HS – 2024
SECTION-A
(Reading Skill: 10 Marks)
1. Read the following passage carefully:
A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was a multifaceted personality, a
statesman and visionary and above all a good human being. He
was a brilliant scientist and modern thinker. When I joined him as
Press Secretary after ten days of his becoming President, at his
very first meeting he gave me his vision of a developed India. He
spoke of how he wanted to make Rashtrapati Bhavan a people’s
place where voice of the millions of downtrodden people of India
would be heard and action taken. Indeed during his time
Rashtrapati Bhavan became a people’s place and he became
popular as People’s President. He wanted that institution of the
President to be totally identified by ordinary people.
President Kalam took his Presidency seriously from day one. He was as comfortable with constitutional and legal issues as he was with school children. He was committed to nation-building and created a vision document to make India a developed nation by 2020. He made a powerpoint presentation to senior ministers and bureaucrats on this.
He used to make powerpoint presentations at conferences and seminars both in India and abroad to discuss that vision. On these, he used to work himself and he was very particular about every word and sentence.
He did it during his visits abroad and while meeting dignitaries such as US President George Bush and Pakistan President Pervez Musharaf. When he presented his vision of India’s nuclear energy requirements to Mr. Bush and his vision of a joint fight India and Pakistan could wage against poverty, the
respective Presidents commented that they had to become
scientists to understand the presentation. You can’t think of any other President of a country who would have done that.
His vision for the nation was based on equality, the dignity of the individual and justice, social, economic and political, to every Indian. Only then can India succeed and everybody sing the song of India, he used to say.
I met him last on July 22, five days before his demise. It was a one-on-one meeting that lasted a good 40 minutes. He was full of ideas as always, very active and discussed different subjects. He used to tell me, “Whatever you do, do differently. Wherever you work, leave a mark and be remembered.”
During his presidency he was always comfortable, except on two occasions, when his unease was visible. When he had to give his consent to the Office of Profit Bill, 2006 after it was sent for the second time by the Parliament, and when he had to approve the ordinance on Disqualification of Elected Representatives in 2004 as it was sent to him by the Cabinet for a second time.
He was an icon for the youth. He used to say, “Aiming small is a crime. Youth should have the courage to think differently and explore unexplored paths. Difficulties would come but don’t be afraid of them-overcome them with your intellect and hard work.”
The man who pioneered India’s missile programme was always proud of his work at the Indian Space Research Organisation and other scientific institutions. He used to believe that a scientific approach could find a solution to every problem.
He was an ardent secularist, and also a religious man. He believed that all religions are like beautiful islands; but there is no connectivity between them. We should strive to achieve this connectivity and transform religion into spirituality. For him religion and morality were the same.
A man of vision, he always worked in mission mode. He had a mission to meet 10 lakh students and interact with them. He completed this when he left Rashtrapati Bhavan. He continued with this till his last breath. His childlike simplicity was an instant hit.
He got the sobriquet of being the People’s President because of his humility and accessibility. President Kalam always worked towards building consensus rather than ramming down decisions.
He came from a modest background, but educated himself and worked hard to rise to the top. He was simply the missile man whose books were prime-sellers, whose lectures were always housed full. He was adored by children as he would give them easy-to-digest messages.
On the basis of your understanding of the passage answer the following questions:
(i) Which of the following traits explain in a single word the many qualities of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam? 1
1. Brilliant scientist
2. Visionary
3. Statesman
4. Multifaceted
Ans:- 4. Multifaceted
(ii) What was so special about A. P. J. Abdul Kalam that no other president could do? 2
Ans:- A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was a scientist and statesman who served as the 11th president of India from 2002 to 2007. Kalam was known for his contributions to India’s civilian space program and military missile development efforts, earning him the nickname “Missile Man of India”. He was also a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor.
(iii) Which of the qualities made him loved by children? 2
Ans:- APJ Abdul Kalam was loved by children for several qualities, including:
1. Simple and humble nature: Despite being a highly educated and accomplished individual, Kalam remained humble and down-to-earth, making him relatable and accessible to children.
2. Passion for teaching and sharing knowledge: Kalam was a dedicated teacher and educator, and children admired his enthusiasm for sharing his knowledge and inspiring young minds.

