Showing posts with label 2020 Question Paper. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2020 Question Paper. Show all posts

HSC English Board Exam Paper 2020 Solutions SET C (Maharashtra Board)

English (01) - HSC Board Question Paper Solution 2020

SECTION - I
(Reading Skill, Grammar, Vocabulary, Note-making and Summary)

Q. 1. (A) Read the first activity, read the extract and then do all the activities:

(Extract Summary: The writer, A.J. Cronin, describes his initial attempt to write a novel. He bought cheap exercise books and sat in his cold bedroom at a desolate Highland loch. He felt ill-prepared, recalling his wife's skepticism and the failure of a character in Daudet's book. Despite feeling like a fool and staring at a blank page for three hours, he eventually began to write after lunch, spurred by his old schoolmaster's advice to "Get it down!")
A1. True / False —
State which of the following statements are not true:
  1. The writer’s stay was in a remote village.
  2. The writer’s wife was sure about her husband’s ability of writing.
  3. Doctors usually write only prescriptions.
  4. The writer began his novel with the phrase – “In a remote valley of Pyrenees......”
Answer: The statements which are not true are:
(ii) The writer’s wife was sure about her husband’s ability of writing.
(iv) The writer began his novel with the phrase – “In a remote valley of Pyrenees......”
A2. Find out:
Find out the evidences from the extract which show that the writer was ill-prepared for writing a novel. (At least two evidences)
Answer: The evidences showing the writer was ill-prepared are:
  1. He had not bought paper beforehand; he had to walk to the village to buy two dozen penny exercise books only after deciding to write.
  2. He realized he had never composed a significant phrase in all his life, except for medical prescriptions.
  3. He sat for three hours facing a blank page without writing a single word.
A3. Tick:
“..... and tactfully lead me back to talk of Johnnie Smith’s whooping cough.” From this we can conclude that —
(i) The writer’s wife did not want him to write a novel.
(ii) She didn’t take the writer’s wish to write a novel seriously.
(iii) She was concerned about Jonnie Smith’s whooping cough.
(iv) She wanted him to write a novel.
Answer: (ii) She didn’t take the writer’s wish to write a novel seriously.
A4. Vocabulary:
Give one word (from the extract) for the following:
  1. One who does not die.
  2. List of medicines written on a paper.
  3. That seems to be real but does not exist.
  4. Looked at something continuously.
Answer:
  1. Immortal
  2. Prescriptions
  3. Illusion
  4. Gazed
A5. Personal response:
Mention at least four abilities that one requires to become a writer.
Answer: To become a writer, one requires:
  1. Creativity and Imagination: To create compelling stories and characters.
  2. Observation Skills: To notice details in the world around them.
  3. Command over Language: Good vocabulary and grammar to express thoughts clearly.
  4. Patience and Discipline: To sit and write consistently even when it is difficult.
A6. Grammar —
Rewrite the following sentences in the ways instructed:
(i) I had never composed a significant phrase in all my life. (Rewrite as a rhetorical question)
(ii) I could write a novel if I had time. (Rewrite the sentence using ‘unless’)
Answer: (i) Had I ever composed a significant phrase in all my life?
(ii) I could not write a novel unless I had time. (Or: Unless I had time, I could not write a novel.)

(B) Grammar — Do as directed:

(1) She was serving as ______ clerk in ______ State Bank of India. (Rewrite it using appropriate articles.)
Answer: She was serving as a clerk in the State Bank of India.
(2) Nashik city recorded 52.7 mm rain ______ 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm on Friday. (Fill in the blanks with suitable prepositions.)
Answer: Nashik city recorded 52.7 mm rain between 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm on Friday.
(3) Grandpa said to Meenu, “I am going for a walk. Are you willing to come with me?” (Change it into indirect narration.)
Answer: Grandpa told Meenu that he was going for a walk and asked her if she was willing to come with him.

12th English Board Papers

Q. 2. (A) Read the first activity, read the extract and then do all the activities:

(Extract Summary: A fable about the "Animal School". The animals organized a school with a curriculum of running, climbing, swimming, and flying. The Duck was good at swimming but poor at running and was forced to practice running until his webbed feet were ruined. The Rabbit had a breakdown from swimming. The Squirrel failed flying because he was forced to start from the ground. The Eagle was a problem child who climbed his own way. The Prairie dogs refused to join.)
A1. Choose —
Choose two sentences that appropriately mention the theme of the passage:
(i) The same scale should not be used for all to measure their performance.
(ii) Private schools are good to develop individual's interest.
(iii) The same curriculum should be given to all for better results.
(iv) Trying for all the subjects irrespective of the individual’s interest may lead to frustration.
Answer: (i) The same scale should not be used for all to measure their performance.
(iv) Trying for all the subjects irrespective of the individual’s interest may lead to frustration.
A2. Complete —
Complete the following statements by giving suitable reasons:
(i) The duck was average in swimming, because....
(ii) The squirrel could score only C in climbing, because ....
Answer: (i) The duck was average in swimming, because he had to drop swimming to practise running, which caused his webbed feet to become badly worn.
(ii) The squirrel could score only C in climbing, because his teacher made him start from the ground up instead of the treetop down, causing him to develop a "Charlie horse" from overexertion.
A3. Guess:
Guess the result of the prairie dogs if they had been given admission in the animal school and support your guessing with the facts from the extract.
Answer: If the prairie dogs had been admitted, they likely would have failed or faced severe frustration because the curriculum did not include their natural talents like digging and burrowing. Like the other animals, they would have been forced to do things they weren't designed for (like flying), leading to poor performance or injury.
A4. Vocabulary —
Fill in the blanks with appropriate words given in the box and rewrite:
[valedictorian, curriculum, frustration, administer]
(i) Varun who topped the college was declared .....
(ii) The .......... of the school should involve more activity subjects.
(iii) Poor performance in the exams develop ........... among the students.
(iv) It’s necessary to ........... the programme, so that it will be successful.
Answer: (i) Varun who topped the college was declared valedictorian.
(ii) The curriculum of the school should involve more activity subjects.
(iii) Poor performance in the exams develop frustration among the students.
(iv) It’s necessary to administer the programme, so that it will be successful.
A5. Personal response:
Suggest in about 50 words at least two ways to make the learning enjoyable.
Answer: To make learning enjoyable, schools should adopt a practical approach rather than just theory, using audio-visual aids and field trips. Additionally, gamification of lessons can make studying fun, and allowing students to choose subjects based on their natural aptitudes and interests prevents frustration.
A6. Grammar —
Rewrite the following sentences in the ways instructed:
(i) The eagle was a problem child and was disciplined severely. (Make it a complex sentence.)
(ii) An abnormal eel could swim exceedingly well. (Rewrite the sentence using ‘able to’.)
Answer: (i) Because the eagle was a problem child, he was disciplined severely. (Or: Though the eagle was a problem child, he was disciplined severely.)
(ii) An abnormal eel was able to swim exceedingly well.

