedly out of joy and a sense of being vindicated. He was selected for a marathon race but could not participate. I assured myself by thinking that maybe next year he would.
(C) Mind Mapping: [3 Marks]
Develop a Mind-Mapping on the topic ‘Proper Time Management.’
i. Using the title connect your thoughts
ii. Use your own design for branching and general structure
iii. Try making 2-3 main and 2-3 sub-branches
Answer:
Section II: Poetry And Appreciation
Question 3.
(A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: [10 Marks]
When I had money, money, O!
I knew no joy till I went poor;
For many a false man as a friend
Came knocking all day at my door.
Then felt I like a child that holds
A trumpet that he must not blow
Because a man is dead; I dared
Not speak to let this false world know.
Much have I thought of life, and seen
How poor men’s hearts are ever light;
And how their wives do hum like bees
About their work from mom till night.
So, when I hear these poor ones laugh,
And see the rich ones coldly frown.
Poor men, think I, need not go up
So much as rich men should come down.
When I had money, money, O!
My many friends proved all untrue;
But now I have no money, O!
My friends are real, though very few.
A1. State whether the following statements are True or False. Correct the False statements with the help of the poem.
i. The poet knew no joy till he was rich.
ii. The poet felt that he should talk about his poverty. (2)
Answer:
i. False. The poet knew no joy till he was poor.
ii. True
A2. Money makes the world go round. Explain It in the light of the poet’s experience. (2)
Answer:
‘Money makes the world go round’ simply means money is essential to make things happen. But in the poet’s experience, even though money is essential, it also attracted a lot of false ‘friends’. But when the poet became poor, his circle had only few friends left, who were nevertheless true to him.
A3. Personal Response:
In your opinion does having money solve all of one’s problems? (2)
Answer:
It is a common misconception that money solves all the problems of a person. It does not. Money solves all the money problems of a person. Often people are so consumed by their money problems that they assume that their life would be perfect once they got rich. This leads to people feeling perplexed when they get rich but still suffer from mental, emotional or familial problems which were never going to be solved with more money.
A4. Poetic Device: (2)
Complete the given table:
| Figure of speech | Line of the poem | Explanation |
| i. Inversion | ||
| ii. Simile |
Answer:
| Figure of speech | Line of the poem | Explanation |
| i. Inversion | Then felt I like a child that holds | The order of the words has been rearranged for poetic effect. The correct order should be — Then I felt like a child that holds |
| ii. Simile | And how their wives do hum like bees | The ‘wives’ have been directly compared to ‘bees’ with the use of the word’like’. |
A5. Poêtic creativity:
Compose a short poem on ‘Friendship’.
Answer:
Friendship
True friendship is something so pure,
That you can always be sure.
To all your problems there lies a cure,
But never can it be based on lure.
(B) Appreciation:
Write an appreciation of the poem with the help of the following points.
i. About the poem/poet and the title
ii. The theme
iii. Poetic style
iv. The language/poetic devices used in the poem
v. Special features
vi. Message, values, morals in the poem
vii. Your opinion about the poem
Weavers, weaving at break of day,
Why do you weave a garment so gay?
Blue as the wing of a halcyon wild,
We weave the robes of a new-bom child.
Weavers, weaving at fall of night,
Why do you weave a garment so bright?
Like the plumes of a peacock, purple and green,
We weave the marriage-veils of a queen.
Weavers, weaving solemn and still,
What do you weave in the moonlight chill …….
White as a feather and white as a cloud,
We weave a dead man’s funeral shroud.
Answer:
‘Indian Weavers’ is a poem by the renowned poet, Sarojini Naidu. The poem has been taken from the poet’s first volume of poetry The Golden Threshold’, published in 1905. It consists of three stanzas, or quatrains, with two rhyming couplets each. This poem is a metaphor for the three stages of human life – birth, youth and death. The poet depicts Indian weavers, who weave tirelessly at different times, while simultaneously describing the three stages of human life, from birth to death, just as the weavers weave from dawn to night. The poet chooses three different time settings – the weavers weave the new-born baby’s garments in the early morning, the queen’s marriage-veils in the evening and the dead man’s shroud at midnight.
