Important English Activity Sheet for the Board Exam Practice 2026
(Reading for Comprehension, Language Study, Summary, Mind Mapping) 16
Soapy left his bench and strolled out of the square and across the level sea of asphalt, where Broadway and Fifth Avenue flow together. Up Broadway he turned, and stopped at a luxurious café
Soapy had confidence in himself from the lowest button of his vest upward. He was shaven, and his coat was trim and his neat, black bow had been presented to him by a lady missionary on Thanksgiving Day. If only he could reach a table in the restaurant unsuspected, success would be his. The portion of him that would show above the table would raise no doubt in the waiter’s mind. A roasted mallard duck, thought Soapy, would be about the thing with a bottle of wine and then some cheese, a cup of coffee and a cigar. One dollar for the cigar would be enough. The total would not be so high as to call forth any extreme of revenge from the caf management; and yet the meat would leave him filled and happy for the journey to his winter island.
But as Soapy set foot inside the restaurant door, the head-waiter’s eye fell upon his tattered trousers and decadent shoes. Strong and ready hands turned him about and conveyed him in silence and haste to the side-walk and averted the ignoble fate of the menaced mallard. Soapy turned off Broadway. It seemed that his route to the coveted island was not to be an easy one. Some other way of entering the limbo must be devised. At a corner of Sixth Avenue electric lights and cunningly displayed wares behind plateglass made a shop window attractive. Soapy took a stone and dashed it through the glass.
Choose two sentences that appropriately mention the theme of extract.
(iv) The extract describes Soapy’s plan to find in the trap of police.
A2) Complex Factual
Complete the following web
A3) Interpretation/Inference/Analysis
Pick out two lines from the text which show that Soapy wants to enter the café for two reasons.
2) "...and yet the meat would leave him filled and happy for the journey to his winter island." (To prepare himself for the prison sentence)
A4) Personal Response
If your friend has a criminal background, what advice will you give him.
A5) Language Study
Choose the correct option for the following sentences.
1) Strong and ready hands turned him about and conveyed him in silence. (Rewrite using ‘as well as’)
2) As Soapy set foot inside the restaurant door, the head waiter’s eye fell upon his tattered and decadent shoes (Rewrite using ‘No sooner…….than’)
A6) Vocabulary
Give the meanings of the following words
- strolled
- decadent
- ignoble
- roasted
- strolled: walked in a slow, relaxed way
- decadent: decaying or old/worn out
- ignoble: dishonourable / shameful
- roasted: cooked by prolonged exposure to heat
1. Choose the correct active voice sentence from the following and write it down
The five-day ‘Mahayagya’ may have been curtailed.
2. The duck was better than his instructor. (Change the degree)
3. Villages need to follow strict rules (Rewrite it using another modal auxiliary showing ‘obligation’)
B2) Spot the error (1)
1. Spot the error in the given sentence and rewrite the sentence
science will discovered the core secrets of the universe.
Correct Sentence: Science will discover the core secrets of the universe.
12th English Board Papers
- English - February 2025 View Answer Key
- English - July 2025 View Answer Key
- English - February 2024 View Answer Key
- English - July 2024 View Answer Key
- English - February 2023 View Answer Key
- English - July 2023 View Answer Key
- English - February 2022 View Answer Key
- English - February 2022 View Answer Key
- English - July 2022 View Answer Key
- English - September 2021 View Answer Key
- English - March 2020 Set A View
- English - March 2020 Set B View
- English - March 2020 Set C View
- English - March 2020 Set D View
- English - March 2014 View
- English - October 2014 View
- English - March 2015 View
- English - July 2015 View
- English - March 2016 Set A View
- English - March 2016 Set B View
- English - March 2016 Set C View
- English - March 2016 Set D View
- English - July 2016 Set A View
- English - July 2016 Set B View
- English - July 2016 Set C View
- English - July 2016 Set D View
- English - March 2017 Set A View
- English - March 2017 Set B View
- English - March 2017 Set C View
- English - March 2017 Set D View
- English - July 2017 Set A View
- English - March 2018 Set A View
- English - March 2018 Set B View
- English - March 2018 Set C View
- English - March 2018 Set D View
- English - March 2019 Set A View
- English - March 2019 Set B View
- English - March 2019 Set C View
- English - March 2019 Set D View
Man developed various ways for communication through the exchange of information, ideas and knowledge. IT has changed the face of India due to the rapid progress in the field of Printing, Electronics, Telecommunication, Education, Entertainment, Medicine etc.
