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12th English Board Exam 2026 Practice Activity Sheet

Class 12 English Preliminary Exam 2026 - Question Paper & Solutions

12th English Board Exam 2026 Practice Activity Sheet

XII Arts/Commerce/Science - Activity Sheet

Subject: English Marks: 80 Time: 3.00 Hours
SECTION I (Prose)
Q.1(A) Read the given extract and complete the activity given below: 12 Marks

Punctually at midday he opened his bag and spread out his professional equipment, which consisted of a dozen cowrie shells, a square piece of cloth with obscure mystic charts on it, a notebook and a bundle of Palmyra writing. His forehead was resplendent with sacred ash and vermilion and his eyes sparkled with a sharp abnormal gleam which was really an outcome of a continual searching look for customers, but which his simple clients took to be a prophetic light and felt comforted. The power of his eyes was considerably enhanced by their position placed as they were between the painted forehead and the dark whiskers which streamed down his cheeks: even a half-wit’s eyes would sparkle in such a setting. To crown the effect he wound a saffron-coloured turban around his head. This colour scheme never failed. People were attracted to him as bees are attracted to cosmos or dahlia stalks. He sat under the boughs of a spreading tamarind tree which flanked a path running through the Town Hall part. It was a remarkable place in many ways. A Surging crowd was always moving up and down this narrow road from morning till night. A variety of trades and occupations was represented all along its way: medicine sellers, sellers of stolen hardware and junk, magicians, and above all, an auctioneer of cheap cloth, who created enough din all day to attract the whole town. Next to him in vociferousness came a vendor of fried groundnut, who gave his ware a fancy name each day, calling it “Bombay Ice Cream” one day and on the next “Delhi Almond” and on the third “Raja’s Delicacy” and so on and so forth, and people flocked to him. A considerable portion of this crowd dallied before the astrologer too. The astrologer transacted his business by the light of a flare which crackled and smoked up above the groundnut heap nearby. Half the enchantment of the place was due to the fact that it did not have the benefit of municipal lighting. The place was lit up by shop lights. One or two had hissing gaslights, some had naked flares stuck on poles. Some were lit up by old cycle lamps and one or two, like the astrologer, managed without lights of their own. It was a bewildering crisscross of light rays and moving shadows. This suited the astrologer very well, for the simple reason that he had not in the least intended to be an astrologer when he began life; and he knew no more of what was going to happen to others than he knew what was going to happen to himself next minute. He was as much a stranger to the stars as were his innocent customers. Yet he said things which pleased and astonished everyone: That was more a matter of study, practice and shrewd guesswork. All the same, it was as much an honest man’s labour as any other, and he deserved the wages he carried home at the end of a day.

A.1 Sequence Order (2)

Read the following statements from the extract and arrange them in the sequential order as they occur in the story.

  1. Vendor of fried groundnuts gave his ware a fancy name each day.
  2. The astrologer sat under the boughs of a spreading tamarind tree.
  3. He was as much a stranger to the stars as were his innocent customers.
  4. The place was lit up by shop lights.
Check Answer
Correct Sequence:
1. ii) The astrologer sat under the boughs of a spreading tamarind tree.
2. i) Vendor of fried groundnuts gave his ware a fancy name each day.
3. iv) The place was lit up by shop lights.
4. iii) He was as much a stranger to the stars as were his innocent customers.
A.2 Give Reasons (2)
  1. The gleam of astrologer’s eyes was enhanced because of...
  2. People always got attracted towards astrologer because...
Check Answer
i) ...their position placed as they were between the painted forehead and the dark whiskers which streamed down his cheeks.
ii) ...of his colour scheme (saffron-coloured turban, painted forehead) and the bewildered lighting of the place which created an enchanting atmosphere.
A.3 Find Out (2)

Find out a proof from the extract that shows that initially the astrologer too did not know anything about his profession.

Check Answer
Proof: "He knew no more of what was going to happen to others than he knew what was going to happen to himself next minute. He was as much a stranger to the stars as were his innocent customers."
A.4 Personal Response (2)

You also must have visited some weekly bazar or a village fair where you must have come across such different things as told in the extract. Describe your experience in about 50 words.

