Class : XII

ENGLISH CORE

Shri Ashok Kumar

Shri Himanshu Gupta

 Production Team

Published at Delhi Bureau of Text Books, 25/2, Institutional Area, Pankha Road, New
Delhi-58 by Rajesh Kumar, Secretary, Delhi Bureau of Text Books and Printed at:
Arihant Offcet, New Delhi-110043
ENGLISH CORE
Class : XII
 Session 2023-24
LIST OF MEMBERS WHO REVIEWED
SUPPORT MATERIAL FOR
ENGLISH (CORE)
CLASS XII

Team Leader

Mr. Rakesh Semalty RPVV, Gautampuri, Delhi-53

Vice Principal/Head of School (School I.D.-1105248)

Contributors

S.No. Name Designation School Name & Id

1. Ms. Nandini Sarangal Lect. English SKV. No. 2, Shakarpur
Delhi (1002193)
2. Ms. Swati Chaudhary Lect. English S.V. Jaidev Park, Delhi
I.D. 1515001
3. Ms. Harbeer Narula Lect. English SKV, Shankar Nagar,
Delhi (1003026)
4. Ms. Samidha Chaudhary Lect. English G.S.V. Block C,
Saraswati Vihar
I.D. 1411123
5. Mr. Himanshu Shekhar Lect. English School of Excellence
Khichurpur, Delhi
(1002400)

Art Credits : Swati Chaudhary

      Lect. English

English–XII (xiii)
 ENGLISH (CORE)
Code No. 301
2023-24

Background

Students are expected to have acquired a reasonable degree of language

                 
course aims, essentially, at promoting the higher-order language skills.
For a large number of students, the higher secondary stage will be a
                
English may be required. Additionally, for another large group, the higher
secondary stage may be a preparation for entry into the professional domain.
The Core Course caters to both groups by promoting the language skills
required for academic study as well as the language skills required for the
workplace.

Competencies to be focused on:

The general objectives at this stage are to:

• listen and comprehend live as well as recorded oral presentations on
a variety of topics
•                
skills necessary for social and academic purpose to participate in
group discussions and interviews, by making short oral presentation
on given topics
• perceive the overall meaning and organisation of the text (i.e.,
correlation of the vital portions of the text)
• identify the central/main point and supporting details, etc., to build
communicative competence in various lexicons of English
• promote advanced language skills with an aim to develop the skills
of reasoning, drawing inferences, etc. through meaningful activities
• translate texts from mother tongue(s) into English and vice versa
• develop ability and acquire knowledge required in order to engage in
        

(xiv) English–XII
 • read and comprehend extended texts (prescribed and non-prescribed)
    !          
autobiography, travel and sports literature, etc.
• text-based writing (i.e., writing in response to questions or tasks based
on prescribed or unseen texts), understand and respond to lectures,
speeches, etc.
• write expository / argumentative essays, explaining or developing a
topic, arguing a case, etc, write formal/informal letters and applications
 "  
• make use of contextual clues to infer meanings of unfamiliar
vocabulary
• select, compile and collate information for an oral presentation
•           
• use grammatical structures accurately and appropriately
• write items related to the workplace (minutes, memoranda, notices,
summaries, reports etc.
•      #$ %  & ' 
from reference materials, recorded talks etc.
• The core course should draw upon the language items suggested for
 %              & *
attention may, however, be given to the following areas of grammar:
• +             &
• #    '     7    "  '   
      8      " 
discourses modal auxiliaries-uses based on semantic considerations.

     

Students are expected to develop the following study skills:

• skim for main ideas and scan for details
• refer to dictionaries, encyclopedia, thesaurus and academic reference
material in any format
English–XII (xv)
 • select and extract relevant information, using reading skills of
skimming and scanning
• understand the writer's purpose and tone
•    "         
• "             
business opinions on the basis of latest trends available
•             
arrive at personal conclusion and logically comment on a given text.
• <            
interpreting opinion, develop the ability to be logically persuasive in
defending one's opinion and making notes based on a text.

Develop literary skills as enumerated below:

• respond to literary texts

•              " 
literary texts from non-literary ones, explore and evaluate features of
character, plot, setting, etc.
• understand and appreciate the oral, mobile and visual elements of
drama. Identify the elements of style such as humour, pathos, satire
and irony, etc.
• make notes from various resources for the purpose of developing the
extracted ideas into sustained pieces of writing

(b) Listening and Speaking

Speaking needs a very strong emphasis and is an important objective

leading to professional competence. Hence, testing of oral skills must be made
an important component of the overall testing pattern. To this end, speaking
and listening skills are overtly built into the material to guide the teachers in
actualization of the skills.

       

Students are expected to develop the ability to:

• take organized notes on lectures, talks and listening passages
(xvi) English–XII
 • listen to news bulletins and to develop the ability to discuss informally
     '           "
sports, business, etc.
• respond in interviews and to participate in formal group discussions.
• make inquiries meaningfully and adequately and to respond to
inquiries for the purpose of traveling within the country and abroad.
• listen to business news and to be able to extract relevant important
information.
• to develop public speaking skills.

       

The students will be able to:

•       &       =
letters.
•      =    '& +    7 
reservation forms.
•         "  
appropriately
• write on various issues to institutions seeking relevant information,
lodge complaints, express gratitude or render apology.
•            %
data for admission into colleges, universities, entrance tests and jobs.
• write informal reports as part of personal letters on functions,
programmes and activities held in school (morning assembly, annual
day, sports day, etc.)
• write formal reports for school magazines/events/processes/ or in
local news papers about events or occasions.
• express opinions, facts, arguments in the form of speech or debates,
using a variety of accurate sentence structures
• draft papers to be presented in symposia.

English–XII (xvii)
 • take down notes from talks and lectures.
• write examination answers according to the requirement of various
subjects.
• summaries a text.
Note: The creative writing section shall assess the prescribed competencies
for writing skills, irrespective of any word limit.

(d) More About Reading

Inculcating good reading habits in children has always been a concern for
all stakeholders in education. The purpose is to create independent thinking
individuals with the ability to not only create their own knowledge but also
critically interpret, analyse and evaluate it with objectivity and fairness. This
will also help students in learning and acquiring better language skills.
Creating learners for the 21st century involves making them independent
learners who can learn, unlearn and relearn. If our children are in the habit
of reading, they will learn to reinvent themselves and deal with the many
challenges that lie ahead of them.
Reading is not merely decoding information or pronouncing words
correctly. It is an interactive dialogue between the author and the reader in
which the reader and the author share their experiences and knowledge with
each other. Good readers are critical readers with an ability to arrive at a deeper
understanding of not only the world presented in the book but also of the real
world around them.
Consequently, they become independent thinkers capable of taking their
own decisions in life rationally. Hence, a few activities are suggested below
which teachers may use as a part of the reading project.
• Short review / dramatization of the story
• Commentary on the characters
• Critical evaluation of the plot, storyline and characters
• Comparing and contrasting the characters within the story, with other
         "  

(xviii) English–XII
 • Extrapolating about the story read or life of characters after the story
ends defending characters actions in the story
• Making an audio story out of the novel/text to be read aloud.
• Interacting with the author
• Holding a literature fest where students role-play as various characters
to interact with each other
• Role playing as authors/poets/dramatists, to defend their works and
characters
• Symposiums and seminars for introducing a book, an author, or a
theme
• Creating graphic novels out of novel or short stories they read
• Dramatizing incidents from a novel or a story
• Creating their own stories
• Books of one genre to be read by the whole class.
Teachers may select books and e-books suitable to the age and level of
the learners. Care ought to be taken to choose books that are appropriate in
terms of language, theme and content and which do not hurt the sensibilities
of a child.
Teachers may later suggest books from other languages by dealing with the
same themes as an extended activity. The Project should lead to independent
learning/reading skills and hence the chosen book should not be taught in class,
but may be introduced through activities and be left for the students to read at
their own pace. Teachers may, however, choose to assess a student's progress
or success in reading the book by asking for verbal or written progress reports,
looking at their diary entries, engaging in a discussion about the book, giving
  >   '    '7  & ?   
assessment may be chosen by the teacher.

Methods and Techniques

The techniques used for teaching should promote habits of self-learning

and reduce dependence on the teacher. In general, we recommend a multi-

English–XII (xix)
skill, learner-centred, activity based approach,of which there can be many
variations.
• The core classroom activity is likely to be that of silent reading of
prescribed/selected texts for comprehension, which can lead to other
forms of language learning activities such as role-play, dramatization,
group discussion, writing, etc., although many such activities could
be carried out without the preliminary use of textual material.
• It is important that students be trained to read independently and
intelligently, interacting actively with texts, with the use of reference
materials (dictionary, thesaurus, etc.) where necessary.
• Some pre-reading activity will generally be required, and the course
books should suggest suitable activities, leaving teachers free to
devise other activities when desired. So also, the reading of texts
should be followed by post reading activities.
• It is important to remember that students should be encouraged to
  8  "   &
• Group and pair activities can be resorted to, when desired, although
many useful language activities can be carried out individually. In
general, teachers should encourage students to interact actively with
texts and with each other.
• Oral activity (group discussion, etc.) should be encouraged.

(xx) English–XII
 ENGLISH (CORE)
Code No. 301
CLASS - XII
2023-24
Section A - 22 Marks
Reading Skills

I Reading Comprehension through Unseen Passage

(12+10 = 22 Marks)

1. One unseen passage to assess comprehension, interpretation, analysis

and inference. Vocabulary assessment will also be assessed via
inference. The passage may be factual, descriptive or literary.
2. One unseen case-based factual passage with verbal/visual inputs like
statistical data, charts etc. to assess comprehension, interpretation,
analysis, inference and evaluation.
Note: The combined word limit for both the passages will be 700-750
words.
Multiple Choice Questions / Objective Type Questions and Short Answer
type Questions (to be answered in 40-50 words) will be asked.

Section B - 18 Marks
Creative Writing Skills

(ii) Creative Writing Skills

3. Notice, up to 50 words. One out of the two given questions to be

answered. (4 Marks: Format: 1 / Content: 2 / Accuracy of Spelling
and Grammar: 1).
4. Formal/Informal Invitation and Reply, up to 50 words. One out of the
two given questions to be answered. (4 Marks: Format: 1 / Content: 2
/ Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar :1 ). 5. Letters based on verbal/
visual input, to be answered in approximately 120-150 words. Letter

English–XII (xxi)
 types include application for a job with bio data or resume. Letters to
the editor (giving suggestions or opinion on issues of public interest).
One out of the two given questions to be answered . (5 Marks: Format
: 1 / Organisation of Ideas: 1/Content : 2 / Accuracy of Spelling and
Grammar :1 ).
6. Article/ Report Writing, descriptive and analytical in nature, based on
verbal inputs, to be answered in 120-150 words. One out of the two
given questions to be answered . (5 Marks: Format: 1 /Organisation
of Ideas: 1/Content: 2 / Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar :1 ).

Section C - 40 Marks

Literature Text Book and Supplementary Reading Text

This section will have variety of assessment items including Multiple

Choice Questions, Objective Type Questions, Short Answer Type
Questions and Long Answer Type Questions to assess comprehension,
interpretation, analysis, evaluation and extrapolation beyond the text.
7. One Poetry extract out of two, from the book Flamingo, to assess
comprehension, interpretation, analysis, inference and appreciation.
(6x1=6 Marks)
8. One Prose extract out of two, from the book Vistas, to assess
comprehension, interpretation,analysis, evaluation and appreciation.
(4x1=4 Marks)
9. One prose extract out of two from the book Flamingo, to assess
comprehension, interpretation, analysis, inference and evaluation.
(6x1=6Marks)
10. Short answer type questions (from Prose and Poetry from the book
Flamingo), to be answered in 40-50 words each. Questions should
elicit inferential responses through critical thinking. Five questions
out of the six given, are to be answere(d) (5x2=10 Marks)
11. Short answer type questions, from Prose (Vistas), to be answered
in 40- 50 words each. Questions should elicit inferential responses
through critical thinking. Any two out of three questions to be done.
(2x2=4 Marks)

(xxii) English–XII
 12. One Long answer type question, from Prose/Poetry (Flamingo), to
be answered in 120-150 words. Questions can be based on incident
/ theme / passage / extract / event as reference points to assess
extrapolation beyond and across the text. The question will elicit
analytical and evaluative response from the student. Any one out of
two questions to be done. (1x5=5 Marks)
13. One Long answer type question, based on the chapters from the
book Vistas, to be answered in 120-150 words, to assess global
comprehension and extrapolation beyond the text. Questions to
provide analytical and evaluative responses using incidents, events,
themes, as reference points. Any one out of two questions to be done.
(1x5=5 Marks)

English–XII (xxiii)
 Prescribed Books

1. Flamingo: English Reader published by National Council of

Education Research and Training, New Delhi
Session 2023-2024
(Prose)
• The Last Lesson
• Lost Spring
• Deep Water
• The Rattrap
• Indigo
• Poets and Pancakes
• The Interview
• Going Places
(Poetry)
• My Mother at Sixty-Six
• Keeping Quiet
• A Thing of Beauty
• A Roadside Stand
• Aunt Jennifer's Tigers
2. Vistas: Supplementary Reader published by National Council of
Education Research and Training, New Delhi
• The Third Level
• The Tiger King
• Journey to the End of the Earth The Enemy
• On the Face of It
• Memories of Childhood
: The Cutting of My Long Hair
: We Too are Human Beings

(xxiv) English–XII
 INTERNAL ASSESSMENT
Assessment of Listening Skills - 05 marks.
Assessment of Speaking Skills - 05 Marks
Project Work-10 Marks

ENGLISH (CORE)
Code No. 301
2023-24

English CORE XII

Section Competencies Total

Marks
Reading Conceptual understanding, decoding, 22
Skills Analyzing, inferring, interpreting,
appreciating, literary, conventions and
vocabulary, summarizing and using
appropriate format/s.
Creative Conceptual Understanding, application 18
Writing Skills of rules, Analysis, Reasoning, appropriate
of style and tone, using appropriate
           
evolution and creativity.
Literature Recalling, reasoning, critical thinking, 40
Text Book and appreciating literary convention,
Supplementary        
Reading Text   &
TOTAL 80
Internal Assessment of Listening and 10
Assessment Speaking Skills
• Listening 5+5
• Speaking
• Project Work 10
GRANT TOTAL 100

English–XII (xxv)
 Guidelines for Internal Assessment

Classes XI-XII
ALS must be seen as an integrated component of all four language skills
rather than a compartment of two. Suggested activities, therefore, take into
consideration an integration of the four language skills but during assessment,
emphasis will be given to speaking and listening, since reading and writing
are already being assessed in the written exam.

Classes XI-XII Total Marks: 20

Assessment of Listening and Speaking Skills: (5+5=10 Marks)
(i) Activities:
• Subject teachers must refer to books prescribed in the syllabus.
• In addition to the above, teachers may plan their own activities and
create their own material for assessing the listening and speaking
skills.
(ii) Parameters for Assessment: The listening and speaking skills are to
be assessed on the following parameters:
(a) Interactive competence (Initiation & turn taking, relevance to the
topic)
(b) Fluency (cohesion, coherence and speed of delivery)
(c) Pronunciation
(d) Language (grammar and vocabulary)
A suggestive rubric is given below:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Interaction • Contributions • Contributions • Develops • Interaction is • Initiates &
are mainly are often interaction adequately logically
unrelatedio unrelated to adequately, initiated and develops
those of other those of the makes developed simple
speakers other speaker however conversation
• Takes turn but
minimal on familiar
• Shows hardly • Generally needs some
"  topics
any initiative in passive in the promoting
initiate
the development development of • Takes turns
conversation
of conversation conversation appropriately
• Needs
• Very limited
constant
interaction
promoting to
take turns

(xxvi) English–XII
Fluency & • Noticeably/long • \  ] • Is willing • Speakers • Speakers
Coherence pauses; rate of produces to speak without  
speech is slow simple speech at length, noticeable almost with
    however "   no repetition
• Frequent
loses coherence repetition is little repetition & minimal
repetition and/or
in complex noticeable hesitation
self-correction • Demonstrates
communication Develops
this is all right • Hesitates hesitation
topic fully &
in informal • Often hesitates and/or self to words or
coherently
conversation and/or resorts corrects; use correct
to slow speech occasionally grammatical
• Links only
loses structures
basic sentences; • Topics partly
coherence and/or self-
breakdown of developed;
correction
evident. not always • Topics
concluded developed, • Topics not
logically but usually fully developed
not logically to merit.
concluded
Pronunciation • Frequent • Frequently • Largely • Mostly • Pronunciation
inaccurate unintelligible correct corrected correctly;
pronunciation articulation pronunciation pronunciation articulates
& clear clear clearly
• Communication • Frequent
articulation articulation • Is always
is severely phonological
except comprehensible
" errors • Is clearly
occasional
understood • uses
• Major errors
most of the appropriate
communication
time; very few intonation
problems
phonological
errors
Vocabulary • Demonstration • Is able to • Is able to • Is able to • Is able to
& almost no communicate communicate communicate communicate
Grammar 8    on some of on most of on most of the on most of the
mostly struggles the topics, the topics, topics with topics using
for appropriate with limited with limited appropriate a wide range
words vocabulary. vocabulary. vocabulary of appropriate
A few vocabulary,
• Many • Frequent errors, • Minors errors
grammatical using new
Grammatical but self-corrects that do not
errors words and
errors impacting hamper
expressions
communication communication
No
grammatical
errors

(iii) Schedule:
• The practice of listening and speaking skills should be done throughout
the academic year.
• +       '            
and schedule of the school.

English–XII (xxvii)
 Project Work + Viva: 10 Marks
Out of ten marks, 5 marks will be allotted for the project report/script/
essay etc. and 5 marks for the viva
(i) Schedule:
• Schools may refer to the suggestive time line given in these guidelines
for the planing, preparation and viva-voce of ALS based projects.
• +       '        
parameters suggested by the Board. Language teachers, however,
have the option to adopt/modify these parameters according to their
   &
(ii) Suggestions for Project Work:
• The Project can be inter-disciplinary in theme. The ideas/issues
highlighted in the chapters/poems/drama given the prescribed books
can also be developed in the form of a project. Students can also take
up any relevant and age-appropriate.
• Such topics may be taken up that provide students with opportunities
for listening and speaking. Some suggestions are as follows:
(a) Interview-Based research:
Example:
• Students can choose a topic on which to do their research/interview,
e.g. a student can choose the topic : "Evolving food tastes in my
neighbourhood" or "Corona pandemic and the fallout on families."
Read the available literature.
• The student then conduct interviews with a few neighbours on the
topic. For an interview, with the help of the teacher, student will frame
questions base on the preliminary research/background.
2. Vocabulary:
• After noting their pronunciation levels, evaluate the students on the
use of extensive and appropriate vocabulary during the viva. Check if
students are using vocabulary appropriate to the context about which
they are speaking.
(xxviii) English–XII
 3. Accuracy:
• Grammar has always been an important component of language skills.
As students speak/ answer the questions during the viva, listen to their
grammatical structures. Are they competent enough to use multiple
 _           _ ? "
speaker will automatically use the correct grammatical structures of
his language.
4. Communication:
• Assessing the communication skills of the students means looking
at more than language. Look at how creatively students use the
language to make their points understood. Students with a low level
of vocabulary and grammar may still have good communication
skills if they are able to make the teacher understand their point of
view.
5. Interaction:
• During the viva teachers need to ask the students some questions.
Questions need to be based on the projects that have been suggested
or chosen by the students.
• It is imperative for a teacher to read the essays/project reports before
they can be ready to ask questions.
• Teachers need to observe how students answer the questions that are
posed to them: Are they able to understand and answer questions
independently or can they answer only when the questions are
translated into simpler words or repeated? Are they able to give
appropriate responses in a conversation?
• These elements of interaction       "
  & ?    "   '  
              
conversation.
6. Fluency:
• Fluency may be the easiest quality to judge in the students' speech:
How comfortable are they as they speak and express themselves?
How easily do the words come out? Are there inappropriate pauses
and gaps in the way a student speaks?

English–XII (xxix)
 • Fluency is a judgement of this communication and is an important
criterion when evaluating speaking skills. These criteria: pronunciation,
             ' 
a student's overall speaking abilities.
• Teachers must also remember that some students may excel in one
area and struggle in another. Helping the students understand these
       " '  & 
your students know that you will be assessing them in these various
areas when you evaluate their progress and encourage them to work
and improve in these areas.
• Finally, teachers must remember that a proper evaluation of the
students will take into consideration more than just one oral
       project. Teachers must take note of a
student's progress throughout the academic year.
(v) Project-Portfolio/ Project Report
The Project-Portfolio/Project Report is a compilation of the work that
the students produce during the process of working on their ALS Project.
The Project-Portfolio may include the following:
• Cover page, with title of project, school details/details of students.
• The student will then write an essay/write up/ report etc., up to 1000
words on his/her research and submit it. He / She will then take a viva
on the research project. The project can be done in individually or in
pairs/groups
(b) Students listen to podcasts/interviews/radio or TV documentary on a
topic and prepare a report countering or agreeing with the speakers.
Write an 800 - 1000 words report and submit. Take a viva on the
report.
(c) Students create their own video/Audio, after writing a script. Before
they decide a format, the following elements can be taken into
consideration:
• Theme/topic of the audio / video. Would the child like to pick a current
issue or something artistic like theatre?

(xxx) English–XII
 • What are the elements that need to be part of the script?
• Will the video/audio have an interview with one or more guests?
• Would they prefer to improvise while chatting with guests, or work
from a script/
• What would be the duration?
• How would they present the script/report to the teacher, e.g. Can it be
in the form of a narrative?
(d) Students write, direct and present a theatrical production,/One
act play
This will be a project which will be done as a team. It will involve
planning, preparation and presentation. In short, various language
skills will be utilised. There will be researching discussion, writing
and script, auditioning and ultimately producing the play. The project
will end with a presentation and subsequently a viva. Teachers will be
able to assess the core language skills of the students and help them
grow as 21st century critical thinkers.
(iii) Instructions for the teachers:-
1. Properly orient students about the Project work, as per the
present Guidelines.
2. Facilitate the students in the selection of theme and topi(c)
3. Create a rubric for assessment and share with the students before
they start so that they know the parameters of assessment.
• Teachers need to familiarize themselves with the method of assessing
    %%    "      
scale.
• Choose the page criteria on which you will grade students and list
them among the left side of the page.
• Create an even number of column along the top of the page. These
columns will represent potential skill levels of the students.
• ?    7         & {
            8  
of the levels.
English–XII (xxxi)
 • The more detailed you make your criteria, the easier it will be evaluate
                 &
{Sample Rubric is attached at the end for reference}
(iv) Parameters for Overall Assessment:-
2. Pronunciation:
• When evaluating the pronunciation of the students, teachers must
listen for clearly articulated words, pronunciation of unusual spellings
and intonation.
• Assess the students for the pronunciation skills and determine at
which level the student needs improvement.
• Statement of purpose/objectives/goals
• #          &
• Students Action Plan for the completion of assigned tasks.
• Materials such as scripts for the theatre/role play, questionnaires
for interview, written assignments, essays,survey-reports and other
material evidence of learning progress and academic accomplishment.
• The 800-1000 words essay/Script/Report.
• < 7   &
• If possible, Photographs that capture the positive learning experiences
of the student(s).
• List of resources/bibliography.
The following points must be kept for consideration while assessing
the project portfolios:
• Quality of content of the project
• Accuracy of information
• ?       
• Content in respect of (spellings. grammar punctuation)

(xxxii) English–XII
 (vi) Suggestive Time line:
The FIVE Steps in Project Plan
PROJECT-INITIATION
PROJECT-PLANNING

EXECUTION IMPLEMENTATION CLOSURE

Month Objectives
Planning and • Teachers plan a day to orient students about the ALS
Research for the projects, details are shared with all stake holders.
Project Work
• Students choose a project, Select team members and
Preferably
develop project-plan.
INovember
December • Group meets (preferably online) and reports to the team
leader about the progress: shortfalls and successes are
detailed.
• Team leader apprises teacher-mentor.
• Students working individually or in pairs also update
the teachers.
• A logical, deliverable and practical plan is drafted by
the team/pair/individual. Goals/objectives are clearly
   &
• Work is delegated to team members by the team
leader. Students wishing to work alone develop their
own plan of Action.
• Detailed project schedules are shared with the teacher.
December • Suggestions and improvement are shared by the
January teacher, wherever necessary.
• Group members coordinate and keep communication
channels open for interaction.
• | }  ~       '   
Team Leader/individual student.

English–XII (xxxiii)
 • +        7  
prepared and submitted for evaluation.
January- • Students are assessed on their group/pair/individual
Feburary presentations on allotted days. Final Viva is conducted
by the External/Internal examiner.
Feburary- • Marks are uploaded on the CBSE website.
March or as per
the time lines
given by the
Board

!"#$%&  

(For Theatre/Role Play/Oral
presentation/lnterview/Podcast)

CATEGORY 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
TIME LIMIT Presentation Presentation Presentation Presentation Student/ group
is less than or exceeded or less exceeded or less exceeded or less adhered to the
more than 5       given time
minutes long time unit by 4 to time limit by 3 time limit by 2 limit
5 minutes to 4 minutes to 3 minutes
CONTENT/ Script is not Well written Well written Well written Well written
SCRIPT/ related to topic script/content script/content script/content script/content
QUESTIONAIRE
or issue shows little shows good shows good shows full
understanding of understanding of understanding of understanding
parts of topic parts of topic subject topic of subject topic
CREATIVITY No props/ Some work well organized Logical use of Suitable
costumes/stage done, average presentation, props reasonable props/honest
presentation stage set- up and could have work done "  7
lack-lustre costumes improved creative considerable
work done/
Creative
and relevant
costumes
PREPAREDNESS Student/group Some Somewhat Good Complete
seem to be preparedness prepared, preparedness, preparedness/
unprepared visible, but rehearsal is but need better rehearsed
Rehearsal is lacking rehearsal; presentation
lacking
CLARITY OF Lack of clarity Speaks clearly, Speaks clearly Speaks Speaks clearly
SPEECH in presentation some words are 90% of the clearly and distinctly
many words mispronounced time/ a few distinctly 95% 95% of time/
mispronounced mispronounced of time/ few   
words mispronounced pronunciation
words

(xxxiv) English–XII
USE OF PROPS Only 1/no 1 to 2 relevant 2 to 3 relevant 3 to 4 relevant 4 to 5 relevant
(Theatre/Role relevant props props used props used props used props used
Play)
used
EXPRESSION Very little Little use Facial Facial Facial
BODY use of facial of facial expressions and expression and expression and
LANGUAGE
expressions/ expressions and body language body language body language
body language, body languages are used to try to sometimes generate strong
does not generate some generate strong enthusiasm
generate much enthusiasm enthusiasm with with the topic
interest the topic
PORTFOLIO- Inadequate & Somewhat Adequate & Interesting Brilliant
PRESENTATION unimpressive suitable & relevant enjoyable & creative &
convincing relevant exceptional

Dear Students
The National Education Policy 2020 focuses on creative learning and
teaching methods. CBSE has introduced competency based questions in
accordance with it.
What are competency-based questions?
Competency-based questions are based on case studies, reasoning
and assertion, response-based, objective type etc. These questions test the
application of learning in real-lite situations through various mediums, thereby
understanding students' higher-order thinking skills (HOTS).
Why competency-based questions?
The aim is to make students think out of the box. critically and analytically.
There is a paradigm shift from content-based learning to conceptual, relatable
and application-based learning.
What is expected from students?
Competency-based questions test understanding of content/skill/concept
learned and its application in a similar scenario. It helps to assess and examine
true understanding and potential as opposed to rote learning.

English–XII (xxxv)
 Class XII English Core (301)
Support Material 2022-23
INDEX

Section and Topic Page No.

Section-A Reading Comprehension 1
1. Unseen Passage 2
2. Unseen Passage (Case Based) 22
Section-B Writing Skills
1. Short Composition (Notice, Invitation & Replies) 30
2. Long Composition (Letter, Article, Report) 47
Section- C Literature
Flamingo (Prose) 75
1. The Last Lesson 76
2. Lost Spring 82
3. Deep Water 88
4. The Rattrap 93
5. Indigo 99
6. Poets and Pancakes 104
7. The Interview 111
8. Going Places 116
Flamingo (Poetry) 121
1. My Mother at Sixty Six 123
2. Keeping Quiet 127
3. A Thing of Beauty 131
4. A Roadside Stand 135
5. Aunt Jennifer's Tigers 140
Vistas
1. The Third Level 146
2. The Tiger King 152
3. Journey to the end of the Earth 160
4. The Enemy 165
5. On the face of it 171
6. Memories of Childhood 177
Assessment of Listening and Speaking Skills & Project + Viva 188

(xxxvi) English–XII
 SECTION-A

READING COMPREHENSION

Reading Comprehension (1) decoding the texts. (2) is the perceptive of

what a particular text means. (3) ideas the author is attempting to convey
through the text.

Reading Comprehension is the ability to -

• process text and to understand its meaning, and to integrate it with
what the reader already knows.
• understand the meaning of the words from the context.
• follow organization of passage and to identify antecedents and
references in it.
• draw inferences from a passage about its contents.
• identify the main thought of a passage.
• answer the asked questions on the basis of reading of the text.
• determine the writer's purpose, intent and point of view.
Tips to attempt comprehension during exam
• read the passage at a reasonable pace to get the general idea of the
text.
•              
• underline the key words, phrases and sentences to identify antecedents
and references in it.

• manage your time accordingly. A lot depends on how well you time
yourself. Make sure, while you attempt the comprehension passages
in the examination it should be in the limit of 18 to 20 minutes. If you
spend too much time on the passage, you may run out of time while
answering oilier questions.

English–XII 1
 • go through the questions in the beginning and while reading the
passage keep the questions in mind. It would help you locate the
answers easily.
• understand the questions and locate the answers,
• it is of utmost importance that you give your complete attention to the
passage at hand.
• be accurate while opting the answer in multiple choice questions.
• The correct way to answer MCQ is by writing the part of the Q. No
along with the correct statement only.

SOLVED UNSEEN PASSAGE -1 (FACTUAL)

Read the following text.

Gone are the days when malnutrition would mean a sickly thin child. Now
         8     
child's intake of energy or nutrients. The new century is a harbinger of new
sights and technology. Keeping up with the times is also the changing face of
malnutrition in kids. In the 21st Century, malnutrition has taken the form of
an ugly three-headed monster - the one that combines under nutrition, poor
vitamin and mineral status, and overweight.
Under nutrition which includes low weight-for-height or wasting, low
height-for-age or stunting and underweight which is low weight-for-age.
Under nutrition makes children vulnerable to all kinds of diseases and can
even be life-threatening. This is usually treatable and preventable too. Low
weight-for-age means the child has recently undergone severe weight loss,
either due to diarrhea or any other health condition. Low height-for-age
usually means long standing lack of nutritious food. This can be traced back
to poor nutrition when the child was in the mother's womb, poor nutrition as
a child and frequent illness. Stunting can severely limit a child in terms of its
intelligence and physical capabilities. Underweight children can be so either
due to stunting or wasting or due to both.
‚               

2 English–XII
are collectively called micro nutrients and they are required for healthy growth
   & #   =     
do not consume a variety of foods might not be meeting their vitamin and
mineral requirements. Most of the times, absorption could also be an issue.
ƒ      ?         
     &
Gone are the days when a cherubic baby was a sign of a healthy baby.
Overweight or obesity means a child is much too heavy for their age. This
predicament is because there is an imbalance between consumption of calories
and expenditure. Sugar and fat laden drinks and snacks are responsible for
this. Excess fat can impair health.
The big three faces of malnutrition pose many issues at the individual and
at the country level. For starters, all forms of malnutrition can lead to diet-
related non-communicable diseases such as heart attacks and stroke, and often
linked with high blood pressure. At a country level, lack of productivity from
malnourished individuals and increase in healthcare costs pose an economic
burden on the country.
„ % "    '      &
Access to safe, nutritious foods even to the economically disadvantaged
societies, providing nutrition education for families to make the correct
dietary choice and improving assessment and nutrition monitoring can help
weed and rectify malnutrition early. Source ( Hindustan Times/ Malnutrition
and its three big forms parents must be wary of/ By Dr Pankaj Garg / Oct 07,
2021 /444 words)
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
}~ <             
emerging causes of malnutrition in wake of 21 century ( 1 Marks)
(a) Poverty and starvation

(b) Lack of nutrition literacy

(c) Opulent resources

(d) Lack of resources

English–XII 3
 }~ *'            ! }†
Marks)
1. Wasted
2. Obese
3. Normal
4. Stunted
(a) 2,3,4
(b) 1,2,3
(c) 1,2,4
(d) 1.3.4
(iii) Share evidence from the text to support the view that the writer is
urging for immediate intervention, detection and prevention of
malnutrition. (2 Marks)
}~ ‚      ! } † ‚'~
Column I Column II
1 Stunting (i) Thinner than normal weight
2 Obese (ii) Shorter than normal height
3 Wasting (iii) Overweight than normal
4 Underweight (iv) both thinner and shorter than normal
(a) 1-iv, 2-iii, 3-ii, 4-i
(b) 1-i, 2-ii, 3-iii, 4-iv
(c) 1-ii, 2-iii, 3-i, 4-iv
(d) 1-iii, 2-ii, 3-iv, 4-i
(v) Who among the following child can likely be malnourished despite
     ! }† ‚'~
(a) A slow eater
(b) A picky eater
(c) A slum dweller
(d) A village kid
4 English–XII
 (v) Who are the ugly three-headed monster that the writer blames for
malnutrition (1 Marks)
}~ \             
(b) Micro nutrient adequacy, obesity and stunting
(c) wasting, overweight and vitamin adequacy
(d) stunting, excess nutrition and minerals adequacy.
(vi) Explain, why a cherubic baby is no longer considered a healthy baby.
(2 Marks)
(vii) How malnutrition could be a threat to economic growth of a nation ?
(1 Marks)
(viii) "Nation needs to tackle malnutrition holistically ". What strategies
needs to be employed to prevent malnutrition and improve nutrition
among children. (2 Marks)
}8~          7     
blank with the appropriate won phrase (1 Marks)
„  !   ! „    ! %%%%%%%%%%%%%%
Answer key :
(i) (b) Lack of nutrition literacy
(ii) C 1,2,4
(iii) Writer has urged that malnutrition now is not limited to poverty only
          8   
in a child's intake of energy or nutrients which is alarming.
(iv) C 1-ii, 2-iii, 3-i, 4-iv
}~ ? \             &
}~ ?    '  "   & ‡  
obesity is an imbalance between consumption of calories and energy
expenditure. Sugar and fat laden drinks and snacks can impair health.
(vii) Lack of productivity from malnourished individuals and increase in
healthcare costs pose an economic burden on the country.

