Maharashtra State Board HSC - Model Question Paper for 2026 Exam
Subject: English (01) | Marks: 80 | Time: 3 Hrs.
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)
Extract Summary: (Ref: J-101 Passage on Achyut Godbole)
The passage discusses the narrator's transition from a successful career in software companies (CEO/MD roles) to becoming a writer in Marathi. Despite high-paying offers, he chose writing to touch lives. He mentions his books 'Musafir', 'Manat', 'Kimayagar', etc., and how they helped readers overcome depression and gain knowledge. He lists values he cherishes: thirst for knowledge, curiosity, humility, etc.
A1. Read and rewrite the following sentences and state whether they are True or False : (2)
(a) The narrator chose a career in writing over his career in software companies.
(b) The narrator’s success is determined by the sale of his books.
(c) His autobiography has proved itself as a good remedy on depression.
(d) The passage ends on a positive note.
(a) True
(b) False (It is determined by the changes brought in readers' lives, not just sales).
(c) True
(d) True
A2. Give reasons : (2)
(i) The writer could be commercially successful because ................
(ii) The writer is telling his story to the readers because ................
(i) The writer could be commercially successful because most of his 34 books became bestsellers with tens of thousands of copies sold.
(ii) The writer is telling his story to the readers because looking back, there are a number of lessons and values (like thirst for knowledge, humility, etc.) that he cherishes and keeps learning about even today.
A3. Interpret the following statement from the extract : (2)
“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...”
This statement implies that for the author, emotional satisfaction and social impact value more than monetary gain. The feedback regarding how his books helped people fight depression or gain knowledge provides him the motivation and energy to continue writing.
A4. Personal Response : (2)
Write a few sentences about your ‘dream career.’
My dream career is to become a software engineer. I have always been fascinated by how coding can solve complex real-world problems. I want to develop applications that make daily life easier for people while also offering me a challenging and evolving work environment.
A5. Do as directed : (2)
(i) I wanted to return to my first love. (Frame a ‘wh’ question to get the underlined part as the answer. Underlined: to my first love)
(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?
(ii) My book ‘Boardroom’ on management has created at least 20 successful entrepreneurs. (Choose the correct passive voice form)
(a) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs will be created...
(b) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs have been created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
(c) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs has been created...
(d) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs are created...
(i) (c) Where did I want to return?
(ii) (b) At least 20 successful entrepreneurs have been created by my book ‘Boardroom’ on management.
A6. Vocabulary : (2)
Rewrite the given sentences with the appropriate word given in the bracket : (existence, management, entrepreneurs, rationally, symphony, autobiography)
(i) There is no human _____ on Mars.
(ii) _____ of emotions make a relation musical.
(iii) ‘My experiments With Truth’ is a famous _____.
(iv) Time _____ is very significant during examination.
(i) existence
(ii) symphony
(iii) autobiography
(iv) management
B1. Language Study (Non-Textual Grammar) (4)
Do as directed:
(1) I can teach four languages including French. (Choose the correct option replacing the modal auxiliary showing ‘compulsion’)
(i) I should teach... (ii) I may teach... (iii) I must teach... (iv) I will teach...
(2) Netra is always interested in school excursions. (Choose the correct Rhetorical question)
(i) Hasn’t Netra always been interested in school excursions?
(ii) Is Netra always interested in school excursions?
(iii) Was Netra always interested in school excursions?
(iv) Isn’t Netra always interested in school excursions?
(3) Spot the error and rewrite the correct sentence:
English movies has entertained the world.
(1) (iii) I must teach four languages including French.
(2) (iv) Isn’t Netra always interested in school excursions?
(3) English movies have entertained the world. (Subject 'movies' is plural).
Q. 2. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below : (12)
Extract Summary: (Ref: J-311 Passage on The Moon)
The moon is Earth's inseparable companion and satellite. Though called a satellite, it is large, sometimes called a double planet with Earth. It orbits Earth at varying distances (3,53,000 to 4,05,500 km) taking approx 27 days, 7 hours. It rotates on its axis in the same time it orbits Earth, resulting in us seeing only one face. It is lighter and smaller (1/50th volume, 1/80th mass) than Earth.
