CBSE Class 12 – Page 4 – MCQ Questions

Unseen Passage for Class 12 Descriptive With Answers 2020

January 5, 2022July 27, 2021 by Prasanna

Unseen Passage for Class 12 Descriptive

This grammar section explains English Grammar in a clear and simple way. There are example sentences to show how the language is used. NCERT Solutions for Class 12 English will help you to write better answers in your Class 12 exams. Because the Solutions are solved by subject matter experts.

Unseen Passage for Class 12 Descriptive With Answers pdf 2020

English Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers for Grade 12

♦ Solved Passages:

I. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. (12 marks)

1. Stress is not a novel phenomenon. In fact, the word stress was first used in the fifteenth century. Since the turn of the twentieth century, however, the social consciousness of life’s stress has risen dramatically. Stress and anxiety have become common terms.

2. Environment provides human beings with certain harsh incentives and demands, which as long as their intensity and frequency are within the limits of human tolerance, can stimulate their motivation and enhance their productivity. However, when these environmental demands become excessive it leads to stress.

3. Hans Selye, who first began piecing together the puzzle of human stress, holds that it is immaterial whether the agent or situation we face is pleasant or unpleasant; all that counts is the intensity of the demand for readjustment or adaptation. Stress is the body’s response to external changes that place demands upon us, both physically and mentally. Stress is neutral, in itself it has no connotation; it is neither positive nor negative. There really is no such thing as plain ‘stress’; stress is actually classified into one of two types of stress: eustress or distress.

4. Hans Selye, came up with this theory of distress versus eustress in 1975 when he published his theory. Eustress, the good stress, can sometimes be beneficial; sharpening our senses and providing the adrenaline rush needed to conquer deadlines and multi-tasking. Distress occurs when an individual cannot adapt to stress. It is the harmful stress that can, even in short bursts, depress your immune system, cause weight gain. Over a period of time it can lead to brain neurons dying from atrophy; it puts one at a greater risk for a range of medical conditions including blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.

5. Eu, a Greek prefix for “healthy’, is used in the same sense in the word ‘euphoria’. Role models who push us to exceed our limits, physical training that removes our spare tires, and risks that expand our sphere of comfortable action are all examples of eustress – stress that is healthful and the stimulus for growth. Eustress can be defined as pleasant or positive stress. In fact, eustress or controlled stress may sometimes be encouraged as it gives us our competitive edge during performance-related activities. Any performance-related activity, a sports-related game or even a job interview has an optimal amount of stress that can prove to be beneficial. Positive stress lends focus and provides the ability to think quickly, clearly and effectively express your thoughts. We should invite and cultivate as much eustress in our lives as we can tolerate. Eustress makes us grow, it makes us stronger, and it makes us better people. Whether it’s physical or mental, eustress is resistance training for our lives! Eustress is lifting weights at. the gym to build your muscles. Eustress is riding a roller coaster or watching an enjoyable horror flick. Eustress is a challenging work project that you enjoy using your creative abilities to solve.

6. Often the main problem with distress is that you don’t know when it’s going to end. To turn distressed into eustress we can try thinking of the stresses as temporary. One of the best ways to convert distress into eustress is to not try to do a million things at one time, take a big goal and cut it into small pieces, that way you can work more productively and efficiently.

7. Another way to convert your negative experiences into positive experiences is by reframing your stress sensation, for example, if you are anxious about a certain situation reframe it as if it was excitement.

8. Next time you’re feeling stressed because you’re sitting in traffic, or you’re running late, or your exams are round the corner – notice the feelings and thoughts that arise within yourself. Be aware of your breath, your heart rate, your emotions, your thoughts…and when you feel your heart start to pound, when you notice you are breathing rapidly and more shallow, when you feel your emotions are in a fight or flight state – realize that you are NOT in a life or death situation, you are NOT running for your life from a lion! Simple awareness can dissolve the association we make between distress and ourselves.

9. Create processes to filter out the distress from your life, while creating environments that foster helpful eustress. By saying YES to eustress and NO to distress, we allow the positive stressors into our lives that provide healthy resistance and facilitate our growth, while keeping out the harmful garbage that does nothing but damage us!

1.1 Choose the correct option.

(a) Eu is a ………………………….. prefix.
i. Greek
ii. Latin
iii. French

(b) Hans Selye, came up with his theory of distress versus eustress in …………………………. .
i. 1970
ii. 1975
iii. 1980

1.2 On the basis of your reading of the passage, answer these questions briefly.

(a) When was the word stress first used?
(b) Who was the first person to begin piecing together the puzzle of human stress?
(c) What are the two types of stress called?
(d) Name two harmful short term effects of stress.
(e) What are the harmful medical conditions that can develop from long – term exposure to stress?
(f) What is often the main problem with distress?

1.3 Pick out the words from the passage which mean the same as the following.
(a) inducements (para 2)
(b) sieve (para 9)

1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.

1. Stress is not a novel phenomenon. In fact, the word stress was first used in the fifteenth century. Since the turn of the twentieth century, however, social consciousness of life’s stress has risen dramatically. Stress and anxiety have become common terms.

1.1 Choose the correct option.

(a) Eu is a ………………………….. prefix.
i. Greek
ii. Latin
iii. French

(b) Hans Selye, came up with his theory of distress versus eustress in …………………………. .
i. 1970
ii. 1975
iii. 1980

1.2 On the basis of your reading of the passage, answer these questions briefly.

1.3 Pick out the words from the passage which mean the same as the following.
(a) inducements (para 2)
(b) sieve (para 9)

II. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. I recently had submitted an article ‘Reforming our Education System’ wherein the need for our educational system to shift its focus from insisting upon remembering to emphasising or understanding was stressed upon.

2. This article brought back the memory of an interesting conversation between my daughter and myself in the recent times, wherein I had learnt that Economics and Physics were a few of the most difficult subjects for her as she had to mug up the answers. Though I offered to help her out with the immediate problem on hand, 1 learnt subsequently that many a time it pays to mug up the answer properly, because the teachers find it easier to evaluate that way. It seems, the more deviation there is from the way the sentences are framed in the textbook, the more risk one runs of losing marks.

3. This reminded me of a training session I had attended at work, where we were required to carry out an exercise of joining the dots that were drawn in rows of three without lifting the pen and without crossing the trodden path more than once. Though the exercise seemed quite simple, almost 95 per cent of us failed to achieve the required result, no matter how hard we tried. The instructor then informed us cheerily that it happened all the time because the dots that appeared to fit into a box like formation do not allow us to think out of the box. That was when I realised that all of us carry these imaginary boxes in our minds. Thanks to our stereotyped upbringing that forces our thinking to conform to a set of pattern.

4. “What is the harm in conforming as long as it is towards setting up a good practice?”, someone might want to ask. Perhaps, no harm done to others but to the person being confined to “think by rote” may mean being deprived of rising to the heights he/she is capable of rising to, even without the person being aware of the same.

5. If we instil too much fear of failure in the children right from the young age, the urge to conform and play safe, starts stifling the creative urge which dares to explore, make a mistake and explore again. As we know, most of the great inventions were initially considered to be most outrageous and highly impractical. It is because the people inventing the same were not bothered about being ridiculed and brave enough to think of the unthinkable that these inventions came into being.

6. For many children, studies are the most boring aspect of their lives. Learning, instead of fun is being considered the most mundane and avoidable activity. Thanks to the propagators of an educational system which is more information- oriented than knowledge-oriented. Too much of syllabus, too many students per teacher, lack of enough hands-on exercises, teaching as a routine with the aim of completing the syllabus in time rather than with the goal of imparting knowledge, the curriculum more often than not designed keeping in view the most intelligent student rather than the average student are the important factors in this regard. Peer pressure, high expectations of the parents in an extremely competitive environment, the multitude of distractions in an era of technological revolution are adding further to the burden on the young minds.

7. For a change, can we have some English/Hindi poems ickle, tickle and pickle the young minds and send them on a wild goose chase for the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow? Can we have lessons in History that make the child feel proud of his heritage, instead of asking him to mug up the years of the events? Can physics and chemistry lessons be taught more in the laboratories than in the classrooms? Can a system be devised so as to make the educational excursions compulsory for schools, so that visits to historical/botanical places are ensured without fail? Can the educational institutes start off inter-school projects on the internet, the way the schools in abroad do, so as to encourage the child to explore on her own and sum up her/his findings in the form of a report?

8. Finally, can we make the wonder of the childhood lost and get carried forward into the adulthood, instead of forcing pre-mature adulthood on children? I, for one, have realised that it is worth doing so, hence, I have asked my child to go ahead by choosing to write the answers on her own, in her own language by giving vent to her most fanciful imagination! (Source: The Hindu)

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
What were the difficult subjects for the writer’s daughter?
(a) Biology and Chemistry
(b) Economics and Physics
(c) Political Science and English
(d) History and Maths
Answer:
(b) Economics and Physics

Question (ii)
Why does it pay to mug up answers?
(a) Because teachers find it easy to evaluate
(b) Because students find it easy to write
(c) Because teachers find it easy to teach
(d) Because students find it easy to remember
Answer:
(a) Because teachers find it easy to evaluate

Question (iii)
What stifles the creative urge in children?
(a) The urge to be always right
(b) The urge to do well in everything
(c) The urge to conform and play safe
(d) The urge to take risks
Answer:
(c) The urge to conform and play safe

Question (iv)
How is learning considered now?
(a) An interesting activity
(b) A mundane and avoidable activity
(c) A fun-filled activity
(d) An interesting but avoidable activity
Answer:
(b) A mundane and avoidable activity

Question (v)
What is adding further to the burden on the young minds?
(a) Knowledge-oriented educational system
(b) High expectations of the parents
(c) Lack of hands-on exercises
(d) Learning instead of fun
Answer:
(b) High expectations of the parents

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
What does the article “Reforming our Education System” emphasise upon?
Answer:
It emphasised the need for shifting education from remembering to understanding.

