BOARD ACTIVITY SHEET: JULY 2024
(Extract Source: "Voyaging Towards Excellence" by Achyut Godbole)
- The narrator chose a career in writing over his career in software companies.
Answer: True - The narrator’s success is determined by the sale of his books.
Answer: False - His autobiography has proved itself as a good remedy on depression.
Answer: True - The passage ends on a positive note.
Answer: True
- The writer could be commercially successful because he had offers of around 3 crore rupees per annum.
- The writer is telling his story to the readers because there are a number of lessons and values that he cherishes and keeps learning about even today.
“It is these reactions of thousands of readers and the feeling that I am touching the hearts of thousands of my readers, that keeps me going...”
(i) I wanted to return to my first love. (Frame a ‘wh’ question to get the underlined part as the answer.)
Options:
(a) Where did I wanted to return?
(b) Where do I want to return?
(c) Where did I want to return?
(d) Why did I want to return?
Correct Answer: (c) Where did I want to return?
(ii) My book ‘Boardroom’ on management has created at least 20 successful entrepreneurs. (Choose the correct passive voice form)
Options:
(a) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs will be created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
(b) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs have been created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
(c) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs has been created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
(d) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs are created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
Correct Answer: (b) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs have been created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
(existence, management, entrepreneurs, rationally, symphony, autobiography)
- There is no human existence on Mars.
- Symphony of emotions make a relation musical.
- ‘My experiments With Truth’ is a famous autobiography.
- Time management is very significant during examination.
(i) I can teach four languages including French. (Choose the correct option replacing the modal auxiliary showing ‘compulsion’.)
Correct Answer: (c) I must teach four languages including French.
(ii) Netra is always interested in school excursions. (Choose the correct Rhetorical question form.)
Correct Answer: (d) Isn’t Netra always interested in school excursions?
(iii) There are many people who had a desire to speak ‘correct’ English. (Choose the correct simple sentence form.)
Correct Answer: (b) Many people have a desire to speak ‘Correct’ English.
English movies has entertained the world.
(Extract Source: Green Belt Movement / Wangari Maathai)
1. Lack of firewood, clean drinking water, and balanced diets
2. Scramble for scarce resources
3. Poverty and even conflict
4. Incapacity to sustain families / Malnutrition
| Positive effects of tree plantation | (1) It is simple, attainable and guarantees quick, successful results. |
|---|---|
| (2) It sustains interest and commitment within a reasonable amount of time. | |
| (3) Trees provide fuel, food, shelter, and income to support education and needs. | |
| (4) The activity creates employment and improves soil and watersheds. |
- Plant more trees and maintain existing green cover.
- Reduce the use of single-use plastics and encourage recycling.
- Conserve water by rainwater harvesting and fixing leaks.
- Spread awareness about waste segregation and composting.
(i) Tree planting became a natural choice. (Find out the correct option in which ‘Present Perfect Tense’ is used.)
Correct Answer: (b) Tree planting has become a natural choice.
(ii) They were unable to meet their basic needs. (Choose the correct ‘Negative sentence’ - Note: The instruction implies rewriting with 'not' while keeping the meaning or simply finding the negative form.)
Correct Answer: (c) They were not able to meet their basic needs.
Find out the words from the extract which mean-
- extremely painful: excruciating
- all forms of life on earth: bio-diversity
- act of stealing/removing: plundered
- the action of making impure by polluting: contamination
Write a ‘summary’ of the above extract by using the following points.
The Green Belt Movement: Restoring Hope
The extract highlights the severe impact of commercial farming in rural Kenya, which destroyed local biodiversity and forests. This led to a scarcity of essentials like firewood and water, causing poverty, malnutrition, and conflict. To combat this, Wangari Maathai introduced tree planting as a simple yet effective solution. This initiative not only provided fuel, food, and income but also empowered the community, improved the soil, and helped restore the environment, thereby securing the future for the families.
Prepare a mind map on the topic “Disadvantages of smartphone” using your ideas.
