CBSE CLASS 12 PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTION PAPER :
ENGLISH ELECTIVE
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ENGLISH ELECTIVE
SECTION A (Reading) — 20 Marks
- Read the passage given below: (12 Marks)
(1) Once upon a time, in the enchanting kingdom of Avaloria, there lived a young girl named Eliza. Eliza was known for her kind heart and adventurous spirit. She lived with her loving parents, King Edward and Queen Isabelle, in a grand castle overlooking the serene Avalorian countryside.
(2) From a very young age, Eliza was captivated by stories of brave knights and magical creatures. She spent her days immersed in the castle library, devouring every book she could find. These stories ignited a fire inside her, filling her with a burning desire for her own adventures.
(3) One sunny morning, as Eliza explored the castle gardens, she stumbled upon a small hidden door at the base of a grand oak tree. Curiosity piqued, she decided to go through the door and see where it led. To her amazement, she found herself in a vast, enchanted forest, far beyond the castle walls.
(4) As Eliza walked deeper into the forest, she came across a wise old owl perched on a branch. The owl introduced itself as Orville and explained that it had been waiting for her. It told Eliza of a prophecy that foretold her destined journey to save Avaloria from an ancient curse. Intrigued, Eliza listened to Orville's words, her eyes shining with determination. She was eager to prove herself and fulfil her destiny. Orville presented her with a map, detailing the locations she must venture to in order to break the curse.
(5) With a newfound sense of purpose, Eliza returned to the castle and bid her parents farewell. King Edward and Queen Isabelle offered their blessings and support, knowing that their daughter possessed the courage and strength to face any challenges that lay ahead. Eliza's first destination was the Whispering Woods, a dense forest known for its magical whispers that could reveal hidden truths. As she entered the forest, she heard the gentle rustling of leaves and whispered voices that guided her along the path.
(6) Eliza's next challenge awaited her at the Crystal Caves, where she would need to retrieve a sacred crystal that held the power to break the curse. The Crystal Caves were renowned for their intricate maze of tunnels and shimmering crystals that bathed the caverns in an ethereal glow.
(7) Navigating through the labyrinthine caves, Eliza relied on her wit and intuition to choose the right paths. At one point, she encountered a riddle-guardian, a creature made of living stone that posed a riddle for her to solve. With her sharp mind and quick thinking, Eliza correctly answered the riddle and earned the creature's respect.
(8) After acquiring the sacred crystal, Eliza's journey led her to the mystical Fire Peaks, a range of towering volcanoes believed to hold the ancient flame of Avaloria. It was said that only those who possessed the purest heart could harness the power of the flame to banish the curse. Ascending the treacherous peaks, Eliza faced roaring infernos, molten lava, and scorching winds. She fought against her fear to reach the heart of the Fire Peaks, where the eternal flame flickered and danced. With a deep breath, Eliza focused her mind and channelled her inner strength to collect a spark from the flame.
(9) Eliza's final destination led her to the mystical Lake of Tranquility, a shimmering body of water hidden deep within an ancient forest. Legend had it that the lake possessed extraordinary healing powers capable of lifting the curse. With great anticipation, Eliza approached the tranquil waters. She submerged the sacred crystal and the spark from the eternal flame into the lake. As ripples spread across the surface, a blinding light erupted from the water, illuminating the entire forest.
(10) As the light faded, Eliza found herself back in the castle gardens, standing before her parents. Her journey had come a full circle, and she felt a profound sense of accomplishment and peace. The curse that plagued Avaloria had been broken, thanks to Eliza's unwavering determination and bravery. The kingdom rejoiced, celebrating the young girl who had restored their land to its former glory.