Check Answer (Sample)
Last winter, I visited a vibrant village fair in my hometown. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly fried snacks and the sound of hawkers shouting. I saw toy sellers, a local magician performing tricks, and vibrant stalls selling bangles. It was a chaotic yet colorful display of local life that felt very energetic.
A.5 Language Study (2)
  1. The place was lit up by the shop lights. (Rewrite your answer beginning with ‘Shop lights …’)
  2. He opened his bag and spread out his professional equipment. (Rewrite making it simple)
Check Answer
i) Shop lights lit up the place.
ii) Opening his bag, he spread out his professional equipment.
A.6 Vocabulary (2)

Match the words given in ‘A’ with their meanings given in ‘B’

AB
1. Punctuallya) unclear
2. remarkableb) holy
3. Obscurec) Striking
4. Sacredd) at the proper time
Check Answer
1 - d (at the proper time)
2 - c (Striking)
3 - a (unclear)
4 - b (holy)
Q.1(B) Non-textual Grammar 4 Marks
I) Do as directed (3)
  1. Being ............. university student, she failed to bring with her ........... useful reference book while going to return it to the library. (Fill in the blanks with suitable articles)
  2. The story traces the downfall ............. a man who is overcome ........ greed. (Fill in the blanks with suitable prepositions)
  3. Curiosity is one of the noblest things. (Rewrite the sentence beginning with ‘Very Few ………)
Check Answer
i) Being a university student, she failed to bring with her a useful reference book...
ii) The story traces the downfall of a man who is overcome by greed.
iii) Very few things are as noble as curiosity.
II) Spot the error and rewrite the sentence (1)

i) There is not any substitute for hard work.

Check Answer
There is no substitute for hard work.

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
Q.2(A) Read the following extract and complete the activities: 12 Marks

It is true that progress in knowledge has led to the development of science and technology, which has, in turn, profoundly altered our environment. For example fertilizers and insecticides have increased agricultural output, which is required to feed the swelling population of the world. However, both give rise to population. Each one in the modern world has accumulated in our bodies a few milligrams of D.D.T. which is organo-chlorine, a type of insecticide. The D.D.T. level in fish is rising and already some fish eating birds are becoming sterile. Fertilizers used in farmlands are washed away by rain in to rivers, lakes and reservoirs. The heavy intake content in fertilizers leads to wild grown of vegetation in them, which in turn de-oxygenizes the waters and as a result all the fish is lost.

Massive industrialization too has led to serious pollution of the environment. Millions of tons of smoke, sulphur gas, ash and unknown quantities of toxic by-products are sent up every day all over the world and we simply do not know if our chemical environment is slowly poisoning us all. What is even worse, the increase in the carbon dioxide content of the atmosphere from burning oil and coal may, in time, prevent the escape of the sun’s heat from the earth. Leading to a rise in the earth’s temperature, the melting of ice-caps, and arise in the level of the ocean.

The sea has become a cheap dumping ground for all kinds of waste products. Although the sea has a great capacity to break down all kinds of waste, this capacity is not unlimited, especially in shallow seas. Industrial effluent gets washed out to sea, for industries tend to concentrate in coastal areas in order to be able to dispose of unwanted waste cheaply. Atomic wastes as well as poison gases are dumped in the sea by industrial and military authorities.

It would be foolish to shut our eyes to the dangers of the pollution that human beings cause. It is true that more and more people have become aware of the dangers of pollution. Rivers are being gradually restored to health; international organizations are trying to keep the seas clean. Industries are being asked to pay large sums to meet the cost of disposing of effluents. Campaigns are being organized against cutting down trees. Public opinion is gradually being aroused to concern and if all of us become concerned about our environment, we shall be able to keep the earth habitable for future generations.

A.1 True or False (2)
  1. Excessive industrialisation has led to serious pollution of the environment.
  2. Progress in knowledge has led to the development of science and technology but has kept environment intact.
  3. Now a days more and more people have become unaware of the dangers of pollution.
  4. Sea has great capacity to break down all kinds of waste but this capacity is limited.
Check Answer
i) True
ii) False
iii) False
iv) True
A.2 Find out (2)

Find out from the extract how people have become aware of the dangers of pollution and measures that they are taking to control it.

Check Answer
Measures taken include:
1. Rivers are being gradually restored to health.
2. International organizations are trying to keep the seas clean.
3. Industries are asked to pay large sums to meet the cost of disposing of effluents.
4. Campaigns are being organized against cutting down trees.
A.3 Explain (2)

Explain the relation between the progress in knowledge, development of science and deeply changed environment.