Question (ii)
What exercise was the writer given in her training session?
Answer:
They had to join dots that were drawn in rows of three without lifting the pen and without going through the same path.

Question (iii)
What are the “imaginary boxes” referred in the passage?
Answer:
These are the ways of thinking that we cannot change.

Question (iv)
What is the harm that may occur if a person is taught to always think by rote?
Answer:
There is the likelihood that such a person may never rise in his ability to think.

Question (v)
List the factors that have made learning a very boring process.
Answer:
Too much syllabus; too many students per teacher; no hands-on exercise; curriculum designed for the bright child only.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘to behave according to the usual standards of behaviour which is accepted by the society’.
Answer:
conform

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-6) which means ‘very ordinary and therefore not interesting’.
Answer:
mundane

III. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Many of us believe that ‘small’ means ‘insignificant’. We believe that small actions and choices do not have much impact on our lives. We think that it is only the big things, the big actions and the big decisions that really count. But when you look at the lives of all great people, you will see that they built their character through small decisions, small choices and small actions that they performed every day.

They transformed their lives through a step-by-step or day-by-day approach. They nurtured and nourished their good habits and chipped away at their bad habits, one step at a time. It was their small day-to-day decisions that added up to make tremendous difference in the long run. Indeed, in matters of personal growth and character-building, there is no such thing as an overnight success.

2. Growth always occurs through a sequential series of stages. There is an organic process to growth. When we look at children growing up, we can see this process at work: the child first learns to crawl, then to stand and walk, and finally to run. The same is true in the natural world. The soil must first be tilled, and then the seed must be sowed. Next, it must be nurtured with enough water and sunlight, and only then it will grow, bear fruit and finally ripen, and be ready to eat.

3. Gandhi understood this organic process and used this universal law of nature to his benefit. Gandhi grew in small ways, in his day-to-day affairs. He did not wake up one day and find himself to be the “Mahatma”. In fact, there was nothing much in his early life that showed signs of greatness. But from his mid-twenties, he deliberately and consistently attempted to change himself, reform himself and grow in some small way every day. Day-by-day, hour-by-hour, he risked failure, experimented and learnt from the mistakes. In small and large situations alike, he took up rather than avoid responsibility.

4. People have always marvelled at the effortless way in which Gandhi could accomplish the most difficult tasks. He displayed great deal of self-mastery and discipline which was amazing. These things did not come easily to him. Years of practice and disciplined training went into making his success possible. Very few saw his struggles, fears, doubts and anxieties, or his inner efforts to overcome them. They saw the victory but not the struggle.

5. This is a common factor in the lives of all great people: they exercised their freedoms and choices in small ways that made great impact on their lives and their environment. Each of their small decisions and actions, added up to have a profound impact in the long run. By understanding this principle, we can move forward, with confidence, in the direction of our dreams. Often, when our “ideal goal” looks too far from us, we become easily discouraged, disheartened and pessimistic. However, when we choose to grow in small ways, taking small steps one at a time, it becomes easy to achieve the goal. [CBSE Sample Paper 2015]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
What do many of us believe?
(a) Small choices and small actions are performed every day
(b) There is no such thing as an overnight success
(c) Small actions and choices do not have much impact on our lives
(d) ‘Small’ means ‘significant’
Answer:
(c) Small actions and choices do not have much impact on our lives

Question (ii)
What does the writer mean by saying ‘chipped away at their bad habits’?
(a) Steadily gave up bad habits
(b) Slowly produced bad habits
(c) Gradually criticised bad habits
(d) Did not like bad habits
Answer:
(a) Steadily gave up bad habits

Question (iii)
Which of the following statement is true in the context of the third paragraph?
(a) Gandhi became great overnight.
(b) Gandhi showed signs of greatness in childhood itself.
(c) Every day, Gandhi made efforts to change himself in some small way.
(d) Gandhi never made mistakes.
Answer:
(c) Every day, Gandhi made efforts to change himself in some small way.

Question (iv)
Why have people always marvelled Gandhi?
(a) For his effortless way to accomplish difficult tasks
(b) For his great deal of self-mastery and discipline
(c) For his fears, doubts and anxieties
(d) For his struggle
Answer:
(a) For his effortless way to accomplish difficult tasks

Question (v)
What do great people do to transform their lives?
(a) They approach life on a day-by-day basis.
(b) They build character in small ways.
(c) They believe in performing everyday.
(d) All of these
Answer:
(b) They build character in small ways.

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
What is “organic process of growth”?
Answer:
They have an impact gradually. Slowly good habits are nurtured and bad habits
are given up.

Question (ii)
What, according to the writer, is the ‘universal law of nature’?
Answer:
Growth of a child is an example of an organic process. The child first learns to crawl, then to stand and walk and finally to run.

Question (iii)
How did Gandhi accomplish the most difficult tasks effortlessly?
Answer:
According to the author, the ‘universal law of nature’ is that growth is gradual.

Question (iv)
Which part of Gandhi’s life is not seen by most people?
Answer:
Gandhiji accomplished the most difficult tasks effortlessly by practice, self-mastery, and discipline. He worked on small things and learnt from his mistakes.

Question (v)
How can we achieve our ‘ideal goals’?
Answer:
Gandhi’s struggles, fears, doubts and anxieties, or his inner efforts to overcome them were not seen by most people.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘intentionally’ or ‘purposely’.
Answer:
deliberately

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-5) which means ‘of deep significance’.
Answer:
profound

IV. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. One of the greatest sailing adventures of the past 25 years was the conquest of the Northwest Passage, powered by sail, human muscle, and determination. In 100 days, over three summers (1986-88), Jeff Maclnnis and Mike Beedell accomplished the first wind-powered crossing of the Northwest Passage.

2. In Jeff Maclnnis’s words…Our third season. We weave our way through the labyrinth of ice, and in the distance, we hear an unmistakable sound. A mighty bowhead whale is nearby, and its rhythmic breaths fill us with awe. Finally, we see it relaxed on the surface, its blowhole quivering like a volcanic cone, but it senses our presence and quickly sounds. We are very disappointed. We had only good intentions – to revel in its beautiful immensity and to feel its power. Mike thinks how foolish it would be for this mighty beast to put any faith in us. After all, we are .members of the species that had almost sent the bowhead into extinction with our greed for whale oil and bone. It is estimated that around 38,000 bowheads were killed off eastern Baffin Island in the 1800s; today, there are about 200 left.

3. The fascinating and sometimes the terrifying wildlife keeps us entertained during our explorations. Bearded harp and ring seals greet us daily. The profusion of birdlife is awesome; at times, we see and smell hundreds and thousands of thick¬billed murres clinging to their cliffside nests. Our charts show that we are on the edge of a huge shoal where the frigid ocean currents upswell and mix nutrients that provide a feast for the food chain. At times, these animals scare the living daylights out of us. They have a knack of sneaking up behind us and then shooting out of the water and belly, flopping for maximum noise and splash. A horrendous splash coming from behind has a heart-stopping effect in polar bear country.

4. We have many encounters with the “Lords of the Arctic”, but we are always cautious, observant, and ever so respectful that we are in their domain. In some regions, the land is totally devoid of life, while in others, the pulse of life takes our breath away. Such is the paradox of the Arctic. Its wastelands flow into oasis that are found nowhere else on the face of the earth. Many times we find ancient signs of Inuit people who lived here, superbly attuned to the land. We feel great respect for them as this landscape is a challenge at every moment.

5. We face a 35-mile open water passage across Prince Regent Inlet on Baffin Island that will take us to our ultimate goal – Pond Inlet on the Baffin Bay. The breakers look huge from the water’s edge. Leaning into the hulls, like bobsledders at the starting gate, we push as hard as we can down the gravel beach to the sea. We catch the water and keep pushing, until we have plunged waist-deep, then drag ourselves aboard. Immediately, we begin paddling with every ounce of effort. Sweat pours off our bodies. Ahead of us, looming gray-white through the fog, we see a massive iceberg riding the current like the ghost of a battleship. There is no wind to fill our sails and steady the boat, and the chaotic motion soon brings sea-sickness. Slowly, the wind begins to build. Prince Regent Inlet now looks ominous with wind and waves. The frigid ocean hits us in the face and chills us to the bone.

6. We were on the fine edge. Everything at the Arctic that had taught us over the last 90 days was now being tested. We funneled all that knowledge, skill, teamwork, and spirit into this momentous crossing… If we went over in these seas, we could not get the boat back up. Suddenly, the wind speed plummeted to zero as quickly as it had begun…. Now, we were being pushed by the convulsing waves toward sheer 2,000 -foot cliffs. Two paddles were our only power. Sailing past glacier-capped mountains, we approached the end of our journey. At 5:08 in the morning of our hundredth day, speeding into Baffin Bay, the spray from our twin hulls makes rainbows in the sun as we complete the first sail-powered voyage through the Northwest Passage.

7. We have journeyed through these waters on their terms, moved by the wind, waves, and current. The environment has always been in control of our destiny; we have only tried to respond in the best possible way. We’ve been awake for nearly 23 hours, but we cannot sleep. The joy and excitement are too great. Our Hobie Cat rests on the rocky beach, the wind whistling in her rigging, her bright yellow hulls radiant in the morning sunlight. She embodies the watchword for survival in the Arctic adaptability. [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
What is the passage about?
(a) Author’s sailing adventure through the Northwest Passage
(b) Flora and fauna of the Arctic
(c) Survival skills needed while sailing
(d) Saving of the Arctic
Answer:
(d) Saving of the Arctic

Question (ii)
Why were bowhead whales killed for?
(a) Whale oil and bone
(b) Head and tail
(c) Flesh and bone
(d) None of these
Answer:
(a) Whale oil and bone

Question (iii)
What does “Lords of the Arctic” refer to?
(a) Windbreakers
(b) Icebergs
(c) Polar bears
(d) Inuits
Answer:
(c) Polar bears

Question (iv)
What is the name of the author’s sailing vessel?
(a) Prince Regent
(b) Hobie Cat
(c) Perception
(d) Arctic
Answer:
(b) Hobie Cat

Question (v)
What does ‘we were on the fine edge’ refer to?
(a) The Prince Regent Inlet
(b) The ominous sail
(c) The frigid ocean
(d) Their expedition
Answer:
(b) The ominous sail

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7marks)

Question (i)
Why does the author feel disappointed when the bowhead whale disappeared into the ocean?
Answer:
The author senses the presence of the author and his friend and quickly sounds, j They are disappointed because they only had good intentions. They are sad to know the whale doesn’t trust humans.