The central theme of the poem is the parallelism that the poet beautifully draws between the three parts of the weaver’s workday and the three stages of human life. The poem has been written in iambic tetrameter and its three stanzas follow the rhyme scheme of ‘aabb’, ’ccdd’ and ‘eeff’ respectively. The style used in the poem is simple and lucid, with each stanza beginning with a question to evoke the reader’s interest. The poetic devices of Alliteration, Consonance, Inversion, Metaphor, Repetition and Simile have been employed to enhance the text’s poetic appeal.
The use of Simile in ‘blue as the wing of a halcyon wild’, Metaphor in ‘break of day’ to compare it to ’childhood’, Alliteration in repetitive consonant sounds of ‘we’ throughout the stanzas or ’p’ in ‘purple peacock’, and repetition of the words ‘weavers’, weaving’ and ‘weave’ across the poem are the examples of these poetic devices. The poet has used vivid imagery in correlating the parts of day to the stages of life. Almost each line of the poem contains imagery, which paints a picture in the readers’ minds about the ‘weavers weaving’, ‘blue-coloured robe on a new-born baby’, ‘a queen wearing purple and green coloured marriage-veil’ and a ’dead body covered with a white shroud’.
The major use of symbolism in the poem is that the ‘threads’ of a person’s life are woven by ’destiny’ or ’Fates’, which is represented by the ‘weavers’ in this poem. It is the Fates who decide the time of birth, the length of youth and the time of death of a person. Thus, the contextual meaning of the poem may be the weavers weaving garments and a shroud for various occasions, but symbolically the poem represents the cycle of life and death with the threads of each stage being woven by the Fates.
The message being conveyed by the poem is that of the perpetual motion of life, where each stage, characterised by its unique emotions, lasts for a while before the next one comes along to take its place. I find this poem a good read as it is a short poem which is packed with imagery. I like the poem for the colour-scheme that the poet has chosen for the garments woven by the weaver according to the life-stage of the intended wearer.
Section III: Writing Skills
Question 4.
Complete the activities as per the instructions given below: [16 Marks]
A. Attempt any one of the following: (4)
i. Drafting a virtual message:
You are Priyanka, a personal assistant to Ms Sen. She was away attending a meeting when Mr Garg rang up. You spoke to him and jotted down his message in your note- pad. Draft the message for Ms Sen using the information in your notes given below. Mr Garg – rang up – 5pm – has received the CDs and the posters – coming tomorrow – to thank Ms Sen and to personally hand over the cheque.
OR
ii. Statement of Purpose:
You are so much interested in fashion designing. You have also participated in the various competitions and have shown your talent. Your friend is assisting you to make the career in fashion designing.
Draft a statement of purpose that will help you to get admission for the course in fashion designing at M. Rajeshwar College Arts, Hubli, Karnataka.
OR
iii. Group Discussion:
You along with your friends Sujit, Rohit and Kishor discussing their likes and dislikes. But all are fascinated with the reading habit. Write a short group discussion in the form of dialogue telling the importance of reading for enhancing knowledge.
Answer:
i. Message:
28th Jan 5:15 p.m.
Ms Sen
Mr Garg rang up at 5 pm today. He wanted to inform you that he has received the CDs and posters. He expressed his pleasure and will be coming to the office tomorrow to thank you and personally hand over the cheque.
Priyanka
OR
ii. Statement of Purpose
For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated with fashion designing. My parents tell me that even at the age of six I was aware of how different colours, patterns and designs would make me feel. Moreover, that if I ever spotted an elegant outfit I would not rest until I had tried my hand at sketching it.