Check Answer
Progress in knowledge led to science and technology development, which profoundly altered the environment. For example, fertilizers and insecticides increased output but contaminated bodies with D.D.T. and polluted water bodies. Industrialization released smoke and toxic by-products, causing global warming and ocean pollution.
A.4 Personal Response (2)

“It would be foolish to shut our eyes to the danger of the pollution that human being cause.” Describe or state at least two steps that you would take to protect environment and pollution of your area.

Check Answer (Sample)
To protect my local environment, I would:
1. Participate in and organize tree plantation drives to increase green cover.
2. Minimize the use of single-use plastics and ensure proper segregation of wet and dry waste at home.
A.5 Language Study (2)
  1. Although the sea has a great capacity to break down all kinds of waste, this capacity is not unlimited. (Rewrite the sentence using ‘but’)
  2. Fertilisers and insecticides have increased agricultural output. (Rewrite the sentence using modal auxiliary showing ‘obligation’)
Check Answer
i) The sea has a great capacity to break down all kinds of waste, but this capacity is not unlimited.
ii) Fertilisers and insecticides must increase agricultural output.
A.6 Vocabulary (2)

Find out the words from the extract which mean:

  1. poisonous
  2. not able to provide children
  3. movement or drive
  4. fit to live on
Check Answer
i) toxic
ii) sterile
iii) campaigns
iv) habitable
Q.2 (B) Summary & (C) Mind Mapping 6 Marks
B. Summary (3)

Write a short summary of the above extract with the help of the given clues and suggest a suitable title.

Increasing environmental pollution ………….. pollution result of ………….. contamination of the things ……….. survival problem …………. need to control ……….. including humans all in danger ……….. population growth.

Check Solution
Title: The Double-Edged Sword of Progress
Scientific progress has increased agricultural and industrial output to support the growing population but has resulted in severe environmental pollution. Use of chemicals like D.D.T. and fertilizers contaminates food chains and water bodies. Industrial emissions cause global warming, while oceans are used as dumping grounds for toxic waste. However, growing awareness has led to restorative measures like river cleaning, pollution costs for industries, and tree-saving campaigns to ensure a habitable future.
C. Mind-Mapping (3)

You and your family are thinking to visit a hill station during this summer. Prepare a Mind Mapping frame for it (Place, Transport, Accommodation, Stuff to carry).

Check Solution
Main Idea: Summer Trip to Hill Station
  • Place to Visit: Manali, Mahabaleshwar
  • Mode of Transport: Private Car, Luxury Bus
  • Accommodation: Hotel, Homestay
  • Stuff to Carry: Woolen clothes, Camera, Medicines, Trekking shoes
  • Activities: Sightseeing, Trekking, Shopping
SECTION II - (Poetry and Appreciation)
Q.3(A) Read the given extract and complete the activity given below: 10 Marks
Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road. Healthy, free, the world before me. The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose. Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune. Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing. Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticism. Strong and content I travel the open road. The earth, that is sufficient. I do not want the constellations any nearer. I know they are very well where they are. I know they suffice for those who belong to them. (Still here I carry old delicious burdens)
A.1 Pick Out (2)

Pick out at least two lines from the extract showing that the poet is prepared to enjoy every moment of his journey.

Check Answer
1. "Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road."
2. "Strong and content I travel the open road."
A.2 Explain (2)

“Henceforth, I ask for no good-fortune, I myself am good fortune.” Explain the meaning of the above lines.

Check Answer
The poet means that he no longer relies on luck or external circumstances to be happy. He believes in his own abilities and strength to create his own destiny and happiness, making himself the source of his own 'good fortune'.
A.3 Personal Response (2)

Give any two problems which you may face during a journey and suggest the ways to overcome these problems.

Check Answer (Sample)
Problem 1: Getting lost in a new place. Solution: Use GPS maps or ask locals for directions.
Problem 2: Health issues or motion sickness. Solution: Carry a first-aid kit and necessary medicines.
A.4 Figure of Speech (2)

“Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing”
Identify and explain the figure of speech.

Check Answer
Figure of Speech: Repetition / Climax.
Explanation: The words 'no more' are repeated for emphasis (Repetition). Also, the ideas are arranged in ascending order of importance (Climax).
A.5 Poetic Creativity (2)

Fill in the blanks using suitable words given in the bracket: (roam, lined, home, true)

“ The little path that leads to ..........., That is the road for me, I know no longer path to ..........., With finger sights to see, With thoroughfares the world is ..........., That leads to wonders new, But he who treads leaves behind, The tender things and ...........
Check Answer
1. home
2. roam
3. lined
4. true
Q.3 (B) Appreciations 4 Marks

Read the given extract and write the appreciation of the given poem based on the following aspects.