English–XII 5
 }~ „ % "        
nutrition education for familiar and improving assessment and
nutrition monitoring can help weed and rectify malnutrition early.
(ix) Malnourished child

SOLVED UNSEEN PASSAGE-2(FACTUAL)

Read the passage given below.

1. The lack of space in urban locales, people's preference for fresh
vegetables and some bit of out-of-the-box thinking has helped
create businesses based on an indoor green revolution. These new-
age nouveau farmers are growing romaine lettuce, oak leaves, mint.
kale, basil etc. in their vertical plants in urban localities. There are
*              
has its humidity and temperature monitored and strictly controlled.
This soil-less farming is called hydroponic (sustained on water and
nutrients) farming, not a new idea at all. but one that is now being
widely adopted.
2. Hydroponics is the art of gardening without soil. Instead of using soil,
water is deployed to provide nutrients, hydration, and oxygen to plant
life. It requires very little space, 90 to 95% less water than traditional
               
the time.
ˆ& ‰          
and superior quality. Since no soil is used, there are no pests and
therefore no insecticide/pesticide is required.
Grown in an environment that is controlled in terms of water at the
plains ' roots, moisture in the air. humidity in the air. ambient light
(same spectrum as of sunlight) etc. the food thus grown is cleaner in
physical, chemical, and biological nature.
4. The global population is predicted to reach 9.7 billion by the year 2050
and to feed everyone, it's estimated that global food production will
need to increase by up to 70% in the next 30 years. This method will
decentralize supply chains and give more business to local suppliers,
thereby cutting fuel costs and carbon emissions.

6 English–XII
 5. The indoor fanning technology market was valued at $23 .75 billion
in 2016 and is projected to reach $40.25 billion by 2022, as per a
report in The Forbes. Indoor green farms may be an idea whose time
has come. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer
     !%
}~ ‹      ƒ‡ „‡+     
of hydroponic farming?
(a) Requires little space.
(b) Gives better yield
(c) Requires abundance of water.
(d) Yield is chemical free.
(ii) Choose the option that lists the percentage TRUE with respect to
water used in hydroponic farming than traditional agriculture
1. 90%more
2. 90 to 95% less
3. 95%more.
4. 90%loss
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2and4
(c) 1 and2
(d) 3 and4
(iii). "Grown in an environment that is controlled". DOES NOT means that
hydroponic cultivation is
(a) nutrition less without natural environment
(b) done under 'strictly' monitored humidity and temperature.
(c) chemical and pest free.
(d) of superior quality.

English–XII 7
 (iv) Pick the option that correctly states what IS NOT the reason for
adopting hydroponic farming
(a) It is just one of the current fashion trends.
(b) lack of space in urban areas
(c) Preference for fresh vegetables.
(d) It promotes idea of sustainable living.
(v) Select a suitable phrase from paragraph 5 to complete the following
sentence appropriately.
Electric Vehicle is future of automobile industry whose __________
with projected sales leaping to 40% by 2030.
(vi) As per a report in The Forbes, which is the option that correctly
       '  Ž†  ŽŽŽ!
(a) exactly double .
(b) more than double.
(c) exactly half.
(d) little less than double.
(vii) "Global food production will need to increase by up to 70% in the
8 ˆ ‘& ƒ‡ < „‡+  !
(a) We need alternative cultivation practices to meet demand.
(b) We need environment friendly methods.
(c) Local supply will result in high fuel cost.
(d) Decentralized supply can reduce carbon emission.
(viii) Which option represents the correct method of hydroponic farming?
(a) Soil & Water.
(b) Water & Nutrient.
(c) Nutrient & Soil.
(d) Water only.

8 English–XII
 (ix) Pick the option showing the CORRECT use of the word 'nouveau'.
(a) The famous Madhubani painting is a renowned nouveau art form.
}~ +         
millionaires.
(c) Ayurveda is a nouveau system of medicine.
(d) A nouveau locomotive train engine at Museum was a treat to eyes.
}8~ ’       ƒ‡ < „‡+  !
(a) less water
(b) zero soil.
(c) superior yield
(d) high pesticides.
(xi) " It requires very little space, 90 to 95% less water than traditional
               
time.", is a reference to hydroponic system
(a) equal growth rate.
(b) Fast growth rate
(c) slow growth rate.
(d) medium growth rare

Answer Key:

i. (c) Requires abundance of water.

(ii) (b) 2and4
(iii) (a) nutrition less without natural environment.
(iv) (a) It is just one of the current fashion trends.
(v) (c) time has come.
(vi) (d) little less than double.
(vii) (c) Local supply will result in high fuel cost.
(viii) Water & Nutrients.
English–XII 9
 8& }~ +         
millionaires.
x. (d) high pesticides.
xi. (b) Fast growth rate.

SOLVED UNSEEN PASSAGE -3 ( FACTUAL)

Read the passage given below.

Everything you do in your day-to-day life has an impact on the planet, from
the food you eat to the car you drive. Sustainable living includes prioritizing
the use of natural and renewable resources instead of creating excess waste and
depleting resources for future generations .At the moment, we are producing
resources, using energy and creating waste at a rate which isn't sustainable.
This leads to environmental issues, such as pollution and climate change,
which cause harm to the environment, wildlife and humans. By making some
small changes to your lifestyle, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help
to tackle these issues.
By using less energy, you can help to reduce carbon emissions. There are a
              "  
appliances and hanging clothes to dry instead of using a drier.
< %              
and the ocean, causing harm to wildlife and the environment. Prevent this by
choosing to use reusable and eco-friendly alternatives instead.
To avoid wasting paper, choose to receive letters over email and only
  "     & ‚'        
rubbish in the correct bins. Also, try to reuse products and items as many times
as possible before binning them to reduce waste. If you don't use a product or
wear a piece of clothing anymore, give it to a charity shop or someone you
know would make use of it to help reduce waste.
You can save water in and around your home by making a number of
small changes. Walk or ride a bike to your destination instead of driving if it's
close enough - it's better for the environment and your health. Using public
transport is another good way to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
         & ‰     "
use them to create compost for you garden.
10 English–XII
 On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, answer questions
from the given below.
(i) What does it mean to live in a a sustainable way ?
(ii) "....hanging clothes to dry instead of using a dryer." Pick the option in
which the meaning of 'hang(ing)" is the same as it is in the passage.
(a) I am going to have a Christmas tree and hang all my gifts upon it.
}~ †    '        '&
(c) I'll text you when we hang up next.
(d) Its lots of fun to hang out with friends.
(iii) Pick the option that correctly lists the idea of sustainable living
1. reduce wastage.
2. use non-renewable resources
3. use renewable resources
4. recycle rubbish
5. increase green house gas emissions
6. misuse energy
(a) I, 3 and 4
(b) 2, 5 and 6
(c) 3, 4 and 6
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(iv) The narrator says that we can prevent this by choosing to use reusable
and eco-triendly alternatives instead. Not preventing means _______.
(a) hindering.
(b) averting.
(c) promoting.
(d) forbidding.

English–XII 11
 (v) Pick the option that is NOT TRUE in respect of “Hanging clothes to
       ”!
(a) It saves energy.
(b) It is an outdated practice.
(c) It is a better use of renewable resource.
(d) It saves money.
(vi) Pick the option that lists statements that are NOT TRUE according to
the passage with respect to leftover food.
1. It is miserable to reuse it.
2. It can be reused as food.
3. It can be used for compost.
4. It can only be thrown away.
(a) I & 2
(b) 3&4
(c) 2&3
(d) 1 &4
(vii) The word 'depleting ", as used in paragraph, means the same as _____.
(viii) Based on the passage, choose the option that is NOT one of the step
towards sustainable living

OPTION 1 OPTION 2 OPTION 3 OPTION 4

(a) Option (1) (b) Option (2)
(c) Option (3) (d) Option (4)

12 English–XII
 (ix) Complete the sentence appropriately
"By making some small changes to your lifestyle, you can reduce
your carbon footprint" The idea of making small changes, is mainly a
reference to.
(x) Pick the option showing the CORRECT use of the word 'sustainable'.
(a) Although Rahul is able to work 16 hours a day right now, this
kind of work schedule is sustainable for long term.
(b) Generating power through the use of fossil fuels is a sustainable
and environment damaging.
(c) Exploitation of natural resources is a sustainable option.
(d) Organic farming promotes the sustainable health and productivity
of the ecosystem.
(xi) Which of the following statements is NOT substantiated by information
in passage.
(a) Single-use plastic bottles are an eco-friendly option.
(b) Using less energy, can help to reduce carbon emissions.
(c) Walk, ride a bike or use public transport to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.
(d) If possible reuse products to reduce waste before discarding
them.
(i) Sustainable living is prioritizing the use of natural and renewable
resources instead of creatin waste and depleting resources for future
generations.
(ii) (a) I am going to have a Christmas tree and hang all my gifts upon it.
(iii) (a) I, 3 and 4
(vi) (c) promoting.
(v) (b) It is an outdated practice
(vi) (c) 2&3
(vii) decreasing.

English–XII 13
 (viii) (b) OPTION(2)
(ix) switching to sustainable living
(x) (d) Organic farming promotes the sustainable health and productivity
of the ecosystem.
(xi) (a) Single-use plastic bottles are an eco-friendly option.

UNSEEN PASSAGE - 4 (DESCRIPTIVE)

Read the passage given below.

1. Plant-based milks line the shelves in the refrigerator section or most
supermarkets these days soy milk, almond milk, and cashew milk,
even milk made from rice, oats, or peas. Choosing a plant-based
product seems like it would be a healthy option. But is it always? And
is it better for you than drinking cow's milk?
2. Are plant- based milks healthier than cow's milk? Should people
make the switch? If you drink cow's milk, there's really no reason to
switch to a plant-based option. Cow's milk is a good dietary sources
of necessary Vitamins and minerals. A serving of cow's milk contains
calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, and a host of micronutrients that you
need in your diet. That said, there is no nutritional requirement that
  ' '      &    8
recommended eating dairy products to build bones and present
fractures. It turns out there's not very strong evidence that drinking a
  '             
reducing facture risk.
3. Should people make the switch? So, if you want to switch to a plant
based product or if you need to do so because of a milk allergy or
lactose intolerance, you can get the same nutrients by meticulously
choosing the right plant-based milk product instead.
4. I low should I choose a plant-based milk if I do want to switch? The
quality of plant based milks varies greatly when it comes to nutrients.
Some contain virtually the same amount of vitamins and minerals as
  '!    & { 8    '
are much lower in protein than cow's milk. If you are going to switch

14 English–XII
    % '            
that contains good amounts of protein, vitamin D, iron, and calcium
ideally, aim for a milk that has at least 8 or 9 grams of protein per
serving.
5. Are there other reasons to switch to a plant-based milk alternative?
Plant-based milks are superior to cow's milk when it comes to the
environment. Plant-based products are less environmentally taxing
than animal-based products. So. if you're looking to reduce your
carbon footprint, plant-based may be the way to go.
On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, answer
   !
(i) Pick the option that correctly states what IS NOT the reasons for the
       ' *   ' !
(a) one of the steps in reducing carbon footprints.
(b) more environment friendly option.
(c) a better substitute for lactose intolerant people.
(d) more nutritious and healthy option.
(ii) "If you are going to switch to a plant-based milk". Pick the option in
which the meaning of'switch' is NOT the same as it is in the passage.
}~ +     "  &
(b) They switch their furniture nearly every year.
(c) Switching Diet plans for weight loss is a common practice.
}~ * '   "      &
(iii) Pick the option that lists statements that are NOT TRUE according
to the passage.
1. Plant- based milk is superior to Cow's milk when it comes to
nutrients.
2. There is no nutritional requirement to drink milk or eat dairy
  &
3. Cow's milk is a good dietary source of necessary vitamins and
minerals.
English–XII 15
 4. Cow's milk is superior to plant based milk when it comes to the
environment.
(a) I &2
(b) 3&4
(c) 2&3
(d) 1 &4
(iv) The word' meticulously', as used in paragraph, means the same as
(a) 'negligently'
(b) 'carelessly'
(c) 'carefully'
(d) 'vaguely'
(v) Which option represents the correct statement according to the
passage?
(a) Plant- based milks are superior to cow's milk.
(b) Plant-based milks are inferior to cow's milk.
(c) Plant-based milks are at par with cow's milk.
(d) Plant-based milks can be an alternative to cow's milk.
(vi) According to the passage." there is no nutritional requirement that
  ' '      ‘  !
(a) It is futile to drink Cow's milk.
(b) It is unhealthy to drink plant based milk.
(c) It is unhealthy to drink Cow's milk.
(d) Cow's milk isn't the only source of required nutrients
(vii) The narrator talks about milk allergy or lactose intolerance. NOT
having intolerance means, having
(a) Resistance.
(b) Proneness.
(c) Weakness.
(d) Sensitivity.
16 English–XII
 }~ #  '        !
(a) Dairy products.
(b) Non-dairy products.
(c) Non-lactose products.
(d) Micro-nutrients products.
(ix) Which option correctly represents the opinion about plant based milk?
(a) Plant-based milks are superior to cow's milk
(b) Plant-based milks are easily available in supermarkets.
(c) Plant-based milks are at par with cow's milk.
(d) Plant-based milks are an alternative to cow's milk.
(x) Choose the option that lists the statements that are TRUE with respect
         !
1. It is a myth and does not ensure protection from fracture.
2. It does ensure protection from fracture.
3. Lacks strong evidence to support.
4. A universal truth which can't be denied.
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and3
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 2 and4
}8~ ‹       '      !
(a) It must contain lesser vitamins and minerals as cow's milk
(b) It should have at least 8 or 9 grams of protein per serving.
(c) Its label must mention high prices.
}~       &

English–XII 17
UNSEEN PASSAGE 5 (LITERARY)

Read the extract given below

†& {                  
    ' "         
     "    &     
head and shoulders over all other tools as an instrument of learning.
It is language that gives man his lead in intelligence over all other
& ‡      "        &
No other creature can assemble a list of ideas, consider them, draw
conclusions and then explain its reasoning. Man can do all this because
he possesses language. And if thought depends on language, clearly
the quality of an individual's thought will descend on that person's
language-rudimentary or sophisticated, precise or approximate,
stereotyped or original.
2. Very young babies are soothed by human voice comforting words close
to them. This essentially emotional response provides early evidence
that feeling is an important component of language learning. Children
learn to use language in interaction with other human beings, and this
        '    "  '
from the person who is closest to them. This is seen to perfection in
         !   '   
adult almost physically drawing 'verbal' response from the baby, both
engulfed by that unique experience of intimate and joyful 'connecting'
which sets the pattern of relationships between two people.
3. Thus, long before they can speak, children are involved in a two way
process of communication which is steadily building a foundation
on which their later use of language will be based. Constantly
surrounded by language, they are unconsciously building structures
in their minds into which their speech and reading will later tit-
grammatical constructions, tense sequences and so on. The forms of
these structures will depend on the amount and complexity of speech
they hear. The fortunate children are those who listen to articulate
adults expressing ideas and defending opinions. They will know, long
before they can contribute themselves that relationships are forged
18 English–XII
 through this process of speaking and listening; that warmth and humor
have a place in the process, as have all other human emotions.
4 . Using books is the most language development. None of us can
             ! 
run out of ideas, or just get plain sick of it. Their lives are limited and
the experience just isn't there to provide the raw material for constant
verbal interaction . without inevitable boredom on the child's part
and desperation on the adult's. (Adapted from Babies Need Books by
Dorothy Butler).
On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the
questions that follow.
(i) Of all other creatures man leads in intelligence due to
(a) ideas.
(b) conclusions.
(c) reasoning.
(d) language.
(ii) For very young babies an important component of language learning
is
(a) feelings.
(b) interaction.
(c) experience.
(d) feedback.
(iii) Based on your understanding of the passage, choose the option that
lists the correct sequence of the process of language
1. Can assemble a list of ideas.
2. Draw conclusion.
3. Consider listed ideas.
4. Explain his reasoning

English–XII 19
 (a) 4, 2, 1, 3
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4
(c) 4, 1, 3, 2
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3
(iv) The narrator says that "The fortunate children are those who listen
to articulate adults expressing ideas and defending opinions". NOT
    !
(a) expressive.
}~  &
(c) incoherent.
(d) coherent.
(v) "Learning process will determine in large measure the sort of person
it will become." Pick the option in which the meaning of sort' IS same
as it is in the passage.
(a) He needs to sort out his matters with his friends.
(b) Tom sorted out the mail.
(c) For goodness sake, what sort of being are you?
(d) Wc will just sit back and let the machines sort itallout.
(vi) Pick the option showing the CORRECT use of the word 'contemplate'.
(a) Once she completes her schooling she needs to contemplate on
her future.
(b) Rahul is an obese man. His unhealthy food habits evidently
shows how much he always contemplates about his health.
(c) A warning sign is always ignored by people, this shows their
contemplation towards safety.
(d) Chances of failure is relatively high, when we contemplate before
our actions.

20 English–XII
 }~ {               !
(a) Adults
(b) Teenagers
(c) Young babies
(d) Parents
(viii) What are the most important means of ensuring a child's adequate
language development'.'
(a) Using books
(b) Two-way process of communication
(c) Uttering comforting words
(d) Drawing verbal response.
(xi) Pick the option that correctly lists the process that sparks learning
among babies just from birth.
1. verbal interaction
2. sight
3. loud cries
4. sensation
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 3 and 4
(c) 2 and 4
(d) 1 and 2
(x) Pick the option that lists statements that are NOT TRUE according to
the passage for language development in young babies.
1. It is not possible as they are too small to speak.
2. It is visible as interaction between parents and babies.
3. It forms an intimate and joyful relationship.
•&    "   8  &

English–XII 21
 (a) 1 & 2
(b) 3 & 4
(c) 2 & 3
(d) 1 & 4
}8~ ’'             !
(a) they keep children busy and parents can get free time
(b) they are cheaper than toys and games.
(c) they provide enough ideas for their imagination
(d) they are visually beautiful.

SOLVED UNSEEN PASSAGE-6 (CASE-BASED)

Read the following text.

A recent study cites around 37.15% of children experienced reduced
levels of concentration due to smartphone use, and 23.80% of children use
smartphones while they are in bed, before going to sleep. Increase usage of
mobile phones among children during the Covid-19 pandemic is resulting in
internet addiction. The use of smartphones before sleeping is not the only ill-
"          & #' 
phones while studying is another menace that is a prominent source of lapses
in concentration and weakening of attention span, among children, the study
said.
The study's data showed that 42.9% of children confessed to having a
social networking account. Among those children who have accounts on the
major social networking apps/sites which they use. In the age-wise distribution
of children having social media accounts, it was found that children of all ages
operate social media accounts. A large proportion of 10-year-olds have such
accounts. As per the data collected. 78.90% of children said that they spend
between 0-2 hours on smartphones using the internet, playing games, listening
to music, chatting etc.
When asked about the features/facilities that children like to use or
enjoy using on smartphones, internet devices. 52.9% answered as chatting.

22 English–XII
While the most common purpose is using internet-enabled device for online
learning/classes, only 10.1% of children like to use smartphones for online
learning and education. The data showed that the most prominent means to
access smartphones and the internet for the children is through their parents’
phones (62.6% of all valid respondents used their parents’ phones). It is also
interesting to note that 30.2% of the children of all age groups (8 to 18 years)
already possess their own smartphones and use the same for all purposes.
"Experts working for early detection and prevention of internet addiction
at AIIMS Behavioral Addiction clinic suggest that parent's supervision of
their child is of paramount importance. Parents must introduce other life skills
to children to ensure a reduction in screen time. The parents can encourage
social interaction of the child. More internet de-addiction centers need to be
established in the country. (Source: The federal/ March25/2022/350 word)
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
}~ +     %"         
among children. What are they? Give any two.( 1 Marks)
(ii) Increasing usage of phone "with age" indicates here in passage that
there is an increasing ___________ among children.( 1 Marks)
(a) Internet addiction
(b) Internet requirement
(c) Concentration and focus
(d) Internet literacy
(iii) What do the survey suggest regarding access to smartphones and
internet usage in respect of smartphones ownership and possession
among children of all age groups. (1 Marks)
(iv) Identify an internet addict child from the following statements :
(1 Marks)
}~ <  %  "          
with friends and family.
}~ ? % |—    '    "  ' 
 &
(c) Kanti - My screen timer alerts me when it's time to stop watching.
English–XII 23
 (v) Complete the sentence appropriately The real intended reason for
promoting access to mobile phone: during COVID pandemic was to
facilitate _________ among children.(1 Marks)
(a) Online chatting.
(b) Online music listening.
(c) Online learning.
(d) Online gaming.
(vi) "children of all ages operate social media accounts". What concerns
      _ }Ž ‚'~
(vii) How parents can play a pivotal role in curbing the rising menace of
internet addiction among children? (2 Marks)
(viii) State TRUE or FALSE.
+ & "  \  ‚ *  ˜ ‡ ƒ 
Internet on School Children", is appropriate for this passage

SOLVED UNSEEN PASSAGE - 7 ( CASE STUDY)

Read the passage given below.

1. The Ministry of Education rolled out a new School Bag Policy for
2020 in which it is stated that the school bag weight for students
should weigh 10 % of their body weight. This suggestion was on the
basis of surveys and studies conducted by the NCERT.
2. Along with slashing the weight for school bags, the policy also
suggests that no homework up to class 2. For classes 3. 4, and 5
homework hours should be limited to 2 per week For classes 6. 7 and
8 a maximum of 1 hour per day. From classes. 9 to 12 two hours per
day should be allocated for homework.
3. The policy said there should be no bags in pre-primary For classes I
and II the bag weight range should be between 1.6 kg to 2.5 kg. Like-
wise it should be 1.7 kg to 2.5 kg, 2 kg to 3 kg, 2.5 to 4 kg, 2.5 kg to
4.5 kg and 3.5 kg to 5 kg for classes I to V, classes VI and VII, class
VIII, classes IX and X and classes XI and XII respectively.

24 English–XII
 BODYWEIGHT AND WEIGHT OF SCHOOL BAG
Class Average body Bag weight range in kg
Weight in kg (recommended)
Pre Primary 10-16 No bag
Class 1 16-22 1.6-2.2
Class 11 16-22 1.6-2.2
Class 111 17-25 1.7-2.5
Class IV 17-25 1.7-2.5
Class V 17-25 1.7-2.5
Class VI 20-30 2-3
Class VII 20-30 2-3
Class VIII 25-40 2.5-4
Class IX 25-45 2.5-4.5
Class X 25-45 2.5-4.5
Class XI 35-50 3.5-5
Class XII 35-50 3.5-5
4. The new policy suggested that the homework given must suit the
individual interests of students. In other words, teachers should create
'interesting homework'. To ensure that optimal weights of school
bags are followed, the policy suggested that every school must have a
digital weighing machine to ascertain the weight of the bag.
5. Heavy School Bags are a serious threat to the health and well being
   &        "   
children which can cause damage to their vertebral column and knees
It also causes anxiety in them. Moreover, in the schools which are
functioning in multistoried buildings, the children have to climb the
steps with heavy School Bags, which further aggravates the problem
and health consequences.
6. This heavy load is caused by the tact that the children bring textbooks,
guides, homework notebooks, rough work notebooks etc., to the
classroom every day. Therefore, clear Guidelines of what school
item must be brought every day must be clearly outlined One of the
suggestions made by the policy is that a school bag needs to be light-
weight with proper compartments, and should contain two padded and

English–XII 25
           ‹
carriers should not be allowed as it may hurt children while climbing
stairs.
}<! ƒ&‡&  „& ƒ &Žˆ}š•›~7< ’ 7ŽŽ7†ˆ
dated Jan 4,2021/480 words)
On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the
questions that follow.
(i) According to the passage, one of the reasons for rolling out school
  ŽŽ !
}~  8           &
(b) to reduce pressure and rote learning.
}~  8         &
(d) to calculate perfect weight of school bag
(ii) Pick the option that lists statements that are NOT TRUE according to
the passage.
1. School bag weight should be as per the student's capacity to carry
weight.
Ž& #        "    
further.
3. School bag weight should be as per the approved percentage of
student's bodyweight.
4. Maximum homework should be given to reduce school bag
weight in classroom.
(a) I &2
(b) 3&4
(c) 2&3
(d) I &4
(iii) The word' aggravate', as used in paragraph 3. means the same as
(a) 'improve'.

26 English–XII
 (b) 'intensify’
(c) 'appease'
(d) 'alleviate'
(iv) Based on the given table in the passage, choose the option that
correctly states appropriate school bag weight for a class 7 student
 Ž› '   !

Option 2 Option 3 Option 4

Option 1
(a) Option (1)
(b) Option (2)
(c) Option ( 3)
(d) Option (4)
(v) "Every school must have a digital weighing machine to ascertain the
weight of the bag", is suggested to
}~ 8       &
(b) ensure school bag weight is not more than the recommended
percentage.
(c) ensure digital measuring system for checking school bag weight.
(d) to encourage child to carry technically prescribed weight.
(vi) Based on the given graphical representation of data in the passage,
choose the option that lists the statements that are TRUE with respect
to
1. Pre -primary students can carry minimum 1.6 kg school bag.

English–XII 27
 2. A Senior Secondary student average body weight is 35-50 k.g.
3. A class XIIth student can carry school bag of 5 k.g or more.
4. Minimum average body weight of a class Xth student is same as
class VIIIth student.
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 and 4
(c) 1 and 2
(d) 3 and 4
}~  '    Ž   !
(a) they don't need any homework.
(b) they are too young to sit for long hours.
(c) their learning should stop at school only.
(d) they do not need to develop writing skills.
(viii) 'interesting homework' DOES NOT suggest
(a) encouraging learning by doing.
(b) reduce reliance on textbook only.
(c) learning in accordance with interest.
(d) homework for fun and frolic only.
(ix) Which of the following statements is NOT substantiated by information
in passage?
(a) Maximum two homework per week for class 4 students.
(b) No school bags at all upto class 2.
(c) Maximum homework two hours per day for class 9 student.
(d) No school bag for Pre-Primary students.
(x) According to the 'School Bag Policy 2020'. which is the option that
      !
1. School bag should be lightweight.
2. Wheeled carriers should be used.
28 English–XII
 ˆ& <          &
4. No compartments are needed in a school bag.
(a) 2 and 4
(b) 1 and 3
(c) 2and 3
(d) 1 and 4
(xi) Choose right option which substantiate the reason cited for heavy
!
1. Lack of clear guidelines about what to carry.
2. Maximum load ensure maximum learning.
3. Too many books are carried which can be avoided.
4. Students fect good to carry everything in their bags
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 and 4
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 3

English–XII 29
 SECTION B
CREATIVE WRITING SKlLLS (18 MARKS)
SHORT WRITING SKILLS

1. NOTICE

A notice is a written form of communication to convey a message to

masses together at the same time. It should be simple, precise, clear and
comprehensive.
Where is it used: School, organisations, residential complexes, clubs,
   ‹   !         
and public instructions.

MARKS ALLOTTED:4

Distribution of Marks Date Writer's Name with

Format: Name of the Institution, Notice, Title, Designation (1 Mark)
Content: Main body- Answer - What, When, Where, How, For Whom and
Whom to contact. (2 Marks)
Organisation: Accuracy of spelling and grammar (1 Mark)
Points to Remember
• Begin with writing the name of the issuing authority / institution /
organisation, school or society in the centre.
• Write the word 'NOTICE'(centrally aligned).
• Then write date in words( 5 March 2023/March 5 2023) on the left
hand side.
• Body of the Notice- Mention Purpose of Notice, Date, Time, Venue,
duration of programme or any other required information.
• Mention the name and designation of the person issuing the notice on
the left hand side
• Notice should always be written in a box.
• Word limit 50 words

30 English–XII
 FORMAT OF NOTICE

Example: You are Sahil / Srishti, Head boy/girl of SKV Laxmi Vihar.
Delhi. A new auditorium has been constructed in your school which is going
to be inaugurated by Deputy CM. Draft a notice for your school notice board
inviting students and their parents to the inauguration ceremony.

SKV LAKSHMI NAGAR, Delhi NOTICE

7 January 2023

Inauguration Ceremony

All the students are hereby informed that the new school auditorium is
going to be inaugurated on 15 January 2023 at 10 am by Horfble Deputy
CM of Delhi. All the students alongwith their parents are invited to attend
the programme
All guests are requested to occupy their seats by 9.30 am.
Sahil/ Srishti
Head Boy /Headgirl

English–XII 31
Questions for Practice

(a) You are Priyanshu / Priyanka. the President of Welfare society of your
community. You wish to organize a Cleanliness Drive in your society.
Draft a notice inventing details in not more than 50 words.
(b) Delhi Government has launched a programme for all residents
where in a yoga teacher is being sent to societies where at least 25
people want to learn yoga .In the capacity of the President of RWA
Mayur Vihar. Delhi. Write a notice in about 50 words informing all
the residents about the scheme and motivating them to register their
names soon so that the classes may begin soon.
(c) DDA Sports Complex will remain shut for normal activities till June
15, 2023 because of Ranji Trophy matches that are going to be held
in the ground of the Complex . Draft a notice informing its members
about the closure. You are Keshav/ Kashvi, Manager of the Sports
Complex.
(d) Your school is successfully running the Business Blaster Programme
and is organizing an exhibition of the products prepared by the
students. The SMC members are going to be the guests of honour.
Write a notice on behalf of XII class students inviting the school
students to enjoy the exhibition. You are Anshika/ Akshay monitor of
Class XII A.
(e) Two students of your school. R.P.V.V. Surajmal Vihar. Delhi, have
 ?< =         # | 
the School Alumini Meet. As Secretary of the Alumni association of
your school, write a notice in not more than 50 words, informing and
inviting the students to participate in an interactive session with them.
You are Rudraksh/ Rashika.

English–XII 33
INVITATIONS AND REPLIES

?                

occasion, celebration, programme or event.
MARKS ALLOTTED:4 Format: (1 Mark)
#  ! ‚  % ‹ ‹  ‹ ‰  ‹   ‹ 
Contact. (2 Marks)
Accuracy of spelling and grammar (1 Mark)
Types of invitation: (a) Formal (b) Informal

FORMAL INVITATION

• To be written in third person.

• Details like address, code or any other instructions are written at the
bottom to the left or the right side as per choice. Subject matter is
generally written in the centre.
• No abbreviations are to be used.
• Simple Present Tense is used. Word limit 50.
• Each entry to be mentioned in a separate line e.g.,
(a) The name of the pcrson(s)who is/arc inviting
(b) Formal expressions like 'request the pleasure of your company'
(c) Time and date of event
(d) Purpose and occasion of invitation. Full form of RSVP is
Repondez s'il vous plait
• For RSVP, address and telephone no. is given at which the invitee
may contact for any queries.
• Name of the Chief Guest of the programme may be given

34 English–XII
FORMAL INVITATION

1. LETTER FORMAT
Written to an individual
Format:
ABC Vasant kunj Delhi 1100XX ]o Sender's address
[DD/MM/YYYY] ]o Date
Sule:
Sir/Madam ]o Salutation
Body in 3 para graphs ]
2. PRINTED [CARD]
• Written to group of individuals,
• Inside a box.

English–XII 35
 ABC VIDYALAYA requests your presence Name of institution
on the occassion of ANNUAL SPORTS DAY
ON 15 May 2023 at Triupati stadium details
 † !  
Mr. Anish gupta, CEO has given his
consent to be the guest of Honour extra
information
RSVP
Hemant Ahuja
Secretary
ABC Vidyalaya
contact
*  ! ž›†›† details
Example of invitation card : You are a student of Sardar Patel Vidyalaya.
Lodhi Road. The School is holding its Annual Food Fest at 11 a.m. on 10 July.
2023. The Chief Minister has consented lo be the Chief Guest. Design an
invitation card to be sent to the parents and other invitees. (Word Limit 50).
        
Sardar Patel Vidyalaya, Lodhi Road, Delhi
request the pleasure of your company
for
ANNUAL FOOD FEST
on Sunday, 10 July 2023
at 11.00 a.m.
in the School Auditorium
Honourable Chief Minister has very kindly consented to be
the Chief Guest.
Ÿ&<&$&* <    !
? & ‡= #     
011-27xxxxxx No entry fee
Example: You are Madan Sharma. Write a formal invitation for the marriage
function of your granddaughter. Sonali (daughter of Mrs Savita and Mr Rahul
Sharma) to Sridhar(son of Mrs and Kapil Sharma). The marriage is on 20 January
2023 at 7.30 pm at Red Carpet. Party Law Preel Vihar.New Delhi.
36 English–XII
 Mrs. and Mr. Madan Sharma

Solicit your gracious presence on the auspicious occasion of the marriage of

their grand daughter

SONALI

(Daughter of Mrs. Savita and Mr. Rahul Sharma)

With

SHRIDHAR

(Son of Mrs. Suman and Kapil Sharma) on 20 January 2023 at 7.30 p.m.
at
Red Carpet, Party Lawn, Preet Vihar, Delhi-110031

R.S.V.P. With best compliments

Madan Sharma Sharma Family
B-36, Rajdhani Enclave, Vikas
Marg, Delhi
*& ! ž››888888

Questions for Practice:

(a) You are a member of Laughter Challenge Association. Draft a formal
invitation to invite all the members for the upcoming standup comedy
event on 15th December 2023.
(b) You are organising an Exhibition of Painting 'Nayika Series' on 30th
„ ŽŽˆ  ?> ’ ? |  š!•š && ƒ 
invitation card to invite for the purpose .
(c) Your brother has got engaged informally. Your family wants to host an
Engagement Party. Draft an invitation card to invite all your friends
and relatives to join your family on this ceremonious occasion. You
are Vasudha/Varun.

English–XII 37
Formal invitation to preside over/inaugurate /judge events.