Today, at the age of seventeen, it is clear to me that I want to make a career in fashion design. To prepare for this, I have participated in and won several sketching competitions. Also, to keep myself up with the latest trends in fashion, I started writing a blog, which beyond my wildest dreams, has blossomed into a community of 600+ members, who selflessly share ideas, theories and resources with one another.
Of course, in order to become a fashion designer I also need to have a deep understanding of colours, fabrics and textiles. In these regards, I have been truly fortunate to have a friend, who is herself a fashion designer, to assist me.
Furthermore, I am conscious of the fact that people in creative professions must have strong communication skills; they must have the ability to flawlessly articulate their thouqhts and emotions. Hence, I have been attending public speaking and creative writing workshops during my summer holidays.
I believe that I am an ideal candidate for your course in fashion design and a quick learner. If given an opportunity, I would be thrilled to be a student at your institute, the prestigious M Raieshwar College of Arts and make my mark in the world of fashion [4 Marks]
OR
iii. Nikhil : I think it is interesting that all four of us are fascinated with the reading habit even though we have no other hobbies in common. Sujit loves to travel, Rohit is into chess, Kishor spends most of his time practising the guitar and I am a fitness enthusiast. But there is something about reading that appeals to all of us.
Sujit : You are absolutely right, Nikhil. We all come from different walks of life and yet bond over reading. I believe this is because unlike other hobbies, that are about a particular thing, reading can be about anything, in the sense that it allows us to know more about whatever we are interested in.
Rohit : I fully agree with you, Sujit. In fact, I would like to add that reading has allowed me to know more about life as well. When I read an autobiography, I feel like I am having a conversation with the author. It seems that they are sharing with me the trials and tribulations they have faced and overcome.
Kishor : You are right, Rohit. Also, it is my opinion that we should not underestimate the impact that a book can have on us. For example, when I sit down to write a song or compose a tune I often draw inspiration from the literary works that have struck a chord with me.
Nikhil : Kishor, by drawing parallels between your hobbies you have definitely given me something to think about. I, too, have definitely felt that reading a book is akin to following a fitness regime, in that it requires patience and is extremely rewarding.
Sujit : Friends, considering everything we have talked about, I think we can conclude by saying that we are all fascinated with the reading habit because it is versatile enough to offer something to each one of us.
B. Attempt any one of the following: (4)
i. E-mail writing:
Imagine that you are a shopkeeper of gift articles. A customer had given order for purchasing articles but you have some difficulties for giving delivery in time due to shortage. Write an email to him/her apologising for the delay.
OR
ii. Report writing:
Imagine, your Jr. College has recently organised Annual Prize Distribution Function.
‘You are the editor of the ‘College Magazine’. Write a report on the function in about 150 words.
OR
iii. Interview Questions:
You are the class representative and you have been asked by the Principal to conduct an interview of a cop. Frame 8-10 questions with the help of the following points, give introduction and conclusion.
i. reasons for joining the department
ii. special trainings
iii. developing the skill to identify and locate criminals
iv. dealing with criminals
v. achievements and awards
Answer:
i.
| To | [email protected] |
| Subject | Delay in delivery of 50 Ceramic Elephant Figurines due to shortage |
Dear Sir,
I am writing this email to you to inform you of the delay in the delivery of the 50 Ceramic Elephant Figurines that you have ordered from my gift shop, Om Collection. Sir, I am well aware that, especially in the case of gift articles, time is of the essence. Hence, I must assure you that I am doing everything in my power to try and make this delivery on time. However, my establishment is facing a shortage of these figurines; it procures them from a third party in Chandigarh.
And said third party is facing certain supply chain issues which is why they have been unable to deliver their products to any retailers. I understand that this piece of information does not solve the issue for you. I have approached others who manufacture identical figurines but have received no response from them. At the moment all I can guarantee is that the delivery of your order will be delayed by five days. The inconvenience caused to you is regretted and I hope that you will give me and my establishment another chance in the future to serve you well.