- Health Issues
- Eye strain / Vision problems
- Poor posture (Text neck)
- Sleep disruption
- Social Impact
- Reduced face-to-face interaction
- Cyberbullying
- Social isolation
- Distraction
- Poor academic performance
- Reduced productivity
- Accidents while driving
- Security Risks
- Data theft
- Hacking
- Loss of privacy
(Poem: "Money" by William H. Davies)
| Rich people | Poor people |
|---|---|
| (i) They have many false friends who visit only for their wealth. | (i) Their hearts are light and free from the anxiety of wealth. |
| (ii) They feel fear and worry, often frowning coldly. | (ii) They are content, and their wives hum like bees while working. |
‘Much have I thought of life, and seen’
Explanation: The word order is changed for poetic effect. The correct prose order is "I have thought and seen much of life."
Happiness lies not in gold or greed,
But in helping a friend in need.
A simple life with love to share,
Is the true wealth beyond compare.
Read the extract and write the appreciation of the poem given below: (Poem: Father Returning Home)
Title: Father Returning Home
Poet: Dilip Chitre
Theme: The poem deals with the themes of alienation, loneliness, and the generation gap in modern urban life. It portrays the dull, monotonous routine of an elderly father who feels isolated even within his own family.
Poetic Devices: The poet uses vivid Imagery (e.g., "yellow light", "soggy shirt", "muddy bag") to create a gloomy atmosphere. Simile is used effectively in the line "Like a word dropped from a long sentence" to highlight the father's insignificance. Alliteration is seen in "suburbs slide".
Message: The poem conveys the painful reality of the elderly who are neglected by the younger generation. It highlights how urbanization has eroded emotional bonds, leaving individuals isolated in a crowd.
Opinion: I find the poem very touching and realistic. It serves as a mirror to society, urging us to be more compassionate towards our parents and the elderly.
(i) Drafting a virtual message:
Question: Imagine, Sunny has been selected to appear in the final round of the singing competition. Sunny’s father has moved out of the city for some official work. Sunny tried to call his father several times. But, due to the connectivity issues, he is unable to contact his father. Draft a virtual message in about 50 words to convey this information/news to his father.
Date: 25th July 2024 Time: 4:00 PM
Dear Dad,
I have great news! I have been selected for the final round of the singing competition. I tried calling you to share this happiness, but couldn't get through due to network issues. I am very excited and wanted you to know immediately. Hope your work trip is going well.
Love,
Sunny
(ii) Statement of Purpose:
Question: Imagine you wish to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in ‘Communication Skills,’ at a reputed university in India or abroad to enhance your career in corporate correspondence. Prepare a statement of purpose in about 150 words which will help you to get admission in your dream university.
Statement of Purpose
Communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity. From a young age, I have been fascinated by how words shape perceptions and drive decisions. As a student of the Commerce stream, I realized that technical knowledge is futile without the ability to articulate it effectively. This realization has driven my desire to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Skills at your esteemed university.
My academic journey has been consistent, with a strong focus on languages and social sciences. I have actively participated in debates and served as the editor of my school magazine, which honed my writing and public speaking abilities. However, to thrive in the dynamic world of corporate correspondence, I need professional training.
Your university offers a curriculum that perfectly blends theory with practical exposure. I am particularly interested in your modules on Digital Media and Corporate Rhetoric. I am confident that this course will equip me with the necessary skills to become a proficient corporate communicator. I am eager to contribute to and learn from the diverse student community at your institution.
(iii) Group Discussion:
Question: Imagine the XII class students attended a presentation on “writing skill” conducted by a distinguished personality. Write a group discussion in the form of dialogues associated with this presentation among 3/4 student participants.
Topic: Reflections on the "Writing Skill" Presentation
Participants: Rahul, Priya, Amit, and Sneha.
Rahul: Hi everyone, today's session on writing skills was really eye-opening, wasn't it? I never realized that 'brevity is the soul of wit' applies so strictly to corporate writing.
Priya: Absolutely, Rahul. I liked the point the speaker made about knowing your audience. I used to think using complex vocabulary was impressive, but he clarified that simplicity connects better.
Amit: That’s true. However, I felt he focused too much on formal writing. I wish he had covered creative writing a bit more. What do you think, Sneha?
Sneha: I agree with Amit to an extent, but since it was geared towards future careers, the formal aspect was necessary. My takeaway was the importance of proofreading. I often skip that step.