India has acquired a foremost position in the map of the IT world. India’s progress in this sector is quick and influential, providing the economy a boost. Indian service sector, mainly due to IT has emerged a the most growing base of economy. The use of information technology in governance, company, management, banking, advertising, entertainment, insurance, education, medical, engineering and industrial fields, is increasing day by day. Indian softer services have great demands in the world. Exports of software’s have earned Indian foreign currency in a big amount. Investors are attracted to invest in the IT sector. There is a flow of FDI in this sector giving India required capital to develop its economy.
Indian institutes of Information Technology have prepared expert technicians for whom a demand exists in the World market. Software engineers in India have provided services to the whole world.
This progress of Information Technology sector in India has helped Indian economic growth. Due to this importance of IT sector. Indian government is making policies to help it grow by providing infrastructure to it. Favourable and liberal policies have been prepared to attract to foreign companies to establish their base in India.
Indian government has established “Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL)” in this direction. IIT’s play a role for this progress. From 15th Aug, 2000, the Information Technology Act has been implemented. E-commerce and other services have been given legal back-force by this act.
Yet projects of establishing info-cities are under implementation in Hyderabad, other such projects are under consideration.
Government can make policies to provide economical benefits to investors in this field. Necessary infrastructure can be provided. Administrative and legal procedural complexities, should be reduced and limitations and regulations should be liberalised.
A2. State if the following statements are true or false.
A3. Give reasons
Indian government need to provide economical benefits to investors in IT field because
ii) To ensure the flow of FDI which gives India required capital to develop its economy.
A4. Gives your views about using information technology in Education
A5. Do as directed
1) Investors are attracted to invest in the IT sector. (Rewrite as a Rhetorical question)
2) India’s progress in this sector is quick and influential, providing the economy a boost. (Rewrite using infinitive form of the underlined verb)
A6. Give one word for the following from the passage
- i) Emerged
- ii) Technician
- iii) E-commerce
- iv) Currency
Write a brief summary of the above extract with the help of the points given below and suggest a suitable title
India’s progress …………. IT sector……….Use of IT………..economic growth……..government policies……
India has made rapid progress in the Information Technology sector, placing it prominently on the global map. The use of IT has expanded into various fields like education, banking, and governance, significantly boosting the economy. The flow of FDI and software exports have increased India's capital. The government supports this growth through liberal policies, infrastructure development, and the IT Act of 2000, aimed at attracting foreign investors and establishing info-cities.
Develop a mind mapping frame/design to show features related to a pandemic disease, ‘Covid-19”. You can take the help of the following points
Fever, Cough, Breathlessness
Masks, Sanitizer, Distancing
Doctors, Police, Cleaners
Vaccine, Isolation, Oxygen
When I had money, money, O!
I knew no joy till I went poor;
For many a false man as a friend
Come knocking all day at my door.
The felt I like a child that holds
A trumpet that he must not blow
Because a man is dead; I dared
Not speak to let this false world know
Much have I thought of life, and seen
How poor men’s hearts are ever light;
And how their wives do hum like bees
About their work from morn till night
So, when I hear these poor ones laugh,
And see the rich ones coldly frown
Poor men, think I, need not go up
So much as rich men should come down
When I had money, money, O!
My many friends proved all untrue;
But now I have no money, O!
My friends are real, though very few.
A2. Complete the following table showing poet’s life with money and without money
| When poet had money | When poet has not money | |
|---|---|---|
| Friends | …………. | …………… |
| Happiness | …………. | ………….. |
| When poet had money | When poet has not money | |
|---|---|---|
| Friends | Many friends proved all untrue (False friends) | Friends are real, though very few |
| Happiness | Knew no joy / lacked freedom | Hearts are ever light (True joy) |
A3. Write down the importance of money.
A4. Name and explain the figure of speech in the following lines
- Poor men, think I, need not go up
- And how their wives do hum like bees.
2. Simile: The wives' humming is directly compared to bees using the word 'like'.
A5. Compose a short poem on “Friendship”
A friend is a light in the dark,
A fire that starts with a spark.
Walking together through rain and sun,
Until the long journey is done.
