Maharashtra HSC Class 12 English June 2026 Board Question Paper with Complete Solutions (J-201)

Welcome to the complete and expertly solved Maharashtra HSC Board Class 12 English Board Question Paper (June 2026, Code J-201). In this comprehensive study guide, we have provided 100% accurate, board-level Question Paper Solutions across all four sections: Prose Comprehension, Poetry & Appreciation, Non-Textual Grammar, Writing Skills (Virtual Message, SOP, Group Discussion, E-mail, Report, Interview, Speech, Compering, Expansion of Idea, Film Review, Blog, and Appeal), and the Literary Genre (Novel) section covering To Sir, With Love, Around the World in Eighty Days, and The Sign of Four. Use these step-by-step model answers and exam tips to master the official MSBSHSE marking scheme and score maximum marks in your upcoming board exams.

SECTION I: PROSE (Reading for Comprehension, Language Study, Summary and Mind Mapping)

Q. 1. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: (12 Marks)

A1. Read the following statements and write TWO correct statements that state the theme of the extract: (2)

The two correct statements that state the theme of the extract are:

• (i) Big Data helps educational institutes in decision making and improving efficiency.
• (iii) Big Data helps entertainment and media to understand and predict audience preferences.

A2. Netflix and Youtube used big data to increase engagement of the viewers and earn more revenues. Support your answer with proper evidences from the extract. (2)

Answer: In the entertainment and media industry, Big Data focuses on targeting people with the right content at the right time. The extract states that based on a viewer's past views and online behaviour, they are shown personalized recommendations. This specific technique of analysing user data to customize content recommendations is popularly used by Netflix and YouTube to increase viewer engagement and drive higher revenues.

A3. Complete the flow chart on the role of big data in educational industry. One is done for you. Find information from the extract and complete the flow chart: (2)

1. To prepare customized and dynamic learning programmes according to the need of an individual student. (Given in Question Paper)
2. To design course material catering to different requirements and comprehension levels of the students.
3. To gauge the progress of the students from their results and understand their strengths and weaknesses.
4. To guide the student regarding the best career for him based on his mental make-up and abilities.

A4. Write the precautions one should take while using social media. (2)

Answer: While using social media, one should strictly avoid sharing sensitive personal information such as home addresses, phone numbers, or financial details publicly. Users must verify the authenticity of news before forwarding it to prevent the spread of misinformation. Additionally, it is essential to use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, keep privacy settings updated, and avoid interacting with unknown or suspicious links to stay safe from cyberbullying and online fraud.

Exam Tip: In Personal Response questions (A4), always write your answer in 4 to 5 well-structured sentences. Start with a direct topic sentence, provide 2 to 3 logical supporting points, and end with a concluding thought to secure full marks (2/2).

A5. Do as directed: (2)

(i) Every student's comprehension level is different. (Choose the correct 'Negative Sentence' from the options given below and write it.)

• Answer: (b) Every student's comprehension level is not the same.

(ii) This will help in guiding the students for the best career. (Choose the correct option replacing the modal auxiliary expressing 'Advice' and write it.)

• Answer: (d) This should help in guiding the students for the best career.

A6. Vocabulary: Find out the words/phrases from the extract which mean: (2)

• (a) Enrich: enhance
• (b) Income: revenues / revenue
• (c) Engulfed: inundated
• (d) Rapidly: in leaps and bounds

Q. 1. (B) Language Study (Non-Textual Grammar) (4 Marks)

B1. Do as directed: (3)

(i) There are no unemployed, no slackers in a civilised society. (Choose the correct option from the given alternatives showing the correct use of 'Neither... nor' and write it.) (1)

• Answer: (a) There are neither unemployed nor slackers in a civilised society.

(ii) Sandip said to Rushika, "Do you like to take part in sports competition?" (Choose the correct 'Indirect Speech' from the given options and write it.) (1)

• Answer: (a) Sandip asked Rushika if / whether she liked to take part in sports competition.