(iv) What were the bills not passed by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam initially? 2
Ans:- A.P.J. Abdul Kalam initially refused to sign the Prevention of Disqualification (Amendment) Bill 2006, which was a bill passed by the Parliament. The bill was an amendment to the Parliament (Prevention of Disqualification) Act, 1959, and was meant to add 45 more posts to the list of posts that would not disqualify a Member of Parliament from holding. Kalam refused to sign the bill, stating that it was not applicable to all states and union territories, and that it should be reconsidered.

(v) What was his mission? 2
Ans:- He had a mission to meet 10 lakh students and interact with them.
(vi) What is the antonym of ‘modest? 1
Ans:- brave/bold/intricate etc

SECTION-B
(Advanced Writing Skill: 25 Marks)
2. As the Secretary of Debate in Mayong Anchalik College, write a notice for the students interested in participating in Inter-College Debate Competition to be held shortly. Mention the deadline of registration, the topic and sign yourself as Juktiman/Juktimoni. (Word limit 50 words) 5
Ans:- Notice :
Students interested in participating in the Inter-College Debate Competition, please register by 15th May. The topic is “Climate Change: A Global Threat”. Auditions will be held on 18th May. Limited seats available.
Contact Juktiman/Juktimoni, Secretary, Debate Committee, for
registration and details.

Sd/-
Juktiman/Juktimoni
Secretary, Debate Committee
Mayong Anchalik College.

OR
You are Barun/Birina who had lost a file folder containing important documents in a bus going towards Lumding. Get an advertisement published in the classified page and promise the finder a reward. 5
Ans:- Lost File Folder
A file folder containing important documents was lost in a bus going towards Lumding on 15th April. The folder is black in color and has a distinctive red strap. It contains crucial documents including identification papers, academic certificates, and financial records. If found, please contact Barun/Birina at 9864****** or birina123@gmail.com. A reward of Rs. 5,000 will be given to the finder as a token of gratitude. Please help us retrieve our valuable documents!

Thank you.
Barun/Birina

3. You are Roshan/Rohini, The General Secretary of Merryland Public School, Tezpur. Your school joined a campaign organized by various agencies of your city to create awareness among people to conserve water. Write a report in 100-125 words highlighting the activities such as rainwater harvesting etc. 10
Ans:- As the General Secretary of Merryland Public School, Tezpur, I am proud to report that our school actively participated in the water conservation campaign organized by various city agencies. Our students and staff enthusiastically engaged in several activities to promote water conservation. We implemented rainwater harvesting systems in our school premises, collecting and storing rainwater for non-potable purposes. Additionally, we organized awareness rallies, poster-making competitions, and skit performances to educate students and locals about the importance of water conservation. Our school also distributed pamphlets and stickers with water-saving tips, reaching out to over 500 households in the surrounding areas. Through this campaign, we aim to inspire responsible water usage and contribute to a sustainable future.

OR
Your school has organized an exhibition-cum-sale of the items made by students in their work experience classes. You had an excellent and overwhelming response from the parents and the visitors. The proceeds of the sale have been donated by your school in a function to Helpline India, an organization supporting the cause of orphans. Make a report of the same in 100-125 words to be published in your school magazine. 10
Ans:- Our school’s exhibition-cum-sale of student-made items was a resounding success! The event showcased the creativity and hard work of our students, who had crafted a variety of items in their work experience classes. The response from parents and visitors was overwhelming, with many praising the talent and skill on display. The proceeds from the sale were donated to Helpline India, an organization dedicated to supporting orphans. In a special function, our school presented a cheque to the representatives of Helpline India, who expressed their gratitude for our contribution. This event not only promoted entrepreneurship and creativity among our students but also instilled in them a sense of social responsibility and compassion.

4. Regional Baghdevi College, Sipajhar has published the advertisement for the post of Music Teacher. As Shahnawaz/ Shahnaz Siddiqui from Naobaicha, write an application, along with your detailed resume, to the Managing Director of the school. 10
Ans:- Application Letter :
Subject: Application for Music Teacher Position

Dear Managing Director,
Regional Baghdevi College, Sipajhar
I, Shahnawaz/Shahnaz Siddiqui, from Naobaicha, am writing to apply for the Music Teacher position advertised by your esteemed institution. With a passion for music and a commitment to nurturing young talent, I am confident that I would make a valuable addition to your faculty. As a qualified music teacher with extensive experience, I possess the skills and expertise to teach music theory, vocal, and instrumental classes to students of various age groups. My approach to music education emphasizes creativity, discipline, and fun, ensuring that students develop a lifelong appreciation for music.
I have attached my detailed resume, which highlights my qualifications, experience, and achievements. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application and how I can contribute to the music department at Regional Baghdevi College.
Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Shahnawaz/Shahnaz Siddiqui


Resume :
Shahnawaz/Shahnaz Siddiqui Naobaicha
Contact Information : [Phone Number] [Email Address]

Summary :
Dedicated music teacher with 8+ years of experience in teaching music theory, vocal, and instrumental classes to students of various age groups. Proven track record of developing successful music programs, directing school choirs and orchestras, and fostering a love for music in students.