My father travels on the late evening train standing among silent commuters in the yellow light suburbs slide past his unseeing eyes. His shirts 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 off 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.

Points for Appreciation:

  • a) Title of the poem and its significance.
  • b) Language, poetic style, poetic devices
  • c) Special features, message, values, morals reflected
  • d) Your opinion about the poem and critical evaluation
Check Answer / Appreciation

Title: The title "Father Returning Home" is significant as it highlights the central theme—the daily, monotonous journey of an elderly father returning to a home where he feels alienated and isolated.

Language and Style: Dilip Chitre uses free verse with no rhyme scheme (enjambment), reflecting the chaotic and dull life of the father. The language is simple, colloquial, yet highly symbolic.

Poetic Devices: The poem uses Simile ("Like a word dropped from a long sentence" - indicating his irrelevance), Alliteration ("suburbs slide"), and vivid Imagery ("yellow light", "soggy", "black raincoat", "mud").

Message and Values: It depicts the theme of urban alienation, the generation gap, and the loneliness of the elderly. It conveys the message of the emotional distance in modern families despite physical proximity.

Opinion: I find the poem very touching and realistic. It effectively portrays the silent suffering of the older generation in a busy city life and makes the reader empathize with the father's isolation.

SECTION III (Writing Skill)
Q.4. Complete the activities as per the instructions given below : 16 Marks
(A) Attempt any ONE of the following : (4 Marks)

1. Drafting a virtual message:
Vanita is a Junior College student, living in a city. She has given some reference books to her classmate Sarita. Now she needs those books for her study but Sarita has not come to college for last one and half month and living in a remote village.
Draft a virtual message for Sarita.

View Solution: Virtual Message

MESSAGE

Date: 20th Feb 2026
Time: 10:00 AM

Dear Sarita,

I hope you are doing well in your village. I am writing to let you know that I urgently need the reference books I lent you earlier, as my exams are approaching fast. Since you haven't been to college for the last month and a half, could you please try to send them through someone visiting the city? Alternatively, please let me know when you plan to return.

Vanita

OR

2. Statement of Purpose:
Read the following personal details and prepare a suitable statement of purpose.
Imagine that after 12th standard you would like to pursue your career in nursing. You are inspired by the service rendered by the nurses during this period of pandemic Covid-19. Your aim is also to be a nurse.
Prepare a statement of purpose to join a Govt. Nursing college.

View Solution: Statement of Purpose

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Introduction:
Compassion and service to humanity have always been the core values instilled in me since childhood. However, the recent global crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic gave my life a definitive direction. Watching frontline workers, especially nurses, work tirelessly to save lives amidst chaos ignited a fire within me. It is with this burning desire to serve that I seek admission to the B.Sc. Nursing program at your esteemed Government Nursing College.

Body:
During my Higher Secondary education in Science, I found myself deeply interested in Biology and Anatomy. I have consistently maintained a high academic record. Beyond academics, the pandemic was a turning point. I volunteered at a local community center to help distribute masks and sanitizers. Seeing the dedication of nurses who risked their own lives to comfort patients in isolation made me realize that nursing is not just a job; it is a noble calling. I possess the patience, emotional stability, and physical stamina required for this demanding profession.

Conclusion:
I believe that your institution, with its world-class training facilities and exposure to government hospitals, is the perfect place for me to hone my skills. My goal is to become a specialized nurse and eventually work in rural health sectors where medical aid is scarce. I am committed to this path and hope to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare system.

OR

3. Group Discussion:
Your college has arranged group discussion for the students of 12th standard to celebrate the centenary of your college. The topic of discussion is ‘How students will contribute their ideas to the centenary celebration and take active part in it’

View Solution: Group Discussion

Topic: Centenary Celebration Plans
Participants: Evaluator, Rahul, Sneha, and Amit.

Evaluator: Good morning everyone. As you know, our college turns 100 this year. The topic for today's discussion is how students can contribute to these celebrations. Rahul, would you like to start?

Rahul: Thank you. I believe the centenary is a historic moment. Students should organize a "Centenary Exhibition" showcasing the history of the college, old photographs, and achievements of alumni over the last 100 years.