(iii) When the officer fired his assistant, he heaved a sigh of relief. (Choose the correct option from the given alternatives showing the correct use of 'No sooner... than' and write it.) (1)

• Answer: (c) No sooner did the officer fire his assistant than he heaved a sigh of relief.

B2. Spot the error and rewrite the correct sentence: (1)

• Given Sentence: Rutuja is one of the best student in using new technology.
• Corrected Sentence: Rutuja is one of the best students in using new technology.

Grammar Rule: The phrase "one of the..." is always followed by a plural countable noun (e.g., one of the best students) and takes a singular verb if it functions as the subject.

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

A1. Read the following statements and arrange them in proper sequence: (2)

Answer: The proper chronological sequence of the statements is:

1. (d) Class assignment was given by Mrs. Brauch.
2. (b) Dalkoff wrote a short story for the first time.
3. (a) Dalkoff contributed as co-editor to his high school newspaper.
4. (c) Dalkoff met Mrs. Brauch after her retirement.

A2. Describe Dalkoff's visit to his High-school's 30th reunion. (2)

Answer: During his 30th high-school reunion, Dalkoff went back and visited his retired English teacher, Mrs. Ruth Brauch. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude and told her what her four words of praise had done for his life. He explained that because she gave him the confidence to be a writer, he was able to pass that same confidence on to the woman who became his wife, inspiring her to become a writer as well.

A3. 'They changed his life.' Here 'They' means _______ and write 'the change' they brought in his life. (2)

Answer: Here, 'They' refers to the four words—"This is good writing"—that Mrs. Brauch wrote in the margin of Dalkoff's assignment paper. These words brought a profound transformation in his life: they gave the terribly insecure and shy boy self-confidence, inspired him to write his first short story, helped him become the co-editor of his high-school newspaper, broadened his horizons, and set him off on a successful, fulfilling life.

A4. 'The reward or the words of praise,' what you will remember the most. Justify your view point. (2)

Answer: I will always remember words of praise the most. While a material reward offers only temporary excitement and fades over time, genuine words of appreciation leave an everlasting emotional impact. Sincere encouragement from a mentor builds self-belief, eliminates self-doubt, and—just like Mrs. Brauch's feedback to Dalkoff—can spark a lifelong passion and positively transform a person's destiny.

A5. Do as directed: (2)

(i) The students had been reading 'To Kill a Mockingbird.' (Choose the correct option from the given alternatives showing the correct use of 'Future Perfect Tense' and write it.)

• Answer: (d) The students will have read 'To Kill a Mockingbird.'

(ii) He was named co-editor of his high-school newspaper. (Choose the correct option from the given alternatives showing the correct use of 'Active Voice' and write it.)

• Answer: (b) They named him co-editor of his high-school newspaper.

A6. Match the column: Match the words / phrases in column 'A' with their meaning in column 'B': (2)

Column 'A' (Words / Phrases)	Column 'B' (Correct Meaning)
(1) recall	(d) remember
(2) shy	(c) timid
(3) pass on	(a) give to another person
(4) convince	(b) assure

Q. 2. (B) Summarising: (3 Marks)

Write a 'Summary' of the above extract by using the following points: (Class assignment — teacher's encouraging feedback in the margin — fulfilment of the dream — Dalkoff as co-editor — School reunion experience.)

The Transformative Power of Encouragement

As a shy and insecure boy, Dalkoff lacked self-confidence until his high-school English teacher, Mrs. Brauch, assigned the class to write a follow-up chapter to a novel. On his submitted assignment, she wrote four encouraging words in the margin: "This is good writing." This simple feedback transformed his life, instilling the self-belief needed to fulfill his dream of writing short stories. As his confidence grew, he became the co-editor of his high-school newspaper and embarked on a successful career. Thirty years later, during his school reunion, a grateful Dalkoff visited the retired Mrs. Brauch to share how her encouragement not only made him a writer but also inspired his wife to become one.

Q. 2. (C) Mind Mapping: (3 Marks)

Prepare a mind map on the topic 'Role of Newspapers in Society,' expressing and presenting your own ideas, flow, design and structure.