Question (ii)
How does his sailing partner rationalise it?
Answer:
Mike thinks how foolish it would be for this mighty beast to put any faith in them. After all, they are members of the species that had almost sent the bowhead into extinction with the greed for whale oil and bone.

Question (iii)
What reason does the author give for the thriving wildlife in the Arctic?
Answer:
According to the author, on the edge of a huge shoal, the frigid ocean currents upswell and mix nutrients that provide a feast for the food chain. This would lead to thriving wildlife in the Arctic.

Question (iv)
What is the paradox of the Arctic?
Answer:
In some regions, the land is totally devoid of life, while in others, the pulse of life takes our breath away. Its wastelands flow into an oasis that is found nowhere else on the face of the earth.

Question (v)
How did certain skills help the author and his partner survive the adventure?
Answer:
Knowledge, skill, teamwork, and spirit helped the author and his partner to survive the adventure.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘an area of territory owned or controlled’.
Answer:
domain

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘the act of arranging dishonestly for the result of something’.
Answer:
rigging

V. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. (12 marks)

1. With the recent increase in the price of petrol, any alternative source of fuel would be readily accepted by the people. It is also a fact that people are increasingly becoming conscious of the environmental hazards accompanying the use of non – renewable sources of energy such as petroleum. Several steps have been taken by different countries to promote affordable energy supplies, enhance public health, economic well–being, and environmental quality. One such step includes the development of alternative fuels which can be used in vehicles. Such vehicles that run on fuels other than the traditional petroleum or diesel are called alternate fuel vehicles.

2. Alternative fuels include biodiesel, compressed natural gas, ethanol, hydrogen, and liquefied petroleum gas. Some of these can be produced within the country which would eventually reduce our dependence on imported oil while some of the others are derived from renewable sources. But these cause less pollution than petrol or diesel.

3. Biodiesel can be produced domestically and it is a renewable fuel that can be manufactured from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant grease for use in diesel vehicles. Though biodiesel’s physical properties are similar to those of petroleum diesel, it is a cleaner burning alternative. The advantage of using biodiesel in place of petroleum or diesel is that it reduces emissions. It is safe, biodegradable, and produces fewer air pollutants than petroleum-based diesel.

4. Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from corn and other plant materials. The use of ethanol is widespread especially in countries such as the United States of America. The use of ethanol too can reduce our dependence upon foreign oil and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Hydrogen is also an emission-free alternative fuel that can be produced from diverse domestic energy sources. Research is underway to make hydrogen vehicles suitable for widespread use. Following the development of a new technology which allows the natural gas to be stored in a cheap and practical way, hydrogen fuel could be set to become a viable environmentally friendly alternative to petrol. This technology utilizes materials that soak up hydrogen like a sponge and then compresses them in tiny plastic beads which in turn behave like a liquid. Hydrogen is being aggressively explored as a fuel for passenger vehicles. It can be used in fuel cells to power electric motors or burned in internal combustion engines. It is an environmentally friendly fuel that has the potential to dramatically reduce our dependence on foreign oil since it can be produced domestically from several sources. It is also environmentally friendly since hydrogen produces no air pollutants or greenhouse gases when used in fuel cells.

6. Natural gas is a domestically produced gaseous fuel that is easily available. This clean-burning alternative fuel can be used in vehicles as either compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is gradually becoming the popular choice of fuel since it is cleaner, hotter, and brighter than other fuels.

7. Propane, also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or autogas, has been used worldwide as a vehicle fuel for decades. It is stored as a liquid. LPG – fuelled vehicles produce fewer toxic and smog-forming air pollutants. LPG is usually less expensive than petroleum, and most of the LPG used can be produced from domestic sources.

5.1 Choose the correct option.

(a) The word “hazards’, in paragraph 1, means ……..
i. threats
ii. sources
iii. none of the above

(b) A ………………………….. substance or chemical can be changed to a harmless natural state by the action of bacteria, and will therefore not damage the environment.
i. greenhouse
ii. biodiesel
iii. biodegradable

5.2 Based on your understanding of the passage, answer these questions.

(a) Why would people welcome any alternative source of fuel other than petrol?
(b) Give some examples of alternative fuels.
(c) What is the advantage of using biodiesel in place of petroleum?
(d) What is ethanol?
(e) Why does the author feel that hydrogen fuel could be set to become a viable environmentally friendly alternative to petrol?
(f) Why is natural gas gaining popularity?

5.3 Pick out the words from the passage which mean the opposite of the following.

(a) inflated (para 6)
(b) hostile (para 5)

♦ Unsolved Passages:

I. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. It was the year 2020. My nephew, Karthik, who had come to spend his summer vacation with me, was watching TV. He was thirteen and just like any adolescent of his age, was full of questions. After a busy day at work, all I wanted was to rest. The moment I saw Karthik, I knew he was, as always, bustling with curiosity, and I knew that now there will be no rest.

2. As it was raining, I made tea, sandwiches and pakoras for us. I sat down to talk to him about his studies. He made a quick reply about them going well and brushed aside the rest of the questions. He was more interested in something else. It was the news flash: India celebrates fifth anniversary of its successful mission to Mars. I knew now what his questions will be. Since I was working on something related to India’s mission to Mars at my office, I knew I could satisfy his curiosity. He wanted to know all about Mangalyaan, formally known as the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM).

3. So, I started telling him all about it. India’s mission to Mars was conceived in 2010 and launched in 2013. MOM successfully injected into Mars’ orbit on September 24, 2014. I told him how it was in fact the first time that any country had made it to the Martian orbit in the very first attempt (NASA took two attempts to get so far; the Soviet Union, three). The main purpose was to map the red planet’s surface and for a better analysis of Martian atmosphere. I thought I had told him the basics and there would not be too many questions now. But he was all ready with the next question, “Why are they calling it a budget player?” “Simply because it cost only $ 74 million, a fraction of the $ 671 million cost of the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s latest Mars program. In fact, our Prime Minister Narendra Modi boasted that India has spent less to reach Mars than Hollywood producers spent on the movie ‘Gravity’, which costed $ 100 million to make.”

4. “But how did this happen, how did India manage to hold costs down?” asked Karthik. I told him that India relied on technologies that it had used before and kept the size of the payload small, around 15 kilograms. Realising that the word payload might be tough for him to understand, I told him that it was infact the load carried by a vehicle exclusive of what is necessary for its operation. I also told him that India saved on fuel by using a smaller rocket to put its spacecraft into earth’s orbit first, to gain enough momentum to slingshot it towards Mars. Grinning, Karthik asked me, “So Aunty, what is special about MOM?”

5. “Well, it weighs around 1,337 kg and is about the size of a car. According to Professor Jitendra Goswami, the director of the institute and the man behind the discovery, the payload is tiny, just 14.5 kg (32 lbs), small enough to take on as cabin baggage.”

6. I sat there thinking about the controversies that MOM had to go through. Critics had pointed out that MOM and India’s investment in space did not seem to make sense when almost 30 per cent of India’s population live below the poverty line. Economist Jean Dreze once said about the mission, “It seems to be a part of the India’s elite delusional quest for superpower status”. But then I remembered the words of the chairman of ISRO about how ISRO’s budget represents only one per cent of the national budget and from that, the expenditure for MOM exploration was only seven per cent.

7. Thinking back on our conversation, I began to think whether Karthik had understood all the big terms and concepts that I used. I asked him, “So did you understand everything that I was talking about?”

8. “Well, not everything, but enough to know that India has succeeded where most of the others had failed”.

9. When all the food was over and Karthik had still not moved to wash his hands, I looked at him. He was sitting there, clearly dreaming. Upon prodding, he said, “Well, I was thinking, how great it would be to become an astronaut. I can move around in space, meet aliens, maybe make a new house there. It would be fun to have a picnic there. We can, in fact, promote it as a tourist place. We can also have a short stoppage at the moon and some other planets. Do you think we can take a contract for arranging all this? What do you say, Aunty?”

10. What could I say; I smiled and wished that his dreams would come true. Both of us sat there with the television running and dozing off. He lost in his dreams of going to Mars, and me, Karthik told me later, snoring.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) When was MOM launched?
(a) 2010
(b) 2011
(c) 2013
(d) 2014

(ii) How many attempts did NASA make to reach Mars?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) One

(iii) What was the size of the payload?
(a) 15 kg
(b) 14 kg
(c) 16 kg
(d) 17 kg

(iv) What was the other name of MOM?
(a) Mangalyaan
(b) Mars Orbit Mission
(c) Mangalgrehyaan
(d) Shubhyaan

(v) What was the cost of Mangalyaan?
(a) $ 84 million
(b) $ 108 million
(c) $ 74 million
(d) $ 100 million

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) Why did the narrator feel that she could satisfy Karthik’s curiosity?
(ii) What was the main purpose of MOM?
(iii) Why is MOM called a budget player in the passage?
(iv) How did India manage to keep the cost low for the mission?
(v) What are the special features of MOM?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-6) which means ‘the total amount of money spent’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-10) which means ‘sleeping’.

B. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Gone are the days when going to school was like any other ritual. Elders in the house would fix a specific day as shubh muhurat for going to school and puja would be performed before a child was put to a school, then called pathshala. The child would then seek the blessings of his elders and his teacher (called guru) to complete his education and to come out with flying colours. Guru, the teacher, would always treat his pupil like his own child and teach him till he was completely satisfied with his or her performance.

2. But it seems now that over a period of time, the whole concept of education has changed. Now, getting a child into a school is a billion-dollar question and a real nightmare experience for the parents. The moment a toddler starts spreading his wings, the parents start worrying about his admission, which school they should send him to, or which school they can afford. They are even ready to spend more than what their pocket allows; after all it is the future of their child—the poor child who does not even know how to talk properly!

3. Our public schools are always in the limelight with the onset of the admission season. They are set with their colourful advertisements for admission to various classes. After all the admission procedures are over, one would start expecting a call letter. The moment a call letter is received, mothers have a tough time in making their small children sit and teach them to remember certain things which would open the door for their future (getting into a particular school). The child who hardly knows anything has to follow his mother so that she could make him scribble a few things on paper. They have to go through this exercise to make a name.

4. Then comes the due day for the mind-boggling exercise-the interview. Parents start swinging between dos and don’ts, whether their child will make it or not. The moment you enter the school, you find beautifully dressed young kids with their parents huddled together to try their luck. For children, it is exactly the same situation as we elders face when we are told to attend a party where no one is known to us and where we simply find ourselves in a precarious situation as to what and what not to do. When we, the grown-ups cannot adjust to such gatherings, how do we expect our small children to be free in such an atmosphere? It is a real trauma for a child, who saw an unfamiliar face, starts crying, and that eventually becomes his negative point for his admission. He might be knowing what all he is expected to answer in such an interview but fails in his preliminary round. Is this a real test of his capability? Is this what determines his eligibility for admission?

5. Anyway, children are taken in batches followed by their anxious parents. God knows what the child is being asked to do. The parents are asked questions about their education, job, since when they are residing in the city, etc.

6. In another school, I talked to a parent who couldn’t get her daughter admitted because she had not put her in some preparatory school. This became a negative point for her daughter’s admission. Is it mandatory for parents to send their children to preparatory schools who have just learned how to stretch their limbs and can murmur a few words which most of the people are unable to understand?

7. Minister for Health and Primary Education, Delhi Government, amicably suggested that it is the moral duty of parents to give not only bookish knowledge to their children but an environment where they can be nurtured to learn about their own culture and heritage by any mode (be it dance, art, painting, music, etc.) depending upon the child’s talent. He further laid emphasis on the fact that our duty doesn’t end by sending children to schools at early dawn, collecting them and sending them to tuitions and finally making them sit in front of the so-called idiot box. The child has to be mentally and morally educated besides being physically educated. His words were really a take-home lesson for every sensible parent.

8. But to some extent, I do blame parents because it is their eagerness to put their child in a reputed school. Parents do have a lot of pressure from different walks of life but should not presume that once the child goes to a popular school, the problem is solved. The parents should give quality time to their children and make sure that their children can do their best, even if they are not admitted to these popular schools.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) As soon as a toddler starts walking, what are his parents worried about?
(a) His future
(b) His health
(c) His admission
(d) His growth

(ii) After all the admission procedures are over, what would one expect?
(a) Money for the admission
(b) Immediate admission
(c) Good education
(d) Immediate classes

(iii) What comes into the limelight at the onset of the admission season?
(a) The child
(b) Public schools
(c) Parents
(d) The stationery shops

(iv) What is the mind-boggling exercise where parents start swinging between dos and don’ts?
(a) Admission
(b) Interview
(c) Raising a child
(d) Searching for the best school

(v) What is the most important thing that parents should give to their child?
(a) Good food
(b) Good clothes
(c) Quality education
(d) Quality time

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) In what respect is going to school today different from what it used to be in the olden days?
(ii) What is the plight of the parents and that of children before the schooling begins?
(iii) In spite of the coaching done by the parents, children fail to perform well. Why?
(iv) “It is exactly the same situation we elders face…” Explain.
(v) Why do the parents want their children to be put in a popular school?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘to write or draw something quickly or carelessly’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘fit to be chosen’.

III. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. If you enjoy watching crime shows on TV, you know that fingerprints play a major role in identifying people. But, you might be surprised to find out that using fingerprints for identification is not a new science. In fact, it is very old – dating back at least as far as 1885-1913 B.C.E. In Babylon, when people agreed to a business contract, they pressed their fingerprints into the clay in which the contract was written. Thumbprints have also been found on clay seals from ancient China.

2. In 14th century Persia, which is now Iran, a government doctor recognised that all fingerprints are different. In 1684, a British doctor, Nehemiah Grew, spoke about the ridged surfaces of the fingers. In 1686, a professor of anatomy (the study of the structure of the human body) named Marcello Malpighi, wrote about the ridges and loops in fingerprints. Malpighi’s work was considered so important that a layer of skin found on the fingertips was named after him. This layer of skin is called the Malpighian layer. Although scientists had studied fingerprints, the value

(ii) Who wrote about fingerprints in 1686?
(a) Henry Faulds
(b) Charles Darwin
(c) Nehemiah Grew
(d) Sir William James Herschel

(iii) Who uses a variation of the Galton-Henry system?
(a) FBI
(b) Japanese Hospital
(c) Henry Faulds
(d) the United States

(iv) Where was the use of fingerprinting in identification originated?
(a) Britain
(b) China
(c) India
(d) Iran

(v) Why are fingerprints checked in a classified job?
(a) Because they may not discuss your work
(b) Because they work only with fingerprints
(c) Because they work with automated systems
(d) To be sure of any criminal background

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) How were fingerprints used in ancient times?
(ii) Define anatomy.
(iii) What is Malpighian layer?
(iv) Why did Sir William James Herschel ask people to put their handprints on contracts?
(v) How long does it take the IAFIS to find someone’s fingerprints?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-1) which means ‘to recognise someone or something’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘to invent a plan or system’.

IV. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. It’s a common refrain: Youngsters today are becoming westernised. Parents lament that if they ask their kids to accompany them to the temple, they pull a long face. But all these may just be nothing other than popular perceptions. A survey conducted by hindustantimes.com shows that 68 percent of youth today believe in a higher power, 43 percent visit the temple every day and around 60 percent admit that going to the temple gives them mental satisfaction. They want to show their devotion to God.

2. The survey also shows that rather than making them superstitious, a faith in a higher being, visiting temples, and wearing religious symbols, such as a Kada or a sacred thread gives them a sense of strength.

3. Clinical psychologist, Seema Sharma says, “In this stress-ridden life of ours, we need to fall back on something for which we have to be sure that it is more powerful than us. Developing faith in anyone’s relevant thing in our life is mandatory. Psychological anarchy is prevented if we have something on which we can put our trust.”

4. It was a decade or so back that a trendy youngster would consider it middle-class to admit that they kept fasts and visited the temple. It was in vogue to sneer at the temple-going variety, though the snob brigade might be doing it themselves.

5. But not now. Things have changed. “Children have become more logical. They believe in God but only as far as they find any logic in this because they have started analysing the situation. They are open to any kind of discussion, so they don’t shy away to be ritualistic as a few years back they were”, says Madhu Kansal, the Principal of Delhi International School.

6. They wear their kadas, and cross with confidence and don’t hide it inside their tees, though around 45 percent will not wear religious prints because they feel it is demeaning to their religion and 36 percent will not use religious tones as ringtones for their mobile phones. Their logic: “Why display?”

7. Conservative it may sound but a huge difference in the attitude of today’s youth towards God is visible. Calling God nicknames would be unthinkable for the older generation who hold the entity in awe and fear. Not so with the youth today. They seem to blend their orthodox beliefs with a fun quotient perfectly, in their relationship with God. For them: God is “cool”.

8. Senior BJP leader, Sushma Swaraj says, “Youngsters are not hypocrites. They don’t believe in displaying but believe in truth. They are ready to face anything and have a friendly relationship with God. They have given nicknames to their favourite Gods, such as Roly Poly for Lord Ganesh and Hanu for Hanuman. Gods are their buddies.”

9. What also emerges from the survey is that many visit temples and observe rituals because their family insists. Says Pinky Nigam, a student of Hindu college, “Family plays a crucial role and perhaps is one of the most significant determinants of a child’s religious discourse.”

10. Aishwarya Sakhuja agrees, “Yes, you will see me with a dupatta on my head in a puja but that’s all about it. I do it to keep my family happy.”

11. Sociologist D.L. Seth, a member of Centre for the Study of Developing Societies says, “Life is becoming uncertain. People want some mental peace, there is a higher sense of insecurity, and being ritualistic is not really attached to being superstitious. It is not necessary that a ritualistic person may be superstitious and a superstitious person may be ritualistic.”

12. That seems to be the blend then, spiritual but realistic. Kuchipudi dancer, Raja Reddy, talking of his own children, says, “My children want to know everything about our religious rites; they know Kuchipudi but choreograph western compositions.”

13. Life today is fast, furious, and fickle, but Gen-X seems to have found the formula to fight back: Blend your religious faith with practical sense, draw strength and solace from it but don’t foster blind faith. Practise rituals, if it makes your family happy. You can do this much for them even if you do not believe in it.

14. Anura Jain, 18, sums it up, “There is God, but he just can’t give everything to 10 million people!”

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What percentage of youth believes in a higher power?

(a) 68%
(b) 60%
(c) 45%
(d) 36%

(ii) What gives a sense of strength to the youngsters?

(a) Visiting Temples
(b) Wearing religious symbols
(c) Making them superstitious
(d) None of these

(iii) Why will 45 % of youngsters not wear religious prints?

(a) Because they feel that it is just a display
(b) Because they feel that it is demeaning
(c) Because they feel that it is funny
(d) Because they feel that it is less trendy

(iv) Who holds a fun quotient with God?