Example : You are Neha / Nakul, the Literary Secretary of Government

Model School. You have to organise an Inter School Debate Competition on
21 January 2024 You wish to invite Mr. Shailesh Gupta, an eminent speaker
to preside over the function.
Govt. Model Sr. Sec School. Sector-19 Chandigarh 16 January 2024
Sub : Invitation to preside over Inter School Debate Competition.
The Literary Society of our school is organising an English Debate
Competition on the topic ‘Media causes more harm than good, on 21 January
2024 at 9:30 a.m. in the school auditorium. Kindly consent to preside over in
the above said programme.
Yours sincerely
Neha

Questions for Practice

(a) You are organizing a Spoken English Workshop in your school. Draft
an invitation to invite a renowned Resource Person from the British
Council for the same.
(b) Deshbhakti Curriculum has been introduced in your school. You want
to organize a talk by an eminent Speaker. Draft an invitation to invite
the guest to visit your school and be the speaker of the day.
(c) The Eco Club of your school is planning a Cleanliness Drive So you
are organizing a rally to arouse awareness for cleanliness in your
neighbouring localities. Draft a formal invitation to be sent to SMC
members to flag off the rally, giving details of the event.
(d) Your school is going to celebrate World Health Day on April 8, 2024.
Your school wants to invite the famous nutritionist Diwekar Rujuta
for a talk on healthy eating habits. Draft an invitation card to invite
her to be the Speaker.

38 English–XII
 FORMAL REPLIES
ACCEPTANCE/REFUSAL

MARKS ALLOTTED:4 Format: (1 Mark)

#  ! ‚  % ‹& ‹  ‹ ‰  ‹   ‹ 
contact. (2 Marks)
Accuracy of Grammar and Spelling (1 Mark)
Points to Remember
• Acknowledge the invitation
• ’    
• Express thanks in third person
• Not to be signed at the end
•          
• If declining, give reason and convey your best wishes
• Give date and address at top left-hand side
• Use simple language
• Word limit 50 words
Formal Acceptance
Example: You are Mr. Ajay Gupta of 7 Park Avenue, Delhi. Draft a
reply accepting an invitation to attend a house warming party hosted by your
colleague.
7 Park Avenue, Delhi
9 January 2023
Mrs. and Mr. Ajay Gupta thank Mrs. and Mr. Satish Sharma for their kind
invitation on the house warming party on 20 January. 2023 at 11.00 a.m., which
they are delighted to accept. It's their great pleasure to attend the ceremony.

English–XII 39
Question for Practice

(a) You are Vinay of Panipat. Your colleague has invited you to the
engagement party of his brother. Prepare a formal reply expressing
your thanks for the invitation and express your acceptance for the
programme.
(b) You are Mohini Sehgal of 43 Shakti Kunj. Udaipur. Your neighbour
has invited you to a House Warming Party of their new house. Draft a
formal reply of acceptance to the function.
(c) You are Srishti, a lecturer of English. Your student has invited you to
a party planned on the occasion of being awarded the Student of the
Year trophy. Draft a formal reply of acceptance of the invitation.
(d) You are Akhil of Ashoka University. An eminent school invited guests
from University to attend a talk show. Draft a reply expressing thanks
for inviting and showing your acceptance of the invitation.

FORMAL REPLIES:

ACCEPTANCE/REFUSAL

MARKS ALLOTTED : 4
Format: (1 Mark)
Content: Main body- What, When Where, How, for Whom and Whom to
contact (2 Marks)
Expression: ‡         }† ‚'~
Points to Remember
• Acknowledge the invitation
• ’    
• Express thanks in third person
• Not to be signed at the end
•          
• If declining, give reason and convey your best wishes

40 English–XII
 • Give date and address at top left-hand side
• Use simple language
• Word limit 50 words
Formal Acceptance
Example: You are Mr. Ajay Gupta of 7 Park Avenue, Delhi. Draft a
reply accepting an invitation to attend a house warming party hosted by your
colleague.
7 Park Avenue, Delhi
9 January 2023
Mrs. and Mr. Ajay Gupta thank Mrs. and Mr. Satish Sharma for their kind
invitation on the house warming party on 20 January, 2023 at 11.00 a.m., which
they are delighted to accept. It's their great pleasure to attend the ceremony.
Questions for Practice
(a) You are Vinay of Panipat. Your colleague has invited you to the
engagement party of his brother. Prepare a formal reply expressing
your thanks for the invitation and express your acceptance for the
programme.
(b) You are Mohini Sehgal of 43 Shakti Kunj, Udaipur. Your neighbour
has invited you to a House Warming Party of their new house. Draft a
formal reply of acceptance to the function.
(c) You are Srishti, a lecturer of English. Your student has invited you to
a party planned on the occasion of being awarded the Student of the
Year trophy. Draft a formal reply of acceptance of the invitation.
(d) You are Akhil of Ashoka University. An eminent school invited guests
from University to attend a talk show. Draft a reply expressing thanks
for inviting and showing your acceptance of the invitation.
Formal Refusal
Example ! ¡  ‚& ? |  ¢ *' ?  ƒ& ƒ  
of refusal expressing inability to attend a house warming party hosted by your
colleague.

English–XII 41
 20 January 2023
7 Park Avenue, Delhi
Mrs. and Mr. Ajay Gupta thank Mrs, and Mr. Satish Sharma for their kind
invitation for house warming party on 30 January, 2021 at 11 am, but regret
their inability to accept the same due to urgent and unavoidable assignment.
Question for Practice
(a) You are Vishesh Panchal of Haryana. Prepare a formal reply expressing
inability to attend the retirement party of a colleague owing to a prior
engagement.
(b) You are Mynna Sehgal of 43 Vikas Kunj, Jaipur. Draft a formal reply
of acceptance to an engagement function.

FORMAL ACCEPTANCE (To Preside/ Inaugurate / Judge Events

etc.)

Example: You are Shailesh, a famous speaker. You have been invited to
be the judge of Declamation competition by Neha the President of English
Literary club of ABC School Delhi. Write a letter of acceptance of the
invitation. 73. Sector-11-A Chandigarh
18 January 2021
Dear Neha
Many thanks for inviting me as a judge of Declamation Competition to be
held on 27 January 2021- 9.30 p.m. I shall be highly delighted to attend the
function and enjoy listening to the views of students.
Yours truly
Shailesh
Questions for Practice
(a) You are Education Minister, Vinod Kumar of Delhi. You have been
invited for the inauguration of a school. Draft a suitable reply of
acceptance to attend the function.
(b) You are a renowned environmentalist Vanya Aggarwal of Shreshtha
Vihar, Delhi. You have been invited to inaugurate the Van Mahotsav
function. Draft a suitable reply of acceptance.

42 English–XII
FORMAL REFUSAL (To Preside/Inaugurate/Judge Events, etc.)

Example: You are Shailesh, a famous speaker. You have been invited to
be the judge of Declamation competition by Neha, the President of English
Literary club of ABC School Delhi. Write a letter showing inability to accept
the invitation
73. Sector-11-A Chandigarh
18, January 2021
Dear Neha
Many thanks for inviting me to preside over the Inter Zonal Declamation
Competition to be held on January 2024 at 9.30 p.m. but I am sorry to say
that I shall not be able to attend the same due to a prior appointment with my
doctor.
With warm regards
Yours sincerely
Shailesh
Questions for Practice
(a) You are a well-known scientist you have been invited to deliver a
lecture on Nuclear Energy in the Science Centre. Write a reply
refusing the invitation because you would be out of town.
(b) You are a noted stage artist and have been invited to perform at a stage
show in a cultural event in Noida. Write a reply refusing the invitation
because of a prior engagement.

INFORMAL INVITATION

Informal invitation follows the ordinary personal letters pattern. These

letters or, invitations are written to relatives, friends and known persons.
Points to Remember
• Use first person 'I', 'We' and 'You' and avoid using 'he', 'she' and They'
• Do not write subject and receiver's address.
• Write in warm and personalised style with relaxed and informal tone.
English–XII 43
 • Avoid writing unnecessary details.
• Begin with 'Dear' ---------(Name)
• Word limit 50
Example : You are Anuj / Anuja Goel of 23, Yojna Vihar, Delhi Write an
invitation to invite all your friends for the party you are giving to celebrate
your selection in B-Tech in DTU.
23, Yojna Vihar. Delhi
10 January 2021 My dear Rahul,
I have much pleasure in inviting you to post selection party after my
admission in DTU. Reach my residence at 7.30 p.m. on 16 January 2021 to
join my family and friends in my moment of joy.
Yours truly
Anuj
2. Informal invitation to friends and relatives
Sample- Informal Invitation
Q) It is your brother's engagement on the 23 August 2023. Invite your
friend, Sahil of 23, Taj Nagar. Jaipur to your brother's engagement which will
take place at Grand Celebrations. New Delhi.

52 Vishwas Nagar
New Delhi

17 June 2023
Dear Sahil
My brother, Anuj is getting married to Ms Shalini. We are celebrating their
engagement party on 23 August 2023T Grand Celebrations, New Delhi from
8:00 pm.
It would be an honor if you could join us in celebrating their marriage.
I have enclosed one ticket from Jaipur to New Delhi as my gift.
Questions for Practice
(a) You have recently bought a new house, 23 Raj Vihar, Ahmedabad.
44 English–XII
 You are hosting a housewarming party on 24th June 2023 at 12 noon.
Draft an invitation inviting your brother, Manish to the party.
(b) You are Salim/ Sulekha of 15 Kashi Nagar, Bhopal. You are celebrating
your son's first birthday party at Mannat Farms: Draft an invitation for
inviting your aunt, Sangeeta to the celebrations.
(c) You are Akshay/Akshita of Harvard's Academy. You have been
awarded a scholarship to visit NASA for a Students’ Workshop.
You want to share your joy with your friends and family. Write an
invitation to invite all your friends and close relatives.
(d) You are Varshu, resident of Kota. Your brother has turned 18 recently.
He has casted his vote for the first time. You want to congratulate him
for the same in the form of a small party. Write an invitation for his
friends to attend the party.

INFORMAL ACCEPTANCE

Example : You are Rahul and have been invited to the selection party of
your friend Anuj. Write a reply accepting the invitation you got.
7-C, Vojna Vihar, Delhi
7 November 2022
Dear Anuj
Many thanks for inviting me to attend your post selection party which will
be held on 9 January 202 at your home. I shall be highly delighted to attend
the same and will enjoy the party with great fun.
Yours truly
Rahul Gupta
Questions for Practice
1. You are Akash/ Ashini. You have been invited to attend the inauguration
ceremony of a Cafe opened by your friend's sister. Respond to the
invitation accepting it.
2. You are Hamel/Heena of 23, Raj Nagar Delhi. Your friend Neeraja
has invited you for a party to celebrate her brother’s good board result

English–XII 45
 and admission to a prestigious college. Draft a reply accepting the
invitation.

3. You are Priyanshu/Preeti of C-2, Jagriti Apartment. Rohini Delhi.

You have received an invitation to attend the naming ceremony of
your cousin's daughter. Write a reply accepting the invitation.

INFORMAL REFUSAL

Example: You are Rahul and you have been invited to the selection party
of your friend Anuj. Write a reply regretting your inability to attend the same.

7-C, Yojna Vihar, Delhi

10 May, 2021

Dear Anuj

Many thanks for inviting me to attend your post selection party, but I am
sorry to say that I shall not be able to attend the same as 1 shall be out of
station next week. I shall miss this joyous occasion. I wish you all the best for
the future.

God Bless You

Yours truly

Rahul Gupta

Questions for Practice

1. You are Akash/ Ashini. You have been invited to attend the inauguration
ceremony of a Cafe opened by your friend's sister. Respond to the
invitation regretting your inability to attend the same due to a prior
engagement.

2. You are Hamel/Heena of 23. Raj Nagar Delhi. Your friend Neeraja
has invited you for a party to celebrate her brother's good board result
and admission to a prestigious college. You are unable to attend the
function. Write a reply in about 50 words.

46 English–XII
 LETTERS

A letter is a form of written communication. They are of two types. Formal

and Informal.

Formal letters include

• Letter to the Editor (giving suggestions or opinion on issue of public

interest).
• Application for Job.
Format : Sender's Address, Date, Receiver's Designation and Address.
Subject, Salutation. Complimentary Close, Sender's name 1 mark
Content: Body of the letter, number of paragraphs - 2 marks
Organisation:
Accuracy of Grammar and Spelling (1 marks)
Note: No Marks awarded if only format is written.
Points to Remember
• Start each new line from left hand margin. Sequence of writing a letter
(a) Sender's address(left aligned)
(b) Datc(left aligned)
(c) Receiver's address(left aligned)
(d) Salutation : Sir/ Madam(left aligned)
(e) Subject content of the letter(left aligned)

(f) Body-

• Para 1 - Introduce yourself and the issue. Explain the purpose of

writing the letter.

• Para 2 - Explain the problem giving reasons and solutions(it may be

further divided into two paragraphs)Give an in-depth idea of the issue
and give details.
• * ˆ % Ÿ        '&

English–XII 47
 • Complimentary close

}~ +  * ! ¡  

}~ +   7 ! ¡   7¡ 

}~ +  7    ! ¡  

• Coherence and organisation of ideas

• Think and analyse the subject/ topic

• Recall all the ideas and put them on a rough sheet while brainstorming

• Organise the ideas

These letters give suggestions / create awareness on an issue of public

interest or an issue already raised in an article / write up.

Points to Remember

• Draw the attention of the concerned authorities, general public

towards the problem.

• Request the concerned authorities to take action NOT to the editor. It

is not a direct request.

• While dealing with social/civic problems provide suggestions to curb

or control it in the end.

• Raise the issue by citing some latest news / items/ Survey report/
personal experience etc.

• Analyse the issue in terms of its causes and consequences. Conclusion

to be positive, straight forward with pleasant tone and use of polite

48 English–XII
 Example: You are Rekha / Rakesh, a student of DPS Indrapuram Class
XII. After the pandemic, mental health of students is declining and they are
required to cope up with a lot of stress in today's competitive environment.
Write a letter to the editor to highlight the increasing stress faced by students
and suggesting ways and means to combat it.
Delhi Public School
Indrapuram
6 June 2022
The Editor
The Times of India
Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi-110002

English–XII 49
 Sub.: Problem of declining mental health of Students
Sir/Ma'am
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to express
my views on the problem of increasing stress among the students due to highly
competitive environment and their declining mental health due to this.
Today's world is full of competition. Every now and then a child is assessed
 "  & *  8      & +  
   8           %
activities. Everyone wants their child to be a doctor or an engineer. The result is
that children are unduly stressed and burdened. All day long they are indulged
in completing their homework and studies and no time is left for games and
&               
pandemic, students have been facing major mental health issues.
It is high time we should ponder upon this problem. Students should
            & *   
pressurize their children for performing excellently in studies. Meditation can
be practiced for keeping stress at bay.
               
that adults can empathize with the pain and stress , their children are going
through.
Yours sincerely
Rekha/Rakesh
Questions for Practice
}~ ¡  ¤ 7 ¤    ’%††& ¡  $ ƒ&
¡             
Ganga, people continue to pollute it. Write a letter to the editor of a
„  ƒ 8        
towards environmental degradation. Also suggest ways to mobilise
city dwellers for the cause of Ganga purity with the help of school
children.
}~ ¡  $'7$   ' $& ƒ& ¡       
the menstruation stigmas continue to be a huge part of the society

50 English–XII
 Write a letter to the Editor of a newspaper generating awareness about
this natural phenomenon that has been stigmatized since generations.
(c) You are Shreyans/ Shreya of Vivek Vihar. Yesterday a monkey bit an
old lady in your locality. Write a letter to editor of local daily showing
your concern over the increasing Monkey Menace in your locality,
how children and senior citizens are traumatized by monkeys. You
     =  '    
action.
(d) You are Dimpy/ Dinesh living at RKPuram. You are amazed to
see the bulk of waste lying scattered on the roads, despite various
advertisements regarding cleanliness. Write a letter to the Editor of
the national daily arousing public awareness regarding Cleanliness.

APPLICATION FOR JOB

Points to Remember
• Job application has two parts-
(a) Covering letter
(b) Resume/Biodata
• Start body of the letter giving source of information about the job
(newspaper) day, date, advertisement number etc.
• Share your interest and competence level.
• Close the letter giving note that bio-data/ resume is enclosed.
• Write 10-12 points in Curriculum Vitae.
• Resume Curriculum Vitae. an integral part of the job
   !
1. Name
2. Father's Name
3. Date of Birth/Age
4. Address

English–XII 51
 Example : You are Sudha/ Sudhir resident of A-7. Shanti Park. You read
the following advertisement in a newspaper.
SITUATION VACANT
‹      8        
knowledge of a foreign language is compulsory .to work as a translator of
books in a leading publishing house in Delhi. Contact Manager along with
your complete C.V. within 7 days of this advertisement.
Draft an application in response to the advertisement giving your
detailed resume.
A-7 Shanti Park
Delhi
16 September, 2022
The Manager
ARN Publications Delhi

English–XII 53
 Subject: Application for the Post of Translator
Sir
In response to your advertisement in the Hindustan times dated 15
September 2022 for the post of translator. I hereby offer my candidature for
the same. 1 possess requisite qualifications and experience. 1 want to join your
publishing house to fully utilize my potential.
You may call me for an interview on any date as per your convenience.
I shall be able to join my duties at one month's notice if appointed. I am
enclosing my detailed resume for your perusal.
Thank You
Sudha Sudhir
Enclosure : Detailed Resume
Resume/ Bio Data
Name: Sudha / Sudhir Father's
Name: Mr. Subhas Age : 25 Years
Address :A-7, Shanti Park. Delhi
Hobbies: Music. Net Surfing, Photography, Sports
Languages Known: Hindi. English, French
Nationality: Indian
Educational Qualifications :
S. no. Course/Degree Board/University Marks Obtained Total Marks
1 X CBSE 405 500
2 XII CBSE 390 500
3 BCom(H) DELHI 385 500
UNIVERSITY
4 MCom DELHI 350 600
UNIVERSITY
Professional Qualification : Diploma in Computers from Aptech with first division.
Diploma in French

Experience : Worked as receptionist with ABC group of companies for 2

years.
54 English–XII
 Expected Salary : As per the norms
References :
1. Mr. K. Aggarwal
Aggarwal Publications Delhi
2. Mr. Ashok Kumar
Principal
AB Public School.
Delhi Questions for Practice
(a) You are Kashvi Krishan from 9, Mayur Vihar. Delhi. You have come
across an advertisement in a national daily for recruitment of Radio
Jockey by Radio One. Noida. Apply in response to this advertisement
giving your detailed bio-data.
(b) You are Ritu / Ritva of 131, Jagriti Vihar, Gurgaon. You recently
read about a post of a research scientist being advertised by Charak
Research Ltd. Noida. You wish to apply for it. Apply with full details
to the Manager of the Research Centre.

ARTICLE

? ?               

opinion expressed by the writer. It is the most advanced form of writing which
presents information on a variety of themes.
Distribution of Marks : 5 Marks
Format: Heading and Writer's Name (I mark)
#  !    #& "      }Ž '~
Organisation: Coherence and relevance of ideas and style (2 marks)
Accuracy of Spelling and Grammar (1 mark)
Word Limit: 120-150 Words.
Points to Remember
1. Give an appropriate Title - Write the Heading/Title at the top (Centrally
aligned)
English–XII 55
 (a) First letter of every word is supposed to be capital e.g. Pollution
A Menace
(b) The title must be eye catching
(c) Should give a crisp idea of the theme
2. Mention the writer's name
3. In case of newspaper article give date & place
4. Divide the article into three parts i.e. split your subject matter into 3-4
paragraphs
*%† %   }   ~%         
the status of the issue. State facts or quotation around in the middle
Part-2-Analyse the topic in terms of types/ kinds
#   "7* }  ~
#  %*7 „  "7Ÿ   7 <
data
Implications - social / environmental/psychological / health related.
Part 3- Conclusion- suggestions / remedial measures/reminders / compare
and contrast
5. Organise the ideas in a logical order, with systematic presentation
6. Predictions and personal observations may be included
7. Pay attention to grammatical accuracy and good use of vocabulary
8. Use sentence linkers to ensure continuity - e.g. Consequently/
 7  7 &
9. Word limit 120 to 150 words.
10. Create rough work- First, jot down all the ideas. Second, make
sequence and third, join all the ideas with linkers and cohesive words.
11. For good article writing, it is important to read/ speak, listen to radio
shows, panel discussions, explore latest data, newspaper and do
consistent sharing of day-to-day experiences.
Example: Digital India is an initiative by government of India, intending
to create India technologically literate and connected. Write an article in about
120-150 words for a magazine, providing information about the initiative.
You are Neha.

56 English–XII
 DIGITAL INDIA
’ ! „
In order to transform the entire ecosystem of public services through the
use of information technology, the Government of India has launched the
Digital India programme with the vision to transform India into a digitally
empowered society and knowledge economy.
Digital India was launched by the Prime Minister of India Narcndra Modi
on 1 July 2015 with an objective of connecting rural areas with high-speed
Internet networks and improving digital literacy. The vision of Digital India
programme is inclusive growth in areas of electronic services, products,
manufacturing and job opportunities etc. and it is centred on three key areas -
Digital Infrastructure as a Utility to Every Citizen, Governance & Services on
Demand and Digital Empowerment of Citizens.
The Digital India programme has witnessed a consistent upward growth
           & +
achievements cover a wide plethora of sectors and include development of
broadband highways, universal access to mobile connectivity, public internet
access programmes, e-governance to name a few. Many major schemes anc
projects such as Aadhaar, Smart Cities Mission, BHIM UPI, RuPay, GSTIn,
GcM (Government e-Marketplace), DigiLocker come under the aegis of the
Digital India programme.
EXAMPLE: DECLINING SEX RATIO
By: XYZ
It is a great irony that in a country where women are worshipped for power
and energy, they are facing a kind of extinction, thereby bringing down the
ratio. The birth of a son is a cause for great rejoicing with drumming, singing
and public proclamations but that of a girl is an occasion for disappointment
     " &
The main causes of declining ratio of girl child are the large number of
diseases which are either not treated or treated inadequately. The girls are
killed even before their birth. The practice of pre birth sex selection has spread
rapidly through all castes and groups.

English–XII 57
 Region, Religion and caste exercise an influence over mortality rates. The
lower the status of women in a particular section of the population, the higher
the number of female deaths.
Child marriages, early pregnancy, malnutrition during pregnancy, lack of
medical treatment, physical torture, rapes and unequal status in the society
make them the child of lesser Gods.
It is really a cruel joke that the mother of humanity is no one's child,
the maker of the home, does not have a home. The 'Creator' is destroyed
mercilessly in the hands of her own near and dear ones. Even the womb of her
mother is not a safe home for her as she is cruelly terminated by her saviours
i.e., parents and medical practitioners.
EXAMPLE: DEGENERATION OF MORAL ETHICS IN TODAY'S
SOCIETY
By: Shilpa
What a piece of work is Man!
How noble in reason!
How infinite in faculties!
Inform and moving, how expressive and admirable!
In action, how like an angel!
In apprehension, how like a God
The beauty of the world!
The paragon of animals.
Shakespeare's evocation of the infinite faculties of man, represents full
faith of his age in man's ability to scale the height of thought, love and beauty.
It is an obvious fact that the essence of all human relationship is basically
founded upon the presence or absence of values.
It is unfortunate that in today's world there is a gradual erosion of the values
among people. It is depressing to see the newspaper early in the morning to
witness various murders and rape cases. People are just fulfilling their desires
and needs on the cost of others. They forget their values and duties towards
society and country. If one sees an accident, they don't even want to touch the
58 English–XII
injured person. Modern generation children learn to smoke, believing that it
is just another habit like dancing or singing. They learn to drink, convincing
themselves that it is good for their health. They learn to cheat, thinking that
they can bring about great performance at the end. They believe that there is
nothing wrong pushing old parents to old age homes.
The need of the hour is to inculcate moral values among our students. Our
elderly people who live a life of simplicity and contentment with a generous,
kind and compassionate mind, can inculcate good values by regularly taking
them to place of meditation where these children can learn to remain focussed
and goal oriented. Spending quality time with growing children and constant
adult supervision can do wonders in changing the mindset of children.
So it is in the hands of individual to focus upon a real change in order to
live better, to lead a happy, peaceful and contended life just like our ancestors
did and we can make the world a better place to live, in so that posterity can
echo Shakespeare's words.
How any godly creatures are there?
How beauteous mankind is!
0! brave new world
That hath such people in it.
Example: You believe that all living beings have equal right to live on this
Earth freely; and man has no right to enslave the animals. You feel strongly
when you see people being cruel to animals. Write an article on 'Cruelty to
Animals' in about 120-150 words. You are Rajesh / Rajeshwari.
Value Points
• Introduction
• Why man tames / pets animals
• ?       8 
• Birds and animals - put in cages and chained
• ‰    "
• How to be kind to animals

English–XII 59
 • Example:
Menstruation is a natural phenomenon which has been stigmatized by the
society since generations. Write an article in 150- 200 words on Menstruation
Stigmas. You are Vandit/Vidushi of Sarvodaya Vidyalaya.
Menstruation Stigmas
-Vandit/Vidushi
A menstrual taboo is any social taboo concerned with menstruation.
In some societies it involves menstruation being perceived as unclean or
embarrassing, inhibiting even the mention of menstruation whether in public
( in the media and advertising) or in private (among friends, in the household,
or with men).
Such taboos about menstruation present in many societies impact on girls'
and women's emotional state, mentality and lifestyle and most importantly,
health. Large numbers of girls in less economically developed countries drop
out of school when they begin menstruating.
While several taboos and stigmas surround menstruation. Ft wasn't always
considered a dirty and impure bodily function wielded as a weapon by society
to restrict women's mobility. Historically, menstruation was even considered
auspicious, so much so that menstrual blood was even served up as an
"  & |       
women was soon replaced with barriers placed in front of them preventing
them to live free and fair lives.
Even today, the stigmas attached to menstruation haven't been abolished. If
we see at the ground level, still sanitary pads are sold in black polythene bags,
people feel ashamed while discussing menstruation and women are unable to
live a normal life while menstruating. This is the bitter truth about the Indian
society today. While change is taking place, we still have a long way to go.
Example : You are Pankaj Palak. You have just visited a glass factory
which employs children. You have witnessed the awful condition of the
children there and their place of work. You also recount the child labourers
engaged in carpet and cracker industry, brick-kilns, road side restaurants and
               

60 English–XII
in educated society want the practice of child labourers to continue to fulfill
their selfish motives. Write an article in about 120-150 words advocating a
total ban on child labour.
Suggested Value Points
Para I : Introduction: Children below the age of 14 engaged in various
types of work in homes, hotels, garages and factories.
Millions of children work as child labourers and are devoid of school
education.
Para II Causes : Poverty is one of the main causes, other causes are -
illiterate parents / paid less wages /educated people, upper & middle class
engage child labourers for their help.
Laws are not so strict etc.
Para III Effect: poor health, become victims of asthma, high blood
pressure, poor eyesight, even become blind.
Fall prey to bad habits of smoking and drugs.
Para IV : Suggestions:
Laws should be strictly enforced
Severe punishments by law to the employers
Joint efforts:- public awareness through media.

TOPICS FOR ARTICLE WRITING

Suggested Topics for Article Writing

1. Racism-
-What is racism?
-History/Background
-Differential Treatment
-Major incidents- George Floyd etc
2. Alcohol Ban
-Pros and Cons
English–XII 61
 - Revenue generation
- Illegal ways of acquiring
- cost of lives
3. Gender Neutrality
4. Freedom of speech and expression
5. Impact of COVID 19 pandemic - Challenges and Learnings.
Questions for Practice
1. The National Education Policy has been launched by Government of
India. Taking clue from the given cue points, develop an article on
National Education Policy 2020.
• Universal Access from pre-primary school to Grade 12
Target to achieve 100% Cross Enrollment Ratio in school education
by 2030
• Early Childhood Care and Education
Education for all children between 3-6 years by 2025
• Replacing 10+2 with 5+3+3+4
?    %          ' 
new pedagogical system
• National Mission on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy
Focus on early language and mathematical skills from Grades 1-3 by
2025
• Multilingualism and the power of language
Medium of instruction till Class 5, preferably till 8, to be home
language/mother tongue
• Reforms in exams
Board exams to be broken into two, to test core capabilities
• New National Assessment Centre PARAKH
A standard-setting body for assessment of students pan-India
• Equitable and inclusive education
Emphasis on socially disadvantaged girls, socio-cultural identity
62 English–XII
 • Teacher recruitment and career path
National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) to be developed
by 2022 for teachers
• Standard-setting and Accreditation for School Education
State School Standards Authority to be set up in all States/UTs
• Vocational Education
By 2025, at least 50% of students to have exposure to vocational
education
2(A). You are a Ram/ Radhika. You are asked to write an article for your
  >   #  ! ? $ & ¤     
below visual clues and your own ideas, write the article.

REPORT

Marks Allotted:5
Format : 1 mark
Content :2 marks
Organisation : 1 mark
Accuracy of Grammar and Spelling : 1 mark
A report is a written account of an incident heard, seen, done or experienced
and meant to be published. A good report must have a good introduction,
complete reporting and proper conclusion.
English–XII 63
 Types of Report
˜ Newspaper Report
˜ School Magazine Report
Points to Remember
˜ Use simple past tense for magazine report and mixture of tenses for
newspaper report.
˜ Divide the report into three paras
(a) Para I : Introduction Mention the incident reported , its date, time,
place
(b) Para II : Body- Detail of the incident, causes, consequences.
effects, guests, steps, activities, people involved, relevant details.
b. Para III : Conclusion - reactions / statements of people / promises by
authorities steps taken.
10. Report should be written in third person
Format of Report
School Magazine Report
• Heading
• Name of the writer
Newspaper Report
Headline
• Name of the reporter(by line)
• Date and Place

SCHOOL MAGAZINE REPORT

Example : You are Shweta / Sahil. Head Boy/Girl of Rukmi Public School,
Janak Puri. Delhi. Your school celebrated World Autism Day in your school to
create awareness regarding needs and necessities of autistic children. Write a
report on this programme in about 120-150 words.

64 English–XII
 World Autism Day
By : Shweta / Sahil
World Autism Day was celebrated by Rukmi Public School. Janak Puri,
Delhi on 2 April 2023 from 10 AM to 2 PM in the School Auditorium. The
school was well decorated with posters of various facts related to Autism.
Mrs. Deepa Department of Psychology of Delhi University was the Chief
Guest. Around 200 students attended the programme. The programme began
by lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Chief Guest. After that a skit was
presented by the students of Class XI showing the importance of knowledge
of Autism and to upkeep the needs of autistic students. The Chief Guest gave
a very motivating and thought provoking speech about the inclusion of autistic
students with the mainstream students. She also highlighted the role of Youth
in accomplishing this task. The Principal presented Vote of Thanks, after
which light refreshment was served.
It was a very interesting programme and aroused lots of questions in the
minds of all participants, which were very well satisfied by the Speaker. It
gave a lot of food for thought to the minds of students.
Questions for Practice
1. You are Neha / Narayan, a consultant in Jai School of Management.
You organised a seminar on Right to Education Act for Teachers and
students in which educationists were invited to talk on the topic, its'
problems and implications. Write a report in about 120-150 words for
the school magazine.
2. You are Geet / Geeta, head of Health Club of GTB School. Shalimar
Bagh. Your club organised a talk to make students aware of alarming
use of chemicals in vegetables and fruits. Experts from medical
field and consumer forum were invited to answer the queries of the
audience. Write a report in about 120-150 words for your school
magazine.
3. A Special awareness campaign was organized for all parents of the
school to make them aware of Parent Samvaad Dashboard and to help
them to be connected with the school as well as the Directorate. All
SMC members were also invited to participate in the show.
English–XII 65
NEWSPAPER REPORT

Reckless honking in Mumbai to earn 2-hour lecture and test

MUMBAI: Motorists caught honking for no reason, will have to spend
      =  '         
  =      <  *    
<  {'   & ‘      &     
 & ?             ¨ =
©‘  & ‘§         '    &‘  &
So, those caught will have to clear the test that will help them know
the rules," city police commissioner Sanjay Pandey said during his Sunday
Facebook Live session. Those caught honking for no reason will have to
         =    &
He also warned ambulance drivers about why sirens blare at night and in
       =&

66 English–XII
 Example : You are Sakshi Chand & Abhay reporters with 'The Times of
India'. You witnessed a fire accident in Mundka in Delhi. Write a report to be
published in the newspaper. Invent necessary details
27 Killed in West Delhi Fire
By : Sakshi Chand&Abhay
May 14 2022, New Delhi a massive fire engulfed a four storey commercial
building in West Delhi, Mundka on Friday killing at least 27 people and
leaving dozens injured.
The fire broke out around 4.30 p.m. Fire brigade and police arrived at
the venue within half an hour. About a dozen firemen battled past midnight
to bring the fire under control. The loss incurred is estimated to be about five
crore rupees.
The injured persons were rushed to a nearby hospital. Many people
sustained minor burns. The PMO has tweeted that Rs. 2 lakh would be given
to the next of kin of all the victims who died. The injured will receive Rs.
50000. The police is investigating the matter.

EXAMPLE

You are Poorvi Chotani, a contributor to Economic Times. You attended a

meeting at US embassy. It was announced that US is becoming aggressive in
issuing visas to Indian students. Write a report for your newspaper.
US steps up visa processing, with special focus on students
By Poorvi Chothani ET CONTRIBUTORS
On May 11 2022,US announced that special arrangements have been made
to issue a large number of student visas in the ensuing months.
Don Heflin, Minister Counsular for Consular Affairs at the U.S. Embassy
in New Delhi went live on Instagram and Facebook to provide an update
on visa services with a special focus on students. This is a summary of the
information shared with the audience.
The Minister started out by saying that the summertime is all about visas

English–XII 67
             & ‰  
that they had issued a record 62,000 student visas last year and expected to
break that record this year. In fact, they expect to issue more student (F, M and
Js including dependents) visas than ever before.
When addressing questions about return to "normal" levels of service the
Minister indicated that this year they expect to be a 2/3rd of their pre-COVID
capacity and hope to reach 100% of this by the end of 2023. To increase
  ‚      =     
8 "  & +       =  
Consulate in Mumbai.