Yours faithfully,
Dheeraj
[4 Marks]
OR
ii. Annual Prize Distribution Function: A Spectacular Occasion
– Arjun Mehra, Editor
Mumbai, 11th March, 2022
Thomas Baptista Jr. College’s Annual Prize Distribution Function was a resounding celebration of excellence, held on 8th March, 2022 in the prestigious college auditorium. The ceremony commenced with a dignified inauguration, graced by distinguished educationists.
Our Principal’s motivational speech highlighted the importance of well-rounded growth and praised the hard work of our students. Awards were bestowed across diverse categories, honouring outstanding achievements in academics, sports, arts and community service.
The cultural segment of the evening showcased a captivating array of performances, ranging from dance to music and drama. The audience was captivated by the remarkable talents exhibited by our students, reflecting the kaleidoscope of interests within our college community.
The event drew to a close with heartfelt gratitude extended to the faculty, staff and students who contributed to its success. The Annual Prize Distribution Function at Thomas Baptista Jr. College served as a resounding celebration of excellence, marking a significant milestone in our academic calendar. The event not only recognized the outstanding achievements of our students but also underscored the holistic development that our institution fervently promotes. [4 Marks]
OR
iii. Good Morning, Officer N.S. Shankar! I am Sanaya Sharma, the class representative for Std. XII, N.D. College. It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you here today. All the students and the audience would be delighted to know you better and understand your line of work. So, let us begin this interview.
i. For how long have you been in the police force?
ii. When did you decide that you wanted to join the force?
iii. What was your reason behind joining the force?
iv. What kind of special training did you have to undergo to become a cop?
iv. How did you develop and master the skill of identifying and locating criminals?
v. How do you deal with criminals? Is your approach the same for everyone?
vi. Do you think criminals can be reformed?
vii. You have won many bravery awards. How does it feel to be one of the best cops in the country?
ix. Do you think you’ve achieved the goal for which you joined the force?
x. Many young minds aspire to become a top cop like you. Any message for them? Officer Shankar, we thank you immensely for giving us your valuable time and sharing your pearls of wisdom. We, as a society, are proud of you and would like to thank you for your countless years of service.
C. Attempt any one of the following:
i. Speech Writing:
You wish to take part in the elocution competition which is committee. Prepare a speech on the topic “Mask for safety”.
OR
ii. Compering:
Imagine your school / jr. college has organised a farewell function for the students appearing for H.S.C. examination. As a compere draft a script for the whole function maintaining the sequence of the following points:
✓ Welcoming the guest
✓ Introduction
✓ Felicitation
✓ Important speeches
✓ Concluding remark
✓ Vote of thanks
OR
iii. Expansion of Idea:
Expand the idea using the given pointers:
All roads lead to Rome
- Literal meaning – ancient Roman road system
- Figurative meaning – Different paths but same goals
- Relevance in different life aspects
Answer:
i. Masks for Safety
Good morning respected principal, teachers and friends. I am here to speak on ‘Masks for Safety’. As you all are aware, in the past few months, the entire world has witnessed an unprecedented amount of havoc and death due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In such a scenario, we must remember that wearing our masks is the best thing we can do to control the spread of the virus. Numerous studies conducted by the most reputed institutes have proven that the virus spreads through respiratory droplets. Our masks act as physical barriers to these droplets.
Since infected persons remain asymptomatic for two weeks, we may be infected and may be spreading the virus without realising it. But if we wear our masks we will be able to drastically reduce the number of cases around us.
There are many rumours going around such as masks do not work or that they cause difficulties in breathing. I strongly encourage everyone to do their own research and to only believe credible sources and not blog posts or forwarded messages.
To conclude, I would like to urge everyone to wear their masks and do their part in controlling the spread of the virus.
Thank you all for being patient listeners.