(a) Elder generation
(b) Younger generation
(c) Small children
(d) Everyone

(v) What is the most significant determinant of a child’s religious discourse?

(a) Friends
(b) Family
(c) Relatives
(d) Environment

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) What does the author mean by, ‘All these may just be little other than popular perceptions’?
(ii) What does the survey conducted by hindustantimes.com reveal about youngster’s belief in God?
(iii) Compare the scenario of the youngster’s belief a decade back with that of the present time.
(iv) What do certain youngsters do in order to avoid making a display of their religious beliefs?
(v) What are the certain things that youngsters do to support their view of god is cool’?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘modern and influenced by the most recent fashions or idea’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘a feeling of great respect mixed with fear’.

V. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. We hear the word ‘smart cities’ often these days. So what is it? Is it a city where everyone is smart or where only smart people are allowed? Or is it a futuristic city upon entry of which people will become smart?

2. It is, however, something entirely different. Just to give you an idea-Think of sensors monitoring water levels, energy usage, traffic flows, and security cameras, and sending that data directly to city administrators. Or applications that help residents navigate traffic, report potholes and vote. Or trash collection that’s totally automated. This is what a ‘smart city’ will have. In fact, the term generally refers to cities using information technology to solve urban problems. It is also used to enhance performance and well-being, to reduce costs and resource consumption, and to engage more effectively and actively with its citizens. It will help in confronting overcrowding, traffic congestion, pollution, resource constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and the need for continuing economic growth. It will also have reduced crime, safer streets, and neighbourhood. In all, there will be a general improvement in the quality of life.

3. The key ‘smart’ sectors include transport, energy, healthcare, water and waste. A smart city should be able to respond faster to city and global challenges than one with a simple ‘transactional’ relationship with its citizens. It engages effectively with local people in local governance and the decision by use of open innovation processes and e-participation with emphasis placed on citizen participation and co-design. It makes good use of the creative industries, supported by a strong knowledge and social networks, voluntary organisations in a low-crime setting to achieve these aims.

4. The terms ‘intelligent city’ and ‘digital city’ are also used interchangeably with the smart cities.

5. You may wonder, why there is a sudden interest in smart cities. It is due to major challenges, including climate change, economic restructuring, the move to online retail and entertainment, ageing populations, and pressures on public finances.

6. So, how does it work? The Smart Cities Council, an industry-backed outfit that advocates the concept in India, describes them as cities that control data gathered from smart sensors through a smart grid to create a city that is liveable, workable, and sustainable. According to the Smart Cities Council, all the data that is collected from sensors – electricity, gas, water, traffic, and other government analytics – is carefully compiled and integrated into a smart grid and then fed into computers that can focus on making the city as efficient as possible.

7. This allows authorities to have real-time information about the city around them, and allows computers to attempt “perfect operations”, such as balancing supply and demand on electricity networks, synchronising traffic signals for peak usage, and optimising energy networks. India is urbanising at an unprecedented rate, so much that estimates suggest that nearly 600 million Indians will be living in cities by 2030, up from 290 million as reported in the 2001 census. A McKinsey Global Institute study estimated that cities would generate 70% new jobs by 2030, produce more than 70% of the Indian gross domestic product and drive a fourfold increase in per capita income across the country.

8. The concept of ‘smart cities’ as satellite towns of larger ones was enunciated in last month’s budget by the new NDA government which has allocated a sum of ? 7,060 crores for the plan. In his budget speech, Jaitley mentioned about exactly why the government believes the need for spending money on 100 smart cities. He claimed that “unless new cities are developed to accommodate the burgeoning number of people, the existing cities would soon become unliveable.” According to the urban development ministry, the focus will not be just 100 cities, but all urban areas across the country 100 cities, however, remain a tentative figure, with much still to be pinned down.

The budget speech only officially identified cities along with the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Master Plan, which covers seven states. Although they weren’t named in the budget, seven cities have also been named along the Delhi- Mumbai Industrial Corridor, some of which would overlap with the Amritsar-Kolkata plan. Officially, the budget only pointed out three cities in the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor: Ponneri in Tamil Nadu, Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, and Tumkur in Karnataka.

9. The secretary, Sudhir Krishna has asked the National Institute of Urban Affairs to work on the smart city project, based on a framework that covers overall smartness and sustainability. For now, the focus will be on a much smaller number of cities in states where conditions are amenable before. The government even attempts to look at expanding to cover 100 urban areas.

10. 70 crore per city will clearly not be enough, and even if more is added, it’s unlikely that the government will have resources to pay for the cities. The government announced that it was relaxing norms for foreign direct investment to make it easier for outside companies to invest in smart cities. In addition, India has spoken to France, Japan, and Singapore about collaborating on the projects.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What are the key to ‘smart’ sectors?
(a) Transport and energy
(b) Healthcare and water
(c) Energy and waste
(d) All of these

(ii) How do smart cities engage with local people?

(a) By e-participation
(b) By open-innovation
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) By meeting people regularly

(iii) Who estimated that cities would generate 70% new jobs by 2030?

(a) Smart Cities Council
(b) Global Institute
(c) Smart Sectors
(d) City Administrators

(iv) What does the McKinsey Global Institute study suggest about India’s GDP in the future?
(a) It will increase more than 70%
(b) It will decrease more than 70%
(c) It will decrease more than 60%
(d) It will increase more than 50%

(v) How many states does the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Master Plan cover?
(a) Six
(b) Five
(c) Eight
(d) Seven

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) What are ‘smart cities’?
(ii) What does the author mean by, ‘India is urbanising at an unprecedented rate’?
(iii) Why is there a sudden interest in smart cities?
(iv) Why does the government feel that there is a need for spending money on 100 smart cities?
(v) How is the government generating resources for the formation of smart cities?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘use of any new idea or method’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-8) which means ‘to provide with a place to live’.

VI. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Till as late as the 1960s, we believed that one of the major differences between us and the rest of the animal kingdom was our ability to make and use tools. But then, our egos suffered a devastating blow: in the jungles of Gombe in Africa, Jane Goodall observed a chimpanzee pluck and trim a stem of grass and insert it into a termite mound. The furious termites climbed up the stem only to be happily eaten up by the chimp. The chimp kept repeating the process. He had, in fact, fashioned his own fishing rod and gone fishing for termites.

We were not alone! And that was not all. Chimps were also observed using rocks to bash open hard shells and fruits (which other monkeys also do), to throw them at their enemies and wave sticks around. Even worse, adolescent females, especially, were seen sharpening sticks with their teeth and thrusting these like spears into hollows where bush-babies were hiding I fear and then checked the spear tips for blood! Chimps were also seen chewing up leaves and using these like sponges to suck up water from the waterholes to enable them to drink.

2. The gorillas and orangutans were not far behind. In 2005, a western lowland gorilla (a lady, this time) was observed picking up a stick and using it to check the depth of a pool she wanted to cross. Then, she used it as a walking stick. Orangutans (as well as chimpanzees) have been observed using broad leaves as umbrellas during downpours – and orangutans that are accustomed to our company (never a good influence) imitate the way we wash clothes by the riverbank or use a saw to cut wood.

3. Elephants designed fly-whisks and backscratchers from branches and used strips of chewed up bark to plug small waterholes (which they had dug) to prevent the water from evaporating. Dada bulls would heave heavy logs or rocks at electric fences to short-circuit or simple destroy them.

4. Bottle-nosed dolphins have been known to cover their long noses with sponges or shells before combing the seabed for tidbits (There are many spiny creatures and sharp rocks that could otherwise injure them).

5. Crows are thought to be the smartest amongst birds and the new Caledonian crow is considered to be the Einstein among crows. Crows have been known to do the dropping-of-pebbles-in-a-pitcher of water stunt, as described in Aesop’s Fables. The American alligator has been known to arrange twigs on its head – to lure nest-building birds to come and pick them up. When they do, well, lunch is served for the alligator!

6. For long, we have exploited the poor silkworm, boiling its cocoons alive to make one of the most exquisite clothing materials known so far. But the real pros in silk production are hold your breath spiders. What caterpillars of moths and butterflies do with their mouthparts (like a magician releasing ribbons from his/ her mouth), spiders do it from the lower part of their bodies. But try as we may, we still haven’t cracked the code of how to synthesise spider silk, which can be used for everything from producing gunsights and sutures to light bulletproof jackets and seat belts.

7. What if spiders sold their silk? Imagine walking into a silk emporium run by arachnids, you would be greeted by a sales-spider: charming, young Ms/Mr Hairy legs, who would appraise you out of her/his eight or so eyes. “Welcome, welcome!” She/He would gush scanning you top-down, rubbing its hairy legs together in delight. “We have some of the finest, softest cradle silk you would ever want for your happy events. Wrapped up in it, your babies will be warm, safe, and dry as they wait to hatch. It’s super-absorbent, too, and a nappy rash will not be a problem!

8. So yes, animals use tools, but we needn’t worry. None of them have, as yet, discovered how to make fire. Though our very own black kite will with its goonda friends – spread a wildfire by dropping burning twigs in unburned areas so they can snap up even more fleeing insects and rodents. But yes, these so-called tools are primitive.

9. But then, do animals really need sophisticated tools to get what they want? Cheetahs accelerate faster than Ferraris, pit vipers have heat-seeking sensors, eagles can locate a rabbit in a field from kilometres away, sharks smell a drop of blood in a whole ruddy ocean, bats use sonar, birds, and bees see ultraviolet light, a falcon can dive at 320 kmph, snakes have a cocktail of venom that can bleed, paralyse or liquefy you to death, spiders’ silk still has us in a tizzy, chameleons and octopuses wear invisibility cloaks, and migratory birds have built-in navigation system – the list is endless!