A1. Find out two correct statements from the given options and rewrite them : (2)
(a) The moon is light in weight and small in volume.
(b) The moon is a smaller satellite compared to many other satellites of other planets.
(c) The moon does not turn on its axis at all just as the earth does.
(d) The moon takes 27 days, 7 hours, 11 minutes and 5 seconds for one complete revolution.
(a) The moon is light in weight and small in volume.
(d) The moon takes 27 days, 7 hours, 11 minutes and 5 seconds for one complete revolution.
A2. Complete the web diagram given below: (2)
(Topic: Features of the moon)
- It is a satellite of the Earth.
- It is much bigger than satellites of other planets.
- Its diameter is one-fourth that of the Earth.
- It rises in the East and sets in the West.
A3. Explain the reason for the variation in the duration for the moon’s single complete revolution. (2)
The duration of the moon's revolution varies because the moon, like all planets, is constantly under the gravitational influences of other planets, the earth, and the sun.
A4. Describe ‘Moon’ - as a satellite in your own words. (2)
The moon is Earth's closest celestial neighbor and natural satellite. Although technically a satellite, its large size relative to Earth makes the pair resemble a double planet system. It is tidally locked, showing only one face to Earth, and influences our planet through gravity.
A5. Language Study : (2)
(i) The moon is nearer to the earth than any other heavenly bodies. (Change to Positive degree)
(a) The moon is nearer... (b) Very few heavenly bodies... (c) No other heavenly body is as near to the earth as the moon. (d) The moon is the nearest...
(ii) The unseen face is called the far side. (Rewrite beginning with 'We...')
(a) We called... (b) We called... (c) We call the unseen face as far side. (d) We calls...
(i) (c) No other heavenly body is as near to the earth as the moon.
(ii) (c) We call the unseen face as far side.
A6. Vocabulary (Match the columns): (2)
(i) Surface - (a) the amount of space
(ii) Volume - (b) a straight line...
(iii) Diameter - (c) curved path...
(iv) Orbit - (d) Top or flat part of thing
(i) Surface - (d) Top or flat part of thing
(ii) Volume - (a) the amount of space
(iii) Diameter - (b) a straight line that goes from one side to the other side of a circle
(iv) Orbit - (c) Curved path taken by a planet as it moves around another planet
(B) Summarising : (3)
Write a ‘Summary’ of the above extract (The Moon) by using the following points: Space companion — revolution — gravity — features.
Our Companion: The Moon
The moon is Earth’s closest space companion and natural satellite, significantly larger than other planetary satellites. It orbits the Earth in approximately 27 days, a duration influenced by the gravitational pull of the sun and other planets. Interestingly, its rotation period matches its revolution, causing us to see only one side. Physically, it is smaller and lighter than Earth, with a diameter only one-fourth of our planet's.
(C) Mind Mapping : (3)
Prepare a mind map on the topic ‘Benefits of English Language.’ Frame/design using your ideas/thoughts/concepts to illustrate.
|
+-- Global Communication
| |-- Business / Trade
| |-- Travel / Tourism
|
+-- Education
| |-- Higher Studies abroad
| |-- Access to Internet Knowledge
|
+-- Employment
| |-- MNC Jobs
| |-- Better Salary
|
+-- Entertainment
| |-- Movies / Literature
| |-- Social Media
SECTION - II : POETRY
(Poetry and Appreciation)
Q. 3. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below : (10)
Poem: She Walks in Beauty (Lord Byron)
"She walks in beauty, like the night / Of cloudless climes and starry skies..."
A1. Theme: (2)
Select and write the two statements from the given list which justify the theme of the poem.
(a) The poet is blunt and direct in his expression of love.
(b) Internal beauty is as important as the external beauty.
(c) The poet is in love with lady’s outward beauty.
(d) Beauty lies in the eyes of beholder.
(b) Internal beauty is as important as the external beauty.
(d) Beauty lies in the eyes of beholder.
A2. Poetic Device (Antithesis): (2)
Find out and explain an example of ‘Antithesis’ from the given extract.