Central Idea: ROLE OF NEWSPAPERS IN SOCIETY

• Branch 1: Information & News Dissemination
  • Local, national, and international daily news updates
  • Coverage of politics, economy, business, and sports
  • Weather forecasts, civic announcements, and public notices
• Branch 2: Education & Intellectual Growth
  • Editorial columns and expert opinion pieces
  • Enhancement of vocabulary, language skills, and reading habits
  • Informative supplements on science, health, career, and technology
• Branch 3: Social & Democratic Pillar (Fourth Estate)
  • Shaping public opinion and raising awareness on social issues
  • Investigative journalism exposing corruption and ensuring accountability
  • Platform for citizens' grievances through 'Letters to the Editor'
• Branch 4: Entertainment & Utility Services
  • Crosswords, Sudoku puzzles, cartoons, and comic strips
  • Classified advertisements for jobs, real estate, and matrimonials
  • Reviews of books, cinema, art, and cultural events

Exam Tip: In the board exam, draw your Mind Map using neat boxes or circles connected by arrows radiating from the central title box using only a black or blue pen.

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SECTION II: POETRY (Poetry and Appreciation)

Q. 3. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: (10 Marks)

A1. Identify the lines from the extract that indicate the father's 'dull, monotonous routine' and 'his least value for other': (2)

Aspect	Lines from the Extract
Dull, Monotonous routine	(1) "My father travels on the late evening train / Standing among silent commuters in the yellow light" (OR "Suburbs slide past his unseeing eyes")
Least value for other	(1) "Like a word dropped from a long sentence."

A2. The passengers are described as 'silent.' Give reasons. (2)

Answer: The passengers on the late evening train are described as 'silent' because they are physically and mentally exhausted after a long, hard day of work. Furthermore, the monotonous, fast-paced routine of urban life leaves commuters absorbed in their own worries and fatigue, creating a deep sense of emotional detachment and alienation even while standing in a crowded compartment.

A3. Write the difficulties you face while commuting to and from the college by public transport. (2)

Answer: While commuting to and from college by public transport, I frequently face challenges such as severe overcrowding during peak hours, irregular bus or train schedules, and heavy traffic congestion. Standing for long durations with a heavy bag is physically tiring, and the constant noise, heat, and air pollution make the daily commute even more stressful, particularly during the monsoon season.

A4. Name and explain the figure of speech in the following line: 'Suburbs slide past his unseeing eyes.' (2)

• Alliteration: The consonant sound 's' is pleasingly repeated at the beginning of the words 'Suburbs' and 'slide' for poetic and musical effect.
• Transferred Epithet: The adjective 'unseeing' is transferred from the father to his 'eyes'—his eyes can physically see, but it is the father's mind that is indifferent and preoccupied with his own thoughts.
• Paradox: The phrase 'unseeing eyes' combines two contradictory ideas (eyes that do not see) to highlight how familiar and monotonous the scenery has become to the father.

A5. Compose four poetic lines on the title 'My Father.' (2)

My Father
My father is our family's guiding light,
Who toils tirelessly from morning to night.
He silently sacrifices his own little joys,
To bless our lives with courage and poise.

Q. 3. (B) Appreciation: (4 Marks)

Read the extract and write the appreciation of the poem 'Song of the Open Road'.

Appreciation of the Poem 'Song of the Open Road'