Qualifications:
– Master of
Music (M. Mus) in Vocal/Instrumental Music
– Bachelor of Music
(B. Mus) in Music Education
– Trained in various music genres, including classical, folk, and contemporary
Experience:
– Music Teacher, XYZ School (2015-Present)
– Taught music theory, vocal, and instrumental classes to students from grades 1-12
– Developed and implemented music curriculum aligned with state and national standards
– Directed school choir and orchestra, leading to numerous performances and awards
– Music Instructor, ABC Music Academy (2010-2015)
– Taught private and group music lessons to students of all ages and skill levels
– Prepared students for music exams, auditions, and performances
Achievements:
– Awarded “Best Music Teacher” by XYZ School (2018)
– Successfully directed school choir to win first prize at state-level music competition (2017)
– Published music curriculum and teaching resources used by various schools and music institutions
Skills:
– Music theory and history
– Vocal and instrumental instruction (piano, guitar, violin)
– Music technology and software (Logic Pro, GarageBand)
– Classroom management and lesson planning
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Certifications:
– Music Teacher Certification (MTC)
– First Aid and CPR Certification.

OR
As a conscious citizen, you have observed gradual loss of focus and concentration among the selfie-freak youngsters. Write a letter to the Editor of a local daily showing your concern over the issue and recommend some measures to curb the e-addiction. 10
Ans:- Subject: The Alarming Rise of E-Addiction among Youngsters
Dear Editor,
As a concerned citizen, I am writing to express my worry about the growing obsession among youngsters with taking selfies and their increasing e-addiction. This phenomenon has become a ubiquitous sight, with many young individuals constantly glued to their screens, capturing and sharing their every moment. While technology has its benefits, this excessive usage is detrimental to their mental and physical well-being. The consequences of e-addiction are multifaceted. It leads to a decline in focus, concentration, and productivity, ultimately affecting their academic and professional performance. Moreover, it fosters a culture of narcissism, promoting self-obsession and decreasing empathy. The constant need for validation through likes and comments can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. To address this issue, I recommend the following easures:
1. Digital detox programs: Organize regular digital detox camps or workshops, encouraging youngsters to disconnect from their [jdevices and engage in outdoor activities, team-building exercises, and creative pursuits.
2. Parental involvement: Encourage parents to monitor and limit their child’s screen time, setting a good example by practicing gital restraint themselves.
3. Education and awareness: Integrate digital literacy and
responsible technology usage into school curricula, highlighting the risks and consequences of e-addiction.
4. Alternative hobbies: Promote and support extracurricular activities, sports, and creative pursuits, providing youngsters with healthier outlets for expression and entertainment.
5. Tech companies’ responsibility: Encourage tech companies to mdesign apps and features that promote responsible usage, such as screen time tracking and alerts.
Let us join forces to address this pressing concern, ensuring our youngsters develop a balanced and healthy relationship with technology.

Sincerely,
XYZ

SECTION-C
(Grammar: 20 Marks)
5. Change the form of the narration of any two of the following sentences: 2×2=4
(a) M. Hamel said, “My children, this is the last lesson I shall give

you. The order has come from Berlin to teach only German in the schools of Alsace and Lorrain.”
Ans:- Addressing the gathering as his children, M. Hamel said that was the last lesson he would give them. He added that the order had come from Berlin to teach only German in the schools of Alsace and Lorrain.
(b) Aditi asked Raju if his sister was at home. Raju replied that she was not. She had gone shopping with their mother.
Ans:- Aditi said to Raju, “Is your sister at home?” Raju replied, “She isn’t. She has gone shopping with our mother”.
(c) He said to me, “How long will you stay here ?” I replied that I would stay for a week.
Ans:- He asked me how long I could stay there. I said, “I will stay for a week.”