(B) Note-making

Read the following extract and complete the notes given below regarding Sudha Murthy.
Answer: Sudha Murthy

B1. Early life and education —
(i) Birthplace : Shiggaon in Karnataka
(ii) Education :
    ♦ B.E. from B.V.B. College of Engineering, with gold medal.
    ♦ M.E. in Computer Science from the Indian Institute of Science, with gold medal.

B2. Career :
    ♦ First female engineer at TELCO (TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company).
    ♦ Senior System Analyst in Walchand Group of Industries, Pune.
    ♦ Started Infosys Foundation (1996) / Visiting Professor at Bangalore University.

B3. Social activities :
    ♦ Set 50,000 libraries
    ♦ Several hundred toilets in Bangalore
    ♦ Built 10,000 public toilets in rural areas.
    ♦ Built 2,300 houses in flood-affected areas.

Q. 3. (A) Read the first activity, read the extract and then do all the activities:

(Extract Summary: The passage discusses the health hazards of soil pollution. Contaminants like chromium, lead, and pesticides infiltrate groundwater and cause diseases. Chronic exposure can lead to leukemia, kidney damage, and liver changes. Specific chemicals like benzene and mercury are highlighted for their severe effects.)
A1. True or False —
State whether the following statements are true or false:
(i) Animal manure does not have any evil effect on groundwater.
(ii) Pollution related health consequences depend on the immunity of the exposed population.
(iii) Only mercury is to be blamed for kidney damage.
(iv) Soil contamination is a potential health hazard.
Answer: (i) False (Nitrate and ammonia from manure are hazards)
(ii) True (Depends on vulnerability/immunity)
(iii) False (Cyclodines also cause kidney damage)
(iv) True
A2. Explain:
Explain from the given extract how soil pollution affects drinking water.
Answer: Soil pollution affects drinking water through the infiltration of soil contaminants into groundwater aquifers. Potentially greater threats are posed by this process, as industrial chemicals and naturally occurring substances like nitrate from manure end up in the water table, resulting in pollution-related diseases for those who drink it.
A3. Find out:
Find out the reasons from the passage why we should avoid chemicals to kill insects.
Answer: We should avoid chemicals (pesticides/herbicides) because constant exposure to them can be carcinogenic (cancer-causing), can cause congenital disorders, and can lead to chronic health conditions. They may also induce headaches, nausea, skin rashes, and neuromuscular blockage.
A4. Vocabulary —
Match the pairs of the words in column ‘A’ with their meanings in column ‘B’:
Column ‘A’Column ‘B’
(i) infiltration(a) process of eating, drinking or using
(ii) inhalation(b) action of increasing strength of solution
(iii) consumption(c) passing of liquid through
(iv) concentration(d) breathing air in
Answer: (i) infiltration — (c) passing of liquid through
(ii) inhalation — (d) breathing air in
(iii) consumption — (a) process of eating, drinking or using
(iv) concentration — (b) action of increasing strength of solution
A5. Personal response:
Suggest two steps to keep away from the use of chemicals in home.
Answer: 1. Use Natural Cleaners: Replace chemical floor cleaners and sprays with natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon.
2. Organic Pest Control: Use herbal repellents like neem oil or citronella instead of chemical insect sprays to keep insects away.
A6. Grammar —
Rewrite the following sentences in the ways instructed:
(i) Potentially greater threats are posed by the infiltration of soil contamination. (Begin with – ‘The infiltration of soil contamination ........’ and rewrite.)
(ii) There is an entire spectrum of further health effects. (Rewrite, using Present Perfect Tense)
Answer: (i) The infiltration of soil contamination poses potentially greater threats.
(ii) There has been an entire spectrum of further health effects.

(B) Summary

Summarise the above extract with the help of the points given and suggest a suitable title:
Health and groundwater problem – bad effects of chemicals – industrial and man-made concentration – pollutants related diseases.
Answer:
Hazards of Soil and Groundwater Pollution

Soil pollution poses severe health risks through direct contact, inhalation, and infiltration into groundwater aquifers. This contamination, caused by industrial pollutants like lead and petroleum, as well as agricultural nitrates, leads to serious diseases. Chronic exposure to chemicals like benzene, mercury, and pesticides can result in leukemia, kidney damage, liver failure, and congenital disorders. The effects range from headaches and nausea to fatal conditions, making soil contamination a critical public health hazard.