Read the poem and write an appreciation of it. You may use the following points
- About the poem
- Central idea
- Special features
- Poetic devices
- Your opinion
Standing among silent commuters in the yellow light
Suburbs slide past his unseeing eyes
His shirt and pants are soggy and his black raincoat
Stained with mud and his bag stuffed with books
Is falling apart. His eyes dimmed by age
Fade homeward through the humid monsoon night
Now I can see him getting of the train
Like a word dropped from a long sentence
He hurries across the length of the grey platform
Crosses the railway line, enters the lane,
His chappals are sticky with mud, but he hurries onward
About the poem: "Father Returning Home" by Dilip Chitre is a biographical poem from the anthology 'Travelling in a Cage'. It depicts the dull, monotonous life of an elderly man in a metropolitan city.
Central Idea: The poem deals with man's estrangement from a man-made world. It highlights the generation gap and the isolation of the elderly father, who is ignored by his own family despite his hard work.
Special Features: The poem is written in free verse with no rhyme scheme. It is a dramatic monologue. The imagery is gloomy (yellow light, grey platform) reflecting the father's mood.
Poetic Devices: The poet uses Simile ("Like a word dropped from a long sentence") and Alliteration ("Suburbs slide past") effectively to convey the theme of insignificance and routine.
My Opinion: I find the poem very touching as it realistically portrays the loneliness of old age in modern society.
Sunita had plans to study with Rohit. However, as her dog suddenly fell sick, she had to rush to the vet. As she did not have enough time to inform Rohit, she decided to write him to message and stick it on her door. In the message she mentioned the reason for her absence and told him that she would schedule another study session next week. Draft a message including the necessary details.
Read the information given below and prepare a suitable statement of purpose
You are a student who wants to study a course in Creative Writing. Your life’s goal is to become a published author like Enid Blyton or Stephen King. One fine day you see a flier for a course titled – integrated Creative Writing Programme. Realising that this is your change to make true on your lifelong ambition of writing, you begin your application process for admission in this course. Write a statement of Purpose seeking admission in this course by highlighting your skills – creative writing, reading, exceptional knowledge of linguistics and grammar.
The Youth Leadership Forum is conduction an internship program for college students and the selected applicants have been invited for a group discussion on the topic of “Nuclear Energy: Blessing or a curse?”. Write four/five views in the form of dialogues.
Date: 15th Feb 2026
Time: 4:00 PM
Dear Rohit,
I am writing this to let you know that I cannot make it to our study session today. My dog suddenly fell sick, and I had to rush him to the vet urgently. I didn't have time to call you. I am sorry for the inconvenience. I will call you to schedule another session next week.
Sunita
Option 2: Statement of Purpose
Title: Statement of Purpose
Ever since I held my first storybook, words have been my sanctuary. Growing up reading the magical worlds created by Enid Blyton and the gripping narratives of Stephen King, my life’s singular goal has been to become a published author. I believe that stories have the power to change the world, and I want to be a part of that change.
Throughout my academic life, I have honed my skills in linguistics and grammar, consistently topping my English classes. I have been an active member of the school literary club and have written several short stories for the school magazine. However, I realize that raw talent needs structure.
When I saw the flier for the 'Integrated Creative Writing Programme' at your esteemed institution, I knew this was the opportunity I had been waiting for. This course will provide me with the technical guidance and mentorship required to transition from an amateur writer to a professional author. I am eager to learn, contribute, and eventually realize my lifelong ambition through this program.
Option 3: Group Discussion
Topic: Nuclear Energy: Blessing or a Curse?
Evaluator: You may proceed.
Rahul (Participant 1): Hello everyone. In my opinion, Nuclear Energy is a blessing. In a world fighting climate change, it provides a clean alternative to fossil fuels. It generates a massive amount of electricity with zero carbon emissions.
Sneha (Participant 2): I beg to differ, Rahul. While it is clean, we cannot ignore the risks. Disasters like Chernobyl and Fukushima have shown us that when things go wrong, they go horribly wrong. The radiation effects last for generations. It is a curse in disguise.
Amit (Participant 3): That is a valid point, Sneha, but technology has advanced significantly since then. Modern reactors are much safer. Also, solar and wind energy are not consistent enough to power industries 24/7. Nuclear energy bridges that gap.