Line: "And all that’s best of dark and bright"
Explanation: The opposite words 'dark' and 'bright' are placed together to describe the perfect balance of light in the woman's beauty.
A3. Personal Response: (2)
Write your idea of ‘a beautiful person’ in your own words.
To me, a beautiful person is defined more by their character than their physical appearance. A person who is kind, compassionate, and has a positive outlook on life radiates a beauty that lasts longer than mere physical features.
A4. Creativity: (2)
Compose a poem of your own in about 2 to 4 lines on the topic ‘Beauty’.
Not in the mirror, nor on the face,
Does true beauty find its place.
But in a heart that's kind and free,
Lives the beauty that I see.
(B) Appreciation : (4)
Read the extract (Father Returning Home - J-101) and write the appreciation of the poem.
"My father travels on the late evening train / Standing among silent commuters..."
Title: Father Returning Home
Poet: Dilip Chitre
Theme: The poem deals with the themes of alienation, isolation, and the generation gap in a modern urban setting. It depicts the dull, monotonous routine of an elderly father who is unnoticed by the world and his own family.
Poetic Devices: The poet uses free verse (no rhyme scheme). Notable figures of speech include Simile ("Like a word dropped from a long sentence") and Alliteration.
Message: It highlights the pitiable condition of the elderly in cities, urging us to be more sensitive towards our parents.
SECTION - III : WRITING SKILLS
Q. 4. Complete the activities as per the instructions given below :
(A) Attempt ‘Any One’: (4)
Drafting a Virtual Message:
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 official work. Sunny tries to call but fails due to connectivity. Draft a virtual message (50 words) to convey this news.
MESSAGE
Date: 21st Feb 2026 Time: 4:00 PM
To: Papa
Tried calling you multiple times but couldn't connect. I have great news! I have been selected for the final round of the singing competition. The finals are next week. I will need your blessings. Call me when you get network.
From: Sunny
(B) Attempt ‘Any One’: (4)
Interview:
Imagine you wish to conduct an interview of a ‘Social Worker’. Draft 8-10 questions based on: Early interests, Challenges, Role models, Achievements, Future plans.
Interview with Mr. S. Rao (Social Worker)
- Good morning Sir, what motivated you to choose social service over a corporate career?
- Who was your role model during your formative years?
- What were the biggest challenges you faced when you started your NGO?
- How do you balance your personal life with the demanding nature of your work?
- Could you share one achievement that is closest to your heart?
- How do you handle lack of funds or government support in your projects?
- What is your opinion on the youth's participation in social causes today?
- What are your future plans for the expansion of your organization?
(C) Attempt ‘Any One’: (4)
Speech:
Imagine you are preparing for an elocution competition on the topic ‘Green Revolution’. Draft a speech in about 150 words.
Honorable Judges, Teachers, and my dear friends,
Good morning. Today, I stand before you to speak on the topic "Green Revolution." When we hear this term, we think of lush fields and abundant grains. The Green Revolution, initiated in the 1960s, was a turning point for India, transforming us from a food-deficient nation to a food-surplus one.
Thanks to high-yielding variety seeds, modern irrigation, and fertilizers, our farmers could feed millions. However, we must also look at the other side of the coin. Excessive use of chemicals has degraded our soil quality and depleted groundwater tables. The need of the hour is a "Second Green Revolution" – one that is sustainable and organic.
Let us pledge to support sustainable farming practices to ensure that our granaries remain full without harming Mother Earth.
Thank you.
(D) Attempt ‘Any One’: (4)
Blog Writing:
Write a Blog on ‘Solar Energy’ (Renewable source, reduces pollution, subsidy).
The Sun: Our Ultimate Power Source
Posted by: Student Writer | Date: Feb 21, 2026
In a world choking on smoke and battling climate change, the solution shines brightly above us every day. Solar Energy is not just an alternative; it is the future.
Unlike coal or oil, the sun provides a renewable source of energy that will never run out. Switching to solar panels drastically reduces our carbon footprint. While the initial setup cost might seem high, the government offers substantial subsidies to encourage adoption. Plus, think about the electricity bills—they practically vanish!
It's time we stop looking down for oil and start looking up for hope. Let's go Solar!