• About the Poem, Poet, and Title: 'Song of the Open Road' is an inspiring motivational poem written by the celebrated nineteenth-century American poet Walt Whitman, famously known as the 'Father of Free Verse'. Taken from his classic collection Leaves of Grass, the title metaphorically represents the journey of life marked by freedom, mobility, and endless possibilities.
• Theme: The central theme of the poem is freedom, self-reliance, and optimism. The speaker sets out on the 'open road' feeling "afoot and light-hearted," choosing to leave behind domestic routines and societal pressures in order to experience life on his own terms.
• Poetic Style and Devices: The poem is written in free verse without a fixed rhyme scheme or meter, which aptly reflects the poet's desire for unrestrained freedom. It is narrated as a dramatic monologue in the first person ('I'). Whitman enriches the poem with figures of speech such as Metaphor (the 'open road' symbolizing the journey of life), Repetition ("Henceforth I ask not... Henceforth I whimper no more"), Climax, Inversion, and Paradox ("old delicious burdens").
• Special Features and Message: A striking structural feature of the poem is the final stanza enclosed in parentheses (brackets), where the poet pauses to reflect that although he seeks independence, he lovingly carries his "old delicious burdens"—sweet memories and relationships with people. The poem delivers a powerful message that we are the makers of our own destiny ("I myself am good-fortune").
• My Opinion: In my opinion, this is a timeless and uplifting poem that encourages readers to stop complaining, trust their inner strength, and walk the path of life with confidence and joy.

Memory Trick: While writing a poetic appreciation in Paragraph format for the HSC exam, remember the acronym ATPM (About, Theme, Poetic Devices/Style, Message & Opinion) to cover every marking criterion seamlessly.

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SECTION III: WRITING SKILLS

Q. 4. Complete the activities as per the instructions given below: (16 Marks)

(A) Attempt 'Any One' of the following activities: (4 Marks)

(I) Virtual Message:

MESSAGE

Date: 16 June 2026
Time: 9:30 a.m.

Dear Dad,

After you and Mom left for the gym, I suddenly started feeling very uneasy, sick, and weak. Since I have to attend a very important interview for a new job today, I am leaving home early. As I am feeling unwell, could you please pick me up at around 2:00 p.m. from the interview site?

Jeevan

OR

(II) Statement of Purpose (SOP):

Statement of Purpose

My fascination with literature, critical thinking, and human communication began during my early school years, inspiring me to actively participate in debate clubs, elocution contests, and creative writing workshops. Having completed my Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) in the Arts stream with distinction, I now wish to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Literature at your esteemed university.

My long-term career goal is to become an academic researcher, university professor, and author exploring how contemporary literature shapes social consciousness. Throughout junior college, I consistently secured top grades in English, served as the Student Editor of our college magazine, and won the Inter-School Essay Championship.

Your university's interdisciplinary curriculum, distinguished faculty, and vibrant literary research ecosystem align perfectly with my academic aspirations. I am confident that studying at your prestigious institution will sharpen my analytical abilities and empower me to contribute meaningfully to the academic community.

OR

(III) Group Discussion:

Topic: Is Money the Key to Happiness?

• Evaluator (Teacher): Good morning, everyone. Welcome to today's group discussion. Our topic is 'Is Money the Key to Happiness?' You may now share your views.
• Participant 1 (Rahul): Good morning, all. I firmly believe that money plays a vital role in achieving happiness. In today's world, financial stability is essential to fulfill basic human needs such as nutritious food, quality healthcare, shelter, and good education. Money provides security and reduces daily anxiety, which forms the foundation of a happy life.
• Participant 2 (Sneha): While I agree with Rahul that money is necessary for basic survival, I disagree that it is the ultimate 'key' to happiness. We often see wealthy individuals suffering from stress, loneliness, and broken relationships. True happiness stems from inner peace, good health, contentment, and meaningful bonds with family and friends—none of which can be bought with money.
• Participant 3 (Amit): I would like to bridge both points made by Rahul and Sneha. Money can certainly buy material comfort, convenience, and opportunities to pursue hobbies or help the needy, which brings immense joy. However, beyond a certain threshold, extra wealth does not guarantee emotional fulfilment. Therefore, money is an important facilitator of comfort, but gratitude and positive relationships are the true keys to happiness.
• Evaluator (Teacher): Thank you, participants. That was an insightful and balanced discussion concluding that while money is indispensable for security and comfort, true happiness ultimately depends on emotional well-being and human relationships.

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(B) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities: (4 Marks)

(I) E-mail Writing:

To: manager@lonavalatouristhub.com
Subject: Inquiry regarding family room bookings, tariff, and facilities

Respected Sir/Madam,

I am planning a three-day family vacation to Lonavala with four family members from 25th June to 27th June 2026, and we would like to stay at your esteemed tourist centre.