Priya (Participant 4): I agree with Amit. If we manage the waste disposal properly, it is a blessing. It reduces our dependence on oil and coal, which are destroying the planet faster than anything else.
Rahul (Conclusion): So, we can conclude that while safety concerns exist, Nuclear Energy is essential for a sustainable future if managed with strict protocols.
You are the secretary of the student’s council of your college. You want to order some books for your college library. Write an E-mail to a bookseller of your town. You may take help of the following points
Your are the secretary of Green Earth, the environment club of your college. The college celebrated Vana Mahotsav on 5th June as it is the World Environment Day. Write a report of the programme for the college magazine use the following points
Imagine you are supposed to interview a famous doctor in your area. Frame a set of 8-10 questions to interview him / her. You may use following points
Subject: Order for College Library Books
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am the Secretary of the Student Council at XYZ College. I am writing to place an order for books required for our college library.
Please supply the following books:
1. Wings of Fire by APJ Abdul Kalam - 10 copies
2. English Grammar by Wren & Martin - 15 copies
3. The Discovery of India by J. Nehru - 5 copies
I request you to kindly provide the standard educational discount on these items. Please send the official receipt along with the delivery. I assure you that the payment will be made online immediately upon receipt of the invoice.
Regards,
Secretary,
Student Council, XYZ College.
Option 2: Report Writing
Green Earth Club Celebrates Vana Mahotsav
- By Secretary, Green Earth Club
Nagpur, June 6: The Green Earth Club of XYZ College celebrated 'Vana Mahotsav' with great enthusiasm on 5th June, coinciding with World Environment Day. The programme began at 9:00 AM with the inauguration of the new herbal garden by the Chief Guest, Mr. A.K. Sharma, a renowned environmentalist.
In his address, Mr. Sharma highlighted the urgent need for afforestation to combat global warming. Following his inspiring speech, students and teachers participated in a tree-planting drive, planting over 200 saplings across the campus. An exhibition showcasing 'Best out of Waste' products created by students was also arranged in the college hall.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Principal, who urged students to nurture the planted saplings.
Option 3: Interview Questions
Questions for Dr. Prakash Amte (Social Worker & Doctor):
- Good morning, Doctor. It is an honor to have you with us. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
- What or who was your biggest inspiration to choose the medical profession and work in such a remote tribal area?
- What were the initial struggles you faced when you started your project at Hemalkasa?
- How did your family react to your decision to leave city life? Did they support you?
- You have received the Magsaysay Award. Which achievement do you personally value the most?
- How do you balance your professional duties with your personal life?
- What is your vision or dream for the future of healthcare in rural India?
- What message would you like to give to the aspiring doctors of today's generation?
Write a speech on “Importance of health’ in about 100-150 words. You may use following points
Imagine that you are compering on ‘International Yoga Day’ function of your college. Prepare a script for compering the programme with the help of the following points in about 100-150 words
Expand the following idea in about 100-150 words
Time and Tide wait for none
Topic: Importance of Health
Honorable Principal, respected teachers, and my dear friends. A very good morning to all of you. Today, I stand before you to speak on the topic "Importance of Health".
We have all heard the proverb, "Health is Wealth," but in our busy lives, we often neglect it. Good health is not just the absence of disease; it is physical, mental, and social well-being. To maintain this, regular exercise is crucial. It keeps our muscles strong and our mind alert. Similarly, Yoga is an excellent way to reduce stress and improve concentration.
However, exercise must be paired with a balanced diet. Eating nutritious food fuels our body and boosts immunity. We must avoid junk food. Let us pledge today to prioritize our health, for a healthy body houses a healthy mind. Thank you.
Option 2: Compering Script
1. Introduction: Good morning everyone. We are gathered here to celebrate 'International Yoga Day'. Yoga is not just a workout; it is a way of life.
2. Lighting of Lamp: To begin this auspicious occasion, I request our Honorable Principal to light the traditional lamp and garland the portrait of Saraswati.
3. Welcome of Yog Guru: We are privileged to have with us today, renowned Yog Guru, Mr. Acharya. I request our Principal to welcome him with a bouquet.
4. Introductory Speech: I invite our Vice-Principal to share a few words about the significance of this day.
5. Presentation of Asana: Now, the moment we have been waiting for. I request Mr. Acharya to demonstrate various Asanas. (Demonstration follows).