10. We had the best brains and so we’re able to design miraculous tools. But look where we have ended up: we’ve gassed up the earth’s air, poisoned the water, and have stocked enough weaponry to destroy ourselves a million times over. So really, who is the monkey with the wrench? [CBSE 2019 SET-IT]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What does it indicate when chimps make their own fishing rods?

(a) That animals and man have similar interests
(b) That monkeys also go fishing
(c) That animals like to imitate man
(d) That man is an animal who likes to fish

(ii) How do we know that chimps are intelligent?

(a) They try and ape man
(b) They use their brains to find solution to problems
(c) They kill bush-babies
(d) They love to eat termites

(iii) Why do orangutans use big leaves during downpour?

(a) Because they like big leaves when it starts to rain
(b) Because they do not like heavy rain
(c) Because they want to wet the leaves
(d) Because the leaves can keep the rain off their bodies

(iv) Why might the black kite start a fire?

(a) Because it is a firebird
(b) Because it is hungry and looking for food
(c) Because it likes to watch fleeing animals
(d) Because it eats only cooked meat

(v) Why do big male elephants throw logs at electric fences?

(a) Because they want to be free
(b) Because they are great throwers
(c) Because they enjoy the sparks thus caused
(d) Because they are very strong animals

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) Why are animals considered as intelligent as humans?
(ii) What strategy do chimps use to open hard shells and fruits?
(iii) What do elephants do to prevent water from evaporating?
(iv) Give an example from the passage that proves the crow to be an intelligent bird.
(v) How does a black kite spread wildfire?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-6) which means ‘misused’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘welcomed’.

♦ Solved Passages:

I. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. New Year is the time for resolution. Mentally, at least most of us could compile formidable lists of ‘dos and don’ts’. The same old favourites recur year in and year out with monotonous regularity. We resolve to get up early each morning, eat healthy food, exercise, be nice to people whom we don’t like, and find more time for our parents. Past experience has taught us that certain accomplishments are beyond attainment. If we remain deep-rooted liars, it is only because we have so often experienced the frustration that results from failure.

2. Most of us fail in our efforts at self-improvement because our schemes are too ambitious and we never have time to carry them out. We also make the fundamental error of announcing our resolution to everybody, so that we look even more foolish when we slip back into our bad old ways. Aware of these pitfalls, this year I attempted to keep my resolutions to myself. I limited myself to two modest ambitions, to do physical exercise every morning and to read more in the evening. An overnight party on New Year’s Eve provided me with a good excuse for not carrying out either of these new resolutions on the first day of the year, but on the second, I applied myself diligently to the task.

3. The daily exercise lasted only eleven minutes and I proposed to do them early in the morning before anyone had got up. The self-discipline required to drag myself out of bed eleven minutes earlier than usual was considerable. Nevertheless, I managed to creep down into the living room for two days before anyone found me out. After jumping about in the carpet and twisting the human frame into uncomfortable positions, I sat down at the breakfast table in an exhausted condition. It was this that betrayed me.

The next morning, the whole family trooped in to watch the performance. That was really unsettling, but I fended off the taunts and jibes of the whole family good-humouredly and soon everybody got used to the idea. However, my enthusiasm waned. The time I spent at exercises gradually diminished. Little by little, the eleven minutes fell to zero. By January 10, I was back to where I had started from. I argued that if I spent less time exhausting myself at exercises in the morning, I would keep my mind fresh for reading when I got home from work. Resisting the hypnotising effect of television, I sat in my room for a few evenings with my eyes glued to a book. One night, however, feeling cold and lonely, I went downstairs and sat in front of the television pretending to read. That proved to be my undoing, for I soon got back to the old bad habit of dozing off in front of the screen. I still haven’t given up my resolution to do more reading. In fact, I have just bought a book entitled ‘How to Read a Thousand Words a Minute’. Perhaps, it will solve my problem, but I just have not had time to read it.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
What were the writer’s resolutions?
(a) Physical exercise in the morning
(b) Read more in the evening
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Not to make more resolutions
Answer:
(c) Both (a) and (b)

Question (ii)
How much time did the daily exercise last initially?
(a) 10 minutes
(b) 11 minutes
(c) 5 minutes
(d) 8 minutes
Answer:
(b) 11 minutes

Question (iii)
How many days did the writer continue his resolution?
(a) 8 days
(b) 9 days
(c) 10 days
(d) 7 days
Answer:
(b) 9 days

Question (iv)
What did the writer do one night, when he was feeling cold and lonely?
(a) Sat in front of the TV pretending to read
(b) Completed an entire book
(c) Went for a walk
(d) Gave up the idea of reading
Answer:
(a) Sat in front of the TV pretending to read

Question (v)
Which book did the writer buy?
(a) How to Read a Thousand Words a Minute
(b) How to be a Good Reader
(c) How to be Firm on your Resolutions
(d) The Importance of Exercising
Answer:
(a) How to Read a Thousand Words a Minute

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
According to the writer, what has past experience of New Year’s resolutions taught us?
Answer:
The past experience of New Year’s resolutions has taught us that certain accomplishments are beyond attainment.

Question (ii)
According to the writer, why do most of us fail in our efforts for self-improvement?
Answer:
Most of us fail in our efforts for self-improvement because our schemes are too ambitious and we never have time to carry them out.

Question (iii)
Why is it a big mistake to announce our resolution to everybody?
Answer:
It is a big mistake to announce our resolution to everybody because when we do not accomplish what we had resolved, we look even more foolish.

Question (iv)
Why did the writer not carry out his resolution on New Year’s Day?
Answer:
An overnight party on New Year’s Eve provided the writer with a good excuse for not carrying out either of his new resolutions on the first day of the year.

Question (v)
“I fended off the taunts and jibes…”. Whose taunts and jibes is the writer talking about? Why was he being taunted?
Answer:
(a) The same old favourites occur with monotonous regularity.
(b) We never have time to carry them out.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-1) which means ‘not changing and therefore boring’.
Answer:
monotonous

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘to become weaker in strength or influence’.
Answer:
weave

II. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

6. For many children, studies are the most boring aspect of their lives. Learning, instead of fun is being considered the most mundane and avoidable activity. Thanks to the propagators of an educational system which is more information-oriented than knowledge-oriented. Too much of a syllabus, too many students per teacher, lack of enough hands-on exercises, teaching as a routine with the aim of completing the syllabus in time rather than with the goal of imparting knowledge, the curriculum more often than not designed keeping in view the most intelligent student rather than the average student are the important factors in this regard. Peer pressure, high expectations of the parents in an extremely competitive environment, the multitude of distractions in an era of the technological revolution are adding further to the burden on the young minds.

7. For a change, can we have some English/Hindi poems ickle, tickle, and pickle the young minds and send them on a wild goose chase for the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow? Can we have lessons in History that make the child feel proud of his heritage, instead of asking him to mug up the years of the events? Can physics and chemistry lessons be taught more in the laboratories than in the classrooms? Can a system be devised so as to make the educational excursions compulsory for schools, so that visits to historical/botanical places are ensured without fail? Can the educational institutes start off inter-school projects on the internet, the way the schools abroad do, so as to encourage the child to explore on her own and sum up her/his findings in the form of a report?

8. Finally, can we make the wonder of the childhood lost and get carried forward into adulthood, instead of forcing pre-mature adulthood on children? I, for one, have realised that it is worth doing so, hence, I have asked my child to go ahead by choosing to write the answers on her own, in her own language by giving vent to her most fanciful imagination! (Source: The Hindu)

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
What does the article “Reforming our Education System” emphasise upon?
Answer:
It emphasised the need for shifting education from remembering to understanding.

Question (iii)
What are the “imaginary boxes” referred in the passage?
Answer:
These are the ways of thinking that we cannot change.

Question (iv)
What is the harm that may occur if a person is taught to always think by rote?
Answer:
There is the likelihood that such a person may never rise in his ability to think.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘to behave according to the usual standards of behaviour which is accepted by the society’.
Answer:
conform

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-6) which means ‘very ordinary and therefore not interesting’.
Answer:
mundane

III. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
What is “organic process of growth”?
Answer:
They have an impact gradually. Slowly good habits are nurtured and bad habits
are given up.

Question (iii)
How did Gandhi accomplish the most difficult tasks effortlessly?
Answer:
According to the author, the ‘universal law of nature’ is that growth is gradual.

Question (iv)
Which part of Gandhi’s life is not seen by most people?
Answer:
Gandhiji accomplished the most difficult tasks effordessly by practice, self-mastery and discipline. He worked on small things and learnt from his mistakes.

Question (v)
How can we achieve our ‘ideal goals’?
Answer:
Gandhi’s struggles, fears, doubts and anxieties, or his inner efforts to overcome them were not seen by most people.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘intentionally’ or ‘purposely’.
Answer:
deliberately

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-5) which means ‘of deep significance’.
Answer:
profound

IV. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

3. The fascinating and sometimes the terrifying wildlife keeps us entertained during our explorations. Bearded harp and ring seals greet us daily. The profusion of bird life is awesome; at times, we see and smell hundreds and thousands of thick¬billed murres clinging to their cliffside nests. Our charts show that we are on the edge of a huge shoal where the frigid ocean currents upswell and mix nutrients that provide a feast for the food chain. At times, these animals scare the living daylights out of us. They have a knack of sneaking up behind us and then shooting out of the water and belly, flopping for maximum noise and splash. A horrendous splash coming from behind has a heart-stopping effect in polar bear country.

5. We face a 35 mile open water passage across Prince Regent Inlet on Baffin Island that will take us to our ultimate goal – Pond Inlet on Baffin Bay. The breakers look huge from the water’s edge. Leaning into the hulls, like bobsledders at the starting gate, we push as hard as we can down the gravel beach to the sea. We catch the water and keep pushing, until we have plunged waist deep, then drag ourselves aboard. Immediately, we begin paddling with every ounce of effort. Sweat pours off our bodies. Ahead of us, looming gray-white through the fog, we see a massive iceberg riding the current like the ghost of a battleship. There is no wind to fill our sails and steady the boat, and the chaotic motion soon brings sea-sickness. Slowly, the wind begins to build. Prince Regent Inlet now looks ominous with wind and waves. The frigid ocean hits us in the face and chills us to the bone.