Could you kindly share the details regarding the types of rooms available (preferably an AC Family Suite or two interconnected deluxe rooms) along with their per-night tariff and check-in/check-out timings? Additionally, please let me know about the in-house food arrangements, whether complimentary breakfast is included in the package, and if your centre organizes local sightseeing tours and pick-up facilities from Lonavala Railway Station.

Kindly email the brochure and tariff details at your earliest convenience so that we can finalize our reservation.

Thank you.

Warm regards,
ABC
Contact: 98XXXXXXXX

OR

(II) Report Writing:

Grand Success at Inter-College Youth Festival 'Tarang 2026'
— By Cultural Secretary, XYZ Junior College

Mumbai, 16th June 2026: XYZ Junior College successfully organized a vibrant two-day Inter-College Youth Festival, 'Tarang 2026', on the 14th and 15th of June in the college main auditorium. The grand cultural extravaganza witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 25 prominent colleges across Mumbai.

The festival was inaugurated by the renowned playback singer Mr. Shaan, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. After lighting the ceremonial lamp, he inspired the youth with a melodious performance and an encouraging address on nurturing artistic passion alongside academics.

The event featured fierce yet healthy competitions across Classical and Western Singing, Elocution and Debate, Folk and Contemporary Dance, and Fine Arts exhibitions. Our host college clinched the First Prize in the Group Dance competition, while St. Xavier's College won the Best Debate Trophy. The coveted Overall Championship Trophy was bagged by Jai Hind College. The festival concluded with a prize distribution ceremony and the National Anthem, leaving everyone with cherished memories.

OR

(III) Interview Questions:

Good morning, Doctor! It is an absolute privilege to welcome you to our college studio today. Our students are eager to learn from your inspiring journey in the medical field.

Field / Point	Details / Interview Questions
Name of the interviewee	Dr. Rajesh Sharma (MD, DM Neurology)
Area of success / Reputation	Renowned Neurologist and Social Healthcare Reformer
Date / Venue / Time	16th June 2026 / College Auditorium / 10:30 a.m.
Duration of Interview	30 Minutes
(1) Choice of profession	What inspired you during your formative years to choose the noble profession of medicine over other career paths?
(2) Area of specialization	Medicine has many branches; what motivated you to specialize specifically in a complex field like Neurology?
(3) Most challenging case	Could you share your experience of the most critical and challenging medical case you have successfully handled so far?
(4) Success / Achievement	Looking back at your illustrious career, which milestone do you consider your greatest professional achievement?
(5) Stress management	Handling life-and-death situations daily is emotionally exhausting; how do you manage occupational stress and stay calm under pressure?
(6) Work balance	With emergency calls and long hospital hours, how do you strike a healthy balance between your family life and professional commitments?
(7) Goals / Dreams	What are your future goals or dreams regarding making advanced healthcare accessible to underprivileged rural patients?
(8) Advice	Finally, what message or advice would you like to give to young NEET aspirants and students wishing to serve in the medical field?

Thank you so much, Doctor, for sharing your valuable time and wisdom with us today!

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(C) Attempt 'Any One' of the following activities: (4 Marks)

(I) Speech Writing:

Human Future with AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Respected teacher and my dear friends, a very good morning to one and all!

Today, I stand before you to share my views on a revolutionary force that is redefining human civilization: 'Human Future with Artificial Intelligence.' AI is no longer a distant concept confined to science-fiction films; it is actively shaping our present and building our tomorrow.

From early cancer detection and climate modelling to personalized education and autonomous transport, AI has enhanced human efficiency beyond imagination. It processes massive data in seconds, freeing human minds for higher creativity and innovation. However, our future with AI is a double-edged sword. Rapid automation raises valid concerns regarding job displacement, deepfakes, data privacy, and ethical accountability. We must ask ourselves: Are we guiding technology, or allowing technology to govern us?