6. Presentation of Pranayam: Following the Asanas, Sir will now guide us through Pranayam techniques for mental peace.
7. Vote of Thanks: What an energizing session! I propose a vote of thanks to our guest and all participants. Thank you.
Option 3: Expansion of Ideas
Topic: Time and Tide wait for none
This famous proverb highlights the absolute value of time. Just as the tides of the ocean rise and fall according to their own natural rhythm and wait for no man, time also moves forward relentlessly. It cannot be stopped, paused, or reversed.
Many people have the habit of procrastination; they put off their work for 'tomorrow'. However, tomorrow never comes. A student who studies daily will succeed, while one who waits for the exams to approach will panic. History is full of examples of battles lost and opportunities missed because of a delay of a few minutes.
Therefore, we must learn punctuality and time management. We must seize every opportunity the moment it arises. Money lost can be earned again, but time once lost is lost forever.
Write a review of a film you have recently seen based on any four of the following points
Write a blog in about 100-150 words on ‘communication skill’
Prepare an appeal on a topic ‘Say No To Junk Food’ with the help of following points
Movie: 12th Fail
1. Story/Theme: Based on the real-life story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, the film depicts the struggle of a man rising from extreme poverty and academic failure to clearing the toughest exam in India, the UPSC.
2. Characters: Vikrant Massey plays the lead role of Manoj with utter brilliance. Medha Shankar as Shraddha provides excellent support.
3. Special Features: The film stands out for its realistic portrayal of the student struggles in Mukherjee Nagar, Delhi. It avoids over-dramatization and focuses on the power of "Restarting".
4. Recommendation: I loved this film because it is incredibly motivating. It teaches that your background does not define your future. I recommend every student to watch it for a dose of inspiration.
Option 2: Blog Writing
Mastering the Art of Connection
In today's digital world, we are more connected than ever, yet true communication seems to be fading. Communication skills are not just about speaking fluent English; they are about how well you can convey your thoughts and how well you listen to others.
Good communication involves verbal and non-verbal cues. Your body language, eye contact, and tone often speak louder than words. Furthermore, listening is the most underrated aspect of communication. We often listen to reply, not to understand.
Whether it is for a job interview, a relationship, or just making friends, honing your communication skills is the key to success. So, speak clearly, listen actively, and connect genuinely!
Option 3: Appeal
⚠ ALERT! SAY NO TO JUNK FOOD ⚠
Is your Burger killing you softly?
- Loaded with Artificial Ingredients & Preservatives
- High cause of Obesity and Heart Disease
- Makes you lazy and lethargic
CHOOSE HEALTH, CHOOSE LIFE!
Insist on Organic Food. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables are nature's medicine.
Eat Healthy, Stay Wealthy!
Issued in public interest by: Health Club, XYZ College.
| A | B |
|---|---|
| 1. The novel of manners | a) Mary Shelley |
| 2. Gothic novels | b) George Eliot |
| 3. Psychological novel | c) Ann Radcliffe |
| 4. Novel based on science | d) Frances Burney |
2. Gothic novels — c) Ann Radcliffe
3. Psychological novel — b) George Eliot
4. Novel based on science — a) Mary Shelley
2. Give one word of the following descriptions
b) Plot
c) Setting
d) Conflict
2. Give a brief character sketch of
The narrator
1. c) As a part of duty, Fix arrested Fogg
2. b) When set free, the first thing that Fogg did was he knocked Fix down.
3. a) Aouda accepted Fogg’s proposal of marriage
4. d) At the fifty-seventh second, Fogg entered the Reform club soon
2. Write 4-5 sentences on the ‘Time’ theme of the extract.
| Dialogue | Speaker | To whom it is said | Tone, style, etc |
|---|---|---|---|
| “You will, I am sure, excuse me.” | ………… | ………… | ………… |
| “Your statement is most interesting. Has anything else occurred to you?” | ………… | ………… | ………… |
| Dialogue | Speaker | To whom | Tone, style |
|---|---|---|---|
| “You will, I am sure, excuse me.” | Mary Morstan | Holmes/Watson | Polite, Anxious |
| “Your statement is most interesting...” | Sherlock Holmes | Mary Morstan | Analytical, Curious |
2. Describe in brief the importance of the following place in the extract
London