6. We were on the fine edge. Everything at the Arctic that had taught us over the last 90 days was now being tested. We funneled all that knowledge, skill, teamwork, and spirit into this momentous crossing… If we went over in these seas, we could not get the boat back up. Suddenly, the wind speed plummeted to zero as quickly as it had begun…. Now, we were being pushed by the convulsing waves toward sheer 2,000 -foot cliffs. Two paddles were our only power. Sailing past glacier capped mountains, we approached the end of our journey. At 5:08 in the morning of our hundredth day, speeding into Baffin Bay, the spray from our twin hulls makes rainbows in the sun as we complete the first sail powered voyage through the Northwest Passage.

7. We have journeyed through these waters on their terms, moved by the wind, waves and current. The environment has always been in control of our destiny; we have only tried to respond in the best possible way. We’ve been awake for nearly 23 hours, but we cannot sleep. The joy and excitement are too great. Our Hobie Cat rests on the rocky beach, the wind whistling in her rigging, her bright yellow hulls radiant in the morning sunlight. She embodies the watchword for survival in the Arctic adaptability. [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (ii)
Why were bowhead whales killed for?
(a) Whale oil and bone
(b) Head and tail
(c) Flesh and bone
(d) None of these
Answer:
(a) Whale oil and bone

Question (iii)
What does “Lords of the Arctic” refer to?
(a) Wind breakers
(b) Icebergs
(c) Polar bears
(d) Inuits
Answer:
(c) Polar bears

Question (iv)
What is the name of the author’s sailing vessel?
(a) Prince Regent
(b) Hobie Cat
(c) Perception
(d) Arctic
Answer:
(b) Hobie Cat

Question (v)
What does ‘we were on the fine edge’ refer to?
(a) The Prince Regent Inlet
(b) The ominous sail
(c) The frigid ocean
(d) Their expedition
Answer:
(b) The ominous sail

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7marks)

Question (iv)
What is the paradox of the Arctic?
Answer:
In some regions, the land is totally devoid of life, while in others, the pulse of life takes our breath away. Its wastelands flow into oasis that are found nowhere else on the face of the earth.

Question (v)
How did certain skills help the author and his partner survive the adventure?
Answer:
Knowledge, skill, teamwork, and spirit helped the author and his partner to survive the adventure.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘an area of territory owned or controlled’.
Answer:
domain

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘the act of arranging dishonestly for the result of something’.
Answer:
rigging

V. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. I was in Hyderabad, giving a lecture, when a 14-year-old girl asked me for my autograph. I asked her what her goal in life was. She replied, “I want to live in a developed India.” For her, you and I will have to build this developed India. You must proclaim: India is not an underdeveloped nation; it is a highly-developed nation.

2. Allow me to come back with vengeance. Got ten minutes for your country? YOU say that our government is inefficient. YOU say that our laws are too old. YOU say that the municipality does not pick up the garbage. YOU say that the phones don’t work, the railways are a joke, the airline is the worst in the world and mails never reach their destinations. YOU say that our country has been fed to the dogs and is the absolute pit. YOU say, say and say.

3. What do YOU do about it? Take a person on his way to Singapore. Give him a name – YOURS. Give him a face – YOURS. YOU walk out of the airport and you are at your international best. In Singapore, you don’t throw cigarette butts on the roads or eat in the stores. YOU are as proud of their Underground Links as they are. You pay $ 5 (approx. 60) to drive through Orchard Road (equivalent of Mahim Causeway or Pedder Road) between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

4. YOU come back to the parking lot to punch your parking ticket, if you have overstayed in a restaurant or a shopping mall, irrespective of your status or identity. In Singapore, you don’t say anything, DO YOU? YOU wouldn’t dare to eat in public during Ramadan in Dubai. YOU would not dare to go out without your head covered in Jeddah. YOU would not dare to buy an employee of the telephone exchange in London at 10 pounds (? 650) a month to “see to it that my STD and ISD calls are billed to someone else.” YOU would not dare to speed beyond 55 mph (88 kph) in Washington and then tell the traffic cop, “Do you know who I am? I am so and so’s son. Take your two bucks and get lost.” YOU wouldn’t chuck an empty coconut shell anywhere other than the garbage pail on the beaches in Australia and New Zealand. Why don’t YOU spit paan on the streets of Tokyo? Why don’t YOU use examination jockeys or buy fake certificates in Boston? We are still talking of the same YOU.

5. YOU, who can respect and conform to a foreign system in other countries but cannot in your own. YOU, who will throw papers and cigarettes on the road, the moment you touch Indian ground. If you can be an involved and appreciative citizen in an alien country, why cannot you be the same here in India. Once in an interview, the famous ex-municipal commissioner of Bombay Mr Tinaikar had a point to make, “Rich people’s dogs are walked on the streets to leave their affluent droppings all over the place,” he said. “And then the same people turn around to criticise and blame the authorities for inefficiency and dirty pavements. What do they expect the officers to do? Go down with a broom every time their dog feels the pressure in his bowels? In America, every dog owner has to clean up after his pet has done the job. Same is in Japan. Will Indian citizens do that here?” He’s right.

6. We go to the polls to choose a government and after that forfeit all responsibility. We sit back wanting to be pampered and expect the government to do everything for us whilst our contribution is totally negative. We expect the government to clean up, but we are not going to stop chucking garbage all over the place nor are we going to stop to pick up a stray piece of paper and throw it in the bin. We expect the railways to provide clean bathrooms, but we are not going to learn the proper use of bathrooms. We want Indian Airlines and Air India to provide the best of food and toiletries, but we are not going to stop pilfering at the least opportunity. This applies even to the staff, who is known not to pass on the service to the public.

When it comes to burning social issues like those related to women, dowry, girl- child and others, we make loud protests and continue to do the reverse at home. Our excuse? “It’s the whole system which has to change, how will it matter if I alone forego my son’s rights to a dowry.” So who’s going to change the system? What does a system consist of? Very conveniently for us, it consists of our neighbours, other households, other cities, other communities and the government. But definitely not me and YOU.

7. When it comes to us, in making a positive contribution to the system, we lock ourselves along with our families into a safe cocoon and look into the distance at countries far away and wait for a Mr Clean to come along and work miracles for us with a majestic sweep of his hand, or we leave the country and run away. Like lazy cowards, hounded by our fears, we run to America to bask in their glory and praise their system. When New York becomes insecure, we run to England. When England experiences unemployment, we take the next flight out to the Gulf. When the Gulf is war struck, we demand to be rescued and brought home by the Indian government. Everybody is out to abuse and rape the country. Nobody thinks of feeding the system. Our conscience is mortgaged to money.

8. Dear Indians, the article is highly thought inductive, calls for a great deal of introspection and pricks one’s conscience too….I am echoing J. F. Kennedy’s words to his fellow Americans to relate to Indians….

9. “Ask What we Can Do for India and Do What has to be Done to Make India What America and Other Western Countries a Today”.

10. Let’s do what India needs from us.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
What was the writer doing in Hyderabad?
(a) Touring with friends
(b) Giving a lecture
(c) Attending a function
(d) Organising an event
Answer:
(b) Giving a lecture

Question (ii)
What was the 14-year-old girl’s goal in life?
(a) To live in a developed India
(b) To become an astronaut
(c) To become a scientist
(d) To make her country proud of her
Answer:
(a) To live in a developed India

Question (iii)
What happens after choosing a government?
(a) We expect the government to do everything
(b) We forfeit all responsibilities
(c) We want to be pampered
(d) All of these
Answer:
(d) All of these

Question (iv)
What does a system consist of?
(a) Our neighbours and other households
(b) The government
(c) Other cities and other communities
(d) All of us
Answer:
(d) All of us

Question (v)
Where do Indians run when New York becomes insecure?
(a) England
(b) Gulf
(c) India
(d) Japan
Answer:
(a) England

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
What are the negative remarks we make about our country?
Answer:
Government is inefficient; laws too old; municipality does not pick up garbage; phones don’t work; railways a joke; airline is the worst in the world; mails don’t reach their destinations.

Question (ii)
How does an Indian behave in Singapore?
Answer:
In Singapore, an Indian is at his international best; doesn’t throw cigarette butts on roads; eat in stores; pays 5 dollars to drive through Orchard Road.

Question (iii)
List two deeds an Indian would not dare to do while travelling abroad.
Answer:
Indians do not dare to eat in public during Ramadan in Dubai; go out in Jedah without covering their heads; do not dare to bribe an employee of telephone exchange in London; do not dare to speed beyond 55 mph in Washington; do not chuck empty coconut shell anywhere; do not spit paan on streets.

Question (iv)
What is our attitude towards elections and social issues?
Answer:
We go to polls to choose a government and after that forfeit all responsibilities expecting the government to do everything for us. For social issues, make loud protestations and continue to do the reverse at home.

Question (v)
What do you understand by the statement, “Our conscience is mortgaged to money”?
Answer:
It means that we leave the country and run away to make more money; we don’t do anything to improve our country.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-6) which means ‘to steal things of small value’.
Answer:
pilfering

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-8) which means ‘the examination or observation’.
Answer:
introspection

♦ Unsolved Passages:

I. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

8. “Well, not everything, but enough to know that India has succeeded where most of the others had failed”.

9. When all the food was over and Karthik had still not moved to wash his hands, I looked at him. He was sitting there, clearly dreaming. Upon prodding, he said, “Well, I was thinking, how great it would be to become an astronaut. I can move around in space, meet aliens, may be make a new house there. It would be fun to have picnic there. We can, in fact, promote it as a tourist place. We can also have a short stoppage at moon and some other planets. Do you think we can take a contract for arranging all this? What do you say Aunty?”