My friends, the key to a prosperous future lies in human-AI collaboration. AI possesses artificial computation, but humans possess emotional intelligence, empathy, and moral conscience. If we regulate AI ethically and upskill ourselves continuously, AI will serve as humanity's greatest ally rather than a replacement.

Thank you!

OR

(II) Compering:

Compering Script: Independence Day Celebration

• 1. Greeting with Patriotic Spirit:
  "Freedom in the mind, faith in the words, pride in our souls!"
  A very warm, energetic, and patriotic morning to our respected Principal, honourable Chief Guest, dedicated teachers, and my dear fellow students. Today, as the tricolour breeze fills the air, we gather here with immense pride to celebrate the Independence Day of our great nation, India!
• 2. Welcoming Dignitaries:
  It is my honour to extend a floral and heartfelt welcome to our Chief Guest for today, Colonel Vikram Rathod (Retd.), a decorated war veteran who has dedicated three decades of his life to guarding our borders. I request our Principal to felicitate Colonel Rathod with a sapling and a shawl. Please put your hands together!
• 3. Flag Hoisting and National Anthem:
  Now comes the most solemn and proud moment of the morning. May I request our honourable Chief Guest and respected Principal to step forward for the unfurling of the National Flag. I request everyone to stand in attention as we salute the Tiranga and sing our National Anthem in unison.
  [After the National Anthem] Bharat Mata ki Jai! Vande Mataram!
• 4. Cultural Fest Programme:
  Thank you, everyone, please be seated. To celebrate the rich heritage and sacrifices of our freedom fighters, our talented students have curated a vibrant cultural programme. First, let us welcome the college choir group with a soul-stirring patriotic medley, followed by an energetic dance drama titled 'Udaan: The Spirit of Young India'. Let us encourage them with a thunderous round of applause!
• 5. Patriotic Message and Vote of Thanks:
  What a mesmerizing performance! As we conclude today's ceremony, let us remember that freedom came at a heavy price. Let us pledge to uphold unity, integrity, and civic responsibility to build a developed and harmonious India. I extend my sincere gratitude to our Chief Guest, Principal, staff, and students for making this morning unforgettable. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!

OR

(III) Expansion of Idea:

Forgiveness is Often Better Than Punishment

The timeless proverb 'Forgiveness is often better than punishment' highlights the transformative moral power of mercy over retribution. As Alexander Pope famously wrote, "To err is human; to forgive, divine." While punishment is the conventional way to penalize a wrongdoer, it frequently breeds resentment, rebellion, and an endless cycle of hatred. Punishment may enforce temporary fear, but it rarely reforms a person's conscience.

In contrast, forgiveness is an act of supreme humanity and inner strength. As Mahatma Gandhi rightly observed, "The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." When we choose to forgive someone who has erred, we awaken their sense of guilt and self-reflection, offering them a genuine opportunity to reform and become a better human being. Furthermore, forgiveness liberates the victim from the toxic burden of anger and bitterness, restoring mental peace.

History bears witness to leaders like Nelson Mandela, who chose forgiveness and reconciliation over vengeance to unite a divided South Africa. Thus, while severe crimes require legal justice, in human relationships and society, compassion and forgiveness heal wounds far more effectively than punishment ever can.

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(D) Attempt 'Any One' of the following activities: (4 Marks)

(I) Film Review:

Film Review: '3 Idiots' — A Timeless Masterpiece on True Education

• Title, Subject, and Story: '3 Idiots' is an iconic Indian coming-of-age comedy-drama that examines the immense academic pressure and rote-learning culture in the Indian education system. The story revolves around three engineering students—Rancho, Farhan, and Raju—at the prestigious Imperial College of Engineering, tracing their heartwarming bond and their quest to follow their true passions over the rat race for grades.
• Cinematography, Music, and Presentation: Muraleedharan C. K.'s cinematography breathtakingly captures both the bustling campus life and the serene landscapes of Ladakh. Shantanu Moitra's music—especially tracks like 'All Izz Well' and 'Give Me Some Sunshine'—perfectly echoes the youth's emotions. The screenplay seamlessly blends rib-tickling humour with deeply moving social commentary.
• Producer, Director, and Characters: Produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and masterfully directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film features stellar performances. Aamir Khan shines as the unconventional genius Rancho, R. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi deliver relatable performances, and Boman Irani is unforgettable as the strict college director 'Virus'.
• Personal Views, Evaluation, and Recommendation: '3 Idiots' is more than just cinema; it is an eye-opener that teaches us: "Pursue excellence, and success will follow." I rate this film 5/5 stars and strongly recommend it to every student, teacher, and parent.