SECTION - II
(Poetry)

Q. 4. Read the given extract and then do all the activities that follow:

I ran into a stranger as he passed by...
"Oh, excuse me please" was my reply.
He said, "Please excuse me too; wasn't even watching for you."
...
But at home a different story is told,
How we treat our loved ones, young and old.
Later that day, cooking the evening meal,
My daughter stood beside me very still.
When I turned, I nearly knocked her down.
"Move out of the way," I said with a frown.
She walked away, her little heart broken.
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
A1. Table —
Complete the following table about the mother’s treatment:
PersonsOccasionReaction
Stranger
Daughter
Answer:
PersonsOccasionReaction
StrangerRan into him / He passed byPolite apology ("Oh, excuse me please") / Said good-bye
DaughterStood beside mother while she was cooking / Nearly knocked downScolded harshly ("Move out of the way") / Frowned
A2. Poetic device —
Figure of speech:
Identify and explain the figure of speech in the line given below:
“We went on our way and we said good-bye.”
Answer: Alliteration: The sound of the letter 'w' is repeated in the words 'We', 'went', and 'way' for poetic effect.
(Also: Repetition - The word "we" is repeated.)
A3. Personal response —
Mention at least two occasions when your parents scolded you and write the reason behind scolding.
Answer: 1. Once, my parents scolded me when I returned home very late at night without informing them. The reason was their concern for my safety.
2. Another time, they scolded me for spending too much time playing video games instead of studying for my exams, as they were worried about my academic performance.
A4. Creativity —
Compose two rhyming lines of your own, expressing your love towards your friend.
Answer: Through every storm and sunny day,
You guide me with your friendship's ray.
SECTION - III
(Rapid Reading and Composition)

Q. 5. (A) Read the extract and do the activities that follow:

(Extract Summary: Set in a concentration camp, the narrator spots a little girl across the barbed wire. He asks for food. She doesn't understand German, but responds to Polish. She throws him an apple. He grabs it and runs, hearing "I'll see you tomorrow." She returns daily with bread or an apple. Her kindness gives him hope.)
A1. Select —
Select two most appropriate statements that describe the extract exactly:
(i) The extract describes how a girl helped the narrator.
(ii) The girl could understand the narrator’s need as she knew German.
(iii) Everyday the girl gave an apple to the narrator.
(iv) The unafraid and kind girl gave the narrator hope of life.
Answer: The correct statements are:
(i) The extract describes how a girl helped the narrator.
(iv) The unafraid and kind girl gave the narrator hope of life.
A2. Provide imaginary ending:
Provide a different ending to the extract in about 50 words.
Answer: One day, the girl did not appear. I waited by the fence, heart pounding with worry. Suddenly, a guard shouted, and I ran. Years later, as a free man, I visited that village. I found an old apple orchard and a woman with the same luminous curls. She smiled; she had survived too.

(B) Read the extract and do the activities that follow:

(Extract Summary: George and Bert run "The Do and Dare Club" for brave fellows. Tom and Ginger want to join. George says no one must show fear. They are in a strange, dark house. A scream is heard. George pretends not to be scared and sets a condition: they can join if they investigate the noise without showing fear. Ginger challenges George, asking what if *he* gets scared. George admits if he gets scared, he'll let them join anyway.)
B1. Complete —
Complete the following sentences:
George is ready to let his friends join ‘The Do and Dare Club’ if—
(i) ____________________
(ii) ____________________
Answer: (i) they don't show a sign of fear while investigating the queer noise.
(ii) he gets scared himself.
B2. Convert dialogue into a story:
Convert the extract into a story in about 50 words.
Answer: George boasted about his "Do and Dare Club," claiming it was only for the brave. When Tom and Ginger asked to join, they were interrupted by a scream. George, trying to maintain his bravado, proposed they investigate the noise together. He promised to admit them if they showed no fear—or if he ended up getting scared himself!
SECTION - IV
(Written Communication)

Q. 6. (A) Letter Writing

(1) Mohan / Mohini Pande, Roll No. 74, of class XII (Arts) has to attend his / her sister’s wedding ceremony held at his / her hometown and needs a leave of absence for 5 days. Imagine yourself to be Mohan / Mohini and write a letter to the Principal, SPW Arts and Commerce College, Akola, requesting him to grant the leave of absence for 5 days.
Mohan Pande, Roll No. 74, Class XII (Arts), SPW Arts and Commerce College, Akola - 444001. 21st February, 2020. To, The Principal, SPW Arts and Commerce College, Akola - 444001. Subject: Application for leave of absence for 5 days. Respected Sir/Madam, I am Mohan Pande, a student of Class XII (Arts), Roll No. 74. I am writing this letter to request a leave of absence from college for five days. My elder sister’s wedding ceremony is scheduled to take place at our hometown in Nagpur next week. Being the only brother, my presence and participation in the arrangements and ceremonies are essential. Therefore, I will need to be away from Akola from 25th February to 29th February 2020. I assure you that I will complete all my missed lessons and assignments promptly upon my return. I humbly request you to grant me leave for these five days. I have attached the wedding invitation card for your reference. Thanking you. Yours obediently, (Signature) Mohan Pande (Roll No. 74)
OR
(2) Your junior college is situated on a narrow but busy road causing traffic congestion and pollution. Noisy horns and constant traffic disturb the classes. Write a letter of complaint to the Chief Officer, Municipality of your town and suggest some solutions.
A-12, Green Avenue, M.G. Road, Pune - 411001. 21st February, 2020. To, The Chief Officer, Pune Municipal Corporation, Pune - 411001. Subject: Complaint regarding traffic congestion and noise pollution near City Junior College. Dear Sir, I am writing to bring to your urgent attention the severe issue of traffic congestion and noise pollution on the narrow road outside City Junior College. The road is constantly jammed with vehicles, leading to incessant honking and high levels of exhaust fumes. This environment is extremely detrimental to the students. The noise disrupts lectures, making it difficult for students to concentrate, while the pollution poses a health hazard to both staff and students. I would like to suggest a few solutions to alleviate this problem: 1. Declare the zone as a "Silent Zone" and enforce strict penalties for honking. 2. Deploy traffic police during college hours to manage the flow of traffic. 3. If possible, divert heavy vehicles to alternate routes during peak school hours. 4. Install speed breakers to slow down traffic and discourage speeding. I hope the municipality will look into this matter seriously and take immediate action to provide a conducive learning environment for the students. Yours faithfully, XYZ (Concerned Citizen/Student)