On the basis of your reading of the above excerpt, choose the correct option to answer the following questions: (Any twelve) (12 × 1 = 12)
(i) How did Eliza spend her days? (A) riding (B) reading (C) playing (D) singing
(ii) Eliza's two prominent character traits were (A) the spirit of adventure and painting (B) kindness and leadership qualities (C) leadership qualities and spirit of adventure (D) the spirit of adventure and kindness
(iii) What unleashed the inner passion in Eliza? (A) stories of brave knights and magical creatures (B) helping King Edward and Queen Isabelle (C) devouring every book in the library (D) kindness showered on everyone
(iv) Statement 1: Eliza entered the hidden doorway in the garden. Statement 2: She reached beyond her castle boundary. (A) Both 1 and 2 are correct and 2 is the reason for 1 (B) Both 1 and 2 are correct but 2 is not the reason for 1 (C) 1 is correct and 2 is incorrect (D) Both 1 and 2 are incorrect
(v) What is not the reason for venturing out? (A) to save her nation from a curse (B) to find her knight in shining armour (C) she had the courage and strength to face any challenge (D) prove herself and fulfil her destiny
(vi) What was not there in Whispering Woods? (A) magical whispers (B) dense forest (C) maze of tunnels (D) whispered voices
(vii) Choose the correct option. Which of the following is not true of Crystal Caves? (A) maze of tunnels (B) creature made of living stone (C) winding labyrinthine caves (D) ignited fire
(viii) 'Eliza relied on her wit and intuition.' This line highlights the traits of Eliza's character which are (A) a sense of humour and is not afraid of trusting her instincts (B) is funny and born leader who can make others follow her (C) is very good at navigation and can take quick decisions (D) is funny and takes life casually and simplistically
(ix) What did Eliza encounter in the Crystal Caves?
(x) Complete the sentence appropriately. Going up the Fire Peaks, Eliza encountered ______________
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(xi) Choose the correct answer which explains the phrase: 'her journey had come a full circle'. (A) she went round and round (B) she was back where she had started (C) she went around winding paths (D) she went to various places
(xii) State whether the following opinion is True or False. Eliza's parents were apprehensive of her safety, yet they let her go.
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(xiii) What does the narrator mean by the 'curse that plagued...'?
(xiv) What does the prophecy that foretold her destined journey suggest?
(xv) The narrator says 'as the light faded'. Which of the following expressions correctly displays the usage of light? (A) He brought the scandal to light. (B) She has renounced the world to follow God's light. (C) Gold is a heavy metal whereas aluminium is light. (D) The light filtered through the glass window.
- Read the poem given below: (4 Marks)
One lesson, Nature, let me learn of thee, One lesson that in every wind is blown, One lesson of two duties, serv'd in one Though the loud world proclaim their enmity; Of Toil unsever'd from Tranquility: Of Labour, that in still advance outgrows (5) Far noisier schemes, accomplish'd in Repose, Too great for haste, too high for rivalry. Yes, while on earth a thousand discords ring, Man's senseless uproar mingling with his toil, (10) Still do thy sleepless ministers move on, Their glorious tasks in silence perfecting: Still working, blaming still our vain turmoil; Labourers that shall not fail, when man is gone. (14) (Quiet Work: Matthew Arnold)
Based on your understanding of the poem, answer any four of the given five questions: (4 × 1 = 4)
(i) The poem gives a clear exposition of (A) toil and tranquility. (B) poet's attitude towards Nature. (C) harmony in Nature. (D) quiet work one should do.
(ii) What is one lesson of two duties mentioned in the poem? (A) One should work hard, second, one should remain calm and unagitated. (B) Develop plans of noise which are loudly proclaimed. (C) Union of work and tranquility is difficult to reconcile. (D) Contrast between man's toil full of discordance and sometimes meaningful and silent work of Nature.
(iii) What does 'earth' stand for in line 9? (A) The world of man (B) The realm of Nature (C) Mankind (D) Workers who toil
(iv) What does nature teach us in the poem? (A) One should appreciate the beauty of nature. (B) Duty of hard work and duty of remaining calm and quiet work together. (C) Noise of work and calmness of mind cannot go together. (D) Agitated mind cannot accomplish anything meaningful.
(v) Name two significant things (except Nature) that have been mentioned in this poem. (A) Toil and tranquillity as in Nature (B) Noise and repose (C) Man's work, fitful and tiresome (D) Nature's sleepless ministers and man's noisy toil
- Read the passage given below: (4 Marks)
Recreational facilities for the public In a rapidly urbanizing world, the need for accessible and well-designed recreational facilities has become increasingly crucial. Gunkoor, a mid-sized city, reveals the city's efforts to address this challenge.
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The city's parks department, in collaboration with the urban planning office, conducted a comprehensive assessment of the existing recreational infrastructure. They identified gaps in coverage, underutilized spaces, and the need for diverse activities to cater to the community's diverse needs.
Based on the findings, the city developed a strategic plan to enhance and expand its recreational offerings. This included the renovation of existing parks, the creation of new neighborhood-level playgrounds, and the establishment of a network of walking and cycling trails connecting various parts of the city.
The project also involved the repurposing of abandoned industrial spaces into vibrant community hubs, complete with sports facilities, community gardens, and event spaces. The city's commitment to inclusive design and accessibility ensured that these facilities were welcoming to people of all ages and abilities.