OR

(II) Blog Writing:

STUDENT HOBBY CLUB BLOG | www.studenthobbyclub.org/blog
Home | Book Club | Archive | Contact Us

Read for Survival: Why Books Are Our Ultimate Lifeline

Posted by: Aryan Deshmukh | Date: 16 June 2026

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the constant noise and endless scrolling of the digital world? In an era of shrinking attention spans, reading is no longer just a leisure pastime—it is a vital tool for mental and intellectual survival!

Personally, I love immersing myself in biographies, mystery thrillers, and classic science fiction, as they transport me across time and space. Beyond sheer entertainment, reading offers extraordinary cognitive benefits. It sharpens concentration, enriches vocabulary, stimulates critical thinking, and significantly lowers stress levels. Most importantly, books nurture empathy by allowing us to walk in the shoes of diverse characters.

On a personal note, a good book has always been my safest sanctuary during tough days. Whether you prefer the aroma of a paperback or the convenience of an e-reader, dedicating just twenty minutes a day to reading can transform your perspective on life. So, pick up a book today and read to thrive!

Liked this post? Share your favourite book title in the comments below! | Share | Subscribe

OR

(III) Appeal Writing:

SAY NO TO PLASTIC: SAVE OUR MOTHER EARTH!

"Plastic is Drastic! Refuse Single-Use Plastic Today for a Greener Tomorrow!"

[Logo / Visual Illustration: A green Planet Earth breaking free from a suffocating plastic bag]

Did you know that a single plastic carry bag takes over 500 years to decompose? Every single day, tons of non-biodegradable plastic choke our oceans, kill innocent cattle and marine life, clog urban drainage systems, and release toxic microplastics into our food chain!

How Can YOU Be a Planet Hero?

• Carry Your Own Bag: Always keep a reusable cloth or jute bag handy while shopping.
• Ditch Single-Use Plastic: Say a firm NO to plastic straws, disposable cutlery, thermocol plates, and bottled water.
• Switch to Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Use steel water bottles, bamboo toothbrushes, and biodegradable packaging.
• Spread Awareness: Encourage your family, neighbours, and shopkeepers to adopt a zero-plastic lifestyle.

Take the 'Plastic-Free Campus & City Pledge' Today!
Venue: College Quadrangle | Date: 20th June 2026 | Time: 10:00 a.m.
Issued in Public Interest by: The NSS Unit & Eco-Club, XYZ Junior College

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SECTION IV: LITERARY GENRE (NOVEL)

Q. 5. (A) Complete the activities given below as per the instructions: (4 Marks)

(I) Match the columns given below in column A 'Types of novel' to column B 'Language origin': (2)

Column 'A' (Types of Novel)	Column 'B' (Correct Language Origin)
(1) Picaresque	(b) Spanish (from 'picaro')
(2) Epistolary	(a) Latin (from 'epistola')
(3) Bildungsroman	(d) German
(4) Novella	(c) Italian (from 'novella')

(II) State whether the following statements are 'True or False' and write them: (2)

• (a) Psychological novel means the flow of thought. — False
  (Textbook Note: The phrase 'Stream of Consciousness' coined by William James means the flow of thoughts, whereas a psychological novel treats the internal life and motives of the protagonist.)
• (b) The pulp fiction era provided a building ground for a detective fiction. — True
• (c) Realistic novel narrates the adventures of the protagonist. — False
  (Textbook Note: A Picaresque novel narrates the adventures of an eccentric protagonist, whereas a Realistic novel gives the effect of realism and complex everyday character motives.)
• (d) Hercule Poirot is the evergreen detective character created by Agatha Christie. — True