Questions for Practice

(a) You are Akshay / Akshita, a press reporter with Indian Express.
Recently a few trains were cancelled due to fog in winter. Passengers
were stranded at the New Delhi Railway Station. Write a report in about
120-150 words highlighting the problems faced by the passengers.
}~              
¤  ‡ ŽŽ†& Ÿ        
 & ?          
Flood relief measures were carried out. As a newspaper reporter, write
a report in about 120-150 words about the incident. You are Dimpy/
Danish, press reporters of The Hindustan Times.
(c) Indian Badminton has created history by winning Thomas Cup for the
  & ¡  ? 7 ?   & ‹    
published in the sports section of The Times of India
Reports for Magazine:
EXAMPLE: Maulana Azad College Kolkotta celebrated its Annual
Sports Day. Write a report of the event

ANNUAL SPORTS CEREMONY OF MAULANA AZAD COLLEGE

By Suprity Acharyya
The annual sports ceremony is more like a festival at Maulana Azad
68 English–XII
College. Just like all other years, the Annual Sports event was organised by
the college authority. The date for the event was scheduled from December
21st to 23rd December 2023.
The college sports organising body chose the Kolkata Maidan as a venue.
At the opening ceremony on the 21st of December, a splendid cultural function
took place. After the cultural function, all games and the names of respective
participants were announced. Then the college Principal delivered a short
            & +     '
this followed by a simple singing competition after the speech. On the second
 & %   & <   '    
jump, 500 meters racing as well as a table tennis competition etc were on the
long list of sports.
Five chief instructors were appointed for managing the whole ceremony.
Apart from that many volunteers from the college union were also there to
            & +  
was scheduled for prize distribution and senior's farewell.
Names of the winners were announced and the honourable Mayor of
Kolkata was invited as a chief guest to distribute prizes to the awardees.
Finally, within an emotional ceremony of seniors' farewell, the annual sports
event came to an end with big applause by the visitors as well as participants.
Q- A mock drill of earthquake was conducted in your school, SBV West
Vinod Nagar. Write a report for school magazine giving the detailed report of
the drill

A Report on Mock Drill of Earthquake

’ ! ¤ 

A Mock Drill was conducted on 20 January 2022 at 11 am in SBV West

Vinod Nagar .The alarm hooter rang out loud and clear, books were abandoned
and bags shoved aside as students dived under their desks for cover. Teachers
   % "             

English–XII 69
corner or under the desks waiting for the imagined worst to pass. After a few
seconds the students were immediately escorted by their subject teachers to the
assembly point. During the drill students followed the exit routes designated
for them and assembled at assembly point in proper rows earmarked class
wise. Proper head count of all the students was taken. Rescue team was in
          " & <  
taken for the physically challenged students. Keeping all the safety measures in
mind and carrying them out methodically, the entire building was successfully
evacuated within a span of 2 minutes.
Once all had evacuated the building and had assembled in the ground, the
students were advised not to panic in case of any disaster. They were instructed
to be with teachers at the time of disaster and follow the instructions given by
them. The mock drill was successfully conducted.
Example : Write a report on Cleanliness Drive recently held in your
school SKV Majlis Park.

REPORT ON CLEANLINESS DRIVE

’ ! „ ‰ |
Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya, Majlis Park, undertook a cleanliness drive
during the month of April 2022 in accordance with Clean India Campaign.
The school chalked out a monthly plan to organize numerous activities such
as skits, debates, speeches, poster making etc. A special drive was carried out
on 6 April 20 22 to reverberate to the mission of campaigning. The students
took a pledge to clean their school, homes, public places and surroundings.
During the morning assembly a play on "Clean India' was enacted to highlight
the importance of hygiene, sanitation and cleanliness. The school Principal
  "              &
They enthusiastically took up broom and cleaned up every nook and corner of
classrooms, corridors, school ground and nearby area. The whole drive was
quite inspiring and motivating for the students. The students realized that any
work is best done by the person himself. It made the students aware of the
dignity of labour.

70 English–XII
 Question : A local tour was organised in your school recently. Write a
report in 120-150 words based upon your experience, for the school magazine
of your school. You are Namit/ Namita of Class XI A.

LOCAL TOUR
’ ! „ 7 „ } ?~
On 9th of October last year, a local tour was organised for all the students
of school. The students were informed well and NOC was taken in advance.
They reached the school in time and boarded the assigned buses at sharp 8.30
a.m. escorted by their respective class teachers.
A sumptuous refreshment like light snacks, and frooti etc. was relished
      & +  "     
kept in buses. All the students were very happy and sung songs while making
merry.
+            &&& | 
Smriti Bhawan. They noted the important information in the notebooks that
they were carrying.
The next destination was Humayun’s Tomb. The students and the teachers
had their lunch in the outer lawns. When they entered the premises, they were
' '                
manicured lawns. There were fountains amidst numerous small square ponds.
It was an extremely beautiful view.
The students were then asked by the teachers to form queues again to
move to the next spot- that was Rail Bhawan. They had a glimpse of journey
of railways in India since 1953. It was fascinating. The bus reached the school
at 5.00 p.m. The students were a bit tired but happy. They bade good bye to
the teachers and moved to their respective homes.
Question: Write a report on the topic ‘Career Mela’ in 120-150 words
for your school magazine. The inputs are provided to facilitate you. You are
Manjeet Singh/ Manjeet Kaur.

English–XII 71
 ...students asked to submit charts pertaining to various career choices...
...under senior and junior categories...
....class XII and X students were informed well in advance...
...charts displayed in multipurpose hall...
..principal presided the career mcla....
...students were invited to have a round of exhibition...
...they were told to bring along note books and pen...
...two resource persons were invited...
talks were held about career prospects available in India and abroad after
completing school... ...it was appreciated by all ...

Questions for Practice

1. World Dance Day was celebrated at your school in April 2023. Write
a report giving details of the celebrations.
2. Farewell Party was held at your school. You are Adit. student of Class
XI. Write a report for the school magazine.
3. A renowned Mountaineer Santosh Yadav visited your school and
interacted with the students. Write a report of the day.
4. Your school had some guests from Cambridge University. They
observed classes and interacted with students. Write a report of the
day.

72 English–XII
 SECTION B-FOR PRACTICE OF WRITING SKILLS

¥†& ? ?„¡ ‡„    !

A. Your school is organizing a round of mock interviews to prepare
students for various interviews that students would be facing
after class XII. Draft a notice in 50 words informing students of
class XII regarding the same. Invent the necessary details
Or
B. Delhi Government has announced that Special Activity Incharges
would be sent to all government schools to execute Hobby classes
during summer vacations. As Priya, the Co-Ordinator of GGSS
School Kidwai Nagar, draft a notice to inform the students about
the same. Motivate them to join activities of their choice.
¥Ž& ? ?„¡ ‡„    !
A. You, Rohini/Rohan . the Secretary of the English Enhancement
Club and Society of Government Model Sr. Sec. School, Sector
12, Rohini have to plan and organize an Inter School Debate
Competition on " Mobile Phone and Social Development of the
Children". You wish to invite Dr. Aseem Kumar, an eminent
educationist to be the judge of the debate competition. Write an
invitation to invite him.
Or
B. You have received an invitation to be the chief guest of
inauguration of a local community centre. Send a reply in not
  š      & ¡  < 
Goyal, Lecturer English.
¥ˆ& ? ?„¡ ‡„    !
A. You are Jagriti/Jaideep, head of Social Awareness Club of S.S.N.
Public School, Arya Samaj Road, Mumbai. As a team leader
of the club, you decide to motivate public to take care of the
environment by planting trees and saving water. Write a letter to
the Editor of a national newspaper raising the issue of saving our
Earth and suggesting ways to tackle the situation.
Or
B. You are Shreya/ Shreyas. Write an application in response to the

English–XII 73
 following advertisement in a national daily. You consider yourself
suitable and eligible for the following post.
Applications are invited for the post of a Nursery teacher/PRT in
Y.K. International School, Gnaziabad, UP. The candidate must
have a minimum experience of 3 years of teaching at the primary
and pre-primary level. The applicant must have a pleasant and
energetic personality. She/he should be creative and adaptable.
We shall give attractive salary. Interested candidates should apply
to the Principal with a detailed resume.
Q4. Attempt ANY ONE of the following :
A. You are Neena/Nitin Incharge of Career Mela of Saraswati Vidya
Senior Sec. School. The school organized Career Mela last
month. You looked after each and every step of the preparation.
Write a report to be published in your school magazine.
Or
B. The other day you heard your parents talking about the good
old times when reading sessions were a part of the Cultural life
of the cities. The eminent writers/ poets used to be invited to
such sessions who would read out to the public, excerpts from
their famous works. You feel such times should return to revive
people's interest in literature. Write an article on the issue in about
120-150 words

74 English–XII
 SECTION-C
LITERATURE (TEXTBOOKS)
Dear Students
The National Education Policy 2020 focuses on creative learning and
teaching methods. CBSE has introduced competency based questions in
accordance with it.
What are competency-based questions’?
Competency-based questions are based on case studies, reasoning
and assertion, response-based, objective type etc. These questions test the
application of learning in real-life situations through various mediums, thereby
understanding students’ higher-order thinking skills.
Why competency-based questions?
The aim is to make students think out of the box, critically and analytically.
There is a paradigm shift from content-based learning to conceptual, relatable
and application-based learning.
What is expected from students?
Competency-based questions test understanding of content/skill/concept
learned and its application in a similar scenario. It helps to assess and examine
true understanding and potential as opposed to rote learning.
Strategy to attempt questions from literature Section
• Read the questions thoroughly
• Look for question words like what, when how, where, why etc.
• Jot down the value points and sequence them
• Be precise
• {      Ž%ˆ     = 
• For long answer questions 4-5 value points with elaboration are
= 
• Relevance, coherence and grammatical accuracy must be taken care of
• Apt words (vocabulary) fetch good marks
• Avoid repetition of ideas
• Conclude long answer questions on a positive note.

English–XII 75
 FLAMINGO
1. THE LAST LESSON - By Alphonse Daudet

The lesson highlights the importance of mother tongue that helps the
people of a country to come together for a bigger cause. Its human tendency
to procrastinate (to postpone things for tomorrow) and realise the importance
of things when they are snatched. M. Hamel the French Language teacher
ignites patriotism among the students and refers to mother tongue as a key to
their freedom.
SETTING-French Districts of Alsace and Lorraine
In the days of Franco-Prussian (Prus pronounced as Prashe) war when
France was defeated by Prussia

LESSON AT A GLANCE

MAIN CHARACTERS

FRANZ- Good Observer, Lively young boy and sensitive

M HAMEL-Dcvoted and sincere teacher, Passionate about French,
Patriotic and Emotional

POINTS TO REMEMBER

1. Franz reluctant to go to school

• Was often late to school
• Afraid of being scolded by teacher
• Had not learnt rules of Participles
2. Franz's temptations
• Spend the warm and bright day outside
• Enjoy chirping of birds
• Wanted to watch Prussian soldiers

76 English–XII
 3. Franz passes through the town hall
• Crowd in front of the bulletin-board
• Usually all bad news- lost battles, the draft, orders of the
  =
• News that day-Order from Berlin had come to teach only German
in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine
4. Unusual in the school that day
• On usual days there was great bustle, opening and closing of
desks, lesson repeated in unison, teacher's ruler rapping on the
table
• That day quiet, solemn as Sunday morning
• Franz entered late but M Hamel spoke kindly
• M Hamel dressed in beautiful green coat, frilled shirt, black silk
cap embroidered
• Elders of village sitting on back benches

Ÿ              !

RTC 1.

l. What a thunderclap these words were to me! Oh, the wretches; that was
what they had put up at the town-hall! My last French lesson! Why, I hardly
knew how to write! I should never learn anymore! I must stop there, then! Oh,
how sorry I was for not learning my lessons, for seeking birds' eggs, or going
sliding on the Saar! My books, that had seemed such a nuisance a while ago.
so heavy to carry, my grammar, and my history of the saints, were old friends
now that I couldn't give up. And M. Hamel, too; the idea that he was going
away, that 1 should never see him again, made me forget all about his ruler
and how cranky he was.
1. 'What a thunderclap these words were to me!' The words that were
said by M Hamel were
(i) only German will be taught in the schools from the next day

English–XII 77
 (ii) elderly villagers were to attend school

(iii) Prussian soldiers were allowed drilling practice in fields

(iv) Mr. Hamel had to dress in his formal Sunday outfit

2. Here the 'wretches' mean _________

3. 'Oh, how sorry I was for not learning my lessons'. Why was Franz
regretting now?

4. Who were the old friends he could not give up now?

Answers:

1 only German will be taught in the schools from the next day.

2. the Germans

3. Franz was feeling sorry that he had wasted his time seeking birds'
eggs or sliding on the Saar rather than attending his school.

4. His books of Grammar and History which seemed a nuisance for him
a while ago were now old friends that he treasured.

RTC 2

2. Thcn, from one thing to another. M. Hamel went on to talk of the French
language, saying that it was the most beautiful language in the world — the
clearest, the most logical; that we must guard it among us and never forget it,
because when people are enslaved, as long as they hold fast to their language
it is as if they had the key to their prison. Then he opened a grammar and
read us our lesson. I was amazed to sec how well I understood it. All he said
seemed so easy, so easy! I think, too, that I had never listened so carefully, and
that he had never explained everything with so much patience.
1. M Hamel's words reflect his patriotism and emotions. Choose the
closely related quote:

78 English–XII
 The limits of my language mean
One language sets you in a
the limits of my world-Ludwig
corridor for life-Frank Smith
Wittgenstein

Language is the road map of a

Change your language and you
culture. It tells you where its
change your thoughts-Karl
people come from and where
Albrecht
they are going-Rita Mae Brown

2. 'I was amazed to see how well I understood it.' The lesson did not
 =   { >  «««««««««««««««««  &
ˆ& ‚   ! ' !!  !
(i) foreign invasion
(ii) enslavement
(iii) imposition
(iv) violence
4. Use the word 'enslaved' in a sentence of your own to draw out its
meaning from the extract.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

†& ‹  ‚& ‰      <  _

Ans. The order from Berlin stated that only German would be taught in
schools and not the French language. M. Hamel knew that it was his
last French lesson. It was in the honour of the last lesson that he had
     <           *>
Distribution Days.
2. Why were the elders of the villagers sitting there in the back of the
classroom?

English–XII 79
 Ans. The elders of the village, Old Hauser, postmaster and several others
were there in the classroom because it was their way of showing
respect for their country and thanking M. Hamel for his forty years of
faithful service. They too felt sorry that they had not been to school.
3. The last part of the lesson reveals the emotional character of M.Hamel.
Elucidate.
Ans. M. Hamel, the teacher, told the children in a solemn tone that it was
their last French lesson. Henceforth, only German would be taught in
the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. The new master would come the
next day. As that was their last French lesson, he wanted them to be
very attentive. Towards the end he writes on the blackboard "Vive La
France' and dismisses the class.
4. Is Franz trying to equate himself with the pigeons as regards to
imposition of foreign language?
? & ?               =
to conquer minds. Language is a very powerful weapon. The Germans
imposed their language on the people of Alsace and Lorraine. M
Hamel said as long as the French hold fast to their language, they
can't be made slaves. In this statement he intends to say the Germans
would also succeed in teaching the pigeons their language.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE:

1. For Franz, what was more tempting than going to school and why?
2. How were the parents responsible for the lack of interest in studies of
their children?
ˆ& ‹             ’' 
by M Hamel?
4. 'This is your last French lesson.' How did Franz react to this
announcement made by M.Hamel?
5. 'I never saw him look so tall.' Did he really seem tall?Why?

80 English–XII
COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. As M Hamel deliver a speech on the last day of school urging the

village elders and students never to leave their Native language.
¡        !
People are passionate about their country and language. Excessive
pride in one's own language may lead to Language Chauvinism
where they feel superior to others and try to impose their language on
others
Ans. People are passionate about their country and language. Excessive
pride in one's own language may lead to Language Chauvinism where
they feel superior to others and try to impose their language on others.
The Germans have taken over the districts of Alsace and Lorraine and
an order has come from Berlin that French will no longer be taught
in this school. From tomorrow the German teacher will come. This
is my Last lesson. French is the most beautiful and logical language,
we must owe respect to our language and know how to read and write
it. No one can enslave us if we have a strong hold of our language.
I emphasise on the fact that it is one's language that gives us our
freedom. We must not leave our mother tongue.
                
seriously and now realise the importance of the mother tongue in your
lives.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE

1. The class on the day of the Last lesson seemed very grim and unusual.
Does it resonate with any of your school experiences? Write a Diary
Entry about one such experience you came across in school.
Dear Diary
We were taken aback by this sudden news. The class seemed _______
2. 'Overwhelmed feelings of M. Hamel evoke the feeling of patriotism
in his readers.' Write an article in 120 words on 'Patriotism in Youth'.

English–XII 81
 2.LOST SPRING
- By Anees Jung
Anees Jung, a famous story writer utters destitution of ragpickers of
Seemapuri and bangle makers of Firozabad. The chapter is about perpetual
poverty of certain groups of people and the traditions which make poor people
live a life of exploitation. It sensitizes the readers to step forward to save the
spring (childhood) of beautiful human life so that many children would be
able to avail the opportunities to realize their dreams.

POINTS TO REMEMBER

SAHF.B-ALAM
• name means - lord of the universe
• he earns living by rag-picking
• lives in Seemapuri
• walks barefoot
LIVING CONDITIONS IN SEEMAPURI
• on the outskirts of Delhi, yet miles away from it, home of 10,000
ragpickers
• make their living by rag-picking
• houses have roofs made of tin and tarpaulin, no proper drainage and
sewage
• food and survival more important than an identity
• garbage to them is gold as it is a means of survival
MUKESH
• Mukesh, the bangle maker of Firozabad
• works in high temperature
• hazardous working conditions

82 English–XII
 • dreams of being a motor mechanic, wants to break the lineage
HAZARDS OF WORKING IN GLASS BANGLE FACTORY
• High temperature
• long working hours in front of hot furnaces
•               '  &
• eyes more adjusted to dark than light.
•      "    '   
• exploited by money lenders, police, bureaucrats, politicians.
• fear of being ill-treated by police.
• live in a state of intense poverty.
• Live in stinky lanes
• Overcrowded place with humans and animals

English–XII 83
84 English–XII
 Read the passages and answer the questions that follow:

RTC 1

1. If he knew its meaning- lord of the universe-he would have a hard time
believing it. Unaware of what his name represents, he roams the streets with
his friends, an army of barefoot boys who appear like the morning birds and
disappear at noon. Over the months, 1 have come to recognise each of them.
l. An army of barefoot boys that appear like morning birds is a ______
(i) simile
(ii) metaphor
(iii) alliteration
(iv) repetition
Ž& ‘‘   ««««««««««     &
3. How is the author able to recognise each one of them?
4. Why does the author compare the army of barefoot boys to birds?
Ans:
l.(i) simile
2. Saheb-e-Alam
3. The author is able to recognise each of them as she visits them
very often.
4. The author compares the 'army of barefoot boys to birds' because
both keep searching for food/material on roads

RTC 2

2. Hearing him, one wonders if he has achieved what many have failed to
achieve in their lifetime. He has a roof over his head. The cry of not having
money to do anything except carry on the business of making bangles, not
even enough to cat, rings in every home.
1. Which is the statement which is not true in reference to the extract?
(a) Mukesh's family has a roof over their heads

English–XII 85
 (b) the only means of survival is bangle making.
(c) they live in a condition of grinding poverty
(d) all at Firozabad have failed to fulfil their basic needs
2. Anees Jung portrays a state of _____ and ______ in Firozabad
(a) poverty (b) exploitation
(c) grief (d) disappointment
(i) a&c (ii) b&c (iii) a&b (iv) a&d
3. What has Mukesh's father managed to teach his sons?
4. What docs the author mean by 'the cry of not having money except
making bangles rings in every home'?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

l. What is the irony in the name "Saheb-e-Alam"?

Ans. 'Saheb-e-Alam' means the 'Lord of the Universe' but Saheb was
oblivious of what it meant. Contrary to what his name represented,
he roamed the streets with his friends, an army of barefooted boys
scrounging in the garbage heaps to make both ends meet.
2. Why have the ragpickers settled in Seemapuri?
Ans. Several families like Saheb have been the victims of nature's fury.
They left Dhaka after storms swept away their fields and houses and
settled in Seemapuri.
3. 1s Saheb happy working at the tea stall? Explain.
Ans. Saheb is not happy working at the tea stall. Even though he is paid
more and given his meals but he is no longer his own master. The
steel canister seems to be heavier than the plastic bag. He has lost his
carefree look.
4. 'It is his karam, his destiny," says Mukesh's grandmother. They can't
break their lineage. Can the lineage be broken in your opinion?
Ans. Mukesh's grandmother believes it is their destiny that they are poor
and are born in the caste of bangle makers. She believes they can't
86 English–XII
 change their 'God given lineage". She has watched her own husband
go blind with the dust from polishing the glass of bangles. Breaking
the lineage solely depends on the individual. Those who are willing
        &    ¬    
for their accomplishment’.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. Seemapuri is a place incongenial for living for the ragpickers. Justify

the statement.
Ž& |   "          
Seemapuri.Comment.
3. What does the tittle 'Lost spring' convey?
4. "The young men echo the lament of their elders .Little has moved with
time in Firozabad.'" What does the author wish to tell her readers?
5. Why were the working conditions of the bangle making units of
Firozabad hazardous?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. Poverty is a vicious circle for poor slum dwellers and bangle makers.
+  ?  §      ‚'       
makers in a pathetic state.
Begin the conversation in the following way.
Anees Jung: Despite the long years of hard labour you have failed to
renovate your house and send your sons to school
Ans. Anees Jung: Despite the long years of hard labour you have failed to
renovate your house and send your sons to school?
Mukesh's father: Yes, but I have made one achievement. I have managed

English–XII 87
to teach them the art of bangle making.
Anees Jung : Why do they not work anywhere else to improve the living
conditions at home?
Mukesh's father: We have no escape from the vicious circle of the
middlemen who continuously are exploiting us. If we dare to dream or pursue
any profession outside our lineage we are hauled up by the police.
Anees Jung: Young men trying to organise a co-operative told me that
they are dragged to jail for taking such a step. Is it so?
Mukesh's father: Many accept it as naturally as their forefathers did. Years
of toil and injustice has killed all their initiative and apathy. They continue to
sustain in such poor and pathetic circumstances.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE

1. Little children have to work at the age of their mental and physical
development. Write an article in 120 words on 'Child labour -A Blot
on Society'.
2. The ragpickers of Seemapuri and banglemakers of Firozabad live and
die in squalor. You as the author write a letter to the editor in 120
words highlighting the abject poverty and cultural traditions in the
slum areas so that it is an eye opener for the concerned authorities and
the readers.

3. DEEP WATER
-By William Douglas
Deep Water opens the way for all to achieve the impossible. Focussing
            "      
challenges and tough situations in life. Challenges in life are inevitable but
we need to accept them and make our course/run clear so these do not become
hurdle for our lives.

88 English–XII
LESSON AT A GLANCE

WILLIAM DOUGLAS'
FIRST ENCOUNTER
WITH WATER,
BEGINNING OF
AVERSION OF WATER

MISADVENTURE
AT
YMCA POOL

PLANT AND EFFORTS

IN VAIN-
SERIES OF EMOTIONS

SAVED AND
SURVIVED BUT
SEIZED BY TERROR

AFTER
MISADVENTURE
GOT DEPRIVED
OF JOY OF

DETERMINED TO
OVERCOME FEAR
OF WATER

English–XII 89
 Read the passages and answer the questions that follow:

RTC 1

I. It had happened when 1 was ten or eleven years old. 1 had decided to
learn to swim. There was a pool at the Y.M.C.A. in Yakima that offered exactly
the opportunity. The Yakima River was treacherous. Mother continually
warned against it and kept fresh in my mind the details of each drowning in
the river. But the Y.M.C.A. pool was safe.
1. The author avoided to learn swimming in the Yakima River because
it was
(i) dirty and huge
(ii) deep and huge
(iii) huge and dirty
(iv) it was far
2. 'It' refers to ________ .
3. What docs the above extract tell us about?
4. Write the word that means the same as 'treacherous'.
Ans: 1. (ii)
2. drowning in the swimming pool.
3. The above extract is about apprehension of Douglas when he
goes to YMCA pool to learn su imming.
4. dangerous

RTC 2

2. The experience had a deep meaning for me, as only those who have
known stark terror and conquered it can appreciate. In death there is peace.
There is terror only in the fear of death, as Roosevelt knew when he said, "All
we have to fear is fear itself." Because I had experienced both the sensation of
dying and the terror that fear of it can produce, the will to live somehow grew
in intensity.

90 English–XII
 l. The narrator's mood in the extract is
(i) hopeless
(ii) cheerful
(iii) fearful
(iv) excited
2. ‘In death there is peace’ means ______
3. What 'fear' is the narrator talking about in the above extract
4. "All we have to fear is fear itself." What docs the narrator wish to
convey through this quote?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. "I crossed to oblivion and the curtain of life fell". Why did the author
make this remark?
Ans. The author had made three futile attempts to spring up to the surface
but as his strength failed and energy exhausted, he gave up and
   "&
2. 'My legs felt limp and blackness swept over my brain'. What does the
reader sense about the author's condition?
Ans. The reader senses that when the author was under water it perhaps
 =            '    
of his eyes as if he was about to collapse.
3. In order to escape drowning what strategy did Douglas adopt while in
the deep end of the pool?
Ans. When Douglas was thrown into water, he was terribly frightened but
still mentally alert. He planned that when his feet hit the bottom, he
 '              
to the edge of the pool.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

& ‰       ¡‚#?  " ƒ     _

English–XII 91
 2. How did the writer experience the truth of Roosevelt's statement "All
we have to fear is fear itself”?
3. Though Douglas's mother did not allow Douglas to go to Yakima
River, she allowed him to go to the swimming pool at YMCA. Why
do you think it was so?
4. Douglas made sure he conquers the old terror. Was he successful
eventually and how?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSVYKK QUESTION

1. After the drowning incident, Douglas wants to share the fears and
  8       &‰      !
Dear Diary,
                     
overcome with fear. Fortunately, I was able to think rationally. So, I planned
______
Ans. Dear Diary,
                     
overcome with fear. Fortunately. I was able to think rationally. So. I planned
that as soon as I hit the bottom, I would make a big jump. I hoped that 1
          "   & *  
me when 1 realised that I had gone deep inside nine feet of water. I thought I
would bob to the surface like a cork. My limbs were almost paralysed. 1 failed
          †       & ‚  
ached and my screams went unheard. The mass of yellow water gripped me
which produced stark terror. When three attempts to rise to the surface failed,
I fainted. I experienced a terror which never left me.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE

1. If we surrender to our fears, they overpower us; If we face them, they

fade away. Write an article of 120 words 'Fighting fear'.
2. I was determined even after my high jump trainer had left me and
said, 'But I am not done'.
92 English–XII
 ˆ& ‹       "        
terror and surprise the trainer with your achievement.

4.THE RATTRAP
- By Selma Lagerlof
Sclma Lagerlof talks about the universality of human goodness that can
be awakened through understanding love, compassion and belief. Experience
is the best of school masters, and the peddler was able to get a vital lesson after
his encounter with situation and people both. Finally, his goodness surfaces
and temporary phase of his bad practices ends. The world turns to be a good
place to live.

An idea struck the Rattrap peddler that the whole world is a big RATTRAP.
Guess what?
English–XII 93
94 English–XII
English–XII 95
 Read the passages below and answer the questions that follow:

RTC 1
l. The world had, of course, never been very kind to him, so it gave him
unwonted joy to think ill of it in this way. It became a cherished pastime of
his, during many dreary plodding's to think of people he knew who had let
themselves to be caught in the dangerous snare, and of others who were still
circling around the bait.
1. Here he thinks the 'dangerous snare' is
(i) selling small rattraps of wire
(ii) plodding along the roads alone.
(iii) begging and stealing
(iv) getting tempted to the riches.
2. The word ' unwonted' means
3. What does 'The world had not been kind to him' refer to?
4. Which is the 'cherished pastime' talked about in the extract?
Ans.l.iv)
2. unusual
3. He earned a meagre amount by selling rattraps so all facets of life
were tough for him.
4. The cherished pastime of the peddler to think of people whom he
knew were caught in the dangerous ensnare.

RTC 2
2. "You do preach worse than a parson." said the iron master. "I only hope
you won't have to regret this." The young girl took the stranger by the hand
and led him up to the table.
l. Who is "you" in the above lines?
(i) Peddler
(ii) crofter
(iii) Edla
(iv) priest
2. The 'regret' here implies __________
96 English–XII
 3. Why did the iron master tell the speaker that he she was a bad speaker?
4. Draw out the character of the young girl after going through the
extract.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Peddler earned his living by selling rattraps. Was he able to meet his
ends?
Ans. The peddler earned his livelihood by selling small rattraps of wire,
which he used to make himself from the material got by begging in
     & ’         
beg or even steal. He roamed about like a vagabond all alone.
2. The crofter welcomes the peddler to his cottage though he is a stranger.
Why do you think he did so?
Ans. The crofter was a lonely man without wife or child. He craved and
desired human company to share his loneliness. He welcomed the
   "         & ‰
played cards with him. He even showed him his earnings and let him
know where it was kept.
3. Women are better at convincing as compared to men. Cite an instance
from the lesson proving the statement.
Ans. Edla started sympathising with the vagabond, understanding that
he was going through a hard lime. She was compassionate and
benevolent. Her manner was friendly which made the vagabond feel
  & <            
Christmas with them. Because of her friendly request, the peddler
accepted her invitation.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. A strange idea about the world struck, the peddler. Was the peddler
ensnared by that idea of his?
2. The peddler declined the iron master's invitation. He had some
apprehension. Do you agree?
3. Pick out two instances from the story 'The Rattrap' to show that the
peddler realized that he himself was trapped.
4. The peddler left behind a Christmas gift for Edla Willmanson and a
note. Why did he do so?
English–XII 97
 5. Why did the peddler sign himself as Captain Von Stahl? Is this gesture
_

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

l. The story "The Rattrap" shows that basic human goodness can be brought
out by understanding and love. Write a letter to Edla to convey your gratitude
as a peddler.
Ans.
Dear Edla
Thanks for the great transformation 1 see in myself today. I had been
resorting to begging and thievery all the time, never bothered to clear my
identity and befooled the ironmaster and crofter too. But Edla you gave me
a royal treatment, served me delicious supper, gifted your father's dress to
me. You convinced your father to let me stay for Christmas and made me
feel a special guest .Nobody ever gave me such a lot of regard. This kind of
unconditional love and compassion from you made me realise my mistake and
     & ¡      "    &   †
am a better person now .1 will resist my temptations and not indulge in any
forgery. I owe my gratitude to you.
Hope you will pardon me for my follies. Leaving behind this letter and a
gift for you.
Regards
Captain Von Stahle

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE
1. The peddler betrayed the trust of the crofter and was caught in the trap
of the world. Temptation to bait should be restricted at all costs. Write
an article in 120 words on "Strength of Character".
Ž& ‰             " _
Supporting your answer from the text write a conversation high-
lighting the disparity.
¡      !
 ! ¡    &         
  <"&

98 English–XII
 !   
4. Do you sympathise with the peddler or ironmaster? Who do you feel
is a victim of the social and economic changes in Sweden and why?

5.INDIGO
-By Louis Fischer
Louis Fischer reviews 'The Life of Mahatma' observing closely 'The
Champaran episode'. Indigo is about how Mahatma Gandhi struggled for the
underprivileged peasants of Champaran. A simple peasant's entreaty brings
the historical change to learn courage and self-reliance to protest against the
wrong doers for their rights.
Germany develops Synthetic Indigo and British landlords demand
compensation from peasants for freeing them from 15% compensation. They
torture the peasants for not obeying them

English–XII 99
 Read the passages and answer the questions that follow:

RTC 1

l."It was an extraordinary thing in those days," Gandhi commented," for a

government eminent professor to harbour a man like me."In smaller localities,
the Indians were afraid to show sympathy for advocates of home rule.
l. Why were people afraid to harbour a man like Gandhi? Choose the
incorrect option

100 English–XII
 (i) because they were scared of lawyers
(ii) because he was advocating home rule
(iii) because he was not supporting the British Government.
(iv) As peasants feared that their land would be forcefully taken away.
2. The reference to the government professor in the extract is given for
_____________
3. 'It was an extraordinary thing in those days.' Which extraordinary
thing is being mentioned here’?
4. Was the attitude of the average Indian towards the advocates of home
     _
? ! †&}~
2. Professor Malkani
3. Giving refuge to Gandhiji by a government professor at his place
4. Yes it was as during those days, the average Indian lived in the
fear of the British. Though they were supportive of Gandhi, they
did not show it explicitly.

RTC 2

2. They had merely heard that a Mahatma who wanted to help them was in
trouble with the authorities. Their spontaneous demonstration, in thousands,
around the courthouse was the beginning of their liberation from fear of the
’& + =    |    & ‰ 
them regulate the crowd. He was polite and friendly. He was giving them
concrete proof that their might, hitherto dreaded and unquestioned, could be
     & +     ®& +  
the judge to postpone the trial. Apparently, the authorities wished to consult
their superiors.
†& + =    |   % 
}~ |          
(ii) Gandhi helped them to regulate the crowd
(iii) Gandhi persuaded the crowd to gather at the court premises
(iv) Both (ii) and (iii)
English–XII 101
 Ž& +     ®   ««««««««««
3. Which style is being used by the author, when he says, "Apparently, the
authorities wished to consult their superiors," sarcastic or persuasive
and why?
4. How was Gandhiji's behaviour towards the British prior to the
proposal of postponement of the trial?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Rajkumar Shukla was illiterate yet resolute. Justify the statement.