(B) Write on any ONE of the following items:

(1) Appeal —
In the horrible flood situation, the Kerala state suffered a huge loss. Your organisation has arranged a rally to raise funds to help the flood-affected people in Kerala. Prepare an appeal for the people to contribute to the funds with the help of the following points:
  • Purpose of the rally
  • Time and place of the rally
  • Leading personalities
  • Request for donation
  • Add your own points

STAND WITH KERALA!

Rally for Relief & Rehabilitation

The devastating floods in Kerala have left thousands homeless and in despair. Humanity calls! Are you listening? The "Youth for Change Organization" is organizing a massive SOLIDARITY RALLY to raise funds and collect essential supplies for our brothers and sisters in Kerala. Date: Sunday, 1st March 2020 Time: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM Venue: Starting from Azad Maidan to Gateway of India. Leading the Rally: Distinguished Social Activist Mr. Anna Hazare & Renowned Actor Mr. Nana Patekar will grace the occasion. WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT! Join us in large numbers. Your presence is our strength. Donate generously - Cash, Clothes, Dry Food, Medicines. "Every penny counts, every hand helps." For donations and details contact: Secretary, Youth for Change Mobile: 9876543210
OR
(2) News writing —
Draft a news on any ONE of the following headlines, giving dateline, intro and a continuing paragraph:
(i) Teacher’s Day celebrated in Adarsh School
(ii) Strike of Bus Drivers Paralyses State
Strike of Bus Drivers Paralyses State MUMBAI, Feb 22: The state-wide indefinite strike called by the State Transport Bus Drivers' Union has brought public transportation to a grinding halt, leaving thousands of commuters stranded across Maharashtra since early Monday morning. The strike, aimed at demanding a wage hike and better working conditions, has severely affected daily life. Office goers, students, and inter-city travelers were seen waiting helplessly at bus depots in major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. While private bus operators have hiked their fares taking advantage of the situation, the government has appealed to the drivers to call off the strike and come to the negotiating table. "We will not return to the wheel until our demands are met," stated the Union leader. The administration has deployed extra local trains and allowed private vehicles to operate as passenger transport temporarily to ease the chaos.

(C) (1) Counter-view

Read the following View Section and develop a Counter-view Section in about 120 words. Suggest a suitable title:
View Section: ‘Mobiles should be allowed in classrooms’
  • Mobiles are good source of information
  • They are easy to handle
  • They provide videos to understand the topic
  • Information can be easily exchanged.
Mobiles in Classrooms: A Distraction, Not a Tool While many argue that mobile phones facilitate learning, allowing them in classrooms would do more harm than good. The primary concern is distraction; instead of focusing on the lecture, students are likely to be engrossed in social media, games, or chatting, disrupting the discipline of the class. Furthermore, the claim that information can be easily exchanged often translates to academic dishonesty, with students sharing answers during tests. Not all students can afford high-end smartphones, which creates a complex of inferiority and inequality within the classroom. Relying on videos for understanding topics undermines the role of the teacher and reduces the habit of reading books. Additionally, prolonged screen time causes health issues like eye strain. Therefore, classrooms should remain a gadget-free zone to ensure focused and disciplined learning.
OR
(2) Information transfer —
Look at the tree diagram given below and write a short paragraph about Kaldhari in about 120 words. Suggest a suitable title.
(Diagram content: Kaldhari -> Cleanliness (cement road, tap water, toilet blocks, public lavatories), Energy sources (Solar and wind), Milk Co-operatives (Milk chilling centres), Rainwater harvesting (tree plantation), Massive awareness drive (anti-alcohol drive))
Kaldhari: A Model Village of Development Kaldhari has emerged as a shining example of rural development through a holistic approach to self-sufficiency and sustainability. The village's progress is categorized into key sectors: cleanliness, energy, co-operatives, environmental conservation, and social awareness. In terms of cleanliness and infrastructure, the village boasts a cement-concretised central road, tap water for households, and the construction of toilet blocks and public lavatories to ensure hygiene. For its energy needs, Kaldhari has embraced renewable sources, utilizing solar and wind energy. The economic backbone is strengthened by Milk Co-operatives which have established milk chilling centres. Environmental responsibility is evident through rainwater harvesting initiatives coupled with extensive tree plantation. Furthermore, the village exhibits strong social consciousness through a massive awareness drive, specifically focusing on an anti-alcohol campaign. Kaldhari truly represents an ideal model for modern rural India.