Sneha: I agree with Rahul. To add to that, we can organize a cultural festival named "Shatabdi" where we invite past students to perform alongside current students. It will bridge the generation gap.

Amit: That’s a great idea, Sneha. However, we should also focus on social responsibility. Since it's a big milestone, students can organize a massive tree plantation drive planting 100 trees, or a blood donation camp to mark the occasion meaningfully.

Rahul: Yes, Amit. We can also form a 'Volunteer Squad' to manage the discipline and hospitality during the main event so that the teachers can enjoy the function.

Evaluator: Great ideas. Exhibition, Cultural Fest, Social Work, and Volunteering. Let's wrap up by submitting these proposals to the Principal.


(B) Attempt any ONE of the following : (4 Marks)

1. Email writing :
Recently you are selected for a job of clerk in local cooperative bank and you need a character certificate of your college where you are keeping terms in 12th standard. Write an email to your college principal, asking him to send that certificate directly to the concerning cooperative local bank.

View Solution: Email Writing

To: principal.jccollege@edu.in
Subject: Request for Character Certificate for Job Application

Respected Sir,

I am writing this email to respectfully inform you that I have been selected for the position of Junior Clerk at the 'Pune District Cooperative Bank'. I am currently a student of Class XII (Commerce), Div A, Roll No. 25 in your esteemed college.

As a part of the document verification process, the bank requires a Character Certificate from my current institution. I request you to kindly issue the certificate.

As per the bank's strict policy, the certificate needs to be emailed directly from the college official ID to the bank manager. The email address is: manager@pdcbank.com.

I have attached my college ID card and fee receipt for your reference. I shall be highly obliged for your prompt assistance.

Thanking you,

Yours obediently,
Rohan Deshmukh
Class XII (Commerce)

OR

2. Report Writing :
Write a report of the celebration of Republic day held in your college this year. Use the following points:

  • The day and date of programme.
  • The purpose of the function.
  • The chief guest
  • The flag hoisting ceremony
  • Chief Guest’s speech.
  • Concluding speech of the principal.
  • Vote of thanks.
View Solution: Report Writing

Grand Republic Day Celebration at Saraswati College

- By Student Reporter, Anjali Vyas

Mumbai, January 27: Saraswati Junior College celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great patriotic fervor and enthusiasm on January 26th, 2026. The programme began sharply at 7:30 AM in the college ground.

The main purpose of the function was to honor the Constitution of India and pay tribute to the freedom fighters. The Chief Guest for the occasion was the retired Army Colonel, Mr. Suresh Nair. The event commenced with the flag hoisting ceremony at the hands of the Chief Guest, followed by the National Anthem which resonated across the campus.

The NCC cadets performed an impressive March Past, saluting the tricolour. In his speech, Col. Nair emphasized the role of youth in nation-building and urged students to join the armed forces. A cultural programme featuring patriotic songs and a skit on 'Unity in Diversity' was performed by the Arts students.

The Principal, Dr. R.K. Patil, concluded the event with an inspiring speech about discipline and civic duties. The programme ended with a Vote of Thanks proposed by the General Secretary, followed by the distribution of sweets.

OR

3. Interview Questions :
Imagine that you are going to have an interview with a newly elected ‘Sarpanch’. Election of your village ‘Gram Panchayat’ is just over. Frame at least 8 questions related with his future planning for the welfare of your village.

View Solution: Interview Questions

Interview with Mr. S. Jadhav (Newly Elected Sarpanch)

  1. Heartiest congratulations on your victory, Sir. How does it feel to be elected as the Sarpanch of our village?
  2. What motivated you to enter politics and contest this election?
  3. Water scarcity is a major issue in our village. What is your immediate plan to solve the drinking water problem?
  4. The condition of the internal roads is poor. By when can the villagers expect the road repairs to begin?
  5. Many students have to travel far for higher secondary education. Do you have plans to upgrade the village school?
  6. How do you plan to improve the primary health center facilities for the elderly and children?
  7. Agriculture is our main occupation. Will there be any new schemes or support for the local farmers?
  8. Lastly, what is your vision for our village for the next five years?

(C) Attempt any ONE of the following : (4 Marks)

1. Speech Writing :
School federation in your town has organized a cleanliness drive in your town. Prepare a speech on ‘Clean-School-Green School’ as you are a student’s representative of your junior college.

View Solution: Speech Writing

Speech: Clean-School-Green School

Respected Principal, Teachers, and my dear friends,

A very good morning to all of you. Today, we have gathered here to inaugurate the special cleanliness drive organized by the School Federation. As the student representative, I feel honored to speak on the topic "Clean-School-Green School".

Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Cleanliness is next to Godliness." But today, cleanliness is not just a virtue; it is a necessity for survival. A clean school is the starting point of a clean society. If our classrooms are littered and our campus is dirty, how can we expect a healthy mind to dwell there?

But "Clean" is not enough; we must also be "Green". We need to plant more trees around our campus to fight the rising temperatures. We must say no to single-use plastics in our canteen and ensure waste is segregated into wet and dry bins.

Let us pledge today not to drop litter, to pick it up if we see it, and to plant at least one sapling this year. Let us make our college a role model for the entire town. Remember, the change begins with us.

Thank you. Jai Hind.

OR

2. Compering :
The vice-principal of your college is going to retire from his service. You all students are planning to give him farewell. Prepare a script for the same.

View Solution: Compering Script

1. Introduction:
"Good morning to the respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends. We have gathered here today with mixed emotions. While we are happy to celebrate a lifetime of dedication, we are sad to say goodbye to our beloved Vice-Principal, Mr. Sharma, who is retiring today after 30 years of service."

2. Lighting the Lamp:
"I call upon our Principal and Mr. Sharma to light the traditional lamp and seek the blessings of Goddess Saraswati. (Pause for action) Thank you, Sir."

3. Welcome Speech:
"I request our General Secretary, Rahul, to come on stage and welcome Mr. Sharma with a bouquet and deliver the welcome address."

4. Main Event (Felicitation & Thoughts):
"Now, I request the Principal to felicitate Mr. Sharma with a Shawl and coconut. (Pause). I now invite Mr. Sharma to share his thoughts and experiences of his long journey with us."

5. Vote of Thanks:
"Thank you, Sir, for your inspiring words. We will miss you. To conclude, I request Mrs. Joshi to propose the vote of thanks. After this, please join us for snacks in the hall."

OR

3. Expansion of Idea:
Expand the following idea with the help of the points given below. Write your answer in about 100 to 150 words.
“Necessity is the mother of invention”

View Solution: Expansion of Idea

Necessity is the Mother of Invention

The famous proverb "Necessity is the mother of invention" highlights a fundamental trait of human psychology: we strive hardest when we face a problem. The word 'Mother' here signifies the origin or creator. It means that the primary driving force behind most new inventions is a need or a difficult situation.

Throughout history, humans have invented things to overcome limitations. Early humans needed protection from the cold and wild animals, which led to the discovery of fire and weapons. They needed to travel faster, which led to the invention of the wheel. In recent times, the urgent need to fight the Covid-19 pandemic led scientists to invent vaccines in record time.

When life is comfortable, we become lazy. But when we are pushed into a corner or face a scarcity, our brain works overtime to find a solution. Thus, problems and needs are not hurdles, but stepping stones to progress and innovation.


D. Attempt any ONE of the following : (4 Marks)

1. Film Review :
Write a review of a film you have recently seen (Points: Characters, Theme, Why liked/disliked, Special features, Recommendation).

View Solution: Film Review

Film Review: 12th Fail

Story/Theme: Recently, I watched the movie "12th Fail", directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. It is a biographical drama based on the real-life story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma. The theme revolves around poverty, struggle, and the sheer power of determination.

Characters: Vikrant Massey plays the lead role of Manoj. His acting is phenomenal; he portrays the innocence and grit of a village boy perfectly. Medha Shankar as Shraddha provides excellent support.

Why I liked it: I loved the film because it is honest and inspiring. Unlike typical commercial movies, it doesn't rely on action sequences but on emotional strength. The scene where Manoj cries after clearing the exam is heart-touching.

Special Features: The music is subtle and the direction captures the gritty reality of competitive exam students in Delhi.

Recommendation: I strongly recommend this film to every student. It teaches us that "Restart" is always an option and failure is not the end.

OR

2. Blog Writing :
Write a blog in proper format on “Social Distancing Need of Time” (Points: Outbreak, Overcrowding, Spread, Solution).

View Solution: Blog Writing

Social Distancing: The Need of the Hour

By Admin | February 20, 2026 | Health & Society


The Invisible Enemy
The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic shook the world to its core. While vaccines and medicines are now available, the initial spread taught us a vital lesson: viruses love crowds.