The success of this initiative has been evident in the increased usage of the facilities, the positive feedback from the citizens, and the overall improvement in the city's livability and public health.
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any four of the five given questions: (4 × 1 = 4)
(i) Fill in the blank by selecting the appropriate option: The primary objective of the city's project was to ________ recreational facilities. (A) enhance (B) judge (C) discourage (D) understand
(ii) How did the city identify the gaps and needs in its existing recreational infrastructure?
(iii) State True or False: The city's strategic plan was to plan diverse activities to cater to diverse recreational needs of the citizens.
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(iv) Complete the sentence appropriately: The collaboration between the parks department and the urban planning office played a crucial role in the success of this project, as it ________
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(v) State a point in support of the given opinion: The repurposed...
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SECTION B (Grammar and Writing) — 28 Marks
- Transform the following sentences as per the given instructions (any eight): (8 × 1 = 8)
(a) He had no choice than to accept our terms. (Rewrite using 'but'......)
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(b) Look sharp lest you may be late. (Rewrite after correcting)
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(c) After leaving his office he went directly to a restaurant. (Rewrite after correcting)
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(d) For three years, the tallest of the three boys ________ next door to me. (Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb 'live')
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(e) Many a battle were fought on the soil of India. (Rewrite after correcting the subject - verb agreement)
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(f) The climate of Mumbai is more pleasant than Delhi. (Correct and rewrite)
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(g) The Chairman was conducting the group discussions in an orderly manner. (Begin: Group discussions......)
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(h) Respect your superiors. (Begin: Be respectful......)
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(i) Be sincere to your work. This is of the utmost importance. (Combine the sentences into one)
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(j) Don't be a borrower. Don't be a lender. (Begin: Neither......)
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- Attempt any three of the following four questions in 120 - 150 words each: (3 × 5 = 15)
(a) "One way to keep momentum going is to have constantly greater goals." (Anonymous) We all have our fixed goal to achieve. Once it is achieved, we tend to relax. Should we relax once our goal is achieved? Write a discursive essay discussing the issue being raised. Support your views with specific points and examples.
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(b) "The secret of getting ahead is getting started." (Mark Twain) The saying goes that well begun is half done. Is it feasible to keep pushing in our efforts despite setbacks? Write an essay on how not to get deterred in our efforts. Support your view with examples from readings, observations, and experiences.
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(c) "One secret of success in life is for a man to be ready for his opportunity when it comes." (Anonymous) It is said that time and tide wait for none. A person who makes the best use of the opportunity that comes his way, gets to the top. Is it possible for a person to decide which opportunity will help him in his mission? Develop your point of view on this question. Support your response with specific examples taken from readings, observations, and experiences.
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(d) "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." (Martin Luther King, Jr.) The real worth of a person is tested in times of crisis. A person who shirks to face challenges can never know what real life is. Keeping this issue in mind, write a planned essay to support or to disagree with the above. Support with specific examples from your readings, observations, and experiences.
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- You are the reporter of a newspaper. You were asked to report a recent railway accident. Write a report in 120 - 150 words. You may use the given input: (5 Marks) Points: Date and venue — what happened — description of scene — possible cause — impact on life and property — survivors and eyewitnesses responses — rescue operation by locals and officials.
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SECTION C (Literature and Fiction) — 32 Marks
- (I) Attempt any one of the two extracts (a) and (b) given below: (6 × 1 = 6)
(a) Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: She did her job well, and for a long time, above all during the war years, when reality was more sinister than nightmares. Only she could decide at breakfast what each should do that day, and how it should be done, until her predictions became the sole authority in the house. Her control over the family was absolute; even the faintest sigh was breathed by her order. The master of the house died at about the time I was in Vienna, and had the elegance to leave her a part of his estate on the condition that she continue dreaming for the family until her dreams came to an end.
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(i) Who is 'she' in the above text? (ii) What 'job' did she do? (iii) What role did she play in the lives of the people where she lived? (iv) What favour did the master of the family bestow on her before his death? (v) When did the writer live in Vienna? (vi) What is the synonym of 'Sinister'? (A) Seeming evil (B) Dreadful (C) Hostile (D) Odious
OR
(b) Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: She was about to explore another life with Frank. Frank was very kind, manly, open-hearted. She was to go away with him by the night boat to be his wife and to live with him in Buenos Aires where he had a home waiting for her. How well she remembered the first time she had seen him; he was lodging in a house on the main road where she used to visit. It seemed a few weeks ago.