6. Change the voice of any three of the following sentences: 1×3=3
(a) She likes sweets.
Ans:- Sweets are liked by her.
(b) The man narrated me a story.
Ans:- (i) I was narrated a story by the man.
Or
(ii) A story was narrated to man by the man.
(c) Who will bell the cat?
Ans:- By whom will the cat be belled?
(d) Don’t spread the rumour.
Ans:- You are asked / ordered not to spread the rumour.
(e) The baby is being taken care of by the maid.
Ans:- The maid is taking care of the baby.
(f) The tree has been uprooted.
Ans:-The storm has uprooted the tree.

7. Rewrite any five of the following sentences using the verbs given in brackets in their correct forms: 1×5=5
(a) You ___ (go) to attend the party tonight?
Ans:- (i) Will you go to attend the party tonight?
Or
(ii) Are you going to attend the party tonight?
(b) If you have gone there, you ___ (meet) the celebrities.
Ans:- If you have gone there, you would have met the celebrities.
(c) Don’t linger, we ___ (run) out of time.
Ans:-Don’t linger, we are running out of time.
(d) They ___ (finish) the course by next month.
Ans:-They will finish the course by next month.
(e) It ___ (snow) many times every winter in Frankfurt.
Ans:- It snows many times every winter in Frankfurt.
(f) Jane ___ (wear) her blue jeans today, but usually she wears a skirt or a dress.
Ans:-Jane is wearing her blue jeans today, but usually she wears a skirt or a dress.
(g) Milk ___ (be) white.
Ans:- Milk is white.
(h) I ___ (do) a lot of work today.
Ans:-I have done a lot of work today.

8. Rewrite any four of the following sentences filling in the blanks with appropriate preposition : 1×4=4
(a) You can place the book ___ the table.
Ans:- on
(b) The Second World War broke ___ on 1st September, 1939.
Ans:- out
(c) He is fond ___ chocolate.
Ans:- of
(d) Patriotism consists ___ the honesty of service.
Ans:- in
(e) One should not be blind ___ one’s mistake.
Ans:- to
(f) Hitler took advantage ___ jingoism.
Ans:- of
(g) I have full confidence ___ your ability.
Ans:- in


9. Rewrite any four of the following sentences as directed: 1×4=4
(a) I know where he was born. (Turn into simple sentence)
Ans:-I know his birthplace.
(b) If you do not study hard, you will fail. (Make it a compound sentence)
Ans:- Study hard or you will fail.
(c) He leads a most unhappy life. (Turn into exclamatory)
Ans:- What unhappy life he leads!
(d) Very few metals are as precious as gold. (Change it into comparative degree)
Ans:- Gold is more precious than most other metals.
(e) Only Anita can do this. (Make it negative without changing the meaning)
Ans:- None but Anita can do it.
(f) Who does not wish to be happy? (Make it assertive)
Ans:- Everybody / everyone wishes to be happy.
(g) Though he was poor, he was happy. (Make it a simple sentence)
Ans:- (i) Inspite of poverty, he was happy.
Or (ii) Despite poverty, he was happy.

SECTION-D
(Textbooks: 45 Marks)
10. Read one of the following extracts and answer the questions that follow:
(a) And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink.
(i) Name the poem. 1
Ans:- John Keats
(ii) Who are the ‘mighty dead’ referred to here? 1
Ans:-
(i) What is the endless fountain of immortal drink? 1
Ans:-
(iv) What does the word, ‘brink’ mean? 1
Ans:- ‘brink’ means “an edge at the top / the point of onset.

OR
(b) The little old house was out with a little new shed
In front at the edge of the road where the traffic sped,
A roadside stand that too pathetically pled,
It would not be fair to say for a dole of bread,
But for some of the money, the cash, whose flow supports
The flower of cities from sinking and withering faint.
(i) Where was the new shed put up? What was its purpose? 1+1=2
Ans:- The new shed was put up at one side of the road by extending a little house. It was set up to attract passersby to buy their items.
(ii) Why does the poet use the word ‘pathetic? 1
Ans:- The poet uses the word ‘pathetic’ to emphasize the fact that the condition of the shed presented a rather pitiable sight.
(iii) Explain : ‘too pathetically pled’ 1
Ans:- The act of putting up the shed was a pathetic sight. The owner’s desperate need of money under any circumstance regardless of the indifference shown by the rich city folks was really pitiable and a humiliating experience.

11. Answer any three of the following questions in 30-40 words: 2×3=6
(i) What childhood fear did Kamala Das refer to in her poem? How did she hide it?
Ans:-Kamala Das referred to the fear of losing her mother to the cruel hands of death and thus being separated from her forever in her poem . She hid this fear by putting on a superficial smile. The poet’s smile is an attempt to reassure herself that she will meet her mother soon, but her words and smiles are a deliberate attempt to hide her real fears and feelings from her mother.