OR
ii. Introduction
Ankita (Main compere): Good morning to one and all. I, Ankita Verma, along with my co-host Bhumi Singh, would like to extend a warm welcome to our principal sir, our beloved teachers and friends. Today is indeed a special day for our college as we are here for the farewell function of the students appearing for the H.S.C. examination
Welcome the guests
Bhumi: That’s right, Ankita. Now, before beginning the farewell let us put our hands together for our chief guest, Mr. Nakul Shroff (pause for the applause). Mr. Shroff is an alumnus of our college who has gone on to build a start-up that has set a record in the world of entrepreneurship by becoming a unicorn in shortest frame of time. His renewable energy start-up, Vikas, took a mere six months to claim the coveted distinction.
Felicitation
Ankita: I would like to call upon our dear principal, Mr. Lalit Shukla, to felicitate
Mr. Shroff with a bouquet of flowers.
Important speeches
Bhumi: Thank you, principal sir. Moving on, we have Mr. Dheeraj Sharma, from Std. XI, who would like to share a few words about his experience with students of Std. XII whom we are celebrating and bidding goodbye to today.
Concluding remark
Ankita: That was truly a moving speech, Dheeraj. Thank you. I would now, with a heavy heart, like to state that though we have all been having fun and creating memories that will last a lifetime; this is all the time we had for today.
Vote of thanks
Bhumi: So, I would like to extend my gratitude to our principal sir, our beloved teachers and friends for making today a grand success. And, I would like to thank our chief guest, Mr. Shroff for taking time out of his busy schedule to be here with us. [4 Marks]
OR
iii. All Roads Lead to Rome
’All roads lead to Rome’ is a proverb that has a literal meaning and a figurative meaning. The literal meaning is that whichever road one takes, they will always end up in Rome. This is because in the ancient Roman Empire, Rome was placed as the centre and all the roads were constructed in a manner that they all eventually led to Rome. The fiqurative meaninq of this proverb is that no matter which way one chooses to reach their goal, they will always end up where they are meant to be. This proverb is relevant in all aspects of life – education, career and relationships.
For example, three people try to solve a problem using different methods, but arrive at the same solution; or two people use different approaches on a single project but achieve the same outcome. Essentially, our choices may determine and alter our paths, but we will ultimately reach the destination intended for us, because ‘All roads lead to Rome!.
D. Attempt any one of the following: ‘ (4)
i. Film Review:
Draft a review of any film/movie that you have recently watched. Prepare your review with the help of given points.
- Name of the movie / year of release
- Producer / Director
- Cast
- Technical aspects: Music / photography
- Theme / storyline in brief
- Your opinion
OR
ii. Blog Writing:
Write a blog on the topic: ‘Man is free by birth.’
OR
iii. Appeal:
Prepare an appeal seeking help for the flood-affected people of Uttarakhand with the help of the following points:
i. Attractive slogan
ii. Use of logo, illustrations
iii. Dire consequences of flood
iv. Rally led by well-known personality
v. Make a persuasive appeal
Answer:
i. Name of the movie: Soul
Year of the movie’s release: 2020
Cast of the movie: Jamie Foxx, Angela Basset, Tina Fey
Theme / storyline in brief: Soul is a breath-taking animated movie that explores the meaning of life, purpose and passion.
Producer / Director: Directed by Peter Docter and produced by Pixar Animation Studios the movie tells the story of Joe Gardner, a middle-school band teacher and aspiring jazz musician who dies unexpectedly and finds himself in the afterlife.
Technical Aspects: Music / Photography: The movie’s animation is stunning, with vibrant, colourful visuals that capture the energy and spirit of New York City. The music, which is a blend of jazz and contemporary music, is also a stand-out element, perfectly complementing the story’s themes and enhancing the emotional impact of the its scenes.
Your opinion: Overall, Soul is a touching and thought-provoking movie that offers a unique and captivating perspective on the human experience. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves animation, music or simply a good story that touches the soul. [4 Marks]
OR
ii.