Rahul: Valid point, Sneha. The 'Draft-Edit-Polish' technique he explained is something I’m definitely going to apply in our upcoming English project.
Priya: Agreed. Overall, it was a very productive session. It changed my perspective on how to structure thoughts on paper.
(i) E-mail:
Question: Imagine your housing colony wishes to organise a programme in view of ‘World Ozone Day.’ As the secretary of the colony, draft an email to a distinguished personality to invite him as a chief guest for the same.
To: dr.kulkarni.env@scienceforum.org
Subject: Invitation as Chief Guest for 'World Ozone Day' Awareness Programme
Respected Dr. Kulkarni,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to you in my capacity as the Secretary of Sunrise Housing Society, Pune.
We are organizing a community awareness programme on the occasion of 'World Ozone Day' on 16th September 2024. The event aims to educate our residents, particularly the youth, about the importance of the ozone layer and sustainable living practices.
Knowing your vast contribution to Environmental Science and your inspiring work in climate preservation, it would be a distinct honor for us to have you as our Chief Guest. We would be grateful if you could address the gathering and share your valuable insights.
The event is scheduled from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at our Society Clubhouse. We look forward to a positive response.
Warm Regards,
Rohan Deshmukh
Secretary, Sunrise Housing Society
(ii) Report Writing:
Question: Imagine your college recently organised a programme on ‘Personality Development.’ As a student incharge, write a report of the same in about 150 words for your college magazine.
Personality Development Workshop: Unlocking Potential
- By Student Incharge, Class XII
Mumbai, July 20: Ideally College organized a dynamic one-day workshop on ‘Personality Development’ on 18th July 2024 in the college auditorium. The objective was to groom students for future professional challenges and enhance their soft skills.
The programme began at 9:00 AM with the lighting of the lamp by the Principal, Dr. A. Joshi. The keynote speaker was Mr. Vikram Singh, a renowned corporate trainer. He conducted interactive sessions on body language, effective communication, and time management. He emphasized that personality is not just about external appearance but about character, confidence, and attitude.
Around 200 students from the Commerce and Arts streams participated. Activities like mock interviews and role-plays were the highlights, helping students overcome stage fear. The session concluded with a Q&A round where students cleared their doubts regarding career etiquette.
The workshop was a resounding success, leaving students motivated and better equipped to face the competitive world.
(iii) Interview:
Question: Imagine you wish to conduct an interview of a ‘social worker.’ With the help of the format given below, draft questions on the given fields. (Format: Name, Field, Date/Time/Duration, Questions on: Early interests, Challenges, Role models, Achievements, Feedback, Family support, Govt support, Future plans).
Name of the interviewee: Mrs. Sindhu Sapkal (Hypothetical)
Field/Reputation: Child Welfare and Orphanage Management
Date/Venue/Time: 25th July 2024, Sanmati Bal Niketan, 11:00 AM
Duration: 45 Minutes
Questions:
- Early interests: What inspired you to choose social work as your path at such a young age?
- Challenges faced: What were the biggest hurdles you faced when you first started this orphanage?
- Role model/s: Who has been your biggest inspiration or mentor in this journey of service?
- Achievements/Awards: You have received numerous awards; which one is closest to your heart and why?
- Family support: How did your family react when you decided to dedicate your life to social service?
- Government support: Do you think the government schemes for child welfare are sufficient, or is more support needed?
- Feedback: How does it feel when the children you raised return as successful adults to help the organization?
- Future plans: What is your vision for the organization for the next five years?
(i) Speech:
Question: Imagine you wish to participate in an intercollegiate elocution competition. You have selected ‘Should we keep pets?’ as your topic for your speech. Draft a speech in about 150 words on this topic.
Honorable Judges, Teachers, and my dear friends,
A very good morning to all. Today, I stand before you to speak on the topic, "Should we keep pets?"
In a world that is becoming increasingly digital and disconnected, pets serve as a bridge to nature and unconditional love. Keeping a pet—whether a dog, cat, or hamster—is not just a hobby; it is a lesson in humanity. Pets teach us responsibility, empathy, and patience. Scientific studies have proven that the company of animals reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and alleviates loneliness.
However, we must ask ourselves: are we ready for them? Keeping a pet is a lifelong commitment. It requires time, financial resources, and emotional investment. If we keep pets merely for status or entertainment without caring for their needs, it is cruel.