(ii) In the poem, ‘Keeping Quiet’, what is the appeal made by the poet ?
Ans:- In the poem “Keeping Quiet” by Pablo Neruda, the poet makes an appeal for peace, silence, and contemplation in a world filled with noise, violence, and chaos. He urges us to:
– Keep quiet
for a moment
– Stop our activities and wars
– Let the earth and humanity rest
– Allow ourselves to be still and silent
– Reflect on our actions and their consequences
– Seek inner peace and understanding

The poet’s appeal is for a moment of quiet reflection, a pause in the chaos, to consider the world’s suffering and our role in it, and to seek a path towards peace and harmony.

(iii) What do the parting words of the poet and her smile signify?
Ans:- The parting words of the poet give an assurance of life and optimism to her old, weak and withered mother approaching her death. The mother’s ashen face looks like a corpse. Similarly, the poet’s continuous smiling is an attempt to overcome the ache and fear inside her heart and to assure the old lady that they will meet again.

(iv) According to Pablo Neruda, how would keeping quiet be an exotic moment?
Ans:- The “exotic moment” that the poet Pablo Neruda wishes for,is a rare moment of peace and tranquility created by everybody’s withdrawal from noise and redundant movement. The noise of engines and machines will cease and an extraordinary calmness will prevail everywhere on earth. This is the moment when mankind will be free from rush, noise and subversive actions.

(v) Describe any four things of beauty mentioned in the poem, ‘A Thing of Beauty’.
Ans:- The sun, the moon, old and young trees, daffodil flowers, small streams with clear water, mass of ferns and the blooming musk-roses.

(vi) Why is the longing of the roadside stand people called childish?
Ans:- The longing of the roadside stand people in the story “A & P” by John Updike is called childish because it is a nostalgic and idealistic desire to escape the monotony and drudgery of their daily lives. They romanticize the freedom and glamour of the wealthy tourists who stop at their stand, and fantasize about joining them on their carefree adventures. This longing is considered childish because it is:
– Naive: They oversimplify the lives of the tourists, ignoring the complexities and problems that come with wealth and privilege.
– Fantastical: Their dreams are unrealistic and impractical, disconnected from the harsh realities of their own lives.
– Escapist: They seek to flee their responsibilities and circumstances, rather than confronting and addressing them. The narrator, Sammy, views their longing as childish because he sees it as a refusal to accept the realities of adult life and the consequences of one’s choices.

12. Answer any five of the following questions: 1×5=5
(a) Who is Savita?
Ans:- Savita is a young, unmarried girl who belongs to a family of a bangle-makers in Firozabad.
(b) Who asked Franz not to hurry to school?
Ans:- Wachter.
(c) Where did Gandhi meet Prof. J. B. Kripalini for the first time?
Ans:- At Tagore’s Santiniketan School.
(d) How many times did Gandhi meet the Lt. Governor?
Ans:- Four times.
(e) What animals did the author discover in Peacock Island?
Ans:- Monkey.
(f) Who is Derek?
Ans:- Derek is Sophie’s younger brother.
(g) For whom did Sophie want to get Danny Casey’s autograph?
Ans:- For little Derek.
(h) What did the peasants pay the British landlords as rent?
Ans:- The peasants were forced to plant fifteen per cent of their holdings with indigo and pay the entire harvest as rent.

13. Answer any five in 30-40 words: 2×5=10
(a) How was M. Hamel dressed differently that day?
Ans:- M. Hamel, the French teacher in the story “The Last Lesson” by Alphonse Daudet, was dressed differently that day in his formal attire, which was unusual for him. He wore his best clothes, including:
– A new black coat
– A white tie
– A silk hat.
This formal dressing was a departure from his usual simple and humble attire, indicating the significance and solemnity of the occasion, which was the last lesson he would teach before the Prussian authorities took over the school.

(b) Translate “Viva la France” into English. Where was it written?
Ans:- “Viva la France” means long live France and it was written in blackboard in classroom.

(c) Write a short note on the significance of the title, ‘Lost Spring’.
Ans:- The title “Lost Spring” holds significant meaning as it metaphorically represents the lost childhood and innocence of the ragpickers, particularly Saheb and his friends, who are forced to grow up too quickly due to their harsh circumstances. “Spring” symbolizes youth, hope, and new beginnings, but for these children, their spring is “lost” as they are denied the joys and carefree nature of childhood. The title highlights the poignant and heart-wrenching reality of their lives, where they are robbed of their innocence and forced to confront the harsh realities of poverty and survival.