Ans. Raj Kumar Shukla was a sharecropper from Champaran. He was
illiterate but resolute. He had come to the Congress session to
complain about the injustice of the landlord system in Bihar. He was
sure that Gandhiji would help them. He wanted Gandhiji to come to
Champaran district. Gandhi told him that he was busy but he followed
               &
2. Landlords exploited the poor peasants. Throw light on their behaviour
towards the peasants.
Ans. The land was divided into large estates that were owned by
Englishmen.The Chief commercial crop was indigo. The landlord
forced all the tenants to plant 15 percent of their holdings with indigo
and surrender the entire indigo harvest as rent. This was done by a
long-term contract.
ˆ& # ƒ           &
"  |    & ƒ   _
Ans. Yes.Gandhiji did not obey the British authorities order to leave
# & +         &
Then he received a written communication from the magistrate that
the Lieutenant Governor of the Province had ordered the case to be
dropped.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

†& ‹   ‘      |    _

102 English–XII
 2. Gandhiji agreed to a settlement of 25% refund to the farmers? What
in your opinion was more important for him?
3. The Champaran episode changed the plight of the peasants. Is the
statement apt? Comment.
4. Why did Gandhiji oppose 'Charles Freer Andrews' proposed stay in
# _‹    _

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. ‘The sharecroppers were at the mercy of the landlords. Gandhiji felt

perturbed to see the plight of Indian peasants and the Champaran Episode
became a turning point in his life.’ In light of the above statement you as
Gandhi express your grief at their plight and how you helped them win the
battle of Champaran in a letter.
‰ ! <       
perturbed to see plight, gets justice.
Alleviates distress, mould a free Indian
Ans. Dear all
Jai Hind
In this assembly 1 feel proud to tell you that the peasants of Champaran
  %        & +      &
Sharecroppers in Champaran were working in the lands owned by the
British landlords and were morally and economically shattered. The landlords
were exploiting them continuously. I felt perturbed to see the plight of Indian
peasants. I rendered my whole hearted support to them. I met the lawyers
and also happened to come to an agreement in the compensation and
fought successfully to get justice for the Champaran peasants. Champaran
         &         
distress of large number of poor peasants. The battle of Champaran was won.
The peasants have obtained their shares and our dignity was intact.
I tried my best to mould a new free Indian who could stand on his feet and

English–XII 103
thus make India free, be self-reliant and independent and I feel I have obtained
success in this mission.
Thank you

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE

1. 'Freedom from fear is more important than legal justice for the poor'.
Do you think the poor of India are free from fear after Independence.
Write an article in about 100 words in relevance to the quote on '
"Freedom from fear'.
2. Gandhiji saw the social and cultural backwardness in the villages of
Champaran. He writes a letter to his wife Kasturba telling her about
the team of volunteers and steps he plans to take to solve this problem
ˆ& Ÿ' <'         "  
Gandhi to go to Champaran.
Imagine yourself in a somewhat similar situation when you approach some
dignitary to seek his help. Write the conversation that commences between the
two of you.
¡      !
* ! |   ‚ &        & +  
urgent matter to discuss.-

6. POETS AND PANCAKES

-By Asokamitran
Gemini Studios of Madras (Chennai) and its founder, S.S. Vasan lent
substance and quality to a fragile and unpredictable movie business. Poet and
Pancakes, an excerpt from the book ‘My Years with Boss’ brings to life, the
leading members, their talents and roles, their frustrations and ambitions.
The story revolves around the casteism of early 20* century India. It
          =      | 
Studios with regard to Independent India in its infancy, communism and anti-
communism.

104 English–XII
LESSON AT A GLANCE

MAKE UP DEPARTMENT

English–XII 105
106 English–XII
 Read the passages and answer the questions given below:

RTC 1

1. In those days 1 worked in a cubicle, two whole sides of which were

French windows. (1 didn't know at that time they were called French windows.)
Seeing me sitting at my desk tearing up newspapers' day in and day out, most
people thought I was doing next to nothing. It is likely that the Boss thought
likewise too. So. anyone who felt I should be given some occupation would
barge into my cubicle and deliver an extended lecture. The 'boy' in the make-
up department had decided I should be enlightened on how great literary talent
                 &
l. 'The Boss thought likewise too' implies that he
(i) also thought that he was industrious
(ii) never doubted his capability
}~       
(iv) thought the author was doing almost nothing
Ž& ¬°         ««««««««««««««
3. The boy in the make-up room felt disappointed. Why do you think it
was so?

English–XII 107
 4. 'Two whole sides which were 'french windows'. What description do
you attribute to the cubicle?
? ! }~
2. the author Asokamitran
3. he boy aspired to become an actor or scriptwriter but was enrolled
in make up department so he was upset and did not like the job he
was doing.
4. There were door-sized windows on two sides of the cubicle for
ample natural light and fresh air.

RTC 2

Ž&                  

towards a single person openly or covertly and this man of the make-up
department was convinced that all his woes, ignominy and neglect were due to
Kothamangalam Subbu. Subbu was the No. 2 at Gemini Studios. He couldn't
              % '%
 & ‡               =
             
producing companies or studios.
1. "This man' refers to ___________ in the extract.
2. Which of the following traits reveal Subbu's character?
(a) Cheerful
(b) orthodox
(c) sycophant
(d) jealous
(i) a and b
(ii) c and d
(iii) a and c
(iv) b and d
3. Why do you think he had to face uncertain times?
4. Give a synonym for the word 'embarrassment' from the passage.
108 English–XII
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Do you agree the make-up room of Gemini Studios looked like a hair
cutting salon? Elucidate.
Ans. Yes,the make-up room of Gemini Studios looked like a hair cutting
salon. It had around half a dozen mirrors with incandescent lights
at all angles around them. The artists would feel the heat emanating
   & +          
uncomfortable situation of those subjected to make-up.
2. There was a great deal of national integration prevalent in makeup
department. How has the author portrayed this through the lesson
'Poets and Pancakes'
Ans. The make-up division of the Gemini Studios was an example of
national integration. According to the author, this is so because people
 "          '    
same department. The department was headed by a Bengali who was
succeeded by a Maharashtrian. The other helpers included a Dharwar
Kannadiga, an Andhra, a Madras Indian Christian, an Anglo-Burmese
and the local Tamils.
3. What does 'The God that Failed' refer to?
Ans. ‘The God That Failed’ was a compilation of six essays written by
six eminent writers, namely Andre Gide, Richard Wright, Ignazio
Silone, Arthur Koestler, Louis Fischer and Stephen Spender. In each
of the essays, the respective writers described 'their journeys into
Communism and their disillusioned return'.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

l. A hierarchy was followed in the Make-up department which excites

the readers. Elaborate.
2. What was the common perception of people associated with Gemini
Studios about Communism? Give your views in light of the lesson
'Poets and Pancakes'

English–XII 109
 3. The Englishman faced a silent and dazed audience. Why in your
opinion was it so?
4. Why is the Englishman's visit referred to as unexplained mystery?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. Subbu is a multi-faceted person and yet has enemies. He is upset and

shares his thoughts with his diary.
Begin this way:
Dear Diary
I am a multifaceted person and yet I have enemies. Few of the team
members are envious of me.
Ans.
Dear Diary
I am a multifaceted person and yet 1 have enemies. Few of the team
members are envious of me.Perhaps it is so as I am close to the boss and
number 2 at Gemini Studios but 1 have never boasted about it. I often ponder
about this.I agree I have had exposure to more affluent situations and people
by virtue of being born a Brahmin but have never flaunted. 1 remain cheerful
in spite of failures. My loyalty, creativity and talent are appreciated by the
boss. I do not flatter him at all. Then why this aversion towards me. I am
tailormade for films, film making is so easy with me around,’ everyone says.
I am a good poet and writing poems of higher order are the other inherent
qualities in me. I chose to write for the masses. 1 have written a sprawling
novel 'Thillana Mohanambal' with dozens of etched characters. Though I am
an excellent actor. I have never aspired for lead roles.
Inspite of being a charitable and improvident man, I fail to understand
why 1 have enemies.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE

1. The legal advisor unwittingly brought about a sad end to the acting
career of a talented actress. He expresses his regret to the actress.

110 English–XII
 Imagine yourself in the place of legal advisor and write a letter to her.
You can begin this way:
Dear Saira
Your talent is worth appreciating. I realized your potentiality but
often—
2. Kothamangalam Subbu gave definition and direction to Gemini
studios. As Kothamangalam write an article on 'My pivotal role in
film-making' in 120 words.
Hints: Set up of Gemini studios, large team, sincere efforts, Subbu
inspired team. Film-making so easy for Subbu, poet. writer, amazing
actor.
7. THE INTERVIEW
-By Christopher Sylvester
The Interview, written by Christopher Sylvester throws light on various
aspects of interview in the field of journalism. Part I tells us the varied opinions
about interview-of its functions, methods and merits. Part II is an extract
from an interview of Umberto Eco, author of the popular novel," Name of
the Rose” by Mukund Padmanabhan from ‘The Hindu’.

POINTS TO REMEMBER

PART I
1. Interview has become a commonplace of journalism. Opinions on the
functions, methods and merits of Interview vary considerably.
2. Some claim it to be the highest form, a source of truth and in its
practice, an art.
3. Some despise the interview as an unwarranted intrusion into lives,
which diminishes their personality.
4. S. Naipaul feels that some people are wounded by interviews and lose
a part of themselves.
5. Lewis Carroll never consented to be interviewed for he believed it
to be 'a just horror of the interviewer' Rudyard Kipling considered it
“Immoral, a crime, an assault that merits punishment”.
English–XII 111
 6. G. Wells referred interviewing to be an 'ordeal’.
7. Saul Bellow describes it like ‘thumbprints on his windpipe’.
8. Despite the drawbacks interview is a supremely serviceable medium
of communication. Interviews are the most vivid impression of our
contemporaries and the interviewer holds a position of unprecedented
     &
PART II
1. An extract from an interview of Umberto Eco interviewed by Mukund
Padmanabhan.
2. In the interview Eco shares his idea of empty spaces in our lives just
as they exist in an atom, which he calls 'Interstices'. He says that he
makes use of these empty spaces to work.
ˆ&         & ‰ '    
more as a University professor who writes novels.
4. Eco's 'The Name of the Rose", a serious novel, which delves into
metaphysics, theology and medieval history, enjoyed a mass audience.
It dealt with medieval past. He feels that the novel wouldn't have been
so well received had it been written ten years earlier or later.
Read the passages given and answer the questions that follow:
RTC 1
1. So it is hardly surprising that opinions of the interview-of its
functions, methods, and merits vary considerably. Some might
make quite extravagant claims for it as being, in its highest form, a
source of truth, and. in its practice, an art. Others, usually celebrities
who see themselves as its victims, might despise the interview as
an unwarranted intrusion into their lives, or feel that it somehow
diminishes them, just as in some primitive cultures it is believed that
if one takes a photographic portrait of somebody then one is stealing
that person's soul.
1. One inevitable part of journalism mentioned here is
(i) article writing
(ii) photography
(iii) interviews
(iv) news
112 English–XII
 2. The matter of surprise here is that what varies are _______
3. What are the claims made by some people regarding interviews here?
(i) this is the best way to extract truth
(ii) this way celebrities listen to media
(iii) this is the easiest way to communicate
(iv) it is the best practice
4. What does the line "photographic portrait of somebody then one is
stealing that person's soul" mean?
ANSWERS:
1. (iii)
2. opinions of the interview
3. The claims made by some people regarding interviews here are
this is the best way to extract truth.
4. This means stealing the original identity of the person.

RTC2

2. Similarly we have a lot of empty spaces in our lives. We call them

interstices. Say you are coming over to my place. You are in an elevator and
while you are coming up. I am waiting for you. This is an interstice, an empty
space.
1. _____ is propagating the idea of interstices in the above lines.
2. What is Eco's ideas of empty spaces?
(i) Time Management
(ii) Spontaneous thought
(iii) Organisation of space
(iv) All of these
3. The word 'Similarly' shows a comparison between two things. What
do you think these are?
4. Why are interstices important in the Universe? Give your opinion.

English–XII 113
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. After reading the lesson, what according to you are some of the
positive views on interviews?
? & <        !
(a) The interview has become a commonplace of journalism.
(b) In its highest form an Interview is a source of truth and in practice,
it is an art.
(c) An interview is a supremely serviceable medium of
communication.
2. What do you understand by the expression "thumbprints on his
windpipe"?
Ans. It means that it was like somebody strangled his freedom or choked
      &
3. Why do you think the opinions of the interview vary considerably?
Ans. Thousands of famous persons have been interviewed over the years
some of them been repeated so the opinions of the interview vary
considerably.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. 'Most celebrity writers hate to be interviewed.' Is that so? Why?

2. Umberto Eco does not prefer to be called only a novelist. Is the
  _
3. What according to Mukund, is a marked departure from academic
style?
4. In your opinion, what is the reason for the huge success of the novel,
"The Name of the Rose"?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG QUESTION

1. Salient points emerged about Umberto Eco and his writings through his
interview by Mukund Padmanabhan. Imagine you are Eco and are interviewed
 ‚' & ’       !

114 English–XII
 Eco: I started writing novels by accident, had nothing to do one day and
so I started.
Mukund: What did you start with?
Eco: Novels as _________
Ans: !              
and so I started.
Mukund: What did you start with?
Eco: „     &      
               &
Mukund: How do you get time for writing?
Eco: We have a lot of empty spaces in our lives. 1 call these empty spaces
   &  '            &
Mukund: Your essays are scholarly and narrative.
Eco:  '            
novels. My novel 'The Name of the Rose', was a serious novel. The novel
enjoyed a mass audience.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE
I. The author Christopher says that it is hardly surprising that opinions
on Interviews vary. Write a debate in 120 words on 'Interviews are
intrusions in life'
2. The interviewer Mukund Padmanabhan has been asked to produce
a short report of the interview. Write this report on his behalf in 120
words. You can begin this way—
REPORT
27 April 2023
The Interview
Report by: Mukund
An interview was conducted by me on 26 April 2023 in the library to
   ««««««««««««««

English–XII 115
 GOING PLACES
-A.R. Barton
Hero worship is the natural phenomenon of adolescent stage but needs
guidance and monitoring. Life is to realize our dreams with our potential,
possibility and limitation. Since, when reality hits, it may shatter the dreams.

POINTS TO REMEMBER
1. Sophie's ambition and unrealistic dreams
2. wants to start a boutique.
3. wants to earn money by becoming a manager, an actress or even a
fashion designer
4. she comes from a weak socio-economic background
5. her friend Jansie - simply wants Sophie to be happy.
6. Jansie - realistic, can't keep information or secrets to herself.

CHARACTERS
Sophie's Dad
• is strong, sweaty and hardworking
• loves to watch football matches
• does not believe in Sophie's imaginary stories
   !   " # 
• is an apprentice mechanic
• speaks less
• Sophie trusts him, shares her secrets with him
Sophie
• Lives in a world of her own fantasy
• Sophie is fond of hero worshipping and fantasizing.
• Sophie's hero is an Irish player, Danny Casey
• dreams of meeting him
• obsessed about meeting him, makes up stories about her meeting with
him

116 English–XII
 • starts believing her imagination as real.
• nobody believes her, feels disappointed
Read the passages given below and answer the questions that follow:

RTC 1

1. Wish he was an Englishman," someone said on the bus. "Ireland will

win the World Cup," little Derek told his mother when Sophie brought him
home. Her father was gone to the pub to celebrate. "What's this you've been
telling?" Jansie said, next week. "About what?" "Your Geoff told our Frank
you met Danny Casey." This wasn't an inquisition, just Jansie being nosey.
But Sophie was startled. "Oh, that." Jansie frowned, sensing she was covering.
"Yes — that." "Well-yes, I did." "You never did?" Jansie exclaimed. Sophie
glared at the ground. Damn that Geoff, this was a Geoff thing not a Jansie
thing. It was meant to be something special just between them. Something
secret. It wasn't a Jansie kind of thing at all.
1. 'This was a Geoff not a Jansie thing' because
(a) Jansie was trustworthy
(b) she lived in a world of reality
(c) her personality was different from Geoff
(d) Jansie was nosey about things
Choose the most appropriate combination
(i) (a) and (b)
(ii) (b) and (d)
(iii) (c) and (d)
(iv) (a) and (c)
2. "Ireland will win the World cup". These words were spoken by _____
3. What was 'Something special just between them' meant to be?
4. Sophie is obsessed about the prodigy, Daney Casey. What does the
obsession symbolize?

English–XII 117
 ANSWERS:
1. (iii)
2. little Derek
3. a secret between Sophie and Daney Casey as she believed so.
4. Daney Casey is in her talks, in her imagination to the extent
she feels she has met him. The obsession symbolizes her hero
worshipping.

RTC 2
2. He was kneeling on the floor in the next room tinkering with a part of his
motorcycle over some newspaper spread on the carpet. He was three years out of
school, an apprentice mechanic, travelling to his work each day to the far side of the
city. He was almost grown up now and she suspected areas of his life about which
she knew nothing, about which he never spoke. He said little at all, ever, voluntarily.
Words had to be prized out of him like stones out of the ground. And she was jealous
of his silence. When he wasn't speaking it was as though he was away somewhere,
out there in the world in those places she had never been.
1. 'Words had to be prized out of him like stones'. The phrase indicates that
Geoff was
(i) stubborn
(ii) rigid
(iii) secretive
(iv) a silent worker
2. Why was Sophie jealous of Geoff s silence?
3. 'She suspected areas of his life'. Which specific areas are being referred to
here?
4. Why does Sophie trust her brother?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Sophie lives in a world of dreams. What do you think are her

aspirations?
Ans. Sophie lives in a world of dreams. She aspired to have a boutique
after leaving school. She told her friend Jansie that in order to save

118 English–XII
 money, she would work as a manager. She also toyed with the idea of
working as an actress.
2. Sophie's reaction was of dread when Geoff told their father that she
had met Daney Casey. Why was it so?
Ans. Sophie had shared her secret of meeting Daney Casey with her brother
Geoff. When Geoff told his father about this, Sophie wriggled because
of the possible contempt of his father. She was afraid that her father
would never believe about it.
3. Sophie did not want Jansie to know about her story with Danny. What
does this reveal about Jansie's character?
Ans. Sophie did not want that Jansie should know about her story with
Danny because she was afraid that Jansie would tell about the story to
the whole neighbourhood. She feared that her father might get to hear
it and would create a row.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. Jansie discouraged Sophie from having daydreams. Was she right in
doing so?
2. How is Geoff different from Sophie? Compare and contrast between
the two.
3. Why did Sophie go to a lonely arcade at night?
4. Did Danny Casey come to meet Sophie? Had he promised to meet her
or was it an illusion?
5. What made Danny Casey a popular celebrity?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION:

1. Like all other teenagers, Sophie lived in the world of fantasy and
worshipped her soul's hero Danny Casey. She goes to the extent of imagining
a date and feels disappointed - when the realization dawns upon her that it
was a waking dream. Write an article on behalf of Jansie based on the story of
Sophie "Self-deception leads to Depression.
Ans. Self-Deception leads to Depression
By:Jansie
Teenagers at their tender age often live in a world of waking dreams. Sophie

English–XII 119
lives in a world of fantasy, a world of unrealistic dreams which tend to distract
one from their goals in life. Such make-believe world leads to disappointment
at some point of time in life.
She worships her soul's hero Danny Casey, a football prodigy. In her
dreams she fantasizes being on a date with him and gets upset when realization
dawns upon her.
Teenagers at this stage may develop mental disorders or get depressed.
This self-deception leads to frustrated personality, creates complexes and are
the causes of failure in the tasks they undertake. Their thinking is immature,
 ' 8          & +    
line in the realistic world so that they do not lead to a miserable state such
as depression or anxiety. It is the moral duty of the parents and teachers to
counsel them. Peer group-needs to bring them out of this mess rather than
joining hands and encourage them while they are going astray.
I made it a point to inhibit her at every step as a true friend.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE:

†& {  7 ƒ             &

What is needed to choose 'Right Career for Teenagers' to realize these
dreams? Envelope your ideas in the form of a speech to be spoken
in the morning assembly to create awareness in the students of your
school
Hints : Dream high, good to have aspirations, soar in limits ,choose
the apt career, be steady, work tirelessly, seek proper guidance,
achieve the target
2. Every successful person has a role model in his life. As a XII board
topper you were asked in an interview by a newspaper reporter Reena
about your role model who guided you in your quest for success.
Draft the interview. You can begin this way-
Reena : Hello Simran. Heartiest Congratulations for the Outstanding
achievement.
Simran : Thanks Ma'am. I am elated and _________

120 English–XII
 POETRY
POETIC DEVICES

Poetic devices are:

•              " 
their writing, to convey information, concept and idea or to help
readers understand on a deeper level
• used in writing for emphasis or clarity
• used to connect readers more strongly with a story as a whole or
  7 
*      !
}„! ‹7           
poetic device so there might be an overlap of poetic devices in the same phrase)
1. SIMILE-        "    
is indicated using the word "LIKE" or "AS"
Example- 'as a late winter's moon' (poem-My Mother at Sixty-Six)
2. METAPHOR-            
to something to which it is not literally applicable to suggest a
resemblance.
Example- 'gusty waves' (poem - An Elementary School Classroom in
a Slum)
3. REPETITION- is repetition of single words or phrases, lines and
 &   >       "]
emphasize a point; draw reader's attention or lend unity to a piece.
Example-'Far far from' (poem-An Elementary School Classroom in a
Slum)
4. ALLITERATION- is the use of the same letter or sound at the
beginning of words that are closed together.
Example-'Far far from' (An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum)

English–XII 121
 5. IIVPERBOLE- is an obvious and intentional exaggeration, such as
"I read a million” books this summer. This literary device is often
     "&

6. PERSONIFICATION- is the attribution of personal nature or human

characteristics to something not human, or the representation of an
    & *      
reader create a clearer mental picture of the scene or object being
described. Example 'pathetically pled (poem- 'A Roadside Stand)

7. OXYMORON- is a combination of two words that, together,

express a contradictory /opposite meaning. This device is often used
for emphasis, for humour or to create pressure/sarcasm. Example-
      }*%? Ÿ < ~

8. TRANSFERRED EP1THET-       

or adjective is transferred from a noun to which it belongs, to a noun
              &
8%   }%? Ÿ < ~

9. IMAGERY- is when an author describes a scene, thing, or idea so

that it appeals to our senses (taste, smell, sight, touch, or hearing). This
device is often used to help the reader clearly visualize the context
and content by creating a strong mental picture. Example- 'children
spilling' (poem-My Mother at Sixty six)

1O. SYMBOLISM-Symbolism           

situation, or other idea in a written work to represent something else-
           "  
literal meaning. The things used for symbolism are called "symbols,"
and they'll often appear multiple times throughout a text, sometimes
changing in meaning as the plot progresses. Example- 'wedding band'
(poem-Aunt Jennifer's Tigers)

An Elementary School classroom in a slum- Not included in the

Rationalised Syllabus (2023-24) but can be accessed Online

122 English–XII
 POETRY

MY MOTHER AT SIXTY-SIX

-By Kamala Das

Kamala Das' writing is characterised by the rebellion against taboos that

society imposes on women Also, she explores the gamut of human relationship
from the perspective of a women-a daughter, a wife, mother, and a non-
conformist feminist. Kamala Das' work is known for its originality, versatility
          &

POINTS TO REMEMBER:

• On her way back to Cochin, the poet looks at her mother.

• Finds her weak and lacking in energy and life.
• Her mother's ageing, decaying health and fear of losing her. cause the
poet much pain.
• To divert her mind from such negative thoughts, she starts looking
outside. Finds the trees running, the young children spilling/rushing
out of homes.
• The face of poet's mother symbolizes frailty, dullness, and inactivity
whereas, merry children and young trees symbolize vigour, energy,
zeal and joy.
• ?                
gets covered with fog, similarly poet's mother has lost her youthful
look, vitality and charm.
• At the airport while parting from her mother the poet smiles and
reassures her mother that all is well also she tries to hide her fear of
losing/separation from her mother

English–XII 123
 POETIC DEVICES
SIMILE-face ashen like that of a corpse, PERSONIFICATION-trees
sprinting, METAPHOR and IMAGERY -children spilling
SYMBOLS- sprinting trees and merry children symbolise youth,
vigour and vitalify, life and growth.
Winter’s moon symbolises frail health, decay and death
IRONY-See you soon Amma and her prolonged Smile is ironical as
they are in sharp contrast to the fear and agony the poetess experiences.
Read the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
RTC 1
1. I looked again at her wan, pale
as a late winter's moon
and felt that old
familiar ache, my childhood fear
but all I said was,
see you soon, Amma
all I did was smile
and smile and smile.
1. The parting words of the poet, "See you soon, Amma" suggest her
_______
(i) passion
(ii) ache
(iii) happiness
(iv) love
2. "...all that the poet did was smile and smile and smile..." She is trying
to _______
3. State which statement is true:
The mother has been compared to the late winter's moon as this
(i) refers to her pale and wan appearance
(ii) emphasizes that the mother is inching close to death

124 English–XII
 (iii) emphasizes the mother is old at the age of 66
(iv) refers to the dark clouds which hide the moon
3. 'felt that old familiar ache'. The poet has used the word 'old' here.
What phase of her life is being referred to?
ANSWERS: 1 (ii)
2. conceal/hide her pain behind her smile
3. (i)
4. Childhood. She used to get upset when she found her mother
missing at home.
RTC 2
2. and realised with pain
that she was as old as looked
but soon put that thought away and
looked out at Young
Trees sprinting, the merry children spilling
out of their homes,
but after the airports, security, check, standing a few yards away.
l. 'Put that thought away'. Which thought is being referred to here?
(i) merry children spilling out
(ii) thought of losing her mother
(iii) the inactive state of the mother
(iv) none of these
2. The poet looked out of the window to ________
3. What do young trees and merry children signify?
4. Did 'looking out' help the poet?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Which poetic device is used in "Trees Sprinting' and why?
Ans. +       & +     
of the trees moving fast with the pace of the poet's car as all objects
English–XII 125
 at a distance appear to be moving while our vehicles are moving at a
speed.
2. The poet's mother is compared to the late winter's moon. Is the
comparison justified?
Ans. Ycs. As the moon is covered by the fog during the winters and appears
to be hazy, dull and lacks brightness. The pale and colourless face of
the mother resembles the late winter's moon.
3. 'See you soon, Amma'. What farewell note do these words convey?
Ans. The poem ends on an optimistic note with these words conveying
assurance that the poet will meet her mother the next time she comes.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. What is the mood of the poet while departing from the airport?
2. What was the dilemma in the poet's mind?
3. What does the poet compare her mother's face with? Is anything
bothering her at the moment?
4. What docs the poem revolve around?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. The poet brings out the irony of human relationships in the poem 'My
mother at sixty-six'. Give a pen-picture.
Ans. The poem 'My Mother at Sixty-Six' portrays that death is inevitable.
The poet in the poem is deeply melancholic about her mother and
experiences the pain of losing her mother. She is under the dread that
she may not be able to meet her mother the next time she comes.
She constantly gazes at her mother but tries to conceal the pain by
smiling. She tries to be optimistic.
Irony of human relationships lies in the fact that intimate relationships
can at times become a burden, but we still have the need to carry such
relationships.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE
1. Bring out the significance of the title 'My Mother at Sixty-Six'.

126 English–XII
 2. The poem shows a daughter's love and worry for her mother as she
starts aging.
The poet Kamala Das writes a letter to her old mother that she will be
coming again soon. You as her mother mail in a reply expressing your
joy in 100 words.

KEEPING QUIET
-By Pablo Neruda

Poet Pablo Neruda explores the impact of silence. Silence gives a way to
stop, think and act. Introspection and meditation refresh us all to do the best
for humanity and nature.

POINTS TO REMEMBER

• According to the poet, keeping still and quiet will facilitate

introspection and a feeling of universal harmony.
• The use of number twelve can be associated with twelve hours of the
clock or number of months in a year, completion of a cycle.
• The poet says that silence will be exotic because it will be a blissful
moment, a near-divine experience when we all will be together.
•   8      }    
who kill and harm other creatures) would not harm the whales. Salt
gatherers represent those adding comforts to life.
• By green wars, the poet means waging war against our green zone i.e.
exploitation of nature by human beings.
• ’   &            
mass destructions like wars with atomic or nuclear bombs or wars
with chemicals.
• The poet believes in life, so he is against total inactivity. He only
wants to interrupt the sad and cruel activities of the world.
• We can learn a lot from nature. The poet involves the symbol of
mother earth to reinforce his idea that there is wisdom and activity in
tranquility and peace.

English–XII 127
 • The earth is calm and soothing. Things appear to be dormant but are
constantly active.
• The poet states that we must try to understand what life means in
terms of activities i.e., which actions are worthy of being done, and
which are not.

POETIC DEVICES:

ALLITERATION-
1. 'Sudden strangeness'
2. 'hurt hands'
3. 'clean clothes'
REPETITION- 'without rush, without engines'
SYMBOLISM-
1. 'Brothers' symbolize mankind
2. 'green wars' refer to deforestation
3. 'wars with gas' refer to pollution
4. 'clean clothes' symbolize change of perspective
5. 'shade' symbolizes protection
PERSONIFICATION- 'Earth can teach us as when everything'
METAPHOR- 'Shade' refers to protection
ANTITHESIS- 'count to twelve and we will all keep still'
Read the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
RTC 1
1. Those who prepare green wars,
   $     
victory with no survivors,
would put on clean clothes
and walk about with their brothers
in the shade, doing nothing.

128 English–XII
 1. Whom does "Those" refer to?
(i) Politicians, statesmen, scientists
(ii) politicians, people, scientists
(iii) statesmen, scientists, people
(iv) statesmen, people, scientists
2. Which statement is true
Green wars are--------
(i) wars done wearing green clothes
(ii) wars with a green signal
(iii) harm caused by men to environment
(iv) wars against mankind
3. “Victory with no survivors” means-------
(i) everybody will die
(ii) no survivors to enjoy victory
}~       =
(iv) victory you cannot enjoy
4. What ideal situation is the poet suggesting?
Answers:
1. (i)
2. (iii)
3. nobody living to enjoy the victory.
4. The ideal situation suggested by poet is people relaxing under
shady trees.
RTC 2
2. What I want should not be confused with total inactivity. O brief
Life is what it is about; I want no truck with death
If we were not so single-minded about keeping our lives moving,
and for once could do nothing

English–XII 129
 1. What does "total inactivity' mean?
(i) death
(ii) stillness
(iii) permanent suspension of work
(iv) temporary stillness
2. "I want no truck with death' means ______
3. What does 'for once could do nothing' imply?
4. What doe the poet wish to convey to his readers in this stanza? Give
two words/phrases only to brief about the idea.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. 'If we were not so single-minded about keeping our lives moving.'

What do you infer from this line?
Ans. We are single minded as we think only about keeping ourselves
moving and achieving that is meaningless.
2. ‰    "   _
Ans. The poet describes inactivity as a moment of peace whereas death is
the end of life.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. Why does the poet ask the readers to "keep still'?

2. What changes does the poet expect on the face of the Earth?
3. The count of number twelve is repeated in the poem. According
             
poem?
4. Explain "not moving our arms so much".

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. In the poem 'Keeping Quiet' Pablo Ncruda talks about sadness. As

Pablo write an article on 'Why this sadness?
You can begin this way-

130 English–XII
 Why this sadness?
-Pablo Neruda
Human beings are in a mad rush to achieve their targets. Sadness
emerges.
Why this sadness?
-Pablo Neruda,
Ans. 1. Human beings are in a mad rush to achieve their targets. Sadness
emerges from never being able to understand themselves
They do not not spare few moments of exotic peace and introspection.
Also, sadness arises as Man has becomes avaricious for power, money
and materialistic things. This single desire to conquer all elements has
been trampling nature which supports man. In this rat race Fishermen
are exploiting nature for their vested interests and so are the men
gathering salt who are hurting their hands in the greed to gather more
salt.
The consequences are grave, and this I insist can be resolved if we
keep still for some moments. The pall within us will no longer be
there.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE
1. The single mindedness of human beings may be the undoing of Man.
Comment.
2. Man causes harm to mankind and nature in several ways. Elaborate in
the form of a speech in about 120 words.

A THING OF BEAUTY
-John Keats
A thing of beauty is a source of everlasting happiness in human life Tough
situations of life can never fade the beauty of lovely nature and great people.
There is need to feel the impact of natural man made beautiful things
POINTS TO REMEMBER:
• A beautiful thing is eternal, never loses its charm and has a lasting
impression on our minds. The poet equates beauty to happiness.
English–XII 131
 • By ‘Beauty’ Keats means the sun, moon, old and young trees that give
shade, clear rills, musk rose. These all have the power to uplift man’s
spirit by providing sense of peace and serenity.
• Life is full of trials and tribulations, dearth, sadness, disappointments,
death of noble values among people. Man’s life becomes worth living
because of beautiful things which flash upon mind’s screen to lift the
veil of gloom.
• Grand legacies of the mighty dead and the lovely tales have sublimating
effect on man.