Q. 7. (A) Interview questions:

Your college has invited a dietitian on the occasion of ‘World Health Day’. Imagine you are the editor of your college magazine, taking interview of the dietitian. Frame a set of 8 to 10 questions to interview him / her.
Answer: Interview Questions for Dietitian:
  1. Good morning, Doctor. What inspired you to choose dietetics and nutrition as your career path?
  2. On World Health Day, what is the most important message you would like to give to our students?
  3. In today's fast-paced life, how important is breakfast, and what constitutes an ideal breakfast for a student?
  4. Many teenagers are addicted to junk food. What are the long-term health risks associated with this?
  5. Could you suggest some natural foods that help improve memory and concentration during exams?
  6. Is it necessary to take health supplements, or can a balanced diet fulfill all nutritional needs?
  7. How much water should an average student drink daily to stay hydrated and healthy?
  8. What is your opinion on the 'crash diets' that are popular on social media for quick weight loss?
  9. How does stress affect our eating habits, and how can we manage it through food?
  10. Finally, what are some simple, healthy snacking habits we can adopt starting today?

Q. 7. (B) Speech drafting —

Imagine your college is organising a speech competition on the topic ‘Disappearing Birds’. Prepare a speech in about 100 words with the help of the following points:
  • Role of birds
  • Causes behind their disappearance
  • Ways to call them back
  • Add your ideas.
Disappearing Birds: A Silent Crisis Respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends, Good morning. Today, I stand before you to speak on a topic that demands our immediate attention—‘Disappearing Birds’. Do you remember waking up to the chirping of sparrows? That sound is becoming a rare luxury. Birds are nature’s farmers; they control pests, pollinate flowers, and spread seeds. Without them, our ecosystem would collapse. However, rapid urbanization, deforestation, and the excessive use of pesticides are driving them to extinction. The radiation from mobile towers is also a suspected silent killer. But it is not too late. We can call them back. Let us plant more fruit-bearing trees, place water bowls on our balconies, and stop using chemical pesticides in our gardens. Let us be the voice for these voiceless creatures before the skies fall silent forever. Thank you.
Name Page No. 1 Name Page No. 2 Name Page No. 3 Name Page No. 4 Name Page No. 5 Name Page No. 7 Name Page No. 8 Name Page No. 10 Name Page No. 11 Name Page No. 12 Name Page No. 13 Name Page No. 14 Name Page No. 15 Name Page No. 16 Name Page No. 17 Name Page No. 17 HSC 12th Board Exam Question Paper
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HSC English Board Exam Paper 2020 Solutions SET B (Maharashtra Board)

Solution: HSC English Board Exam Paper 2020 (Set J-301/B)

SECTION - I
(Reading Skill, Grammar, Vocabulary, Note-making and Summary)
Q. 1. (A)
Read the first activity, read the extract and then do all the activities:
Extract Summary: The passage describes people gathering at the gate of a garden. They fill their sacks with apples and mangoes but empty them when they see better fruits (gold/silver) further inside. Greed takes over. Finally, they reach a raging stream they cannot cross with heavy sacks. A young man abandons his sack to swim across, and others follow, leaving their riches behind.
A1. True / False —
Read the following sentences and write down true sentences:
  1. Everyone gathered late at the gate of the garden.
  2. Everyone emptied their sacks of the fruits they had collected earlier.
  3. People walked up to their king happily.
  4. The stream was narrow, but the current was strong.
Answer:

(ii) Everyone emptied their sacks of the fruits they had collected earlier.

(iv) The stream was narrow, but the current was strong.

A2. Find out the reasons —
Find out the reasons for the following statements:
(i) Everyone emptied their sacks of fruits they had collected earlier _______.
(ii) The people stood by the stream for a long time scratching their heads _______.
Answer:

(i) Everyone emptied their sacks of fruits they had collected earlier because they wanted to fill them up with the precious fruits made of gold and silver and flowers studded with gems and jewels that they saw further in the garden.

(ii) The people stood by the stream for a long time scratching their heads because a raging stream blocked their path. There were no boats, and although they needed to swim across, they didn't know how to do so while carrying such heavy sacks filled with gold and silver fruits.

A3. Point out —
Point out two instances from the passage showing greedy nature of people.
Answer:

(i) The people emptied their sacks of good edible fruits to fill them madly with gold and silver fruits, even though they had enough for their needs.

(ii) Greed took over their minds so completely that all they could think about was adding more and more valuables to their sacks, forgetting their original needs.

A4. Pick out —
Pick out the qualifying words (adjectives) from the extract for the following nouns:
(i) mangoes
(ii) apples
(iii) pomegranates
(iv) flowers
Answer:

(i) mangoes: plump (or silver)

(ii) apples: juicy (or gold)

(iii) pomegranates: ripe

(iv) flowers: colourful (or studded)

A5. Personal response:
"Greed for money is the common tendency of people." Explain in brief.
Answer:

Yes, greed for money is indeed a common tendency. In today's materialistic world, people often equate happiness with wealth. They constantly strive to acquire more than they need to secure their future or show off status, often ignoring ethical values or their own peace of mind. This insatiable desire leads to corruption and unhappiness, as demonstrated in the story where people abandoned actual food for gold they couldn't carry.