(d) How was Gandhi able to influence lawyers? Give instances.
Ans:- Mahatma Gandhi was able to influence lawyers in various ways, despite being a non-lawyer himself. Here are some instances:
1. Non-cooperation movement: Gandhi called upon lawyers to boycott British courts and legal systems, which many lawyers followed, including prominent ones like Dr. Rajendra Prasad and C. Rajagopalachari.
2. Civil disobedience: Gandhi’s civil disobedience movements, like the Salt March and Quit India Movement, inspired lawyers like Jawaharlal Nehru and Mahadev Desai to participate and face legal consequences, including imprisonment.
3. Simple living: Gandhi’s emphasis on simple living and self-sufficiency resonated with lawyers like Sardar Patel, who adopted a simpler lifestyle.
4. Social justice: Gandhi’s focus on social justice and equality inspired lawyers like Dr. Ambedkar to work for the rights of marginalized communities.
5. Non-violent resistance: Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance influenced lawyers like Nelson Mandela, who applied similar principles in the fight against apartheid in South Africa. Gandhi’s influence on lawyers was due to his moral authority, charisma, and the power of his ideas, which resonated with many who sought justice and freedom for India.

(e) Explain the statement: “The Battle of Champaran is won.”
Ans:- Gandhiji came to Champaran to vouch for the economic rights of the poor peasants exploited by the British landlords. He was determined to alleviate their distress. Gandhiji wanted to consolidate the Champaran movement including people from every section of the society. He could garner full support of the peasants. Their spontaneous demonstration in thousands, around the courthouse shook the British government. It was the presage of their liberation from fear of the British rule. However the lawyers were reluctant to help Gandhiji, fearing imprisonment. Gandhi made them feel sympathetic for the oppressed peasants. They expressed solidarity with Gandhi in the cause and became resolute to follow him into jail. Gandhiji was satisfied at this positive outcome and declared ‘The battle of Champaran is won’. Dividing the group into pairs, he put down the order in which each pair was to court arrest.

(f) How did Sophie’s father react when Geoff told him about her meeting with Danny Casey?
Ans:- Sophie’s father was furious when Geoff told him about her meeting with Danny Casey. He was very protective of Sophie and did not approve of her association with Danny, who was considered a troublemaker and a bad influence. He was worried about Sophie’s reputation and future, and feared that Danny would lead her astray. He immediately forbade Sophie from seeing Danny again, which led to a confrontation with Sophie, who was assertive and independent-minded. The incident highlights the generational conflict and the struggle for independence that Sophie experiences.

(g) How does Saheb’s life change when he starts working at the tea-stall?
Ans:- When Saheb starts working at the tea-stall, his life changes in several ways:
1. Financial stability: Saheb earns a regular income, which helps him support himself and his family, including his mother and sister.
2. Sense of purpose: Working at the tea-stall gives Saheb a sense of responsibility and purpose, which he lacked earlier.
3. Social interaction: Saheb meets new people, including the tea-stall owner, customers, and other workers, expanding his social circle.
4. Skill development: Saheb learns new skills, such as making tea, managing customers, and handling money.
5. Confidence boost: Saheb’s self-esteem increases as he becomes more independent and self-sufficient.
6. Better living conditions: Saheb’s income enables him to move out of the slum and find a better place to live.
7. Hope for a brighter future: Working at the tea-stall gives Saheb a sense of hope and possibility for a better life, beyond his difficult circumstances.

(h) Who was John Rowntree? HS-2022
Ans:- John Rowntree was the last British Senior Conservator of Forests of Assam.

(i) What information does the author give us about Manas Wildlife Sanctuary?
Ans:- Here is some information about Manas Wildlife Sanctuary-
1. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in western Assam state, eastern India, at the foot of the Himalayas on the eastern bank of the Manas River.
2. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including endangered species like the tiger, pygmy hog, Indian rhinoceros and Indian elephant.
3. The sanctuary was established in 1928, has an area of 520 square km and lies in a dense, mixed semi-evergreen, evergreen, and wet-deciduous forest region.
4. The southern part of the preserve is grassland.
5. The sanctuary was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985.