Q. 5. (B) Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below ('To Sir, With Love'): (4 Marks)

(I) Write a short note on Denham's viewpoint on P.T. in 'To Sir, With Love.' (2)

Answer: During the Half-Yearly Report of the Students' Council, Denham bluntly criticizes the mandatory P.T. (Physical Training) classes as ill-conceived, pointless, and monotonous. He argues that due to space constraints and lack of proper equipment at Greenslade School, twenty minutes of routine physical exercises twice a week offer no real physical benefit. He asserts that students would much rather play invigorating outdoor games and suggests that P.T. should be compulsory only for weak or sedentary students who genuinely need it.

(II) When the turn of Mr. Braithwaite's class came, he sat up anxiously. Explain with reference to the novel, 'To Sir, With Love.' (2)

Answer: Mr. Braithwaite sat up anxiously when the senior class was called to present their report during the Students' Council programme because it was the ultimate test of his teaching efforts. Previously notorious for being unruly and disrespectful, his students were now addressing the entire school and faculty independently. He felt nervous yet deeply hopeful to see whether they would demonstrate the maturity, courtesy, and self-confidence he had patiently instilled in them.

Q. 5. (C) Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below ('Around the World in Eighty Days'): (4 Marks)

(I) Passepartout blamed himself for his master's misfortune in 'Around the World in Eighty Days.' Give reasons. (2)

Answer: Passepartout was overwhelmed with guilt and blamed himself for Phileas Fogg's apparent ruin because he had known Inspector Fix's true identity and his mission to arrest Fogg much earlier in the journey, yet kept it a secret from his master. Passepartout felt that if he had warned Fogg in time, Fogg could have proven his innocence or avoided Fix's trap at Liverpool, preventing the wrongful arrest that delayed their arrival in London.

(II) Explain the significance of the statement 'You have made a mistake of one day!' in giving a justifiable ending in 'Around the World in Eighty Days.' (2)

Answer: Passepartout's breathless exclamation, "You have made a mistake of one day!", serves as the thrilling climax and turning point of the novel. Believing he arrived in London five minutes late on Saturday night, Fogg accepts defeat. However, because Fogg had travelled continuously eastward towards the sun, he had unconsciously gained four minutes for every degree of longitude crossed—totalling a full twenty-four hours. Discovering it is actually Saturday and not Sunday enables Fogg to reach the Reform Club just in time, winning the wager and marrying Aouda.

Q. 5. (D) Answer in about 50 words to the questions given below ('The Sign of Four'): (4 Marks)

(I) Sherlock Holmes established a connection between Captain Morstan's disappearance and receipt of pearls in 'The Sign of Four.' Elaborate. (2)

Answer: Through sharp deductive reasoning, Sherlock Holmes links Captain Morstan's mysterious disappearance on 3rd December 1878 with the six rare pearls Mary Morstan received. In 1882—four years after her father vanished—an anonymous newspaper inquiry asked for Mary's address, after which she received a precious pearl every year on the exact same date. Holmes deduces that the anonymous sender was aware of a past injustice done to Captain Morstan and was trying to make partial restitution to Mary from a newly acquired treasure.

(II) Describe a character sketch of Mary Morstan as a model client in 'The Sign of Four.' (2)

Answer: In 'The Sign of Four', Mary Morstan is portrayed as an exemplary and model client. Despite enduring the trauma of her father's disappearance and receiving a mysterious summons, she remains remarkably poised, calm, and articulate. She arrives at Baker Street thoroughly prepared, presenting Sherlock Holmes with a clear chronological account along with crucial documentary evidence—newspaper clippings, the anonymous letter, the six pearls, and Captain Morstan's strange map—which earns Holmes's admiration and enables him to investigate the case immediately.

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Official Maharashtra HSC June 2026 English Board Question Paper (J-201)