Why We Are Vulnerable
Humans are social animals. We love to meet, greet, and gather. Our cities are overcrowded, and our public transport is packed. This nature of our society acts as fuel for contagious diseases.

The Only Shield
In such a scenario, Social Distancing (or Physical Distancing) becomes the only effective shield. Maintaining a 6-foot distance breaks the chain of transmission. It is not about being anti-social; it is about being responsible. By staying apart today, we ensure that we can be together tomorrow.

Let us not wait for a law to enforce this. Let us make it a habit for our safety.

OR

3. Appeal Writing:
A student in your college seeks immediate medical help, his/her parents are unable to afford the huge amount needed for the surgery. Prepare an appeal to be displayed on college notice board.

View Solution: Appeal Writing

🆘 URGENT APPEAL FOR HELP 🆘

"A small contribution from you can save a life."

This is to inform all students and staff that our fellow student, Master Amit Patil (Class XI Arts), has been diagnosed with a severe kidney ailment. He requires an immediate Kidney Transplant Surgery.

The estimated cost is ₹8,00,000.

His father is a daily wage labourer and cannot afford this huge amount. Amit is currently admitted to City Care Hospital, Ward 4.

We appeal to your generosity. Please donate whatever amount you can. Even ₹10 counts!

Donation Box kept at: Principal's Office
GPay/PhonePe: 9890XXXXXX (Mr. Patil)

Let's come together to bring Amit back to class!

- Student Council & NSS Unit

SECTION IV : Literary Genre-Novel
Q.5(A) History of Novel 4 Marks
(I) Match the column A with column B (2)
AB
1) Murasaki Shikibua) Cervantes
2) Novellab) The Heart of Darkness
3) Don Quixotec) Tale of Genji
4) Joseph Conradd) New
Check Answer
1 - c (Tale of Genji)
2 - d (New)
3 - a (Cervantes)
4 - b (The Heart of Darkness)
(II) Pick out the odd element from the group (2)
  1. Anita Desai, Nayantara Sehgal, R.K.Narayan, Herman Melville
  2. Place, Period, theme, climate, life-style.
  3. Theme, Language style, character, stream of consciousness, setting.
  4. Realistic, Psychological, Autobiographical, complex, Picaresque.
Check Answer
1) Herman Melville (American, others are Indian)
2) Theme (Not an aspect of Setting)
3) Stream of consciousness (Technique/Genre, others are Elements)
4) Complex (Not a genre/type of novel)
Q.5(B) To Sir, With Love 4 Marks
(I) MCQ (2)

Which one among the following is a teacher in the extract? (Denham, Sapiano, Miss Joseph, Dale-Evans)

Check Answer
d) Dale-Evans
(II) Character Sketch (2)

Give a brief character-sketch of Denham.

Check Answer
Denham is a confident, assertive, and athletic student. He is critical of the P.T. syllabus, arguing that it is pointless for students like him who are already physically fit. He is a natural leader, blunt in his speech, and represents the boys' perspective with strong debating skills.
Q.5(C) Around the World in Eighty Days 4 Marks
(I) Sequence Order (2)

Arrange incidents: a) Aouda accepted proposal, b) Fogg knocked Fix down, c) Fix arrested Fogg, d) Fogg entered Reform Club.

Check Answer
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 Saloon.
(II) Description (2)

Give a short description of Phileas Fogg’s release at custom house and his journey from Liverpool to England.

Check Answer
After being wrongly arrested at Liverpool, Fogg was released when it was revealed the real robber was already caught. Fogg punched Detective Fix. He then hired a special train to London, but due to delays, he arrived believing he was late.
Q.5(D) The Sign of Four 4 Marks
(I) Give reasons (2)

a) Miss Morstan plans to meet Sherlock Holmes.
b) Miss Morstan received a pearl every year.

Check Answer
a) She received a mysterious letter advising her to be at the Lyceum Theatre to learn about her "wronged" status, so she sought Holmes' advice.
b) She received a pearl every year as compensation from Thaddeus Sholto, who wanted to share the treasure his father had kept from Mary's father.
(II) Description (2)

Write 7-8 sentences about the meeting of Miss Morstan with Sherlock Holmes.

Check Answer
Miss Mary Morstan visited Sherlock Holmes to present a case regarding her father's disappearance. She was a young, refined woman who appeared agitated. She explained that for the last six years, she had received a precious pearl annually. Recently, she received a letter asking her to meet an unknown benefactor. Holmes, intrigued by the mystery, agreed to accompany her.