A6. Grammar —
Rewrite the following sentences in the ways instructed:
(i) They spotted juicy apples and plump mangoes hanging from the trees. (Rewrite using "not only ... but also".)
(ii) Everyone gathered at the gate of the garden. (Frame a Wh-question to get the underlined part as an answer.)
Answer:

(i) They spotted not only juicy apples but also plump mangoes hanging from the trees.

(ii) Where did everyone gather?

Q. 1. (B) Grammar
Do as directed:
(1) She was serving as ______ clerk in ______ State Bank of India. (Rewrite it using appropriate articles.)
Answer:

She was serving as a clerk in the State Bank of India.

(2) Nashik city recorded 52.7 mm rain ______ 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm on Friday. (Fill in the blanks with suitable prepositions.)
Answer:

Nashik city recorded 52.7 mm rain between 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm on Friday.

(3) Grandpa said to Meenu, "I am going for a walk. Are you willing to come with me?" (Change it into indirect narration.)
Answer:

Grandpa told Meenu that he was going for a walk and asked her if she was willing to come with him.

12th English Board Papers

Q. 2. (A)
Read the first activity, read the extract and then do all the activities:
Extract Summary: A fable about an animal school with a standardized curriculum (running, climbing, swimming, flying) for all. The duck is good at swimming but hurt his feet running; the squirrel failed flying; the eagle was a "problem child" for climbing to the top his own way. An eel with average skills becomes valedictorian. Prairie dogs stay out because digging isn't included.
A1. Choose —
Choose two sentences that appropriately mention the theme of the passage:
  1. The same scale should not be used for all to measure their performance.
  2. Private schools are good to develop individual's interest.
  3. The same curriculum should be given to all for better results.
  4. Trying for all the subjects irrespective of the individual's interest may lead to frustration.
Answer:

(i) The same scale should not be used for all to measure their performance.

(iv) Trying for all the subjects irrespective of the individual's interest may lead to frustration.

A2. Complete —
Complete the following statements by giving suitable reasons:
(i) The duck was average in swimming, because ....
(ii) The squirrel could score only C in climbing, because ....
Answer:

(i) The duck was average in swimming, because he had to drop swimming practice and stay after school to practice running, which caused his webbed feet to be badly worn.

(ii) The squirrel could score only C in climbing, because he developed a "Charlie horse" from overexertion in the flying class where the teacher made him start from the ground up.

A3. Guess:
Guess the result of the prairie dogs if they had been given admission in the animal school and support your guessing with the facts from the extract.
Answer:

If the prairie dogs had been given admission, they would likely have failed or been very frustrated. This is because the school's curriculum consisted only of running, climbing, swimming, and flying, but did not include "digging and burrowing," which is the prairie dogs' natural strength and interest.

A4. Vocabulary —
Fill in the blanks with appropriate words given in the box and rewrite:
[valedictorian, curriculum, frustration, administer]
(i) Varun who topped the college was declared .....
(ii) The ..... of the school should involve more activity subjects.
(iii) Poor performance in the exams develop ..... among the students.
(iv) It's necessary to ..... the programme, so that it will be successful.
Answer:

(i) Varun who topped the college was declared valedictorian.

(ii) The curriculum of the school should involve more activity subjects.

(iii) Poor performance in the exams develop frustration among the students.

(iv) It's necessary to administer the programme, so that it will be successful.

A5. Personal response:
Suggest in about 50 words at least two ways to make the learning enjoyable.
Answer:

To make learning enjoyable, schools should allow students to choose subjects based on their natural aptitudes and interests rather than forcing a rigid curriculum on everyone. Additionally, incorporating practical, activity-based learning and games instead of rote memorization keeps students engaged and motivated.

A6. Grammar —
(i) The eagle was a problem child and was disciplined severely. (Make it a complex sentence.)
(ii) An abnormal eel could swim exceedingly well. (Rewrite the sentence using 'able to'.)
Answer:

(i) As/Since/Because the eagle was a problem child, he was disciplined severely.
OR
The eagle, who was a problem child, was disciplined severely.

(ii) An abnormal eel was able to swim exceedingly well.

Q. 2. (B) Note-making
Read the following extract and complete the notes given below:
Topic: Sudha Murthy - Biography, Education, Career, and Social Work.
Sudha Murthy

B1. Early life and education —
  • (i) Birthplace: Shiggaon in Karnataka
  • (ii) Education:
    • B.E. from B.V. B. College of Engineering, with gold medal.
    • M.E. in Computer Science from the Indian Institute of Science, with gold medal from the Indian Institute of Engineers.
B2. Career
  • : First female engineer hired at TELCO (Tata Engineering and Locomotive Company).
  • ♦ Senior System Analyst in Walchand Group of Industries, Pune.
  • Started Infosys Foundation in 1996 and has been a Visiting Professor at the P.G. centre of Bangalore University.
B3. Social activities
  • : ♦ Set 50,000 libraries
  • ♦ Several hundred toilets in Bangalore and 10,000 public toilets in rural areas.
  • ♦ Built 2,300 houses in the flood-affected areas.
Q. 3. (A)
Read the first activity, read the extract and then do all the activities:
Extract Summary: The passage discusses soil pollution and its health hazards. Contaminants infiltrate groundwater, causing diseases. Chemicals like benzene, mercury, cyclodines, etc., cause cancer, kidney damage, and other issues.
A1. True or False —
State whether the following statements are true or false:
(i) Animal manure does not have any evil effect on groundwater.
(ii) Pollution related health consequences depend on the immunity of the exposed population.
(iii) Only mercury is to be blamed for kidney damage.
(iv) Soil contamination is a potential health hazard.
Answer:

(i) False (The text mentions nitrate and ammonia from livestock manure are health hazards.)