POETIC DEVICES
METAPHOR- bower quiet, sweet dreams, flowery band, unhealthy and
o’er dark spirits, endless fountain of immortal drink
ALLITERATION- noble natures, cooling covert, band to bind.
PERSONIFICATION- ‘inhuman dearth’
IMAGERY--- flowery wreaths, shady boons, clear rills, cooling covert,
endless fountain of immortal drink
Read the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
RTC 1
1. We have imagined for the mighty dead.
All lovely tales that we have heard or read.
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink.
1. ‘All lovely tales evoke the feeling of:
(i) sadness and nostalgia
(ii) nostalgia
(iii) inspiration and pride
(iv) pride
2. The phrase immortal drink refers to ---------
3. The rhyme scheme of the above extract is:
(i) aabb
132 English–XII
 (ii) abab
(iii) aaab
(iv) abbb
4. What is the poetic device used in the line - “An endless fountain of
immortal drink, Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink”?
Answers: l.(iii) 2. a life-giving force 3(i) 4. imagery
RTC 2:
2. Yes. in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
from our dark spirits. Such the sun, the moon.
Trees old and young, sprouting a shady boon
For simple sheep, and such are daffodils.
With the green world they live in, and clear rills
That for themselves a cooling covert make
‘Gainst the hot season.
1. What does ‘all’ in the first line refer to?
(i) people
(ii) the green world
(iii) things of beauty
(iv) nature
2. The clear streams provide
3. Name the poetic device used in the phrase ‘cooling covert’.
4. Nature has immense things that move away the pall from our dark
spirits. Suggest any two.
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS
1. ‘A thing of beauty is a joy forever.’ What does the poet convey to his
readers through this quote?
Ans. The poet conveys that a thing of beauty is eternal. Its beauty increases
with time and it always gives pleasure to its beholder. It gives
everlasting joy.
2. What do you understand by the line ‘Its loveliness increases with
time’?
Ans. Beauty creates joy in the soul that lasts forever. Its power to heal gives
happiness and the loveliness goes on increasing with each passing
English–XII 133
 day.
3. How does nature affect us all?
Ans. The beauty of nature exerts power over the gloomy side of life. The
sweetness of the beauty of nature gets sweeter with the passage of
time.
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE
1. Suggest reasons as to how beauty enriches the human beings.
2. Why is grandeur associated with the mighty-dead? Why is it so?
3. How does the poet explain that the beauty that we see is not short-
lived?
4. What makes human beings love life inspite of troubles and sufferings?
5. What symbol is associated with the ‘simple sheep’? Does it have any
significance?
COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION
l. John Keats uses images to describe the beautiful bounty of the Earth.
Write an article in 120 words ‘Keats perception of Beauty’.
Ans. Keats perception of Beauty
By:XYZ
Life is full of trials and tribulations, dearth, sadness, Disappointments
and death of noble values among people. Man’s life becomes worth
living because of beautiful things which flash upon our mind and a
ray of hope veils the gloom.
By ‘Beauty’ Keats means the sun, moon, old and young trees that give
shade, clear rills that provide coolness against the hot season, musk
roses and daffodils. Grand legacies of the mighty dead and the lovely
tales have sublimating effect on man. These all have the power to
uplift man’s spirit by providing sense of peace and serenity.
COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE
1. Can human life be without sufferings? Why/Why not? Elucidate
citing examples from your personal experience.
2. Beauty heals the sufferings and removes the pall from our dark spirits
yet human beings exploit nature. Comment.

134 English–XII
 A ROADSIDE STAND

—Robert Frost

A Roadside Stand is a poem about the rural-urban divide where in Robert

Frost presents the universal but untold sorrow of the rural people who suffer
the indifference of the callous city folk. The poet presents the lives of poor
underprivileged people who are barely noticed by their more fortunate city
counterparts. The use of personal pronoun in the first person refers to the
country people and the poet (in the 3rd and 5th stanza).It is a sympathetic and
humane outcry against the economic disparity that prevails in the cities and
the countryside.

POINTS TO REMEMBER:

• The rural folk have erected a roadside stand by adding a shed to an old
house by the side of the road. They sell berries, squash, etc.
• The ‘polished’ city people feel irritated at the shabby stand which is
clumsily painted and the signs turned into wrong direction.
• The roadside people have self-respect; their aim is not to beg but to
earn some cash to improve their living standard.
• The rural folk are promised a better life by relocating them near cities
and rehabilitating them.
• But the ‘greedy good doers’ and ‘beneficent beasts of prey’ (politicians,
etc) exploit and cheat these honest, hardworking rural people.
• The stand owners suffer a ‘childish longing’ i.e., a desire that city
people would stop and purchase a few items, thus helping them to
earn hard cash. But this longing is ‘vain’(useless) as the car owners
stop only to enquire about fuel, where the road was leading to and for
taking a U-turn.
• The poet feels the pain and disappointment of the people at ‘Roadside
stand’.

English–XII 135
POETIC DEVICES:

ALLITERATION—
1. ‘gallon of gas’
2. ‘greedy good-doers’,
TRANSFERRED EPITHETI—
1. polished traffic (the traffic is not polished, people are polished)
2. Selfish cars
METAPHOR—
1. the flower of cities from sinking
2. withering faint.
OXYMORON AND ALLITERATION—
1. Greedy good doers
2. beneficent beasts of prey
PERSONIFICATION:
1. A roadside stand that too pathetically pled (also alliteration).
2. Sadness that lurks near the open window there/ that waits all day.
3. Voice of country
Read the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
RTC 1
1. Sometimes I feel myself I can hardly bear
The thought of so much childish longing in vain,
The sadness that lurks near the open window there.
That waits all day in almost open prayer
For the squeal of brakes, the sound of a stopping car.
Of all the thousand selfish cars that pass,

136 English–XII
 l. The poet cannot bear to think that country folks
(i) are lured with false promises
(ii) are sitting in the open
(iii) are not able to sell their products
(iv) are hungry as nobody is there to provide food
2. “Childish longing” here means-------
3. Why do you think are the “longings” been termed “in vain”?
4. The people driving cars are conceited. Is the statement apt?

Answers: 1. (i)
2. country folks have many unfulfilled wishes and desires
3. The “longings” have been termed as “vain” because they will
never be fulfilled
4. Yes, the people driving cars are conceited as they stop only to
enquire their way and fill gas from gas station.

RTC 2
2. To put these people at one stroke out of their pain. And then
next day as I come back into the sane.
I wonder how I should like you to come to me and offer to
put me gently out of my pain.
1. Who are “these people” in the first line?
(i) the vendors
(ii) the country folk
(iii) the travellers
(iv) the city folk
2. “These people” can be put out of their pain by -----------
3. What in your opinion docs the poet realize when he comes “back into
the sane”?
4. How can the poet also feel relieved? Suggest.
English–XII 137
SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Why and where was the roadside stand set up? Was it set with some
hope?
Ans: The roadside stand was set up at one edge on a busy road in a countryside.
It was set up to attract the city folk who passed from there. It was hoped
that the stand would fetch some cash to the rural poor.
2. The poet refers to intense and futile desires of owners of roadside
stand. What docs the poet wish to express through the words ‘intense
and ‘futile’?
Ans: The poet refers to intense desires of owners of roadside stand to sell
goods to the passers-by. It is all futile because not many people stop
to buy things from them.
3. Which things do you feel irritated those passers-by who stopped at the
Roadside stand?
Ans: If at all the passers-by stopped, they were upset with the artless paint of
the roadside stand. They complained that the stand marred the scenic
beauty of the landscape. They also complained about the wrong signs
put up on the board.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. Describe the attitude of the city folk who passed by the roadside stand.
2. What did the city folk complain about these stands? Was the complaint
justified?
3. Why did rural people put up roadside stand? Suggest their motive
behind this.
4. The Government played a role in their lives. Was it an intervention or
for their betterment?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

1. What does the life of the ‘moving pictures’ imply? Give a vivid
description in your own words.

138 English–XII
 Ans. The glamorous lifestyle of the rich people is depicted as that of
luxuries and comforts, unlike the life of the poor village folk who are
leading a miserable life, struggling hard for their existence. The city
people are indifferent and apathetic. They come to these stands which
are clumsily painted, shabby and have signs turned in the wrong
direction.
They wish to sell goods and supplement their earnings but feel
depressed and frustrated as they come to enquire about fuel.where the
road is leading to and for taking a U-turn.
The Government promises them a rosy future, but only rich people
derive benefits.
The poet feels the pain and disappointment of the people at Roadside
Stand.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. The ‘Greedy good doers and beneficent beasts of prey’ exploit these
hard-working rural people. After observing these malpractices you
plan to write what you viewed in your diary
You may begin like this:.
Dear Diary
1 happened to visit the roadside stand. A number of vendors with
different stalls were eagerly ---------
2. Roadside vendors have self-respect and work hard to earn some cash
to improve their living standard. Keeping the poem in view relate
the experience of a roadside vendor whether these people are able to
accomplish what they desire.

AUNT JENNIFER’S TIGERS

-Adrienne Rich
Adrienne Rich is widely known for her involvement in contemporary
women’s movement as a poet and theorist. She focuses on feminist poems
expressing her anger. Her poetry changed a lot of people especially women’s
views towards the way they lived their lives and their role in society. The poem

English–XII 139
“Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers” brings forth the message that women need to live for
themselves and not be dependent on men. Also, it addresses the constraints of
married life experienced by a woman in a male dominated world.

POINTS TO REMEMBER
• Aunt Jennifer’s tigers symbolise spirit of freedom which she herself
is bereft of.
• The tigers are the dwellers of the green forest, are fearless and
ferocious. This is in stark contrast to the suppressed womanhood in
aunt’s personality.
• Uncle made her life very burdensome, the expression ‘massive weight
of uncle’s wedding band’ symbolises male dominance.
• “Ringed’ refers to the confines, constraints and the demands of
marriage that bind a woman, within the vicious grip of her unhappy
married life.
• Even after her death she would feel terrified by the trauma which she
faced due to her dominating husband/male dominated society.
• Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers will survive even after her death. The tigers
she knitted on the panel will remain fearless, brave and majestic.
• The aunt herself will remain alive through her art form i.e., her poems.

POETIC DEVICES
ALLITERATION- fingers fluttering, prancing proud,

140 English–XII
 IMAGERY- bright topaz denizens
SYMBOLISM- 'Tigers'-freedom of spirit
"Aunt Jennifer'-women suppressed in a patriarchal society
'Wedding band'- oppression in marriage
"uncle'-male chauvinism

English–XII 141
 Read the stanzas given below and answer the question that follow:
RTC 1
1. Aunt Jennifer's tigers prance across a screen.
Bright topaz denizens of a world of green
They do not fear the men beneath the tree;
They pace in sleek chivalric certainty.
1. The poetic device in the last line is
(i) Rhyming
(ii) alliteration
(iii) simile
(iv) metaphor
2. Which statement is true
Aunt Jennifer presently is
(i) trembling with fear
(ii) embroidering tigers on a piece of cloth
(iii) standing with the tigers under the tree
(iv) dancing with the tigers under the tree
3. The tigers symbolize -------- and --------- .
4. Identify the traits of the tigers in contrast with aunt's own married
life
(i) tigers are fearless and chivalric whereas aunt's life is weak and
timid
(ii) tigers are dangerous and strong whereas aunt's life is weak and
hopeless
(iii) tigers are prancing around whereas aunt is sitting embroidering.
}~               
and afraid

142 English–XII
 Answers: 1(ii) 2(ii)
3.     %  
4. tigers are fearless and chivalric whereas aunt's life is weak and timid
RTC 2
2. ‹ ?         
Still ringed with ordeals she was mastered
by.
The tigers in the panel that she made
Will go on prancing, proud and unafraid.
1. What is the status of the Aunt in her family?
(a) oppressed by husband
(b) happy and contented
(c) treated with hatred
(d) marital constraints
(i) a and b
(ii) a and c
(iii) b and d
(iv) a and d
2. ?           
3. Explain: 'Still ringed with ordeals'.
4. What do you think will happen to her tigers after her death?

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. Describe the traits of tigers that you feel are a contrast to the aunt.
Ans. +                
married life has left her weak, submissive and timid.
2. What do you understand by 'massive weight of uncle's wedding band'?
What docs it symbolize?

English–XII 143
 Ans. Uncle made her life very burdensome, the expression 'massive weight
of uncle's wedding band' symbolises male dominance and oppression.
3. What was Aunt Jennifer doing on the panel of cloth? What is she
expressing through her Art?
Ans. Aunt Jennifer was embroidering tigers on a piece of woolen cloth.
The tigers she made pranced across the screen. Through her Art she
aspires to be free and chivalric like the tigers.

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. Where do the tigers appear? Write two qualities of the tigers as

depicted by the poet.
2. The ivory needle is hard to pull. What emotional state of Aunt is
evident from her gesture.
3. ‹           ?  §   _
4. Do you sympathize with Aunt Jennifer. Why/why not?
5. What does the phrase 'world of green' refer to?

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

l. In the poem Aunt Jennifer's tigers the poet exclaims that aunt's hands
      & |   %  ? 
Jennifer's life'.
Ans. 'Aunt Jennifer's life' has been pathetic since she got married. The
poem reveals the constraints of married life experienced by her in a
   & \   & <     &
+   ?  8           '
the tigers. Poet Adrienne Rich conveys that even after her death
?             
dominating husband/male dominated society. In other words, the
marital bindings, tortures and oppression in marriage will continue to
persist even in the years to come due to male chauvinism.
+             &
Otherwise, women will ever remain in the vicious grip of unhappy

144 English–XII
 married life living at the mercy of men.

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR

PRACTICE

l. Do you sympathize with Aunt Jennifer? What is the attitude of the poet
towards Aunt Jennifer? Write a speech on 'Women Empowerment'
keeping in mind the theme of the poem.
2. The poet Adrienne Rich has used images and symbols to express
women's domination by men. Elucidate.

English–XII 145
 VISTAS

SUPPORT MATERIAL 2023-24

The Third Level
By JACK FINNEY

It is an interesting story that is set after the world war. It talks about the
               &  ' 
'        & +       
            &

MAIN CHARACTERS

Charley: +  % %           &
‰        & ‹      
+    |  #  <     8&
Sam: ?         #&
Louisa: # ° &
# °       + 
• <   '        
booths
• ƒ     ' 
• ‚       
• ‹  '             
• ’          
• ‡        '&
• „ ¬+ ‹°  †† §  †›ž•
• #     '  |
• #'          " 
• ‚     &       
• <    # ° +        
'    

146 English–XII
 •         
• *   „ ¡' #     8    
• #     <   †›§ †›ž•
• <     '     + 
• <  | &         
• <          
•       
• { ƒ # % <        
• ‚        '      ' 
the date
•       #     
} ~    

RTC-1

¡ ° '   !  '         

 &         |  #  <   
     '    & ‰      & +
   '      8        
               &        
& ‹   °_    '         °
         |  #  < &

Questions:

1. ²+  °  %

}~         8     
did.
}~        &
}~ '  ° &
}~       &
Ans. }~ '  ° &

English–XII 147
 2. ‹    ¬‹' %   ]°  _
Ans.      '       
3. ‚ !  ! ! +  ! &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
}~   
}~ 
}~ 
}~ 
Ans. }~ 
4. ‹      #      
 _
Ans. +   8  # °      
the result of stress, fear, and insecurity of the new world.

RTC -2

’ °             &    
   & ‚     8] °  ¬
    &° ‹        °    
  ]        &       † 
      & °     '   
  \&<&  %      & *  Ÿ
    ' &

1. +          %

}~  °          '  &
}~      + „ ¡' |  #  <
8&
}~  #      &
}~       &
2. ‰            & ‹ _

148 English–XII
 3. ¬       &&&&° ‹  ¬°  _
4. ‹   ²{  °  _

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS:

1. ‰  # °        <     ¬
 _
Ans. #          |  # 
< & ‰         & ’ 
  <   #         & ‰
   '   & +   &
2. ‹     |     †›ž•_
Ans. |            
    &           
    8   & +   '  
'  & +        & +
    &
3. ²° '   &” 8 &
Ans. „   # °    8   +
+ & ‰            &
#        &    ¬ °&

Short Answer Questions for Practice

1. ‰    # ° _   

          8&
2. ‰    '            
+ _
3. ‹   '       _ ‹   
   _
4. ‹  < _ ‹     _
5. ƒ <°          _ ¡7„& ‹ _
6. ‹  #    <° _

English–XII 149
Competency based Long Answer Questions:

1. +         & §' {   
# °              &
? #        <    
        |  #   & ¡ 
    ƒ   <& |  
 '      =          
     &
Ans. ƒ   <
|  
 '      =        
       &     '  
      & |  #  <   
            
     & ‚         
 8        &     
|  #  <    & ‰    
        & ‡       
         & ?      
=  &         & ’   
  &        '  ]
         %' & +  
 '     %  & +  
    & +     % '&
‚               &   
        &    
       & *    &
#

Competency based Questions for Practice:

1. ?         + +  < # °  

 '  # °    +     

150 English–XII
      %    8 & ¡     
      % & ‰ 8   
     & ? <       †Ž ³ †š &
<          &
¡     
 '   & #           
        |  #  < &   
  ' %% 
2. ²* °  '   & ? #     
 †Ž%†š   ² *   ‡ ‹   ¤ ‚
{”       ¬+ + °&
¡      &&&&
   '        
            &
Other than this ...........
3. +      '  
         8 &    
            & ‹
              & ? 
          & ? <&   
    †Ž%†š        &
¡      &&&
ƒ  
|  
             &
+         %     
so on.
4. ?         <    # ° 
   & ’               
 '  &     8   '  &
             
°     '   '    _
English–XII 151
 5.           # & ‰
          =  '     
    °         &
< '        '& <     
           &
?       & <      
   & ¡      !
   '    &&&&&&
6.        ‚   ƒ     
Ÿ #'             
   "  & Ÿ #' ‚ <   
   „ ƒ&    & ’    
            ' 
 & ‹   8   †Ž%†š     
narration.

THE TIGER KING

BY KALKI

+  ¬+ +  ¤ °           &

+       '        
            &
+     ‚  *    
             
 &             
‚ '             
 &        '       
  & + ¤           '
 & ‰           
      & +     
      ' °  "     &

152 English–XII
MAIN CHARACTERS

al
roy D
: a adm ewan:
ger e stat
e
l o inist A ch
ro th The rative o ief
f ast er of Tige ffi
ie ll r Ki cer of
Ch forte ng.

The Tiger King: Protagonist of the story, the

Maharaja of Pratibandhpuram, also known as His
Highness Jamedar, General Khiledar-Major, Sata-
Vyaghra samhari, Maharajadhiraja Visva
Bhuvana Samrat, Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur,
M.A.D.,A.C.T.C., or C.R.C.K.
A Br ife of
i : The w itish
office tish high a i s a n i
r&h ra Dur Br
ranking an who
is sec nking e h i g h m
h
retar
y
t
e r, a g r eedy wo mond
offic dia
l the 50
takes al s herself.
ring

Points to Remember
1. ‚ *     8%  
2. *               
         &
3. +             &
4. +     '      & <  
 '  '       '   
     &
5. ‹   Ž     '     '   
   & <      '  
             
6. ’            '  
hundredth tiger.
7. ‰  '      '    &

English–XII 153
 8. ?     '         
and won.
9. ‰      '     &
10. ‡     % ' ’ =        
      & ‰      & ? 
           ’ = 
‚   š       =°    
Ÿ ˆ '&
11. ‰ '      & ’            &
12. + ƒ            >&
13. +   '       & + '     
killed the hundred tigers.
14. ?  '             ® &
‡      ' & +        '  
 &
15. + '            
     &
16.         ' &      
   & +     ‚     
' & ?       ¬+   & +
‚  &

RTC-1

#   § § ’          &

„   '          
& +   '  '          
             
 %8             & ‹ 
         <      #  ‹  
       &
1. ²#   § § ’        
 &” Ÿ _

154 English–XII
 }~ ?         &
}~ ?         &
}~ ?   '  '    &
}~ ?  &
Ans. }~ ?   '  '    &
2. ²+ #  ‹°    &&&&&&&&&&&&
Ans.          
3. +           Ž& ‰ '   &
#    %
}~ ‰   ’ =    ' &
}~ ‰          &
}~ ‰ ' †  &
}~ ‰       &
}~ ‰            &
#    %
}~ }~ }~   }~
}~ }~  
}~ }~  
}~  
Ans. }~   &
4. ‹   _
Ans. ?      '    °    
    &
RTC-2
²+          ’& + ’    +  
       + ”  8 & ‹ 
         _ ¡   '     § §
’      '      ¬+ °& + 
English–XII 155
8     & ?          
     & +       & ²  
—”
1. + ’    +         
+ &”  8 & +        &
‡        %
}~ ƒ  }~ | 
}~ { }~ ‰
}~ * }~ 8
#    %
}~ }~ }~ }~   }~
}~ }~ }~ }~ }~   }~
}~ ~ }~ }~   }~
}~ ?
2. ²   —” ‹  + +  ¤       
_
3. ‹         ¬§ § ’°_
}~ < }~ ‚
}~ ? }~ *
4. ‹          ²§ § ’
     '      ¬+ °_

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. ‹     '      _

Ans. ‹  ‚   †       '   '
intelligent questions about his death. After knowing that he would be
'         &    &”
2. ‰   +  ¤   _
Ans. ?    +  ¤          

156 English–XII
       & ‰    '  
 & ‰     &
3. ‹   <       ¬     
  '°_
Ans. + <             
    "          
           '    '  †
  & ‰     ‚°     
 †  &
4. ‹    % ' ’ =   _ ‹  
_
Ans. +  % ' ’ ‡=    '   & ‰   
     & ‰       '   
              
  '   ¤ & ‰     &
5. ‰   ‚      '    ' 
    ' _
Ans.        ' '    
       & ‰       
  % %°    =     &
{        & ‰        
        &

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. ‰   ¬ °     _

2. ‹  ‚   ƒ    8_
3. ‹   ‚         _
4. ‰   ' °      _
5. ‹       ‚       '
  _
6. ‰  ‚     ' _

English–XII 157
 7. ‹   ƒ '      _ ‰_
8. ‰     '      _

Competency Based Long Answer Questions:

1. <   ?          

      & ’      
    +  ¤         
   &       "  „& ‹  
          &
Ans. ƒ  
|  
‹              
        & Ÿ   '  
   & +         
'          &  
                 
           & +  
         "    
              &
+                
               
               
       '   & #     
        &
+              
 '   &

Competency Based Long Answer Questions for Practice

1. |   '     & + +  ¤  

’ =    ' & ‰     _
2. + +  ¤          
   '          '  
     &        
             

158 English–XII
   '        '      
   & ‹       
 ²<   ƒ&” <    
     &
3. +          
                
      8  & ‹    ¬<  + 
*°&     °&
• ‹         &
• #       
• ‰     7 
4. ²‚     =          
             
       &” ’   
+  ¤               
   & #     
 +  ¤             
  !
The Tiger King:           
    &
The girl: ¡ ‚ —     & ‚    
'           _
The Tiger King: +  ————
The girl: ____

English–XII 159
 JOURNEY TO THE END OF THE EARTH
BY TISHANI DOSHI

POINTS TO REMEMBER

1. +          +  ƒ&

2. +  '    ?   †   
there.
3. ?     ž´       &
4. §     & <8    |" |   #   
 ²<   ”  &
5. \           '    
?    "          
   '      &
6. +            
           &
7. + >       &
8. +        '      
?     &
9. <      †ˆ&ž        ‚&
<     >  8 '       
      &
10. ?   8          ? 
         <     
|  &
11. +              #
   %#   ] >     &
12. „ 8     &
13. ?               
†Ž &            
       &

160 English–XII
 14. ‰           
Mother Nature.
15. +          & ‰
         &
16. +             
 8        &
17. +            
'   ‹ ?          |
< ‡             
one day.
18. +  ƒ              
 &
19. <    8%        
  & |         
    &
20. {       8   >      '
              
 &

RTC-1

¡           & +  
   &      !        
         }      >  ’ ~&
ƒ            Ž•%       
              
     & °        
    8   °    &
1. ‹  ¬  °  _
Ans. <      ? 
2. ¬$ <°    
Ans.    >              &

English–XII 161
 3. ‹            8 
  %
}~ \  }~ 
}~ Ÿ }~ ? 
Ans. Astonished
4. ‹         ?   
  %
}†~    }Ž~ ? 
}ˆ~ ’  }•~ ‰   
}š~ ‡   
}~ †   Ž }~ †   š
}~ Ž   š }~ †   ˆ
Ans. }~ †   ˆ

RTC-2

<8               

    µ |   µ    8      
  % ? & +    "   !    °
                
      & { š   |      
                 
                
    '    &
1. ‰     "  š    _
2. |     &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
3. ‹           _
4. ¬   °      °  %
}~ ‰      |  &
}~ ‰     8   &

162 English–XII
 }~ ‰        8  &
}~ ‰          &

Short Answer Questions:

1. ‚   °         ? &

Ans. {        >  ?    
  & +       † & <
                    &
<             ?   
      &
2. ‹  |" | °          
²<    * ” _
Ans. ¬<    * °      
          8      
   & +      '  "
    8           & +
             &
3. ¬+'           '  °&
‹          _
Ans. ?        '  % & 
            & ?  
       '        
   < ‡ & +      
     & +  >      &
‹  '             &

Short Answer Questions for Practice

1. ’           

     ? 
2. ƒ  + '    ¬<   °  _ ‹ 7
‹ _
3. ‰     ?        8 _

English–XII 163
 4. ?       & 8 &
5. ¬{        ?      
           &° &

Competency Based Long Answer Questions:

1.   '          &   °

         &   '   
"            
      # & ?     
    ‘How rapid increase in human population has
left mark’s on nature and its resources’& <   
     &
Ans. ‰      †Ž     &  
        '& ƒ   
  '        & ’
                 &
‚     8        
& ‡         
       & {      '
  8         
  >   &      & ‰  
              &

Competency Based Long Answer Questions for Practice

1. ‰ >  & ‰     

          & ‰  
             & ¡ 
            &
ƒ  "      ? &
2. +  ƒ   ?  8   ²  
   ”&        8     
          & ƒ  
 ?   &

164 English–XII
 3. +    ?  8         
          '& &
4.         +  ƒ   
             
²<   ”    ?     |" | 
 #           '     &
¡      !
? 
š ?  
Dear friend Anita
{          &    " 
here....
‹ 
+  ƒ

The Enemy By Pearl

S. Buck

§   ?     ‹ ‹ & ƒ& <   § 
     ?& ‡        ‰      
?            &
<   ‰            '
         & ¡  '     < '
                
      &
Points to Remember
1. ƒ& < ‰'°       § &
2. ‰     & ‰      <°  &
3. ƒ& <     ?        
4. ƒ& <           | 
          &

English–XII 165
 5. ‡   ƒ& <          
 &
6. ƒ& <            
   "          
his house.
7. ƒ& <             
    &
8. ƒ& <°  ‰             
her house.
9. ƒ& <    |        
      ' &
10. ƒ& <            
restless night.
11. ?   °         ? 
            &
12. ‰              
'      &
13. + 8   ƒ& <      |    
    &

RTC 1

+             ' &
²+            '   ”
<    & „       
              &
²¡      ” ‰    & ’ 
           &
²                
            ” < &
²+ '        '    ” ‰  & ’

166 English–XII
    & +       
   &
1.               
  _
}~ ‰        ?   >.
}~ + |      ƒ& < guilty.
}~ ƒ <    stationary.
}~ + |     assassins  '  ?  8&
Ans. }~ ƒ <    stationary.
2. *'      <    &
}~  }~ 
}~  }~ 
Ans. }~ 
3. #            
below.
<  †! <   ‰        &
<  Ž! ‰      &
}~ <  †    <  Ž  &
}~ <  †    <  Ž  &
}~ ’ <  †   <  Ž  &
}~ ’ <  †   <  Ž  &
Ans. }~ ’ <  †   <  Ž  &
4. ¬’    °& ‹ _
Ans. ?          &

RTC-2

<  '               
   '               

English–XII 167
       & < '       °
   & {           %  ? 
             & ‰   '
            <   
          & ’     
                 
 & ?  '            | 
               
       <   '  § &
1. +     <°  %
}~ ‰  
}~ ‰ 
}~ ‰ 
}~ ?  
2. <   ?     &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
2. ‹        8_
3. ‹  ƒ& <      _

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. ‹   |  '       _

Ans. + |    '     ƒ& <   
    '& <  ƒ& <    
       & <  
    '         
 & ’    %     &
2. ‹  ƒ& <      _
Ans. + |     ƒ& <         
         '&
‰        8 ƒ& < <     
 &

168 English–XII
 3. ‰       °  8    _
Ans. +              
      ƒ& <& ‰     
     §        
      &
4. ‹      ƒ& <° _
Ans. +      '  ?    
 & +      ƒ& <       
   & ?      '       
   & ƒ <     & +  
           &
5. ‰  ‰   ƒ& <_
Ans. ‰          & <   
             
& <         & ‹ 
            <     
   & +          
  & ‰          &
6. ‹  ƒ& <°      ?    
? _
Ans. +              
      ?& ‰     
         &
7. ‹ =  ƒ& <    '     _
Ans. {   ƒ& <          
   '  ?    ƒ& < 
            
    & ‰        &

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. ‹  ƒ& <   ?       
     _

English–XII 169
 2. ‹  ° ƒ& <      '    
       _
3. ‰  ‰            
 _

Competency Based Long Answer Questions

1. ‰            

             & Which,
according to you, is higher — humanity or patriotism? Write a
paragraph on the topic: Humanity vs Patriotism.
Ans. Humanity vs Patriotism
‰     & °        
            
  & ’            &
             
       & ‰     
      &        &
‰  '       & ‰    
               
             
   & +         
      &

Competency Based Long Answer Question For Practice

1. ‰                 &
<            & <
     '& ? ‰        †Ž
% †š & <          &
¡      !
ƒ              
  &   '           
   '   &&&&

170 English–XII
 2. ?       ƒ <     
         *‡‹& #  
 &
¡      !
¡% ‰ ƒ <& ‹&
ƒ& <% ‰& + '&
¡% ‰            
      & ‰       
   _
ƒ& <!    Good human values are far above any
other value system ....
3. Tom, a POW was rescued by Dr Sadao and Hana. ?  
                 
     &
Days later Hana and Dr Sadao found a brief note while cleaning
the room, written by Tom thanking them and acknowledging
        @
#   „  †Ž%†š & ¡    
 ! +    | 
           & †  
                &
¡          &&&&&&&&&&&

ON THE FACE OF IT
By Susan Hill

+        ƒ        ‚& 
      & ƒ     ‚& °   
  & ?         ‚&  > 
ƒ       & ‰        
         & ‚&     ƒ
        °         ƒ  
 & ‰ ' ƒ >        '&

English–XII 171
Point to Remember

1. Mr. Lamb is sitting all alone in his garden.

2. Suddenly Derry entered the garden thinking no one was inside the
house. Although the gate of the garden was open. Derry entered by
jumping over the wall.
3. Derry is scared to see Mr. Lamb sitting in the garden.
4. Mr. Lamb told him that his gates were always open for all people.
5. Mr. Lamb assured him, that he could stay there if he wanted to sit
there.
6. Derry told him that people were afraid of his burnt face and hated
him.
7. Mr. Lamb convinced him that both of them were similar as both of
them faced a disability.
8. Mr. Lamb also told him that he should not bother about what others
say.
9. Derry was impressed by the positive thoughts of Mr. Lamb.
10. Gradually Derry was able to realise that he too was better than people
11. He decided to go home, informed his mother and came back to help
Mr. Lamb.
12. Derry fascinated by Mr Lamb’s talk, motivated and drawn towards
Lamb.
13. When Derry came back he was shocked to see that Mr. Lamb had
fallen from the ladder and had bled to death.
14. Derry cried, turned emotional but gained confidence to face the world.

RTC 1

DERRY: You needn’t think they haven’t all told me that fairy story before.
‘It’s not what you look like, it’s what you are inside. Handsome is as handsome
does. Beauty loved the monstrous beast for himself and when she kissed him
he changed into a handsome prince. Only he wouldn’t, he’d have stayed a
monstrous beast. I won’t change.

172 English–XII
 1. ‹       ¬‰     
°_
}~ ‚ }~ Ÿ
}~ < }~ ?
Ans. }~ ‚
2. {          ¬‚ °    &
}~ < }~ ‰
}~ ‰  }~ ?  
Ans. }~ ‰ 
3. ¬  °  °     %
}~ <  }~ <   
}~ * }~ ?  
Ans. }~ *
4. #            
below.
<  †! ƒ  '      &
<  Ž! ƒ  '     '   &
}~ <  †    <  Ž  &
}~ <  †    <  Ž  &
}~ ’ <  †   <  Ž  &
}~ ’ <  †   <  Ž  &
Ans. }~ ’ <  †   <  Ž  &

RTC-2

¡  '&&&& ¬‰°   &° ¡ '  &&&        
  '& ¬+° & +°    & +°      
&° ¡  ' ¬*  &° ’ ° & „ & \     &
?   &  & ‹  '        °  
&
English–XII 173
 1. ‹   '           ' _
2. Degree of the word ugliest is ..............
2. ‹          _
3. ²+° ” ‹    '  _
}~ + '   '      
}~ + '         
}~ + '   
}~ „    

Short Answer Questions

1. ‹  ƒ   _

Ans. ƒ          & ? 
    '         
    '     '  & + 
      8       
            &
2. ‹ &  ‚&  '       _
Ans. ‚&               
       ƒ & ‚&    
          & ‰
             
    &
3. ‹  ƒ  '   ‚&  _
Ans. ‚& °           ƒ & ƒ
             
            & +  
       ‚&   ƒ   
to her.
4. ‹  ƒ °   '  ‚&  _

174 English–XII
 or
‹  ƒ °      ‚&  _
Ans. ƒ °          ‚& & <
             ƒ
  ‚& &
5. ‹  ƒ  '  ‚&      _
Ans. ‚&   ƒ       & ‰ 
          & ‰    
       '& ‰      '  
   & ?       ‚& &
6. ‰  ‚&     ƒ _
Ans.   ƒ           & #  
 %        & +   
        & ‰    
              "&

Short Answer Questions for Practice

1. ‰  ƒ °   _

2. ‹     ƒ  ‚& _
3. ‰          ƒ _
4. ²   ”& *    ”   ƒ & ‹  
 '    _ ‰     _
5. ‹     ƒ           
     °  _
6. ‰  ‚&  8      _
7. ƒ   ' ‚&         _ ‹ _
8. ‹  ƒ     ¬   °_

Competency Based Long Answer Questions

1. +               

English–XII 175
               
& ?      >     >
      & ‹    †Ž%†š &
¡      !
ƒ  
| 
?               
     µ         &
*              
agony.
Ans. ƒ  &
| 
?                
            & * 
               &
‚&              
        & ƒ         
 & ‡       & ’ ‚&   
ƒ     & ‚&  '     &
’ ƒ      ' ‚& & +   
    & ƒ         & +  
     & ‹        
        &

Competency Based Long Answer Question for Practice

1. ’ ƒ            &  

             &
?    >      †Ž%†š   ¬
’ ?  < ? ƒ°&
2. +  ¬‡  {  °       & |    
     †Ž%†š &
3. ‚& °   ƒ         
    & ƒ&
176 English–XII
 MEMORIES OF CHILDHOOD
By Zitkala Sa and Bama

PART-1

THE CUTTING OF MY LONG HAIR

Zitkala Sa was a native American Indian who penned down her experiences
           
The customs and rules of the place were strange and new to her. She was
          
           
         
          
!"   !   
and she lost all spirit.