14. Answer any one of the following questions in 80-100 words: 5×1=5
(a) Describe the condition of Seemapuri.
Ans:- Seemapuri is a slum area in Delhi where thousands of rag pickers live, mostly refugees from Bangladesh. The living conditions are poor, with people living in mud structures with tin and tarpaulin roofs, without sewage, drainage or running water. Despite having ration cards and being on the voter’s list, they lack basic amenities and live in poverty, with rag-picking being their only means of survival.

(b) Jansie is just as old as Sophie but she is very different from her. Bring out the contrast between the two friends citing relevant instances from the story, ‘Going Places”.
Ans:- In the story “Going Places” by A.R. Barton, Jansie and Sophie are two friends who are the same age but have distinct personalities and aspirations. Here are some contrasts between them:
1. Ambition: Sophie has a clear ambition to open her own

boutique, while Jansie is content with her mundane job at the

supermarket and has no clear goals.


2. Confidence: Sophie is confident and determined, while Jansie

lacks self-assurance and is easily influenced by others.


3. Creativity: Sophie is creative and innovative, designing her

own clothes, whereas Jansie shows no such talent or interest.


4. Risk-taking: Sophie is willing to take risks and face challenges,

like borrowing money to start her business, whereas Jansie

prefers a safe and secure life.


5. Social status: Sophie comes from a higher social class, living in

a nice house, while Jansie lives in a council flat.

(c) What were the topics and subjects taken up by M. Hamel on

the day of the last lesson?
Ans:- In the story “The Last Lesson,” M. Hamel taught a final

lesson covering the following topics and subjects ¹ ² ³:
– Grammar:

M. Hamel called grammar the foundation of the French

language.
– Writing: M. Hamel asked his students to practice

writing and take out their books and copies.
– History: M. Hamel

taught a history lesson, reflecting on the changes in the region and

the significance of language in culture and identity.
– The

importance of the French language: M. Hamel called French the

most beautiful language in the world.

15. Answer any one of the following questions in 125-150 words:

7×1=7
(a) Write a character-sketch of either (i) Tiger King or (ii) Derry.
Ans:- (i) Tiger King : The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram had

many names. But he was more popularly known as the ‘Tiger

King’ due to his lifelong association with tigers. When he was ten

day old,the Chief astrologer predicted that he was vulnerable to

the threat from tigers. At that moment, the infant took everyone by

surprise, when he started speaking.
The Tiger King was brought up and educated in an English

environment. At the age of twenty, he took the reign of his

kingdom. The Tiger king was a very superstitious person. When

he remembered the astrologer’s prediction, he began a spree of

tiger hunting. Having killed 70 tigers in ten years, he faced a

scarcity of tigers and so, he tried to sort it out by marrying the

princess of that state which had the highest tiger population. He

could do anything for the sake of defying a prophecy.
The Tiger King was power mongering person totally

indifferent to the affairs of the state and welfare of the people. He

wasted a sum of three lakh rupees to propitiate the wife of a

British officer so that he could save his throne. He decided to

double land tax when he fell short of the hundredth tiger.

However, he knew well how to take work from his minions and

took advantage of their weaknesses. It is quite ironical that the

hundredth tiger that took revenge upon him, was nothing but a

wooden toy-tiger.

(ii) Derry : Derry is a fourteen year old boy who remains alienated

from people due to his burnt face.The acid affected side of his

face forces him to suffer from an inferiority complex that does not

leave him till his chance meeting with Mr Lamb. Derry is an

emotionally weak and sensitive person and that is why he gets

easily upset at the negative comments of people about his face. It

does not matter much for him if the remark is made out of

concern and care by his parents, friends and well-wishers. Their

anxiety, concern, fear and revulsion makes him feel awkward

about his half-burnt face. However, Derry is sympathetic to the

sufferings of other people like him. He makes enquiries about Mr

Lamb’s leg, pain and the circumstances in which he lost his leg.

He also wants to know how Lamb passes time all alone in the

house. Though Derry has a defiant nature, yet he has developed a

readiness to learn and change.He has come to the right person at

the right time. By the end of his conversation with Mr Lamb, he

has become a totally changed person,resolute enough to face the

challenges of life in a positive manner.

OR
(b) How did Zitkala feel on the first day in the land of apple?

(What did she do to escape the plight?)
Ans:- Zitkala-Sa was in tears on the first day in the land of apples

because she felt alienated in her new surrounding where boarders

spoke in an unfamiliar language. One of the hardest tasks was the

practice of”eating by formula”. She was also worried over the

certainty of losing her long, heavy hair.