OR
iii. Uplift Uttarakhand
The Uttarakhand floods hove caused a massive destruction in the state –
- Infrastructure has been completely destroyed
- Scarcity of basic amenities such as food, clothing and shelter has risen.
- The environment has been severely affected as chemicals and hazardous substances have got mixed in the air and water
- Animals and birds have lost their homes
A rally is being conducted by the Prime Minister to help the needy.
Please donate – Foods Clothes. Money and any other non-perishable items.
Uplift Uttarakhand! Your contribution makes a difference!
Section IV: Literary Genre – Novel
Question 5.
(A) Complete the activities given below as per the instructions: [4 Marks]
1. Choose the correct alternatives and complete the given statements: (2)
i. Novels with the elements of horror, blood-shed and mystery are called ___ novels.
(Realistic, Gothic, Psychological)
Answer:
Novels with the elements of horror, blood-shed and mystery are called Gothic novels.
ii. The German word ‘bildungsroman’ indicates ___. (Letter, New, Growth)
Answer:
The German word ‘bildungsroman’ indicates Growth.
iii. The central idea in the novel is ___. (plot/ theme/story)
Answer:
The central idea in the novel is theme.
iv. The main character in the novel is referred to as ___. (antagonist / clown / protagonist)
Answer:
The main character in the novel is referred to as protagonist.
Question 2.
Arrange the following events in chronological order. (2)
a. Industrial Revolution
b. Drama and Poetry started fading away
c. Novel gained popularity
d. The rise of middle class
Answer:
c. Novel gained popularity
a. Industrial 1evolution
d. The rise of middle class
b. brama and Poetry started fading away
(B) Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below: [4 Marks]
Question 1.
Describe the discussion that took place between Miss Phillips and Denham in ‘To Sir, with Love’. (2)
Answer:
Following the class presentations, a panel of teachers was randomly selected to answer questions that the students might have regarding the reports. This panel included Mrs. bale-Evans, Miss Euphemia Phillips and Mr. Weston. Benham’s class report was a criticism of the P.T. class and as a follow-up to his report, he asked the panel of teachers to justify the need for such a class, as he believed it offered no physical advantages. Being a trained boxer, Denham was of the opinion that exercises could only benefit the students if they were performed daily and for longer periods of time, thereby implying that as the P.T. class was only for twenty minutes twice a week, it was a waste of time.
While Mr. Weston could not offer any satisfactory explanation, Miss Phillips stepped in and responded by reminding the students that because the school had limited resources, the goal was to have a timetable that ensured maximum benefit for a maximum number of students. She argued that while Denham and other physically fit students like him might not see the benefit of the P.T. class because of their participation in other sports, but the school has many more students that could benefit from it. In addition, she even called upon senior students like Denham to help out in this respect.
Denham, though impressed by Miss Phillips’ clever response, was not ready to give up his questioning and further argued that if what Miss Phillips was saying was true, then only those students who need P.T. should be made to take it and boys like Denham, who don’t depend on it for the exercise, should be allowed to use the time as they see fit. This question, as the narrator observes, was tricky, but Miss Phillips was as calm as ever and responded by saying that the school prepares the students for the real world, it was therefore important for them to get used to doing things they have been told to do, even if they don’t like it.
Miss Phillips argued that participating in the P.T. class was an example of such a thing and that the boys could think of it as an exercise of the mind as well as of the body. Knowing he had been outwitted, Denham accepted defeat and gave up his line of questioning. Thus, Denham’s aggressive and blunt probing proved to be no match for Miss Phillips’ patience and composure.
Question 2.