POINTS TO REMEMBER

1. #            

2. $      
3. %       &    
was removed.
4. $        
5. $     
6. '        
7. (          
8. ) &   *   
to cut her hair.
9. "       
10. Crept up stairs.
11.          
her.

English–XII 177
 12. <       & Ÿ    &
13. \             & <
     & ’       
  '   &

RTC-1

?          & ‹   
             & +   
  "       & +    
      & ?  '        
'  '       '      &
 '              
           & ‹
            &     
       &        ' ' 
    &
1. ‹   _
}~ ’ }~ ±' %<
}~ <  }~ ‹
Ans. }~ ±' %<
2. ‹      ¬  °
Ans. < 
3. ‹         
}~ *  }~ \ 
}~ < }~ ?  
Ans. \ 
4. ‰       _
Ans. <  

178 English–XII
RTC-2

                    
  & §       '         
         & ?         
 '       &     °         
   '     & ’        
& ?                  
  &          †  
'        &
1. ‹  >  _
2. <         
3.     °  
}~ <    '  
}~ < ' 
}~ <  
}~ <  >
4. ‰        _

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. ‹              #
  <_
Ans. +    >         % 
 & +           
" & ƒ '          
 & +            
              
&
2. ‰  ±' % <    8   _
Ans. <      '    ±'  "
   & <       '   &
‰      '  °&      
English–XII 179
           & <   '
         &
3. ‹  §   _ ‹   "_
Ans. §            
            & ’  
                '
           
         & <   
& <         ' &
4. ‹  ±'%<       _
Ans.               
±'%<             &
              
 & <          & <
 ±'%<         &

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. ‰        ±'%<°   "  

       _
1. ‹  § °     ±'%<_
2. ‹  ±'%<      _
3. ‰  ±'%<      _
4. ‹  ±'%<  _
5. ‰  ±'%<        _

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. ±' <          & <  

?      %    
              
     & +        
              
      & ‰        
180 English–XII
     & <       & < 
to write her feelings in a diary entry.
? ±'%<      & <    
     &
¡      !
I felt terribly hurt ...................
Ans.             & ‚
  §            &
§ '           ¬
 ° '       °  & +
 ' & ‚           
               & 
                
         '  & ’   
    &     ''     
†          & ?    
   ' '  & „      &  
             
   & < †          &
‰             
         %& <     
         &

Competency Based Long Answer Questions For Practice

1. ²‹              &” ?

±'%<          
_

PART -2
WE TOO ARE HUMAN BEINGS
By Bama

’   + ƒ  & < 8     
  & ‡           '  
English–XII 181
                &
<                 
        '        
 & ‰           & ‰ 
’  '             & ’ 
     '           '&
<         &

POINTS TO REMEMBER

1.    ’       '  

  &
2. <                 &
3. +'            
&
4. ‹             
   ' &
5. ‹     '       
  "        &
6. <           
round and round.
7. <          '    
   &
8. <           '&
9. Ÿ         &
10. ‰       &
11. ‰ 8            
  &
12. ?   '       &
13. ’ '      '     &

182 English–XII
RTC-1

  '              

&      '       & ’
    '           & 
 '               
                 
        >&
1. ‹        _
}~ ’
}~ ’°  ? 
}~ ±'% <
}~ §
Ans. ’
2.      '       & ’
    '          
&
   ° %
}~ #    
}~ < 
}~ <  
}~     
Ans. }~ #    
3. ‹         _
Ans. Novelties: +            
    >&
Oddities: + "          
  >&

English–XII 183
 4. ¬  °  
Ans.       

RTC-2

§              
>& +       '       
&     '               
 '    &      '   
      '         &
‰       '       & 
   '        '   °  '  
        _
1. ‹  ’ _
2. ¬+       '       
&     '            
    '    &°
+    ’°%
}~ #       
}~        
}~ Ÿ 
}~  
3. <  &&&&&&&&
4. ‹    '        ° ' 
 °_

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

1. ‹  ’ '            
    '     _
Ans. < '           '
        >     & < '
   ‚    *      

184 English–XII
 |         ' &      
    & <         
             &
2. ‰  ’    '       
       _
Ans. <        '     
& +         & ‰     8 
 '  & +          & <
       & ‡     
       ?  & ’     &
‰ 8               
   &        
        &

SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR PRACTICE

1. ‰  ’   ?     ¬\  °_

2. ‹          ’_
3. ‹  ’  '         
      '_
4. ‹   ?    ’_
5. ‹          _
6. ‹  ?      ’    
  _

COMPETENCY BASED LONG ANSWER QUESTION

²+      _” +        

'         '    & }+8~
+                  
      & <     
      '       %

English–XII 185
      >     
             &
?         ¬# <    &°
# <    °&
+  ¬°     <    *   ²”
   ²& #       a form of social categorization
that splits the religion into ranked groups based on their occupation. It
       8   & +    
         '       
         & „       
               &   
        & +        
8& ƒ         &

Competency Based Long Answer Questions For Practice

1. ’ ’   ±'%<       

    & $>        
        & +    8 
            
              &
#          
8       &
’! ‰ ±'           &
±'%<! <  ’& °          
   &
2. ²\            ”&   
   ’            
       &
3.     %        
 & ? ?   ’         
    &

186 English–XII
 ¡      !
ƒ < ’
‹        & ‡     
   &           
 8&            
  
4. ²    %    "    
      & +  '       
                
      &” ?       
  &

English–XII 187
 INTERNAL ASSESSMENT

†& ?     <' š ‚'

Ž& ?   <' <' š ‚'
ˆ& * š ‚'
•& $ š ‚'

+       ' '      

  & +         
  '              '
'& Ÿ            
         & The detailed guidelines are
  !    [    \].

Assessment of Listening Skills

|     <'    &    
   '       '&      
  '   &

Assignment-l

             &

¡      &

Transcript

+°   ' ° & ‚     ' 
     8  °  & ‚   
'       '   &   
       '' &       ] 
Nar    ]     Gir-Somnath   
        ?     &
+     ¬’ „°   %    
 µ     µ  '     & +   
              & +
       &
188 English–XII
 +            
 § Ÿ   * ¤  Ž†& +  
       °   Ž ##+$  
   '       
 & +                
            &
²„         8     
    ”   Ÿ ‰  ²|      
     &         '
        ’ #  '   '  
    °   & ’  ’  '  
          ”  Ÿ   
  &
¤        ’     
           ²%” 
  & +           
         & ²+     
           '  & +
       ”   Ÿ   
           8        
    ’  ° 8    &
#     ?* <    ²‹    %
     8     | &   
              
             ' 
  | | &”
‰< <    8      „  ’  ‹
  ²+ ’  °          
 '    &        ¬ °   
'          & ‹    
               
 ”  < &

English–XII 189
 Task-1

Mark the following statements as true or false:

1. #   °     ' & + 7 {
2. ‚          & + 7 {
3. ‹      ''      & +
7 {
4. ’ „        & + 7 {
5. ‚           & + 7 {

Task-2

\ <     $ !* $ $       @

1. +   ««««««««««««  ’ „&
2. § Ÿ  8 ’ „    ««««««««««««&
3.  °     ««««««««««««&
4. *    '    ««««««««««««&
5. ¤   Ÿ    ««««««««««««&

190 English–XII
 Assignment-2

             &

¡      &

Transcript

’      

‰       ƒ    „  # Ÿ 
 { Ž ŽŽŽ  <        ’ ’ ƒ }’’ƒ~
ŽŽŽ µ    '          
               +  
    8     ˆ  &
?             %
   §    §]      ƒ° ¡ 
’ *'& † ¤       #   &
‰           &
²+           %’     
     8   &
²+             
               
    & +         
       { Ž†         
     ” ’ ’ ƒ    ƒ
              
      „#Ÿ        
instead of going to known wetlands.
  °   Ž••        Žšˆ 
   ŽŽ     §  †Ž&  Ž†ž Ž•¢ 
    Žˆ¢  Ž†›& ƒ      ƒ°
 ' µ ? „ ‰> + †  $  ¤  ¤ 
¡    ¤  „  
+             
#°    ›   †  <    

English–XII 191
'& ‡ ‹    '        ?
 '&
²? + $           + 
'  '%        & +  
      „ Ÿ  }¤ „ Ÿ ~” 
{ > ¤  % %   ¡  ’ *'&
<  *'     >   § „ \  
            %
            %    &
²+           '  
   ”  &
<! ‰  + ƒ { Ž† ŽŽŽ

Task-1

Fill in the blanks with correct information

1. +     ƒ    „  # Ÿ  
{ Ž ŽŽŽ  <        «««««««««
2.  ’  ' ««««««««   &
3. +       8    ««««««« ««««««««
4. +           ««««««««&
5.  ŽŽ† ««««««««        ««««««««   
 ŽŽ&

Task-2

Column A \ < ]
†& §  }~ '% 
Ž& ƒ° ¡  ’ *' }~ ‡     '  
ˆ& #    }~ % 
•& ?  ' }~  
š& +  ' }~ † ¤  

192 English–XII
 Assessment of Speaking Skills

Guidelines for conducting assessment of speaking skills:

1. ‡  Ž     &
2. <'  % †  †Ž  
3. ? %  !
}~ |    }    % 
   ~
}~ ‚  *  }Ÿ 7    ~
}~ *   }7      ˆ  ~

Themes/Domains Suggested topics

Media and {' „   ‚   < ‚7
Networking Ÿ  ‚  ƒ 7 +  ‚
$ ƒ  ‚
Health and Fitness    ‚  ‹ 7   
     ° 7 ‰  
Natural Resources <  ƒ 7 ?   
  7 < 7 <     
 
] ^       7 #  7 ‚' 
 7     Ÿ
  * |  |7      % 
 _ 7 <       
Adolescence <    < *7 +   
7 #  8    "
way
Sports and ‰       ‡ _
Sportsmanship
   _  $   7 <  7  
       7 ‰ ' 
< '

English–XII 193
Inventors and ‹          _
Inventions
Careers +     87 + 

Art and Aesthetics ? 8  °         _ 7 
¤° ¬? +  ’ °     _

Prompts/cues or Pair Interaction

+ ' '         '

             & *  
8'    !

The Last Lesson Lost Spring

‚ ‚ ‰  '   Mukesh understands the need of a
               
    {       ' & ‰ '  
    & { >  „|‡      
 ‚ ‚ ‰& |         & ‰
    ¬‰       + {& ‹
 _°    _
Deep Water The Rattrap
ƒ              7
 ƒ            # 
  & #         ˆ ' & ‹
           '_
     
Douglas is none other than the
big bruiser boy who had thrown
ƒ     ¡‚#? &

194 English–XII
Indigo Poets and Pancakes
‚ |     ?'  |  <
 ‚>"                
           
# & ƒ   
 ' & #    
 |      
           } ~ 
   '   ?'     
    ’  &       
     ' &
Interview Going Places
¡          <  
        ƒ #   " &
  \ & ¡ |      ' 
     follow.
      
these days.

Speaking Assessment Sheet/Record

School and Session
Class

Ÿ „ *  ?  +

No. of Ž
student  
  {  *      Ž7•¶
#  †%š †%š   †%š   š
†%š     Marks
†
Ž
ˆ
•

English–XII 195
 Project Work+ Viva: 10 Marks

?  #’<    7

     7 7 
   '   
     & * 
      
    '   7
        
       %&
A structured Project-Portfolio/Project Report should have the following
elements:

196 English–XII
 PROJECT TOPICS

The Last Lesson The Lost Spring

·   #  ·      
· + ‚   & · #      '  
' }’ †•~
• Mother tongue
· ‰  _
Deep Water The Rattrap
· ‹ < · *   
· ‡ * • Beggars on red lights
• Fighting fear
Indigo Poets and Pancakes
· *°    ·    
India.
· #    
· <     
worker
Interview ` *         
· ‰     · # # 
questions · ‚ |
Tiger King   $  ] *
· ‹  • Heritage buildings
· # ‰  ·    ‹'

Record Keeping

+          '    ' 
            '  
Board. |  $   ;$ ;   !     ] @

English–XII 197
 Assessment of Speaking Skill - Sample Transcript 1

  ~" #| |‚ƒ\| ~ <†

}+  '     ~
+! |      Ÿ'&
<  ?! ‚   „  &
+! ?  _ }'    ’~
<  ’!   <&
+! ‹    <_
<!    $' $&
+! ‹   „  _
„  !    „ $&
+! ‰         „  _
„  ! °       '  &
+! ‹   <_ ‰      _
<! ‚     Ž '    &  
    ' †  &
     $       <   @†

Phase 2- MINI PRESENTATION

}†     ¸ Ž      & + š   
    ~
+!          8  '  
     & ¡            
       &
’                  &
„      & ? „         < 
'    „  °   & +     
 <&

198 English–XII
Topic for Nandini-‘Fake News on Social Media’
„  ! „            
& *  8    %      
'            
 '   & +         ‹
    & <          
 & <       8 & ‡    '
           7   & +
           "   
 & +        '      ' &
<! ‰  ‹?    ' _
„  ! *      '       
      &
+! ‹         ' _
„  ! ’               '
     '   &
Topic for Samidha: ‘Sustainable Development’
<! +    Ÿ     #   \' 
'        & ?     
Ÿ |         & ?     
   '  ¬   °   '   
& \'           '
      & ?   8    
           Žˆ      
     ° %  & <    
   '        & 
              
  } ?~            & ‹
            &
„  ! ‰           < 
 _

English–XII 199
 <! +         
           &
+!   '    & ‹     
 ‰        _
<! †             
        & ?     ' 
    < ?  &

PAIR INTERACTION (3 mins)

+! ?   ? ¥  8 } ~  ƒ 

ƒ    & '        
about the issue.

Source: ‰+ ‡ Ž¢ŽŽ†

„  !           
     ƒ    & +       
that.
<! ¡    „    '      ? ¥
 8&           ƒ  &
„  ! ’       '  ? ¥  8 
                &

200 English–XII
 <!       °       
  & ’   '         
            „#Ÿ&
+!        '     _
„     < } ~! ƒ   —
+! + '      8    —

English–XII 201
 Assessment of Speaking Skill - Sample Transcript 2
Phase 1- GENERAL INTRODUCTION (1 min)

}+  '     ~

+! |      ‰ &
<  ?! ‚   <&
+! ?  _ }'    ’~
<  ’!   ¤ &
+! ‹    ¤ _
¤ !    ‚  $&
+! ‹   <_
<!    * $&
+! ‹    <_
<!  '       &
+! ‹   ¤ _ ‹       _
¤ !           '   &
}+            &~

Phase 2- MINI PRESENTATION

}†     ¸ Ž      & + š   
    ~
+!          8  '  
     & ¡            
       &
’                  &
<    & ? <       ¤   '
   <°   & +      
¤ &

202 English–XII
      "‡ <    <
<! Ÿ              8  
         & Ž†    
        & +     
      >       %
 ' '      '      
   ' & ’    '        
„  * ŽŽ     |   & ?   
   8              8  
  8            
  & \   8       
         &
¤ ! ƒ   '         %
'  8_
<! +                
      8&
+! ‹        8 _
<! #            
  8  &
Topic for Khyati: Need of Health Awareness among Students
¤ ! #      '        
              
    & 8   8    ' 
=           °    
   & ?          °    
  & +           
   %           
    &
<! ‰            
 _
¤ ! #       
      & ?       
address issue of healthy lifestyle.
English–XII 203
 +! ‚      & ‹ _
¤ !   '           
  & <     °   &

PAIR INTERACTION (3 mins)

+! ?    ‰  < #   & '

          &

<!   >    š´        
ˆ   '&
¤ ! ¡    <  '        '& + 
       &
<! ’          '& §     
& +            '&
¤ !             
in youngsters.
+! < ‹    '      {  _
<! ?      ˆ   '      
     & ›¢´     {      '
   &
204 English–XII
 +! ¤  ‹        
  {  _
¤ ! +  ‰%    '   ›´&
+!         _
<! ƒ   —
¤ ! ‹   '            
+! + '      8    —

English–XII 205
 Assessment of Speaking Skill - Cues for practice
Pair interaction practice cue no. 1

+! ?   *           ' 

    †›      & '       
   &

Figure 1: *           '   

  †›    Ž†¢%†›
Source: ?’< Ž†›]

Discussion points:

’  %    ? ’  < }?’<~

Ž†¢%†› „  ‰ < }„‰<~ †  Ž    †›    }•ž´~
      Ž      ž  † }žŽ´~ 
     š%     }?’< Ž†›~&
+          '  
    }{  †~& {  '     !
   }š•´~     †›%Ž•      '
   % }ˆ´~     ¢š   &

206 English–XII
 Pair interaction practice cue no. 2

+! ?   *        '   

    †›      & '       
   &

Discussion points:

• ž&†´     †›           '

daily.
• ?            ' 
  µ †Ž´   &•´
• †›%Ž•          µ†´    
†´   
• ‹   '          
   'µ¢Ž´   š´
• ‡      '      
 

English–XII 207
 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER (2023-24)
ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301)
CLASS-XII

Time allowed: 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions:

1. + ¥ *    +‰Ÿ  %Ÿ ?ƒ„| ‹Ÿ+„|

  + Ÿ?+\Ÿ &
2. ?           &

SECTION A : READING SKILLS (22 marks)

~@  $ \ <     $ ƒ   $

?                
   & ‰         
  '           
  {    '         
²    &”       &
§   { '      &
²‰   ”   ²     '  &”
?            °  
& ‰ >  >     '      
 &                 
               
&
²‹° _” ' ?&
²+°  ° ”  {&
?    & ²+°  _”  &
²¡”  {& ²{%     % 
             & *  _”

208 English–XII
 ²  ° ' ”  ?& ²  °  '       
 & ‹     ° _”
²°    ”  {& ²’       
             \ ¥
   \      & +      
       '       & < 
 °   ‰  |      &”
?             °
  '  &
²|    ‰  |”    > &
²+     & °    
 & ‹  '       _”
²‡    ”   {&
²       _”  ?&
?       '          '
     & ’            
his head.
²‰_”  &
?  & ²‹° _”  &
²° ”   & ²‚ &”
²‚ _”  ?& ²‹° ‚ _”
²+ *  ? ”   &
? '      °    & ²‹  _” 
said.
²°  ”   &
? '          ®  
&                
' '         &   
            &

English–XII 209
 ²°       '      
”  ‚ &
? % ? 8  ²+ ‰'° |   |8 ”  ƒ 
? 7 ••• 
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
† <     ?       
               
    &
}~ Ÿ    
}~ ?    8 
}~     
}~ #   8
† ‹                
 ‰  | _
}~       
}~       
}~       
}~       8 
† <     8   •     
           &
† #          
 &
’        8       
     
† <          {  8 
‘*  _‘&
}~     _
}~ #   _

210 English–XII
 }~  _
}~ + =  _
† 8    •     ‘+ *  ? ‘ 
   &
†     ‘&&&   ' '      
  &&&‘      ‘‘ 
_
† ‰            ' 
‚     _
"I've been waiting for someone to talk to me for over two million
years," said Marvin.
?    • &
‡† Ÿ     }~ %}~  !
}~ ‰   §  ‹  ’ ? ƒ Ÿ
}~ ‰' +  <! ? # +' ‡ +  ‡ +
‹
}~ „ < {  ?   ? \
}~ | ' +  ‹ <  + +
}~    + $ „     ƒ
         7  ƒ‡ <7 ƒ‡ „‡+
        &
}~ ‡  }~
}~ }~ }~   }~
}~ ‡  }~
}~ }~   }~
ˆ@       $ ‡@
}†~                
      & ?    

English–XII 211
     †›%Žš   8     
            
†         &
}Ž~ ?         
            }š›´~
           %
 }šŽ´~& ?      
  >        }••´~  
           }ˆ´~&
}ˆ~ ‡            
  >   '    }†´~  
  & |        
       }šŽ´~     
8       }•›´~& ?  
            % 
      >   }ˆ›´~&
}•~             
8        8  }•´ 
  ˆ´   ~& <   
     8       
   }ˆ´    ˆŽ´   ~&
}š~ ‰      "  
  & { 8      
   %     }ˆ›´~  
  }Ž•´~& #      
'  > 8       }Ž›´~
    }†Ž´~&
}~ ‡           
             " 
         &
#     7 Žž 
?          &

212 English–XII
 }~                
}†~    & ?    • &
}~ ‹            
            
      _
}~ {    
}~ 8   
}~ <   
}~ ƒ  '   
}~ ‹               
     _
}~          !
}~ Ÿ!   °    '    ' 
8& ? %'   &
}~ „>! °       &   ° 
  &
}~ ƒ'! °     %   
8  &
}~ ‹      8      %
         Ž_
}~ +    
}~ ‰   
}~ *  
}~ ?  '  '
}~ ‰    "       
            
 "        _
}~ #      &
+             

English–XII 213
      8       
8      «««««««««««&
}~ < +Ÿ\  {?< &
+  ²‹ ! + < + +  ? ¡
?   ”      &

SECTION B: CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18 marks)

Note: ?               
  &
‰@ < |Š |     !  ‹Œ  @
?& ’ ‰  * <     #|  
            
     & ? Ÿ + #  
%#           
    %    '  
#|      {  † § &   % 
   #| &
‡Ÿ
’& ¡   <   „  ‹ <
§  < ƒ%ˆ < & ƒ     <
            
‰ <  | Ž     & ?  
           
     < &
‘@ < |Š |     !  ‹Œ  @
?& ¡   <  ‰ # ?"  ‚&¤& <& <&
<& ¡       Ž% ¡    
'         & #    
        ¡  & <  
            &
‡Ÿ

214 English–XII
 ’& <&  ¤      
              
  & +          
  '       & ¡  
             
         & # 
           
 &
‹ < |Š |     !  ~ˆŒ"~‹Œ  @
?& ¡  ƒ  <      %' }’{?~
 §++ #  & ¡       
         & ‹
   ‚ § ?    % 8
      &

‡Ÿ

English–XII 215
 ’& ƒ            
     >       
=     >     &
‹             
     8       & *
           
          & \   
        & ¡  <
’       &
• For awareness
•    7     
• _ %   7  
• ƒ    %    
• ? %
•   ˜  
• '   
•    =    
    
’@ < |Š |     !  ~ˆŒ"~‹Œ  @
?& ¡  < ‰   %’& ‹    
  >           
    °            
   & \        
   &
      ¸    
’  % { !  ' 8      
{   !  
‹           _
‡Ÿ
’& + Ÿ&‹&? }Ÿ  ‹ ? ~ „  %
             

216 English–XII
       †› §  ŽŽˆ& ? < & §&
           
    & <      
     &
•     ¢ %       
°  
•   '  %   _
•  '   _
•            
 _
•          _
•       %   _
•    8        _

SECTION C : LITERATURE TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY

READING TEXT (40 marks)

“@     $ ‡      >    |Š |

of the two, given.
?& ?          
‹         ]
?        !
?        '
*         '&
}? +  ’ ~
}~ ‹           
8_
}~ +   
}~ +     
}~ +      
}~ +    

English–XII 217
 }~ <       +Ÿ\  {?<  
    8&
’      ‘  ‘   > 
       8   &
}~ #      &
+ ‘       '‘      
        &&&&&&&&&&&&&
}~ +     ‘ '‘   8    
             
 & +      
}~ ’            Ž%š  
 8         †_
  ' 
}~ <     „‡+    '   
          8&
}~ #                
     &
}~          
  &
}~ #         8  
reader.
}~            &
‡Ÿ
’& &&& '       
           
    
        
?
         
&&&&&&
}‚   <8 %8~
218 English–XII
 }~ ‹   '      '   _
}~ #     
}~ „     
}~      
}~ {    
}~ ‹       ‘‘         
   &&    _
}~ <    ‹ „‡+     
 &
+      ‘   7      
 ‘      
}~  
}~  
}~ 
}~ 
}~ <       +Ÿ\  {?< &
+                
                
   &
}~ ‹             8  
     '      8     
    _
}~ #      &
+         ««««««
”@     $ ‡      >    |Š |
of the two, given.
?& #               
   & ‹  ‹ ?    
  _ ‹  | <     _ ‹

English–XII 219
           '  _ ‚ & ‚  &
   ?          µ 
             
          
    ]         
 % % % %     
   & }§       ~
}~ ‰          ?  '
         _
}~ ‹  ‘  ‘    ‘  ‘  
 8 _ +    
}~              
  
}~             
}~  "          
 
}~           
}~ +              
           
}~ |           8   
    &
‡Ÿ
’&     +  ¤  &
+          8   & 
           & +   
              
       +  ¤    
die.
‘+           
     & ’&&&‘      
 & ‹        

220 English–XII
    & ‘+         
& ?       ' & +     
         &‘ }+ +  ¤ ~
}~ #      &
+          &&&&&&&&&&&&
}~    8       
  ‘      ‘_
}~ ‰
}~ ƒ
}~ |
}~ \ 
}~ ‹          ‘ 
       ‘_
}~ ‰     ‘       ‘ 
8   _
•@     $ ‡      >    |Š |
of the two, given.
?& \            
              '
               
              
& ’      —       
    '    ]     
        <    & +  
            ‚&
‰ '           
 &              & ¡
              & ¨+ 
 ~
}~           8&

English–XII 221
 }~ ‹        8    
     _
}~ +     
}~ +      
}~ +    
}~ +       
}~ #      &
+  ‘   <    ‘    «««««
}~ *'     8         
           &
}~ ‹          ‚& ‰_
}~ ‹             
 8_
}~ + {   
}~ +    * 
}~ + Ÿ    < < 
}~ + ? 8   ¡ < 
‡Ÿ
’& \            
           '   
      & ‡       
    &
‘‹     _‘  '  &
‘‚         ‘   
 &
‘         "‘     
     &
‹       ®        & ‘
  ‘              
222 English–XII
 & +         '
      &    '     
       8  &
(Lost Spring~
}~ ‹            ' 
             
_
}~ +   ‘   '         ‘
    !
}~ ? 
}~ ?  
}~ ? 
}~ ?   
}~ 8             
  ‘        '   
      ‘&
}~        8        
              &
}~ ’    8    8   
'           
      &
}~ ‘‹    _ +     '&‘
}~ ‘ƒ          
 &‘
}~ ² '  & ‹       &‘
}~ ‘‰      _
}~ #      ‡„ &
+  ‘    ‘        
           
 ««««««
English–XII 223
 ~Œ@  |Š –_      $ ‡ >   !  ‘Œ"‹Œ
words.
}~ ‹      Ÿ  *    
       ‚ _
¨Ÿ  % +         
    ]           
      & ‹      
 |   &©
}  ~
}~ ƒ             
   8    & ‹      
            _
}ƒ ‹~
}~ ‰          + Ÿ
             _
}~ ‰         ?  §   +  
"          _
‹ ?         
<         &
+         
‹          &
}~ \      ‘+ „   Ÿ‘   ²
 '     + „   Ÿ    
         &‘ ‹  
  _
}+  ~
}~ ‹     <        
              
_ }*   * '~
11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-
50 words.
}~ ‰       '      
224 English–XII
  '          
         _
}~ ‹    ‡  {        
        _
}~ ?       8      
+  &
‘< ¡‘    & ‘       _
?       —‘
             
   '     '    &
8   ‰      &
~ˆ@  |Š |      $  >   !  ~ˆŒ"
150 words.
?&      * „     ¤ ¥&
‹     "  Ÿ {    ?
Ÿ <     8       
      %
The requisite lift of spirit has never been found,
Or so the voice of the country seems to complain,
I can't help owning the great relief it would be
To put these people at one stroke out of their pain.
*         {&
¡      !
ƒ Ÿ
      ‘? Ÿ < ‘  &&&
¡      !
       & *   '   ¹ 
        &
‹ 
Pablo Neruda
English–XII 225
 ‡Ÿ
’& + "        8 'Aunt Jennifer's
Tigers', 'Going Places', 'Lost Spring', and 'My Mother at Sixty-
six', "       8      & ¡
  '       %
•              
8 &
•            
    8 & #   
        8  &
¡      !
|      &
?       8&&&
¡      &
+     '   &&&
~‰@  |Š |      $  >   !  ~ˆŒ"
150 words.
?&     'The Third Level'  §' {   #  
     &
           
      #   8   
in a diary entry.
?  #        & < 
        & ¡      !
     #         
  '               
 & ‰         + 
has ...
‡Ÿ

226 English–XII
 ’& ?   ±'%<         
                 
     & <        
        &
?   % ±'%<       8
            &
¡    ' !
              
ago...
(Memories of Childhood)

English–XII 227
 MARKING SCHEME (2023-24)

ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301)

CLASS-XII

SECTION A : READING SKILLS (22 marks)

1. Literary passage 12m
(i) B. It serves as the ship's computer l
[It is mentioned in the text that the white lab mouse No partial
in the control room of the Heart of Gold spaceship is credit
the ship's computer.]
(ii) C. Loss and change 1
[Destruction of his home planet = loss and the No partial
introduction of new technologies = change] credit

(iii) Descriptive 2
"In the center of the room was a large console -2 for correct
covered in buttons and switches, and in the middle     
of the console was a small, white mouse." [This -1 for correct
description provides a clear image of the setting and     
the unconventional form of the ship's computer.] of either
Humorous
"Oh, not again," groaned Ford.
[This line is humorous because it suggests that the
 2   3  4   !   
songs and annoy the crew. Ford's reaction of groaning
implies that this is a common occurrence and that he's
tired of it. The humour comes from the fact that a
computer is attempting to sing a song, which is an
unexpected and absurd situation.]
Note$  5    
from the text.
228 English–XII
(iv) 8     9    & : 1
 3   ; '   
8  !  !   :   
   3
  ;
(v) C.  & < 1
'   
 

(vi) " >"?  $  >     2

8   55     @
         
 
8               5    
         >  >    ?  
     5   B
  
8     25       
  E
'B9@
 
(vii) "               1
     
'   
  J&  
 
 2 2      :"  > >
         &    
   K  
       
   & ;
(viii) "    J&            2
 K &        @
           K    
                
 
    &    
5   

English–XII 229
 "      J&   ?   
     4          &  B  
5         
   E
 ' B9@
 
M 5P D.MP MP 1
:MP             '   
5Q J&              
  RMP    
              
               
              3  
  RMP     
  RMP       
&    5 "         
 (       
  U &       & R MP
             
   U & $2 
4 &   5      ;
2. Case-based factual passage 10 m
(i)    QM$ @9 & P 2
8   &          &     #   
   5     @  
&               &  
    
8?&   &   &     
              B   
       &    & 
83         'B9@
     &      
&            
      
230 English–XII
 8              
identify key trends and areas of growth in the tourism
sector, and plan accordingly.
8$        
the motivations and travel behaviours of young adults,
which can inform academic studies and literature in
 
8   &          
         !    
or countries, helping to identify cross-cultural
 !   &   
8          &      
understanding of their own travel preferences and
motivations, and make more informed travel decisions
in the future.
8        
the decision-making process for young adul travellers,
such as budget, safety, and cultural exploration, which
can inform discussions and debates around the future
of the tourism industry.
(ii) D. Desire for making new friends 1
No partial
credit
(iii) The top choices in the survey, for traveling solo and 1
in a group suggest that young adult travellers value
No partial
independence and freedom when traveling alone and
credit
when traveling in a group, they value socializing and
making new friends.
(iv) (b) Nawaz 1
[solo traveller-budget friendly; (a) group traveller- No partial
organised transport; (c) group traveller-high focus on credit
safety and security]

English–XII 231
(v) A. trying new cuisine 1
:      &  5  W&   No partial
ingredients that they may not have been exposed credit
to before, thus helping them discover more about
  &   9  ;
(vi) 8 "         &   2
      &   !  -Full credit 2,
accommodation options such as hostels and budget when correct
hotels. response for
8 #  &         both is stated
  !  5    - P a r t i a l
experiences that cater to their desire for comfort and credit 1,
convenience. when correct
response
for either is
stated -No
credit of %
(vii) (Any one) 1
8  &  No partial
8      K   credit
8       
more interested in cultural exchange and global
understanding
(Any other relevant)
(viii) FALSE 1
[The passage is not about solo travel trend but more No partial
of solo vs group travel debate among young adults in credit
India]

232 English–XII
 SECTION B : CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18 marks)
Note : All names and addresses of places and organisation used, are
 
3. NOTICE : Format - 1 Content - 2 Accuracy of spelling and
grammer - 1
Name of Organisation
NOTICE
Date
Heading

[details]
Signature
Name (issuing authority)
Designation
A o Correct format ( as listed)
o Drawing attention—students of XI-XII
o Mentioning the event
o Giving details-D,T,V
o Inviting applications
o Line with reference to the undersigned

B o Correct format ( as listed)

o Drawing attention—residents
o Stating the information
o Giving details
o Sharing awaited news
o Line with reference to the undersigned

English–XII 233
4. INVITATION & REPLY : Format - 1 Content -2 Accuracy of spelling
and grammar -1
A Card type-formal invite
o             9 
line punctuations skipped
o Use the simple present tense
o answers the questions who, whom, when, where,
what time and for what
o       9 
  9     &  M  P
o No signatures
Layout usually pertains to the following-
o' 9 
oFormal standard expression-cordial
oPurpose of invitation
oU9 & 
oVenue (address)
oName of special guest (if any)
oRSVP
o  9 
B Letter type-informal reply
5. FORMAL LETTER :
Format-1 Content-2 Organisation-1 Accuracy of spelling and
grammar-1
Format
 2  U} &2  ~    9   
and Subject, Letter, Complimentary close (largely accepted -Yours truly for
letter to editor & in business circuits-Yours sincerely)

234 English–XII
A Content
oCovering Letter
oReference to the advertisement
oConveying suitability for the position
oSubmission of application
Bio data as separate enclosure
o?   
o3   E   M  & 4   P
o ‚ 5  9  M   & P      9  
relevant here
oReferences
Any other relevant information
B Content
o)     K   ƒ
rules, ignorance of etiquettes involved, and the lack of enforcement
of existing laws related to road safety.
o Increased risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities, disruption of
ƒW           
revocation of driving licenses.
o Public campaigns, educational programs in schools, colleges, and
other public places, informative pamphlets, posters, and videos on
ƒ    4      4   
  ƒ    K 
o                 &   ƒ   
and do not respect zebra crossings, attending road safety awareness
classes, and revoking driving licenses if necessary. Strengthening
ƒ  &        
     ƒ  

English–XII 235
6. ARTICLE WRITING / REPORT WRITING :
Format-1 Content-2 Organisation-1 Accuracy of spelling and
grammar-1

A o Intro:
8†       &  5  
     &        ‡  
the community as a whole.
o Reasons to volunteer:
8 &    &
 !   &      
and strengthen social bonds
8  &           5  
in a variety of areas such as event planning, communication, and
leadership-useful in future job applications and can also be personally
  
8 &                W  
-helps gain a deeper understanding of own values and beliefs -can
also learn more about the needs and challenges faced by others in
their community
o Conclusion:
8&     2      5  
    &       
for young adults to get involved and make a positive contribution to
the world around them
236 English–XII
 Report Writing
Format
• Headline & By line
• Reporting place and date
• Paragraphing organisation (Introductory paragraph + one or two Body
paragraphs including event details + Concluding paragraph inclusive of
witness accounts)
Organisation & Content:

B. o Reason why the programme was launched was

oorganised—by whom? When? Who attended?
oEvent details -(refer to cues)
o        9    9
SECTION C : LITERATURE TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY
READING TEXT (40 marks)
7 Poetry
'   B9@    
A) i C. The immortality of art and literature. 1
[The extract emphasizes the idea that the tales of the
mighty dead are an "endless fountain of immortal
drink" that pour down to us from the heavens,
suggesting that these stories and legends are timeless
and will never truly die. This theme speaks to the
enduring power of art and literature to transcend time
and space and to continue to inspire and move people
long after their creators have passed away.]