16. Answer any four of the following questions in 30-40 words:

2×4=8
(a) Define Domahi.
Ans:- Domahi means the junction of two months on Push and

Magh.

(b) How do the Kacharis observe the ritual of Magh Bihu?
Ans:- The Kacharis are one of those communities of Assam, that

celebrates the Magh Bihu in their unique traditional way, with

fun, merriment and spirituality. They tie cords round fruit-bearing

trees. They offer rice to “the flying, the sinking and the moving”,

that to birds, to fishes, and to animals like dogs, and pigs .On the

auspicious day of Domahi, they put a mark of water mixed with

cowdung around their granary. On the seventh day of Magh Bihu

(sixth Magh ) they again clean the utensils, sacrifice fowls to

Bathou, their god and go out singing and collecting eatables . In

their tradition it is a custom of begging or magan. According to

the tradition of the Kacharis, the special privilege of making

Bhelaghars and setting fire to them, entirely rests on the cowherd

boys. Before the dawn, the boys burn the Bhelaghars, praying to

the Almighty for affluence and glory of their village. This prayer

is meant for warding off diseases and misfortune to their village

and increasing the productivity of their crops and livestock.
Thus, the kacharis celebrate the magh bihu or uruka.

(c) Why was there no curtain in Lamb’s house?
Ans:- Mr Lamb is a friendly and sociable person who does not allow his physical deformity to come in the way of his social life. He is a large-hearted and open-minded person who likes to be in the company of people and therefore keeps his gate and doors open for everyone. He is not protective about his house , garden and property. There are no curtains at the windows of his house

because he does not want his house to be hidden from the view of

people.

(d) Is the Tiger King a satire?
Ans:- The story ‘The Tiger King’ is a satire on the conceit of

those in power. The Tiger King tried to frustrate what was written

in his fate. The Chief astrologer predicted that the Tiger King was

vulnerable to the threat from tigers and he was supposed to be

killed by the hundredth tiger.
The proud Maharaja banned tiger hunting in the state by

anyone except himself. If anybody dared even to throw a stone at

a tiger, his wealth and property would be confiscated. The

Maharaja left no stone unturned to realize his ambition.

Somehow, he managed to kill 99 tigers, but fell short of one tiger

to consummate his mission.
The author employs the literary device of dramatic irony in the

story. The Maharaja is satisfied with the illusion of killing

hundred tigers. He doesn’t know that the hundredth tiger didn’t

die of his bullet, but survived. It was killed by one of the hunters

and it was kept a secret. Ironically the hundredth tiger that caused

the death of Tiger King was not a tiger of flesh and blood, but a

wooden toy-tiger.


(e) Which words of her brother made a deep impression on

Bama?
Ans:- According to Bama’s brother, people of his community

were deprived of dignity and respect for being born into a low

caste. The only way to get rid of this stigma was making

academic and economic progress. These words made a deep

impression on Bama.

(f) “Tin doesn’t hurt, boy.” Explain with reference to context and

its speaker.
Ans:- The quote “Tin doesn’t hurt, boy” is a significant line

from the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008). The speaker is

Jamal’s mother, a resilient and determined woman who lives in

the slums of Mumbai.

In the context of the movie, Jamal and his

brother Salim are forced to live on the streets after their mother’s

death. They scavenge for food and shelter, often facing harsh

realities. One day, while searching for scraps, Jamal is hit on the

head with a tin sheet by a rival group of slum children. Salim,

trying to comfort his brother, says, “Tin doesn’t hurt, boy.”

The line

is a metaphor for the hardships and struggles the slum dwellers

face daily. Salim is trying to downplay the physical pain and

emotional trauma they endure, implying that they have become

accustomed to such difficulties. The speaker, Salim, has learned

to cope with the harsh realities of their environment, and the line

reflects his resilience and determination to survive.

The quote also

highlights the themes of poverty, struggle, and survival that run

throughout the movie. It showcases the characters’ ability to find

strength in the face of adversity, which is a testament to the

human spirit.

(g) How did the hundredth tiger take its revenge upon the Tiger

King?
Ans:- Having finished the spree of tiger hunting, the Tiger King

decided to celebrate the third birthday and bought a wooden toy-

tiger as a gift. One day, while he was playing with that wooden

tiger,one of the slivers pierced the king’s right hand. It caused

infection all over the arm. The surgeons performed an operation

but failed to save him.Thus the hundredth tiger took its revenge

upon the king.