Give a brief character-sketch of-Denham from’To Sir, with Love’. (2)
Answer:
Denham is one of the boys in Braithwaite’s class. Like all others, he too, is initially dismissive of Braithwaite and is rude and disrespectful towards him. He is particularly aggressive and bad-tempered. Braithwaite’s patience and tolerance transforms Denham into a mature, young man who learns to be respectful of others and takes up responsibility. This can be seen from his ability to host the Students’ Council report and supervise its proceedings. While hosting the Students’ Council event, he refers to the other senior girls as ‘Miss’ proving that he has transformed into an honourable young man. He is a trained boxer and enjoys athletic activities.
He is a natural leader, who enjoys influence over his classmates and is especially looked up to by the other boys of the class. This is made clear from the support he receives of his criticism of the P.T. class when the other boys cheer him from the audience. He is assertive and confident as he presents his report and is blunt, but respectful in his questioning of the need for the P.T. class. In his exchange with Miss Phillips, Denham is clever, assertive and determined in his argument, even though Miss Phillips represents an authoritative figure. At the same time, he also accepts his defeat gracefully when Miss Phillips outwits him.
(C) Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below: [4 Marks]
Question 1.
Write 4-5 sentences on the ‘Time’ theme of the extract of ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’. (2)
Answer:
Through the given extract, the writer tries to convey to the readers that time cannot be controlled or manipulated. When Fogg is arrested at Liverpool, this causes a delay in Fogg’s plans. Although Fogg is depicted as a particular and precise man, who is obsessed with planning for every moment even he could not have prepared for such an event in advance. This shows that no matter how many plans you make, whether time will work for you or against you is uncertain. Consequently, Fogg loses his bet because he is late by five minutes, an example of his defeat at the hands of time.
Time also plays a crucial role in the climax of the novel, wherein Fogg wins his bet because he had gained time’. Through sheer coincidence and luck, Fogg becomes aware of the additional ‘day’ that he had gained and wins the bet with just seconds to spare.
Thus, the extract ultimately wishes to convey the lesson that no one can control time; it is an uncontrollable, random force and humans are at its mercy.
Question 2.
Detective Fix tried hard but could not fix the charge of robbery on Fogg. Explain the statement from the point of view of Fix. (2)
Answer:
Detective Fix is a tenacious and determined inspector, who suspects Phileas Fogg of robbing the Bank of England. His suspicions are confirmed when a drawing of the robber bears close resemblance to Fogg. However, Fix cannot arrest Fogg without a warrant. At the same time, he does not want Fogg to get away and thus follows him around the world on his travels, all the while waiting for the warrant to arrive. Even though Fix is sometimes identified as the ‘antagonist’ of the novel, his desire to catch Fogg is not motivated by enmity. Instead, Fix’s motivation is primarily professional.
He deems it his duty to catch the robber and bring him to justice. However, it is also true that Fix desires the reward and the fame that awaits the detective who catches the robber. He succeeds in placing numerous obstacles in Fogg’s path and does so without Fogg ever realizing his true motives. Though it is easy for the reader to detest Fix for delaying and disrupting Fogg’s plans, his motive is somewhat justified as Fogg’s innocence is never truly confirmed until the end of the novel and thus, the reader, too remains suspicious of him. Fix is noble in his mission to catch a criminal, but also wavers from his morals when he tries to manipulate Passepartout.
He is also focused and resilient as he leaves no stone unturned to achieve his goal. Though bound by duty, he is also objective in his view of Fogg as he begins to admire him through the course of their journey together and even begins to doubt whether or not Fogg is guilty. Even so, he continues to make efforts to arrest Fogg. Eventually, his efforts are rewarded as the warrant arrives in time for him to arrest Fogg at Liverpool. This completely throws off Fogg’s plans and ruins his chances of reaching the Reform Club in time. Though joyous at first, Fix soon realizes he has made a mistake when news of the actual robber being caught reaches him.