SECTION - IV : LITERARY GENRE - NOVEL
Q. 5. (A) Complete the activities given below : (4)
(i) Match the columns : (2)
(1) Setting - (a) Course of events
(2) Conflict - (b) Central idea
(3) Plot - (c) The background of the story
(4) Theme - (d) Provides interest and curiosity
(ii) Choose the correct alternative : (2)
(a) Stream of consciousness is a phrase coined by _____ (Virginia Woolf / William James).
(b) The word ‘Novella’ is originated from the _____ word (Spanish / Italian).
(i) (1)-(c), (2)-(d), (3)-(a), (4)-(b)
(ii) (a) William James
(b) Italian
(B) Answer in about 50 words (To Sir, With Love): (4)
(i) Write a character sketch of the narrator E.R. Braithwaite.
(ii) Justify how the half-yearly report was an important event.
(i) E.R. Braithwaite is a sensitive, intelligent, and determined man. Facing racial discrimination in post-war Britain, he takes up teaching. Though initially resentful of the students' behavior, he evolves into a patient and innovative teacher who treats students with respect, eventually winning their trust.
(ii) The half-yearly report was crucial as it showcased the transformation of the students. It allowed the students to present what they learned, demonstrating their academic progress and newfound maturity. It validated Braithwaite’s unconventional teaching methods and proved his success as an educator.
(C) Answer in about 50 words (Around the World in 80 Days): (4)
(i) Compare the characters Passepartout and Detective Fix.
(ii) "Aouda’s acceptance of Fogg’s marriage proposal is a pleasant part in the plot." Comment.
(i) Passepartout is loyal, comical, and emotional, acting as a foil to Fogg’s calm nature. In contrast, Detective Fix is suspicious, persistent, and dutiful, chasing Fogg around the world believing him to be a bank robber. While Passepartout aids the journey, Fix tries to hinder it.
(ii) The marriage proposal is the emotional climax of the novel. Fogg, who believed he lost the wager and his fortune, finds that he has won love. Aouda's acceptance humanizes Fogg, proving that relationships are more valuable than the wager itself, providing a heartwarming ending.
(D) Answer in about 50 words (The Sign of Four): (4)
(i) Sherlock Holmes is the leading character in the extract. Elaborate.
(ii) Narrate the case of Miss Morstan in your words.
(i) Sherlock Holmes dominates the scene with his sharp observation and deductive reasoning. Even when inactive, his mind seeks stimulation. He instantly deduces facts about the watch and the visitor, showcasing his intellectual superiority and central role in solving the mystery.
(ii) Miss Mary Morstan’s father disappeared ten years ago. Since then, she has received a valuable pearl annually from an unknown sender. She now received a letter asking her to meet the sender, claiming she is a "wronged woman." She seeks Holmes' help to unravel this mystery.
12th English Board Papers
- English - February 2025 View Answer Key
- English - July 2025 View Answer Key
- English - February 2024 View Answer Key
- English - July 2024 View Answer Key
- English - February 2023 View Answer Key
- English - July 2023 View Answer Key
- English - February 2022 View Answer Key
- English - February 2022 View Answer Key
- English - July 2022 View Answer Key
- English - September 2021 View Answer Key
- English - March 2020 Set A View
- English - March 2020 Set B View
- English - March 2020 Set C View
- English - March 2020 Set D View
- English - March 2014 View
- English - October 2014 View
- English - March 2015 View
- English - July 2015 View
- English - March 2016 Set A View
- English - March 2016 Set B View
- English - March 2016 Set C View
- English - March 2016 Set D View
- English - July 2016 Set A View
- English - July 2016 Set B View
- English - July 2016 Set C View
- English - July 2016 Set D View
- English - March 2017 Set A View
- English - March 2017 Set B View
- English - March 2017 Set C View
- English - March 2017 Set D View
- English - July 2017 Set A View
- English - March 2018 Set A View
- English - March 2018 Set B View
- English - March 2018 Set C View
- English - March 2018 Set D View
- English - March 2019 Set A View
- English - March 2019 Set B View
- English - March 2019 Set C View
- English - March 2019 Set D View