So, should we keep pets? My answer is a resounding 'Yes,' but only if we are willing to treat them as family members. They don't just need a home; they need a heart to live in.
Thank you.
(ii) Compering:
Question: Imagine your college is organising a programme to celebrate ‘Teacher’s Day.’ You are given the responsibility to compere at the programme. Prepare the programme script deciding the flow of the whole programme. (Points: prayer, welcome, introduction, felicitation, speeches, vote of thanks).
1. Introduction & Welcome:
"Good morning to our Respected Principal, beloved teachers, and enthusiastic students! Today is a special day where we celebrate the guiding lights of our lives. Welcome to the Teacher's Day celebration of 2024!"
2. Prayer:
"To begin this auspicious occasion, let us invoke the blessings of the Almighty. I request the college choir to come forward for the prayer song. (Prayer follows...)"
3. Introduction of the Function:
"Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan said, 'Teachers should be the best minds in the country.' Today, we honor the dedication and hard work of our teachers who mold us into better citizens."
4. Felicitation:
"I now request our Student Council President to felicitate our Principal and teachers with a token of our love and appreciation—a rose and a handmade card."
5. Speeches:
"Now, I would like to invite Miss Anjali from Class XII to share her thoughts on behalf of the students... (After speech) Thank you, Anjali. Now, may I request our Principal Sir to address the gathering."
6. Vote of Thanks:
"As we come to the end of this beautiful ceremony, I call upon Mr. Rohit to propose the vote of thanks. Thank you, teachers, for everything. Happy Teacher's Day!"
(iii) Expansion of Idea:
Question: Expand the following idea with the help of the points given below (100 to 150 words): ‘The wise man has long ears and a short tongue.’ (Points: One should be a good listener, Listening adds to your knowledge, Speaking to the point catches attention).
The Wise Man Has Long Ears and a Short Tongue
There is a reason why nature has given us two ears but only one tongue; it is so that we may listen twice as much as we speak. This proverb highlights the virtue of listening over excessive talking.
A wise person understands that speaking only repeats what one already knows, whereas listening opens the door to new knowledge. "Long ears" symbolize patience and the willingness to absorb information, understand different perspectives, and empathize with others. "A short tongue" represents brevity and discretion. Speaking less prevents one from saying foolish or regretful things.
In today's world, everyone wants to be heard, but few want to listen. Great leaders and thinkers are often great listeners. When we speak to the point, our words carry weight and command respect. Therefore, wisdom lies in observing silence, listening deeply, and speaking only when necessary and valuable.
(i) Review:
Question: You have recently read a ‘Book’/‘Magazine.’ Write a ‘Review’ on the same with the help of the following points: Title/Contents, Objectives/Features/Characteristics, Presentation/Creativity/Novelty, Personal views/Opinion/Evaluation.
Book Review: "Wings of Fire"
Title & Author: "Wings of Fire" is the autobiography of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, written with Arun Tiwari.
Contents & Theme: The book narrates the journey of a young boy from Rameswaram who overcame humble beginnings to become a premier scientist and the President of India. It covers his early life, his work at ISRO and DRDO, and the development of the Agni and Prithvi missiles.
Presentation & Style: The narrative is simple yet powerful. It is not just technical but deeply spiritual and patriotic. The inclusion of photos and poems adds a personal touch to the scientific journey.
Personal Opinion: This book is a beacon of hope. It teaches that with perseverance, hard work, and humility, any dream can be achieved. It is not just a biography but a manual for life. I highly recommend it to every student who dares to dream big.
(ii) Blog:
Question: Write a ‘Blog’ in a proper format on ‘Leisure and Entertainment’ with the help of the following points (100 to 150 words): Contextual meaning, Why the need?, What changes can be noticed?, Do’s and don’ts.
Recharging the Soul: The Art of Leisure
Published on July 26, 2024 | By [Student Name]
What is Leisure?
Leisure is not just free time; it is the quality of time we spend away from work and domestic chores. It is the time for recreation, entertainment, and personal growth.
Why do we need it?
In our fast-paced "hustle culture," burnout is real. Leisure acts as a reset button for the brain. It boosts creativity, reduces stress, and improves mental health.