This discovery leaves him feeling guilty and ashamed as is seen from his speechlessness when he releases Fogg and admits to him that he has made a mistake. When Fogg punches him in anger, Fix does not retaliate but instead accepts the beating as indication of having deserved it. Thus, even though Fix travels the world in order to catch Fogg, places several obstacles in Fogg’s path, goes against his instincts of believing Fogg’s innocence, manipulates Passepartout and diligently performs his duty, all of which results in Fogg’s arrest, he ultimately fails in fixing the charge of robbery on Fogg.
(D) Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below: [4 Marks]
Question 1.
Discuss the importance of the following statement in light of the extract from ‘The Sign of Four’. Holmes carefully examined the paper given by Mary (2)
Answer:
The paper that Mary gave to Holmes was found in her father’s desk. Mary told Holmes that no one had been able to understand the contents of the paper. Though she didn’t think it was relevant to the case, she thought Holmes would like to see it and that’s why she had brought it with her. Holmes, too, did not think that the paper was relevant to the case at hand. However, he told Mary that it was an important document and that she should preserve it carefully as it may prove to be of use later. After examining the paper, Holmes also declared that the matter was deeper and more complicated than he had initially thought and that he might have to reconsider his approach to the case.
The paper, in fact, contained the location of the treasure that Jonathan Small and his three conspirators had hidden in the Agra Fort. This statement is important because this is the first time the location of the treasure surfaces in the story. Though at this point, the characters are unaware of even the existence of such a treasure, the paper is proof that the story narrated by Jonathan Small, upon his arrest, is actually true. It is also important because it is the first moment when the titular ‘the sign of four’ is introduced to the story. Finally, Sherlock makes many quick deductions from the paper which serves to demonstrate his intellectual abilities, yet again.
Question 2.
How does the series of actions go from London to India? Explain by citing references from the extract of ‘The Sign of Four’. (2)
Answer:
The extract begins in present day (1888) London, when Miss Mary Morstan comes to meet Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson with a case. She begins to narrate the events that have occurred in the past. The first reference to India is made in the line – “My father was an officer in an Indian regiment who sent me home when I was quite a child”, where Mary tells Holmes and Watson that her father had been stationed in India (before 1878). The scene shifts to London with the line – “He telegraphed to me from London that he had arrived all safe, and directed me to come down at once, giving the Langham Hotel as his address”, where Mary tells them about her father’s return to London, ten years ago (1878).
The next reference to India is made when Mary says, “There was nothing in it to suggest a clue, – some clothes, some books, and a considerable number of curiosities from the Andaman Islands. He had been one of the officers in charge of the convict-guard there”, explaining that there was nothing in her father’s luggage, except his belongings and some curiosities from Andaman Islands, a place where he was stationed as one of the officers in charge of the convict-guard (before 1878).
She refers to India yet again in the line – “Only one that we know of,—Major Sholto, of his own regiment, the 34th Bombay Infantry” – where she mentions the regiment of which her father and Major Sholto were a part (before 1878). The scene shifts to London yet again in the line – “We communicated with him, of course, but he did not even know that his brother officer was in England”, where Mary explains how Major Sholto didn’t even know that Mary’s father had returned to England when she contacted him ten years ago (1878). The scene is brought back to present day London (1888) in the line – “A singular case,” remarked Holmes – as Holmes listens to the details of Mary’s case and admits that is indeed, a remarkable one.
In the evening, Mary meets Holmes and Dr. Watson for the second time and we are taken once again to the past where a reference has been made to India – “He and papa were in command of the troops at the Andaman Islands, so they were thrown a great deal together.” – where she tells Holmes and Watson about how Major Sholto and her father were in command of the troops at Andaman Islands and hence spent a great deal of time in each other’s company (before 1878).
The very next line brings us back to present day London (1888) – “By the way, a curious paper was found in papa’s desk which no one could understand.” – where Mary tells Sherlock about a piece of paper that had been found in her father’s desk when he had disappeared ten years ago and whose contents no one had been able to understand. Thus, the action of the plot moves back and forth between India and London.