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(i) What new life was she about to explore? (ii) Who lived in Buenos Aires? (iii) Where was Frank lodging previously? (iv) What does the sentence 'It seemed a few weeks ago' signify? (v) Find the word in the extract which means 'discover'. (vi) What light does this extract throw on the character of Frank?
- (II) Attempt any one of the two extracts (a) and (b) given below: (6 × 1 = 6)
(a) Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: Stand still and I will read to thee A Lecture, Love, in loves philosophy, These three houres that we have spent, Walking here, Two shadowes went Along with us, which we our selves produc'd; But, now the Sunne is just above our head, We doe those shadowes tread; And to brave clearnesse all things are reduc'd. So whilst our infant loves did grow, Disguises did, and shadowes, flow, From us, and our cares; but now 'tis not so. That love hath not attain'd the high'st degree, Which is still diligent lest others see. Except our loves at this noone stay, We shall new shadowes make the other way. As the first were made to blinde Others; these which come behind Will worke upon our selves, and blind our eyes. If our loves faint, and westwardly decline; To me thou, falsely thine; And I to thee mine actions shall disguise. The morning shadowes were away, But these grow longer all the day, But oh, loves day is short, if love decay. Love is a growing, or full constant light; And his first minute, after noone, is night. (A Lecture Upon the Shadow)
(i) What is the central idea of the poem? (ii) What is the significance of the 'shadowes' in the poem? (iii) What does the poet mean by 'disguise'? (iv) Explain the phrase in context of the poem: 'clearnesse all things are reduc'd'. (v) What is meant by 'other way'? (vi) When is love growing, or full constant light?
OR
(b) Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: Trees The Trees like Tassels hit - and - swung There seemed to rise a Tune From Miniature Creatures Accompanying the Sun Far Psalteries of Summer Enamoring the Ear They never yet did satisfy Remotest - when most fair The Sun shone whole at intervals Then Half then utter hid As if Himself were optional And had Estates of Cloud Sufficient to enfold Him Eternally from view Except it were a whim of His To let the Orchards grow A Bird sat careless on the fence One gossiped in the Lane On silver matters charmed a Snake Just winding round a Stone
(i) Name the poetess. (ii) What is being described in the poem? (iii) Who created sweet music? (iv) Why can't the Sun afford to be optional? (v) Why does the snake wind round a stone? (vi) Find the word in the poem which is opposite in meaning to the word 'nearest'.
- Answer any one of the following questions in 30-40 words: (2 Marks) (a) Explain: Huge fragments vaulted like rebounding hail. (Kubla Khan) OR (b) What is the contrast between the liveliness of swans and that of human life? (The Wild Swans at Coole)
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- Answer any one of the following questions in 40-50 words: (3 Marks) (a) What made Dr. Margolin popular among the Jews living in New York? OR (b) Name the two persons Eveline hated and explain why.
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- Answer any one of the following questions in 120-150 words: (5 Marks) (a) Certain words in the poem 'The Human Abstract' have been capitalised. What do you think are the reasons for this? OR (b) Do you think it was proper for Prakriti to fall in love with the Monk? What did this unilateral infatuation lead to?
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- Answer any one of the following questions in 30-40 words: (2 Marks) (a) How did Margayya live up to the name his parents had given him? OR (b) What help did the Police Inspector render Margayya to trace his son Balu? OR (c) How did the Captain plan the circus shows in the neighbourhood of Malgudi? OR (d) With what result did Swamiji's wife try to convince him to return home?
- Answer any one of the following questions in 40-50 words: (3 Marks) (a) How did Brinda conduct herself as a wife? OR (b) Why did Arul Dass ask Margayya to conduct his business elsewhere? OR (c) What was the real reason for the Swamiji to leave his domestic life and become a Sanyasi? OR (d) What made Raja, the Tiger become ferocious?
- Answer any one of the following questions in 120-150 words: (5 Marks) (a) Do you think the Cooperative Credit Bank was really interested in the welfare of the peasants, especially, when it did not like Margayya to carry on his business of facilitating the loans to the poor people? Elaborate. OR (b) What plans did Margayya have about the higher education of Balu? Was Balu worthy of the expectations of Margayya? OR (c) Even though Raja, the tiger was now trained to be harmless, why did the people react when Raja was unleashed and moved on the road in the company of a Sanyasi? OR (d) Why did Madan ask the Captain to lend him the services of Raja? Did he succeed in his mission?
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