(ii) True (Text says "vulnerability of the exposed population".)

(iii) False (Text mentions "Mercury and cyclodines" and "chlorinated solvents".)

(iv) True

A2. Explain:
Explain from the given extract how soil pollution affects drinking water.
Answer:

Soil pollution affects drinking water when soil contaminants infiltrate into groundwater aquifers. This contamination of the groundwater leads to the development of pollution-related diseases for those who consume this water.

A3. Find out:
Find out the reasons from the passage why we should avoid chemicals to kill insects.
Answer:

We should avoid chemicals (pesticides/herbicides) because constant exposure to them can be carcinogenic (cancer-causing), can cause congenital disorders, chronic health conditions, and may infiltrate groundwater causing further health issues.

A4. Vocabulary —
Match the pairs of the words in column 'A' with their meanings in column 'B':
Answer:

(i) infiltration — (c) passing of liquid through

(ii) inhalation — (d) breathing air in

(iii) consumption — (a) process of eating, drinking or using

(iv) concentration — (b) action of increasing strength of solution

A5. Personal response:
Suggest two steps to keep away from the use of chemicals in home.
Answer:

1. We can use natural cleaning agents like vinegar, lemon, and baking soda instead of harsh chemical cleaners.
2. We should wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with salt water or ozonizers to remove surface chemical residues before consumption.

A6. Grammar —
(i) Potentially greater threats are posed by the infiltration of soil contamination. (Begin with - 'The infiltration of soil contamination ........' and rewrite.)
(ii) There is an entire spectrum of further health effects. (Rewrite, using Present Perfect Tense)
Answer:

(i) The infiltration of soil contamination poses potentially greater threats.

(ii) There has been an entire spectrum of further health effects.

Q. 3. (B) Summary
Summarise the above extract with the help of the points given and suggest a suitable title.

Soil Contamination: A Silent Killer

Soil pollution negatively impacts human health through direct contact, inhalation, or the infiltration of contaminants into groundwater aquifers. The severity of health hazards depends on the pollutant type and human vulnerability. Exposure to chemicals like lead, pesticides, and benzene can cause cancer, congenital disorders, and leukemia, while mercury and others damage kidneys and the liver. Even natural substances like nitrates from manure pose risks. Ultimately, soil contaminants entering the body via water or direct contact can lead to chronic diseases or even death.

SECTION - II
(Poetry)
Q. 4.
Read the given extract and then do all activities that follow:
"I celebrate the virtues and vices / of suburban middle-class people / Who overwhelm the refrigerator / ... / We heroes and poor devils..."
A1. Web —
Complete the web diagram by giving the features of suburban middle class people and their mentality from the extract.
Answer:
  • Buying dream on credit
  • Overwhelm the refrigerator
  • Heroes and poor devils / feeble / braggarts
  • Capable of everything impossible (as long as it's not seen)
A2. Poetic device —
Figure of speech: "We heroes and poor devils..."
Name the figure of speech in the above lines and find out another example of the same from the extract and write it down.
Answer:

Figure of Speech: Oxymoron (or Antithesis).

Explanation: Contradictory terms "heroes" and "poor devils" are placed together.

Another Example: "I celebrate the virtues and vices"

A3. Personal response:
"Middle-class people are ambitious and active in our country." Explain your views in brief.
Answer:

I agree. The middle class forms the backbone of the economy. They are constantly striving to improve their standard of living, often balancing dreams with reality. They are ambitious, valuing education and career growth to secure a better future for their children, which makes them very active and driven in society.

A4. Poetic creativity —
The word order in line no. 1 and 3 has been changed (Inversion). Compose two lines of your own using inversion in the blank lines.
The virtues and vices, I celebrate
....................................................
The refrigerator, we overwhelm
....................................................
Answer:

The virtues and vices, I celebrate
A happy song, I sing.

The refrigerator, we overwhelm
To the market, we go.

SECTION - III
(Rapid Reading and Composition)
Q. 5. (A)
Read the extract and do the activities that follow:
Extract Context: A narrative about a "Pink Lady" (Mrs. Green) visiting the narrator and her mother. She was thought to be dead/a skeleton found earlier, but she returns alive, revealing she ran away from her philandering husband to Sierra Leone.
A1. True / False —
Answer:

(i) The lady standing in the doorway was Mrs Green. — True (Though narrator first thought Miss Marple, she introduces herself as Mrs Green).

(ii) The lady wanted to stay on that day in Green's hotel. — True (She says "I may want a room for a day or two").

(iii) Miss Kellner convinced all that Mr Green was not a philanderer. — False (The text says "everyone knew Mr Green was a philanderer").

(iv) There were no good relations between Mrs Green and her father. — True ("My father and I were never very close").

A2. Convert into a dialogue:
Convert the above extract into a dialogue form.
Answer:

Narrator: (Exclaiming) Miss Marple!

Pink Lady: May I come in?

Mother: Please come in. Do sit down. Do you require a room?

Pink Lady: Not today, thank you. I'm staying with Padre Dutt. He insisted on putting me up. But I may want a room for a day or two - just for old times' sake.

Mother: You have stayed here before.

Pink Lady: A long time ago. I'm Mrs Green, you know. The missing Mrs Green.

Mother: (Stammering) Then - then, you aren't the skeleton?

Mrs Green: Do I look like a skeleton?

Narrator & Mother: No!

Narrator: But we heard you disappeared, and when we found that skeleton -

Mrs Green: You put two and two together.