Changing Trends:
Gone are the days when leisure meant reading a book or playing outdoors. Today, entertainment has shifted to OTT platforms, gaming, and social media scrolling. While accessible, this often leads to digital fatigue rather than relaxation.
Do's and Don'ts:
Do: Engage in active leisure like sports, hobbies, or travel. Connect with nature.
Don't: Don't let screen time consume your leisure. Don't feel guilty for taking a break.
Remember, we work to live, not live to work!
(iii) Appeal:
Question: Prepare an ‘Appeal’ on the topic “Avoid Unauthorised Hoardings and Banners” with the help of the following points (100 to 150 words): Reduces the beauty of the area, Conflict, Distractions on the road, Causes accidents.
STOP THE VISUAL POLLUTION!
Say NO to Unauthorised Hoardings and Banners
Citizens of Our City,
Look around! Our beautiful city is being defaced by ugly, illegal hoardings and banners.
- ⚠ They destroy the scenic beauty of our architecture.
- ⚠ They cause political and social conflicts.
- ⚠ They distract drivers, leading to fatal road accidents.
- ⚠ They pose a danger of falling during heavy winds.
Let’s Keep Our City Clean, Green, and Safe!
Report illegal hoardings to the Municipal Corporation Helpline: 1800-XXX-XXXX
Issued in public interest by: Concerned Citizens Group
(i) Match the column:
| Column ‘A’ | Column ‘B’ (Correct Matches) |
|---|---|
| (1) Setting | (c) The background of the story |
| (2) Conflict | (d) Provides interest and curiosity |
| (3) Plot | (a) Course of events |
| (4) Theme | (b) Central idea |
(ii) Choose the correct alternatives and rewrite the sentences:
(a) Stream of consciousness is a phrase coined by William James.
(b) Frankenstein is considered as the first novel based on science and technology.
(c) The word ‘Novella,’ is originated from the Italian word.
(d) The Picaresque novel narrates the adventures of the protagonist.
(i) The extract presents E.R. Braithwaite as a silent observer in ‘To Sir, with Love.’ Explain.
Answer: In the extract concerning the half-yearly report, Braithwaite takes a back seat. He does not organize the event but allows the students to take full charge. He silently observes their presentation, their confidence, and their management skills from the audience, feeling immense pride in their transformation and independence.
(ii) Justify how the half-yearly report of Students’ Council was an important event for the teachers and students.
Answer: The event was crucial as it bridged the gap between teachers and students. For students, it was a platform to voice their opinions, demonstrate their learning, and showcase maturity. For teachers, it provided valuable feedback on their teaching methods and allowed them to see the students' development beyond just academics.
(i) Compare the characters Passepartout and Detective Fix from the novel ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’.
Answer: Passepartout is loyal, emotional, and comedic, serving Fogg faithfully and aiding his journey. In contrast, Detective Fix is suspicious, calculating, and cynical. While Passepartout acts as a helper to the protagonist, Fix acts as an obstacle, constantly trying to delay Fogg to arrest him, believing him to be a bank robber.
(ii) Aouda’s acceptance of Fogg’s marriage proposal is a pleasant part in the plot of ‘Around the World in Eighty Days.’ Comment.
Answer: Fogg is depicted as a cold, mechanical man obsessed with his bet. Aouda's acceptance of his proposal signifies the humanization of Fogg. It brings a romantic and emotional climax to the story, proving that while Fogg may have thought he lost the wager (initially), he won something far more valuable—love and happiness.
(i) Sherlock Holmes is the leading character in the extract ‘The Sign of Four.’ Elaborate.
Answer: Sherlock Holmes dominates the scene with his sharp intellect and deductive reasoning. He analyzes the clues (like the handwriting and pearls) with precision, providing direction to the mystery. His confident demeanor calms the client, Mary Morstan, and drives the plot forward, establishing him as the brilliant focal point of the investigation.
(ii) Narrate the case of Miss Morstan in your words.
Answer: Mary Morstan's father, an officer, disappeared ten years ago upon returning to London. For the past six years, she has received a valuable pearl annually from an unknown sender. Recently, she received a letter promising her "justice" and asking for a meeting, which led her to seek Holmes' assistance to unravel the mystery.