English–XII 237
(ii) FALSE 1
[The dead are referred to as "mighty" in the poem
because they have achieved greatness in their lifetime.
"&        
 &      &  
It is not about the power they exerted on the people.
By referring to them as "mighty," the poet emphasizes
      &  W 
they have had on the world.]
(iii) ...just as a fountain constantly pours forth water, the 1
tales of the mighty dead pour forth endless inspiration
and wisdom for the living.
[The term "immortal drink" suggests that the stories
are never-ending and that they have the power to
nourish and sustain us in much the same way that
water does.]
(iv) abundance 1
[The use of the word "brink" in the poem suggests that
the immortality that is being poured onto us is on the
&&W "      
that the beauty and grandeur of the dooms are so great
   &W   &  "  
of abundance reinforces the idea that the beauty and
grandeur of the dooms are endless and that there is an
    ;
(v) tombs [rhymes with dooms, which is the last word of 1
line 1]
(vi) D. Creates a sense of anticipation and expectation 1
for the reader [ the lack of punctuation at the end of
          
   W     
also building anticipation and engaging the reader's
imagination.]

238 English–XII
B(i) D. Fearful and apprehensive 2
[The speaker mentions feeling an "old familiar ache"
and "childhood's fear" when looking at her mother. This
suggests a sense of fear or apprehension that is rooted in
the speaker's past experiences with her mother.]
(ii) It suggests a contrast between the speaker's internal 1
emotional response and her outward behaviour.
(iii) B. sensitivity 1
(iv) #$)3 : 2        9 1
whereas the other line is an example of alliteration -
w sound]
(v) The poem highlights the importance of cherishing 1
and appreciating the people we love, while we Still
can. [quality time -life is transient and similar]
(vi) ...the speaker is trying to hold back her emotions and 1
remain composed, despite the pain she feels at parting
from her mother
8 Prose-Vistas
'   B9@    
A(i) This makes it an important reference point for 1
    !   &    
environment and the potential impacts of climate
change. [The absence of a human population in
Antarctica means that the region is relatively pristine
and has not been subject to the same levels of human
impact as other areas of the world.]
(ii) C. ! &           1
of climate change
(iii) ... just like a time machine would allow us to observe 1
past events, carbon records allow us to observe past
climate conditions.
[ Carbon records allow us to study past climates
by analysing the air bubbles trapped in ice cores.
They provide a glimpse into the Earth's atmospheric
conditions at the time the ice was formed and can help
scientists understand how the climate has changed
over time.]

English–XII 239
(iv) (Any one) 1
8              
straightforward and objective manner
8               
of view and avoids the use of personal opinion or
emotional language
8              
present their argument
(starting with the importance of Antarctica as a
relatively pristine location, and then moving on to
5         
records found there)
B(i) (Any one) 1
8   
8      2    
interest in the story
(ii) D. Unease 1
[The use of this physical gesture indicates a sense of
discomfort or unease, and implies that the astrologers
were reluctant to reveal the prophecy. Humiliation or
grief would be more strongly expressed in the text if
they were the emotions being conveyed. Disbelief is
also not the correct answer, as there is no indication
that the astrologers doubted their prediction.]
(iii) &9 9    1
[The astrologers are predicting that the child born
under this star will be a great warrior and a champion,
implying that the child will display exceptional
courage and bravery in battle or in other challenges.
This also suggests that the child will be a leader and
will inspire others with their bravery and heroism. The
use of these superlative phrases further emphasizes
the astrologers' admiration for this trait and the
importance they place on it in predicting the child's
future.]

240 English–XII
(iv) This is so because the word "fantastic" is usually 1
associated with something positive or exciting, while
the word "demise" suggests something negative or
tragic.
[In this context, the use of "fantastic" to describe the
Tiger King's death creates a contrast between the
positive connotation of the word and the negative
reality of the situation]
9 Porse-Flamingo
'   B9@    
A(i) (Any two) 1
8        
8      
82     
(ii) A. The classmates have started the lesson. 1
[The protagonist sees through the window that the
other students are already in their places, and this
makes him feel anxious as he is trying to avoid being
seen and is worried about being scolded by the teacher
and embarrassed in front of his classmates. The fact
that the other students have already started the lesson
adds to his anxiety.]
(iii) ...the school was unusually quiet and still, as if it 1
 9 9  ! 
bustling school day
(iv) The protagonist seems to have a plan for how to sneak 1
into class without being noticed, suggesting that they
may have been in similar situations before. [The
protagonist states: "1 had counted on the commotion
to get to my desk without being seen," which implies
that they have been late before and have developed a
strategy for avoiding punishment.]
(v) The strictness and severity of M. Hamel's discipline 1

English–XII 241
(vi) B. The Importance of Punctuality 1
[The extract revolves around the theme of punctuality
and the consequences of being late. The protagonist is
anxious and embarrassed about being late to school,
highlighting the importance of being on time. The
other options, such as A) The Fears of a Latecomer,
C) The Rigidity of the School System, and D) The
Anxiety of a Young Student, touch upon some of
the themes in the extract but do not fully capture the
central idea.]
B(i) (Any one) 1
8" &&        
in a way that is immediate and relatable
8"               
story
8 "   5        
memorable for the reader
(ii) B. An opinion. 1
[The line "It is not lack of money but a tradition to
stay barefoot" is an opinion, since it is a subjective
interpretation of the cultural practice of walking
barefoot. The author is expressing her belief
("explanation"), in this extract]
(iii) 8M$  P 1
8 "            (explanation
may come from poor or marginalized backgrounds needed via
and do not have access to proper footwear. reference to
8" >  >    the line)
            & 
sense of solidarity or shared identity.
8"     >    >    
the boys are lively and energetic, and that they move
around quickly and unpredictably.
242 English–XII
 8" >   >   
that their time is limited or constrained in some way,
and that they may need to return to their homes or
other responsibilities.
8 "      > >     
that the boys are overlooked or ignored by the wider
society, and that they are not given the recognition or
support that they need.
8 "   >       >    
imply that the boys are vulnerable, and that their
carefree lifestyle may be disrupted by external factors
such as poverty, exploitation, or violence.
(iv) The line from the text: "Over the months, 1 have 1
come to recognize each of them."
[This suggests that the writer has been observing and
interacting with the boys for a prolonged period of time,
and that she has developed a deeper understanding of
their lives and circumstances. The phrase "over the
months" indicates that the writer's relationship with
the boys is ongoing and has developed gradually,
rather than being a one-time encounter.]
(v) C. "I like your shoes. What matters is that they protect 1
your feet."
[The reason for this is that the writer's comment had
       
boy, which suggests that he may feel embarrassed
or uncomfortable about his footwear. Therefore, a
comment that emphasizes the functional purpose of
shoes and acknowledges their value in protecting one's
feet would likely be more reassuring and positive.

English–XII 243
 Option A ("Why are your shoes mismatched? That's
not a good look.") could be seen as critical and
potentially judgmental, and may not be well-received
by the boy.
Option B ("Don't worry about your shoes, you can
wear a matching pair later.") may not be practical or
realistic, depending on the boy's circumstances.
Option D ("Have you chosen to mismatch your
shoes?") may come across as sarcastic or dismissive,
  ! &  2   
needs.]
(vi)  9  9 9  1
The boy's simple answer implies that there may not
be any hidden or complex reasons for his lack of
footwear, and that the explanation for why he wasn't
wearing chappals was as straightforward as his
mother not bringing them down from the shelf. The
use of the word "simply" in this context emphasizes
the directness and clarity of the boy's response,
and suggests that he may not have felt the need to
elaborate or justify his situation further.]
10 Answer any FIVE of the six following questions in 5×2=10
40-50 words each.
Content-1
o Full credit for appropriate inclusion of all content asked for
o?   B9@ &     
Expression -1
o#  ! &  
o?   B9@        
UB9@&      M
  @    9   P

244 English–XII
The given detailed reference points can be drawn upon to structure the
desired response:
(i) 8  (  2                 
being a stranger to the region, was exemplary and motivated the
lawyers to continue their support
8            
shame they would bring upon themselves if they deserted the peasants
in their time of need
8   (  2       
impact on those around him and helped to inspire a sense of purpose
  &      ! ~   
(ii) If more informative than sensory, the impact on the reader would
likely be less emotional and engaging as :
8              5    
described on a deeper level.
8     &  K      
and feel like they are a part of it.
Even though informative details may provide more factual information
but can sometimes feel detached and impersonal, leaving readers
feeling less connected to the story.
(iii) &     &      
8                   K  
loneliness and despair that the peddler experiences
8                     
overall tone of melancholy and hopelessness
8           
soul, highlighting the struggles and temptations that people face in
their journey through life
Therefore, the setting plays a vital role in establishing the mood and
atmosphere of the story.

English–XII 245
(iv) 8       &
sombre tone.
8 ‚                 
would end on a note of despair, with Aunt Jennifer's hands still ringed
with the ordeals she was mastered by.
8 "               
!       
[By ending the poem on these lines, the author achieves a sense
of hope and transcendence. The image of the tigers continuing to
prance, proud and unafraid, suggests that there is a way to transcend
    !  &     
The poet suggests that art can provide a kind of liberation, even in the
face of social and cultural constraints.]
(v) Umberto Eco suggests that the success of his book, "The Name of the
Rose," was largely due to timing. He believes that if he had written
the book ten years earlier or ten years later, it wouldn't have had the
same impact.
8 "        3  K     
   5     W 
by the historical, social, and political climate of its time.
83        5  
his novel resonated particularly strongly with readers in the cultural
          W 
Therefore, if he had written the book earlier or later, it might not have
been as relevant or timely, and might not have captured the same
level of attention and interest.
(vi) 2       &    & 
 &      4        
8      5             
completely with his principal and turned his entire creativity to his
principal's advantage.

246 English–XII
 8          &      &      
be inspired to come up with numerous alternatives when given a
problem to solve.
8$          
    
These qualities made him an invaluable asset to the Gemini Studios
during its golden years.
11 Answer any TWO of three following questions in 40-50 words
each. (2x2=4)
Content-1
o Full credit for appropriate inclusion of all content asked for
o?   B9@ &     
Expression -1
o#  ! &  
o?   B9@        
UB9@&      M
  @    9   P
The given detailed reference points can be drawn upon to structure the
desired response.
(i) 8$         
which means that she was likely around eight years old - children at
that age are still developing their cognitive and emotional abilities - it
is not uncommon for them to lack a full understanding of complex
social issues like untouchability
8" 2        
openly of untouchability - suggests that she may not have had a
complete grasp of the issue's societal implications.
8          &  
 !     &  
scope of the problem

English–XII 247
(ii) "     ! ~    
on both the victim and the perpetrator. However, it also suggests that
empathy and understanding can overcome these barriers.
Through the development of a relationship between the two characters,
Derry and Mr. Lamb, we see how their initial assumptions about each
other are challenged and ultimately broken down.
This underscores the importance of empathy in recognizing and
overcoming prejudices, as it allows individuals to see beyond surface-
&  !      & 
(iii) 8  &     5     ’ 
who is hesitant to help her with the wounded white man.
8“  >     <$     
man!" Hana is highlighting the fact that they are all humans, regardless
of their race or nationality.
8 &        
to help the wounded man.
8          &      
importance of doing the right thing, even if it goes against traditional
values or societal norms.
8"         &’ 
is more concerned with following the strict rules of her society than
with helping a fellow human being.
12 Answer ONE of the two following questions, in 5
about 120-150 words.
Content -2
o Full credit for sustained, clear, well-developed personal response to the
   ~     
o Partial credit of 1½, 1 and ½ as per the response clarity and relevance
Expression - 2
o#  ! &     & &  
! &  

248 English–XII
o Partial credit of 1½, 1 and ½ as per the level of coherence and cohesion
Accuracy-1
o Full credit for none to minimal errors
o?   B9@    9    
o No credit for error density causing impediment in understanding

[Content, in suggested responses, may be above the recommended word

limit, as it aims to share content points that can be drawn upon to structure
     ;
A. Suggested response :
Dear Robert
1 recently read your poem, "A Roadside Stand," and was struck by the
 W    5   B   
   ƒ    & 
our emotions.
In my own experience, 1 have found that taking a moment of stillness
 W   &        
the situation and connecting with our own humanity and that of others.
This is the message that 1 try to convey in my poem, "Keeping Quiet."
I would advise you to take a moment to be still and contemplative before
making any decisions about the fate of the people at the roadside stand.
By quieting your mind and being present in the moment, you may
be able to understand their struggles and pain objectively, and gain a
new perspective about your own place in the world too. 1 also feel that
by breaking from your routine and taking a moment of stillness and
W            
make a more functional decision.
 &  W      
 W    ‚      
with others, and resolving their issues, we must try to connect with our
own selves to advice from a place of balance and calm.
I hope this advice is helpful to you. Please let me know if there is anything
else 1 can do to support you.
Warmly
Pablo Neruda

English–XII 249
B. Suggested response :
Good morning, everyone.
As 1 analysed the allotted texts , 1 noticed that though each portrayal
      4    ! &     
experiences of women in society. To begin with, Aunt Jennifer was
portrayed as a victim of patriarchy, living in a world where women
were expected to conform to societal norms and expectations and
was unable to attain freedom and strength she desired, due to the
limitations imposed upon her by society.
In contrast, Sophie was portrayed as ambitious and determined to
break free from societal norms. She refused to be limited by her gender
and sought to challenge the restrictions placed upon her. Sophie's
mother, on the other hand, from a generation prior, had chosen to
      &     5  
Similarly in "Lost Spring," the grandmother and daughter-in-law, in
Firozabad, were portrayed as resilient in the face of poverty and the
societal constraints of their caste. However, unlike Sophie's and Aunt
* 2        
their situation, despite the limitations placed upon them.
When we analyse the portrayal of the aged mother, in "My Mother at
Sixty-six,", she is presented as vulnerable and in need of protection.
Sadly, it does make one wonder about the unaddressed vulnerability
of Sophie's mother and the grandmother in "Lost Spring". A point
worth considering is that Kamala Das' mother's acceptance of her
circumstances comes across as a voluntary decision, whereas that of
the women in "Lost Spring" is a akin to resignation.
"   !&     5   
of women in our society -from victimization to the resilience in
& !        
vulnerability, and the need for empathy and respect. To conclude, I'd
like to say that as readers, we can learn from their experiences and
strive towards a more equitable and just society. These characters,
stress that it is important to recognise the complexities of each
woman's experiences, and refrain from passing sweeping judgements
as women are not a uniform group, but rather unique individuals.

250 English–XII
13. Answer ONE of the two following questions, in 5
about 120-150 words.
Content -2
o Full credit for sustained, clear, well-developed personal response to the
   ~     
o Partial credit of 1½, 1 and ½ as per the response clarity and relevance
Expression - 2
o#  ! &     & &  
! &  
o Partial credit of 1½, 1 and ½ as per the level of coherence and cohesion
Accuracy - 1
o Full credit for none to minimal errors
o?   –    9    
o No credit for error density causing impediment in understanding
[Content, in suggested responses, may be above the recommended word
limit, as it aims to share content points that can be drawn upon to structure
     ;
A Suggested response:
I have been married to Charley for a few years now and 1 have
always known him to be an intelligent man with an imaginative
  &               "  )& 
has left me quite worried. While he talks about it with excitement, 1
cannot help but wonder if it is a good quality or a harmful one.
On one hand, Charley's obsession displays his determination and
persistence in achieving his goals. It shows that he is willing to go
to great lengths to unravel the mysteries of life. His imagination and
curiosity are admirable qualities that have always attracted me to
him.

English–XII 251
 However, his obsession has caused him to become detached from
       !      
what is not. He spends all his time and money searching for a place
that may not even exist. This could be harmful not only to himself
but also to our family.
I understand that he feels overwhelmed by the stress and pressures
of his present life and Sam indicated that he uses his obsession as a
coping mechanism. I think this is harmful as it prevents him from
addressing the underlying issues that are causing him stress.
Furthermore, Charley's obsession has caused him to neglect his
responsibilities. He has been absent from work and has not been able
             ! 
our relationship, and I am afraid that if he continues on this path, it
might lead to irreparable damage.
#         & 2       
the Third Level may have started as a harmless curiosity, but it has
now become a harmful one. I love him dearly and I hope that he
 K      !        
around
OR
B. Suggested response :
   W   &    
one that has continued to haunt me ever since. It is the incident where
     !     $ 
      W   
that day.
On one hand, I am proud that I stood up for myself and refused to
         
I declared that I would struggle before giving in. However, as time
passed, my spirit wavered, and eventually, I allowed them to cut my
hair. Looking back now, I cannot help but feel that I gave in too
easily, that I did not do enough to resist.

252 English–XII
 $   &  &  !    K
there might have been other options. Perhaps I could have sought
help from my fellow students. Maybe I could have tried to escape or
     “     
overwhelmed and confused that I could not think straight.
I know that I have blamed myself for this incident for far too long.
But today, I choose to absolve myself of any blame. As a young girl,
I forced into a strange place. I was not given the chance to make
my own choices, to decide what was best for me. I was a victim
of a system that sought to strip away my identity and forced me to
assimilate.
Today, I choose to forgive myself and honour the brave little girl
who stood up for herself that day. I am grateful for her courage and
        
justice and equality for all.

English–XII 253
 Practice Paper 1
(2023-24)
English Cord (Code No. 301)
Class-XII
SECTION A: Reading Skills (22 marks)

Read the passage given below.

1. At a time when women are hitting the bull’s eye at the bourses and
entering the billionaires club, Indian businesses are inching towards
closing the gender gap. In a largely male-dominated world, women
    &                
        
2. While November 19 is recognised as the Women’s Entrepreneurship
Day, women in business need to be celebrated, empowered and
supported every day. India has seen a rapid growth in entrepreneurship
       &           &
      
3. While success stories about women are on a rise, a recent report by
‚ 3  # š &B› 
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( } @›@B                
                
along with the progress towards wage equality, albeit at a slower
pace, on the other hand, overall income disparities are still only part-
         
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    œ 
  $   ‚3# (   (  ( } @›@B    
@¡   B ›B¢£     
the lowest in South Asia. The gender gap in India has widened to
£@¢Ÿ     4        
                  

254 English–XII
               
ratio and income inequality.
 ¢ &                
             
    &     #  
a business is not enough but it means excelling at their domestic roles
just as much.
 £ "                    
accelerated only once the stereotypical gender roles are relaxed. There
is no doubt that education has played a huge role to help more women
           
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   M9     "  9 '& B¤@›@B9 
¥¡£P
¦      &  4   
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?    '¦""}§3  MBJP
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     MBJP
 MP '        
 MP      
 MP J  
 MP 35    
 MP MBP M@P
 MP M@PM¥P M P

English–XII 255
 MP M@P M P
 MP MBP M¥P M P
    &      
comparison to their male counterparts, impact the reader?
  š &B›     Q 
&   šM@J P
iv. Pick the option that lists statements that are NOT TRUE according to
"‚ 3  #¨ (  ( (}@›@B
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2. Fewer women in leadership roles
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4. Wage equality
 MP B©@ MP¥ ©
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v. The word ‘persistent’, as used in paragraph 3, means the same as
MBJP
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5 &         
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viii. Select the statement that clearly Does Not endorse the “stereotypical
   œ M J P
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 MP (       
 MP         4           
women.

256 English–XII
 5  œ"             œ
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2. Read the passage given below. (10 Marks)
 B     &         œ  
    œ              & 
                   
worrying us, but surprisingly, it’s skin-related ailments which are
causing concern.
 @ U         Bž¢Ÿ&
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in the domestic pharma retail market. Interestingly, this is even
             MB£¡ŸP
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skin-related issues and skin care and a growing desire to look
     &  5 
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B¡BŸ B@   * @›B¡3  ~  & 
a mole, white patches and pigmentation issues, or hair loss. Patients
          
    '       
         
4. Sales within the derma category also mirror the trend, with skin-
related medication driving the high growth. Overall, the largest
       M ¥¡ŸP‡     
              M¥¢¥ŸP   
   &  &  *E† $     5 
point out that the huge growth in derma includes only those
medication prescribed by doctors and not the exorbitant Botox
           
   
 ¢ &             
              

English–XII 257
          §             
    M     P        
They are increasingly       M  
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counter, even though these should not be sold without a proper
prescription.
  M9"    9¦B@›B¡9¥@¢ P

¦      &  4   

 &  MB›J P
          
š    œMBJP

258 English–XII
 MP 4      
 MP    &    4 
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 MP   &  
ii. Based on the given graphical visual chart, pick the option that lists the
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 MP     
 MP U 
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  "  ¬5  œ            
­­­­­­­­ MBJP
iv. Read the two statements given below and select the option that
  5   MBJP
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$(}M   P&    
pharma retail market
 @              
related issues and skin care and a growing desire to look presentable
 MP M P   M@P     MBP
 MP MBP  M@P 5  M P
 MP MBP   M@P
 MP MBP  M@P   MBP
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    9 MBJ P
    Q“  QQU Q­­­­­­­­­
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English–XII 259
 &  š?     &      œ‚
     <35   M@J P
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   MBJP
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SECTION B: CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS ( 18 marks )

 ¥ $ ¦'3   ¢› Q

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    U   ¢› 
        
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OR
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J     &  M  P
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9~ J       & 
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OR
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been invited to chair a panel discussion on Solar Power - The
260 English–XII
 $  )   ‚     &   
¢› J     & M  P
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}*?  “  ’&   
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) “  $      " (   J 
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S.J. Food Products Pvt. Ltd.
Required Manager
?   4  
* Bachelor’s degree
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*  
¢ 5  
$      ž }U*#
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to see that bullying has become common among school students.
‚                5  
concern and suggesting ways and methods to end this menace in
 ’}~ 9} $?  ? § 
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• Bullying can be physical, emotional, and verbal
• )    5     
• Solutions
•           
• Encourage students to speak up
• Set up student anti bullying cell

English–XII 261
 £ $ ¦'3 B@›B¢› Q
MP ’& ƒ &’ 
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    B@›B¢› 5 &     
  &          K   ’  " 9
Tanisha.
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METRO- OUR PRIDE

• ®   '  '  

• Disciplined Travel
• Our Responsibility
•   
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Use the input given below and your own ideas to write a report in
B@›B¢›  M¢ P

SECTION C

LITERATURE TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY

READER (40 marks)

Q.7. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions for any
one of the two given: [6 × 1 = 6 Marks]
Ans. ‚           & )  
          
$  & & $     
(i) Which of the following options is correct
  "  š&  œ 
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262 English–XII
 MP &      
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(ii) State whether the given statement is true or false, with reference
to the extract.
The poet uses personal pronouns as ‘I’ and ‘we’ because he is trying
to read out to the readers.
(iii) Complete the following sentence:
­­­­­­­­         & 
 M &P ‚            &   
quiet is not total inactivity?
 M&P " ® E  ­­­­­   
scheme.
 M& P ¬      ‚   <
OR
B. " ƒ   
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At having the landscape marred with the artless paint
 ¦   '     
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Or crook-necked golden squash with silver warts,
(i) Choose the incorrect option:
"      Q P
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(ii) Complete the following sentence:
"       ­­­­­­­­­­
(iii) ‚       <
†            [ 
  M P  M PM P   M &P   
English–XII 263
 (v) State whether the given statement is true or false with reference
to the extract.
"     &&  !     
wooden containers, golden squash with silver warts.
(vi) ‚ ¬     5<
8. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE
of the two, given.
A. ’        &  "&  
              Q     
              M  
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surreal 24-hour austral summer light, and a ubiquitous silence,
interrupted only by the occasional avalanche or calving ice sheet,
                  
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 B ‚ ¬ 4    <
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that the author is-
 MP § 
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in the chapter-
MP )  
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MP Blue whales
MP   

264 English–XII
 MP Omnipresent noise
 MP B @
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OR
B. ’  & &   Q       
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Everybody I know wants to escape, but they don’t wander down into
   & (     
Questions:
B ¬"&    
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did.
 MP telling Louisa why he was unhappy.
 MP       
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@ ‚  ¬‚     R<
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mind?

English–XII 265
 Q.9. Read the extracts given below and answer any one of the following:
[6×1 = 6 Marks]
A. “         
                  
rattraps when suddenly he was struck by the idea that the whole world
about him – the whole world with its lands and seas, its cities and
villages was nothing but a big rattrap.
(i) Which of the following options is correct
š"  œ ­­­­­­­­   
MP    
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(ii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
š"  œ  ­­­­­­­­­­
(iii) What was the entertaining thought talked about by the author?
M &PU š  œ& š <
(v)  Q QQ­­­­­­­­­­Q
(vi) ( &   ¬       
OR
B. 3&   K    
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they say there is no leader among them, no one who could help them
   !  "     
(i) Which of the following options is correct
‘doing something illegal’ in the context is
MP 
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266 English–XII
 MP   ~    
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(ii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
We are the ones who will be hauled up by the police. ‘We’ are the _____
(iii) State whether the given statement is true or false, with reference
to the extract.
"  $   *   &          
5        
(iv) ¬"     ‚     
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(vi) ( &  ¬ K
Q.10. Answer any FIVE out of the six questions in about 40-50 words
each: [5×2 = 10 Marks]
(i) ¬" ?      ¬"
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that moment?
(ii) ‚ }#   K  <
(iii) ‚ 5         
to in ‘Poet’s and Pancakes’?
(iv) "         
What is he trying to highlight through this imagery?
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(vi) ¬“       '  ¦ ² "      
surprised the peddler and why?
11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-
50 words. 2×2=4
M P ‚ ¬   <

English–XII 267
 M P  &   <3   
4         &  5
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12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-
150 words.
A. §3   &  J ?  & 
        J    
&  &       
pursuing his interests.
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Mukund:  §  K   
all the things he does.
Umberto Eco: J  &    
OR
B. $ *  "    J & "
                   
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     ¬J &    
civilised society’ to be delivered on Women’s Day in your school.
’   .
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I ask you all why women in this country cannot be allowed to live in
peace? Why are they subjected to ..................
’     
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¬‚  U
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13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-
150 words. 5

268 English–XII
 A.           &       
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against this prejudice.
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Dear Sister Bama,
We are undergoing the tough time. Only education can help us
overcome the situation. I would advise you to study hard and to top
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their own accord
OR
B. The actual pain or inconvenience caused by a physical impairment
              
    $         &   K        K
    ‚   B@›B¢› 
  ’  Q
  U  (  ²
  $    &          
                
?                        
agony.

English–XII 269
 PRACTICE PAPER 2 (2023-24)
ENGLISH CORE(Code No.301)
CLASS-XII

Time allowed:3 hrs. Maximum Marks:80

General Instructions

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SECTION AμREADING SKILLS(22 Marks)

1. Read the passage given below

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and was considered by some as vandalism. Not only was it symbolic
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  K  
Imagine waking up one morning, to see your walls smeared with
black paint - names, symbols,messages. The most interesting bit is
that these wall artists were never caught red-handed. It wasall done
stealthily. It was almost as though people were marking their territory
using painted symbols and slogans. The change was creeping in.
J     &     
    &              
calls were made to those numbers.
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beckoned invitingly and artists saw whitewashed walls as an
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        " 
a move to embrace rather than condemn. The colours, shapes, and
270 English–XII
 subjects became cultural themes. What was once rebellious expression
      &             
unspoiled landscapes. The painted walls encouraged by residents and
&   &        
   
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  &                
             &      
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and economically reach out to the common man. Silent art speaks
volumes. Be it hygiene, conservation, education, or rights and duties
   &       
being an imposition.
  “        4   
given below : 12 marks
 M P          MBJP
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2  MBJ P
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English–XII 271
 M& P ‚       ¬    
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2. Read the passage given below:
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2. Education in both rural and urban India is expected to be supported by
    
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didn’t even have computers.
272 English–XII
  ‚     &¢¢  
@›@¢              
&                 
government.
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3       &` ¡B››& 
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Education was allocated `¥¡¥¢›£¢
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in addressing educational disparity. It. has already made learning
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Students can enjoy an interactive learning experience. Teachers can
employ animation, powerpoint slides and graphs to catch the interest
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8. The online education system is a sector in which growth and
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educators and technical teams.
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B< MBJP
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communication technology tools into the classroom.
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English–XII 273
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years.
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such as
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teams.
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take some time.
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other sectors as welld the private sector has to play a decisive
role.

274 English–XII
 SECTION B-CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18 Marks)

Q.3. U      ¢›   &          &
     B› BB†  ?   
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OR
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     U   ¢›    
¤  B@ &          ’  ' & 9
'    M  P
Q.4. }  ?         
    $     3     &    &    
           
have been published by Randomhouse to attend the Launch event to
   U  M  PM¢› P
OR
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    $        &     &  J 
)    $  3  
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         $ U     
K   B@›B¢›   
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OR
Excessive, untimely rains in Delhi in October resulted in water
  ƒ              $    
   $  $    
B@›B¢›  M¢ P

English–XII 275
 E£ "     U   &   9
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†  &   B@›B¢› M¢ P
OR
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†  U  U       †     
&   B@›B¢›  M¢ P

SECTION C
LITERATURE TEXTBOOK AND SUPPLEMENTARY
READER (40 marks)

Q.7. Read the extracts given below and answer the questions for any
one of the two given: [6 × 1 = 6 Marks]
   & 
From our dark spirits.
Such the sun, the moon,
Trees old, and young, sprouting a shady boon.
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(i) Which is the incorrect option:
$ & ­­­­­­­    
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(ii) State whether the given statement is true or false, with reference
to the extract.
The old and young trees sprout branches to provide shade and shelter.

276 English–XII
 (iii) Complete the following sentence:
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OR
B. $ *        
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They pace in sleek chivalric certainty.
(i) Choose the incorrect option:
  "$ *    
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(ii) Complete the following sentence:
  "¬    ­­­­­­­
(iii) ‚  ¬ K <
(iv)  &       
extract.
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their creator’s personality.
(v) ?    K     
tiger.
(vi) ‚  ¬   <

English–XII 277
 8. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE
of the two given.
               
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thick braids. Then I lost my spirit.
                ! 5
indignities. People had stared at me. I had been tossed about in the
air like a wooden puppet. And now my long hair was shingled like a
 ²       
'    4     
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herder.
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1. determination
2. strength
3. purpose
    
 ¢  
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MP B@ ¢
MP @  £
MP B¥ £
MP ¢ £
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<
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below.
Statement 1: Zitkala- Sa was morally down when her hair was
shingled.
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278 English–XII
 MP  B  @  
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cowardice?
OR
B. U3}}’Q’   &     
¬          
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and when she kissed him he changed into a handsome prince. Only he
wouldn’t he’d have stayed a monstrous beast. I won’t change.
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does’?
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3. I won’t change’ this statement shows his-
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English–XII 279
           & 
below.
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Q.9. Read the extracts given below and answer any one of the
following: [6 × 1 = 6 Marks]
  "    !     5 3&       R   
    &   R  
"     4   ' 
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~ ~      W  
       J  
     &      
The next I remember I was lying on my stomach beside the pool,
vomiting. The chap that threw me in was saying, “But I was only
 œ
(i) Which of the following options is correct
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 M &P   
(ii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
The poetic device used in the words ‘oblivion’ and ‘curtain’ is _____

280 English–XII
 M P  &       
the extract.
According to the narrator death is merciless.
 M &P ‚  ¬“    <
 M&P ‚ U      ¬"   <
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OR
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animals was only at the dinner table, but they presented two plays in a
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& "          
        
(i) Which of the following options is correct
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(ii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
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the extract.
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† 
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English–XII 281
 M&P "5  4    3 
 M& P ‚    ¬  
Q.10. Answer any FIVE out of the six questions in about 40-50 words
each: [5 × 2 = 10 Marks]
 M P š      ‚    
     <
 M P ‚     ¬    
      <
 M P ¬“      ‚
   # K    <
 M &P } #          ¬       ¬"
Roadside stand’. Elucidate.
 M&P ¬U (!  (!  *  ‚
did Sophie say so?
 M& P ¬  “     &    ¬      
windpipe’. What was the renowned writer trying to express?
11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in about 40-
50 words. 2×2=4
 M P U               <’ 9'
Why?
 M P #      $     
   3 
 M P " "  ®  ~             &Q
¬’    &            
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   &  U          
 
Q.12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-
150 words. (5 marks)
A. " ¬‚      ³   
5       & & 
282 English–XII
     ‚        
    
OR
 “ ®  4              "    
              &      ‚  
   ’ &  ¬     
J   
  ’   
Dear all
  *  
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silence is an exotic moment. In this hubbub, silence is a treasure. It
!    ­­­­­­­­­
13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-
150 words. (5 marks)
A. $  "" )&     
      &" )&    
    5 ’&  
       5    
  $      B@›B¢› 
     
  ’  
       &  
     & (       
      
Or
Tishani Doshi describes her Antarctica experience as “nothing short
&   œ    5  & 
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$   

English–XII 283