Q. 5. (B)
Read the extract and do the activities that follow:
Extract Context: A play scene where boys (Tom, Ginger, George, Alfie) are at a Dentist's house. They were scared by a skull and "grinning things" (teeth models). The Dentist clarifies they are his models.
B1. Complete —
Answer:

(i) The white grinning things were actually models used for fitting artificial teeth.

(ii) The name of the little prize exhibit was Percy.

(iii) The awful screams came from some of the dentist's patients in the surgery.

(iv) There was only a single boy who did not get scared. He was George.

B2. Convert the dialogue into a story:
Convert the above extract into a story form in about 50 words.
Answer:

Tom, Ginger, and Alfie were terrified after seeing a skull and grinning teeth at the dentist's house, fearing a murder. The dentist laughed and explained that the teeth were his workmanship models and the skull, named Percy, was an ornament. He added that the screams were just patients. Only George hadn't been scared, though he got nervous when the dentist recognized him as a patient with bad teeth.

SECTION - IV
(Written Communication)
Q. 6. (A) Letter Writing
Write any ONE of the following letters:
Option 1: Leave Application
Imagine yourself to be Mohan / Mohini Pande. Write a letter to the Principal requesting leave for 5 days for a sister's wedding.
Model Answer:
Mohan Pande, Roll No. 74, Class XII (Arts), SPW Arts and Commerce College, Akola - 444001. 21st February 2020 To, The Principal, SPW Arts and Commerce College, Akola. Subject: Application for leave of absence for 5 days. Respected Sir, I am Mohan Pande, a student of Class XII (Arts), Roll No. 74. I am writing to request your permission for a leave of absence from college for five days, from 25th February 2020 to 29th February 2020. My elder sister’s wedding ceremony is scheduled to take place at our hometown during this period. As a family member, my presence is required for the preparations and the ceremony. I assure you that I will complete all missed notes and assignments immediately upon my return. I kindly request you to grant me leave for these days. Thanking you. Yours obediently, (Signature) Mohan Pande Roll No. 74, Std. XII (Arts)
Q. 6. (B) Appeal / News
Write on any ONE of the following items:
Option 1: Appeal (Flood Relief)
Model Answer:

HELP KERALA RISE AGAIN!

A Humble Appeal for Flood Victims

The devastating floods in Kerala have left thousands homeless and helpless. Lives have been lost, and property destroyed.

Join the Rally for Humanity!

Organised by: The Youth Social Welfare Club

  • Date: Sunday, 25th February 2020
  • Time: 9:00 AM onwards
  • Venue: Gandhi Maidan to Town Hall

Chief Guest: Shri. A.K. Sharma (Social Activist)

We request all citizens to donate generously:

✓ Dry Food Packets
✓ Clothes & Blankets
✓ Medicines
✓ Cash contributions

"Your small contribution can save a life."

Contact: Secretary, Youth Club (9876543210)

Q. 6. (C) Counter-view / Information Transfer
Option 1: Counter-view
Topic: 'Mobiles should be allowed in classrooms' (View Section provided). Develop a Counter-view.
Model Answer:
Mobiles in Classrooms: A Distraction, Not a Tool While many argue that mobile phones are a great source of information, allowing them in classrooms would do more harm than good. The primary purpose of a classroom is focused learning, and mobile phones are the ultimate weapon of mass distraction. Firstly, instead of using them for study, students are more likely to spend time on social media, gaming, or chatting, breaking the concentration of the entire class. Secondly, it creates disparity between students who own expensive high-end phones and those who don't, leading to inferiority complexes. Furthermore, easy access to information via Google discourages critical thinking and the habit of reading books. Teachers are present to explain concepts and videos; we do not need personal screens for that. Therefore, to maintain discipline and academic integrity, mobiles should be strictly banned in classrooms.
Q. 7. Interview / Speech
(A) Interview Questions:
Frame 8-10 questions to interview a Dietitian on 'World Health Day'.
Model Answer:
Interview with a Dietitian 1. Good morning, Sir/Madam. Welcome to our college. Could you start by telling us what inspired you to become a dietitian? 2. What is the significance of celebrating 'World Health Day' in today's fast-paced world? 3. What does a "balanced diet" actually look like for a growing teenager? 4. Many students skip breakfast due to early classes. How harmful is this practice? 5. Junk food is very popular among youth. What are the long-term effects of consuming it regularly? 6. Are supplements and protein shakes safe for students who are into sports, or should they rely on natural food? 7. How important is water intake, and how much should a student drink daily? 8. Can you suggest some brain-boosting foods that can help students during exam time? 9. What is your opinion on the "crash diets" that people follow to lose weight quickly? 10. Finally, what is your message to our students for leading a healthy lifestyle?
(B) Speech Drafting:
Topic: 'Disappearing Birds'.
Model Answer:
The Case of the Disappearing Birds Respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends, Good morning. Today, I stand before you to speak on a topic of grave concern – "Disappearing Birds". Do you remember waking up to the chirping of sparrows? Sadly, for many of us, that sound is becoming a memory. Birds are vanishing from our skies at an alarming rate. The reasons are man-made: rapid urbanization, cutting down trees which are their homes, and the excessive use of pesticides in farms which poison their food. Furthermore, radiation from mobile towers is often cited as a cause for the decline in the sparrow population. Birds play a crucial role in our ecosystem as pollinators and pest controllers. To bring them back, we must plant more trees, place water bowls on our balconies during summer, and stop using chemical pesticides in our gardens. Let us pledge today to protect our winged friends before they disappear forever. Thank you.
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