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) When was MOM launched?
(a) 2010
(b) 2011
(c) 2013
(d) 2014

(ii) How many attempts did NASA make to reach Mars?
(a) Two
(b) Three
(c) Four
(d) One

(iii) What was the size of the payload?
(a) 15 kg
(b) 14 kg
(c) 16 kg
(d) 17 kg

(iv) What was the other name of MOM?
(a) Mangalyaan
(b) Mars Orbit Mission
(c) Mangalgrehyaan
(d) Shubhyaan

(v) What was the cost of Mangalyaan?
(a) $ 84 million
(b) $ 108 million
(c) $ 74 million
(d) $ 100 million

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

B. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

3. Our public schools are always in the limelight with the onset of the admission season. They are set with their colourful advertisements for admission to various classes. After all the admission procedures are over, one would start expecting a call letter. The moment a call letter is received, mothers have a tough time in making their small children sit and teach them to remember certain things which would open the door for their future (getting into a particular school). The child who hardly knows anything has to follow his mother, so that she could make him scribble a few things on paper. They have to go through this exercise to make a name.

4. Then comes the due day for the mind-boggling exercise-the interview. Parents start swinging between dos and don’ts, whether their child will make it or not. The moment you enter the school, you find beautifully dressed young kids with their parents huddled together to try their luck. For children, it is exactly the same situation as we elders face when we are told to attend a party where no one is known to us and where we simply find ourselves in a precarious situation as to what and what not to do. When we, the grown-ups cannot adjust to such gatherings, how do we expect our small children to be free in such an atmosphere? It is a real trauma for a child, who seeing an unfamiliar face, starts crying and that eventually becomes his negative point for his admission. He might be knowing what all he is expected to answer in such an interview but fails in his preliminary round. Is this a real test of his capability? Is this what determines his eligibility for admission?

7. Minister for Health and Primary Education, Delhi Government, amicably suggested that it is the moral duty of parents to give not only bookish knowledge to their children, but an environment where they can be nurtured to learn about their own culture and heritage by any mode (be it dance, art, painting, music, etc.) depending upon the child’s talent. He further laid emphasis on the fact that our duty doesn’t end by sending children to schools at early dawn, collecting them and sending them to tuitions and finally making them sit in front of the so-called idiot box. The child has to be mentally and morally educated besides being physically educated. His words were really a take-home lesson for every sensible parent.

8. But to some extent, I do blame parents because it is their eagerness to put their child in a reputed school. Parents do have a lot of pressure from different walks of life but should not presume that once the child goes to a popular school, the problem is solved. The parents should give quality time to their children and make sure that their children can do the best, even if they are not admitted to these popular schools.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) As soon as a toddler starts walking, what are his parents worried about?
(a) His future
(b) His health
(c) His admission
(d) His growth

(ii) After all the admission procedures are over, what would one expect?
(a) Money for the admission
(b) Immediate admission
(c) Good education
(d) Immediate classes

(iii) What comes into the limelight at the onset of the admission season?
(a) The child
(b) Public schools
(c) Parents
(d) The stationery shops

(iv) What is the mind-boggling exercise where parents start swinging between dos and don’ts?
(a) Admission
(b) Interview
(c) Raising a child
(d) Searching for the best school

(v) What is the most important thing that parents should give to their child?
(a) Good food
(b) Good clothes
(c) Quality education
(d) Quality time

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

III. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

(ii) Who wrote about fingerprints in 1686?
(a) Henry Faulds
(b) Charles Darwin
(c) Nehemian Grew
(d) Sir William James Herschel

(iii) Who uses a variation of the Galton-Henry system?
(a) FBI
(b) Japanese Hospital
(c) Henry Faulds
(d) United States

(iv) Where was the use of fingerprinting in identification originated?
(a) Britain
(b) China
(c) India
(d) Iran

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) How were fingerprints used in the ancient times?
(ii) Define anatomy.
(iii) What is Malpighian layer?
(iv) Why did Sir William James Herschel ask people to put their handprints on contracts?
(v) How long does it take the IAFIS to find someone’s fingerprints?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-1) which means ‘to recognise someone or something’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘to invent a plan or system’.

IV. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. It’s a common refrain: Youngsters today are becoming westernised. Parents lament that if they ask their kids to accompany them to the temple, they pull a long face. But all these may just be nothing other than popular perceptions. A survey conducted by hindustantimes.com shows that 68 per cent of youth today believe in a higher power, 43 per cent visit the temple every day and around 60 per cent admit that going to the temple gives them mental satisfaction. They want to show their devotion to God.

2. The survey also shows that rather than making them superstitious, a faith in a higher being, visiting temples, and wearing religious symbols, such as a kada or a sacred thread gives them a sense of strength.

3. Clinical psychologist, Seema Sharma says, “In this stress-ridden life of ours, we need to fall back on something for which we have to be sure that it is more powerful than us. Developing faith on any one relevant thing in our life is mandatory. Psychological anarchy is prevented if we have something on which we can put our trust to.”

5. But not now. Things have changed. “Children have become more logical. They believe in God but only as far as they find any logic in this because they have started analysing the situation. They are open to any kind of discussion, so they don’t shy away to be ritualistic as few years back they were”, says Madhu Kansal, the Principal of Delhi International School.

6. They wear their kadas, and cross with confidence and don’t hide it inside their tees, though around 45 per cent will not wear religious prints because they feel it is demeaning to their religion and 36 per cent will not use religious tones as ringtones for their mobile phones. Their logic: “Why display?”

10. Aishwarya Sakhuja agrees, “Yes, you will see me with a dupatta on my head in a puja but that’s all about it. I do it to keep my family happy.”

14. Anura Jain, 18, sums it up, “There is God, but he just can’t give everything to 10 million people!”

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What percentage of youth believes in higher power?

(a) 68%
(b) 60%
(c) 45%
(d) 36%

(ii) What gives a sense of strength to the youngsters?

(a) Visiting Temples
(b) Wearing religious symbols
(c) Making them superstitious
(d) None of these

(iii) Why will 45 % youngsters not wear religious prints?

(a) Because they feel that it is just a display
(b) Because they feel that it is demeaning
(c) Because they feel that it is funny
(d) Because they feel that it is less trendy

(iv) Who holds a fun quotient with God?

(a) Elder generation
(b) Younger generation
(c) Small children
(d) Everyone

(v) What is the most significant determinant of a child’s religious discourse?

(a) Friends
(b) Family
(c) Relatives
(d) Environment

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) What does the author mean by, ‘All these may just be little other than popular perceptions’?
(ii) What does the survey conducted by hindustantimes.com reveal about youngster’s belief in God?
(iii) Compare the scenario of the youngster’s belief a decade back with that of the present time.
(iv) What do certain youngsters do in order to avoid making a display of their religious beliefs?
(v) What are the certain things that youngsters do to support their view of‘God is cool’?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘modern and influenced by the most recent fashions or idea’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘a feeling of great respect mixed with fear’.

V. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

2. It is however, something entirely different. Just to give you an idea-Think of sensors monitoring water levels, energy usage, traffic flows, and security cameras, and sending that data directly to city administrators. Or applications that help residents navigate traffic, report potholes and vote. Or trash collection that’s totally automated. This is what a ‘smart city’ will have. In fact, the term generally refers to cities using information technology to solve urban problems. It is also used to enhance performance and well-being, to reduce costs and resource consumption, and to engage more effectively and actively with its citizens. It will help in confronting overcrowding, traffic congestion, pollution, resource constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and the need for continuing economic growth. It will also have reduced crime, safer streets and neighbourhood. In all, there will be a general improvement in the quality of life.

3. The key ‘smart’ sectors include transport, energy, healthcare, water and waste. A smart city should be able to respond faster to city and global challenges than one with a simple ‘transactional’ relationship with its citizens. It engages effectively with local people in local governance and decision by use of open innovation processes and e-participation with emphasis placed on citizen participation and co-design. It makes good use of the creative industries, supported by strong knowledge and social networks, voluntary organisations in a low-crime setting to achieve these aims.

4. The terms ‘intelligent city’ and ‘digital city’ are also used interchangeably with smart city.

5. You may wonder, why there is sudden interest in smart cities. It is due to major challenges, including climate change, economic restructuring, the move to online retail and entertainment, ageing populations, and pressures on public finances.

6. So, how does it work? The Smart Cities Council, an industry-backed outfit that advocates the concept in India, describes them as cities that control data gathered from smart sensors through a smart grid to create a city that is liveable, workable and sustainable. According to the Smart Cities Council, all the data that is collected from sensors – electricity, gas, water, traffic and other government analytics – is carefully compiled and integrated into a smart grid and then fed into computers that can focus on making the city as efficient as possible.

The budget speech only officially identified cities along the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Master Plan, which covers seven states. Although they weren’t named in the budget, seven cities have also been named along the Delhi- Mumbai Industrial Corridor, some which would overlap with the Amritsar-Kolkata plan. Officially, the budget only pointed out three cities in the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor: Ponneri in Tamil Nadu, Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Tumkur in Karnataka.

10. 70 crore per city will clearly not be enough, and even if more is added, it’s unlikely that the government will have resources to pay for the cities. The government announced that it was relaxing norms for foreign direct investment to make it easier for outside companies to invest in smart cities. In addition, India has spoken . to France, Japan and Singapore about collaborating on the projects.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What are the key ‘smart’ sectors?
(a) Transport and energy
(b) Healthcare and water
(c) Energy and waste
(d) All of these

(ii) How do smart cities engage with local people?

(a) By e-participation
(b) By open-innovation
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) By meeting people regularly

(iii) Who estimated that cities would generate 70% new jobs by 2030?

(a) Smart Cities Council
(b) Global Institute
(c) Smart Sectors
(d) City Administrators

(v) How many states does the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Master Plan cover?
(a) Six
(b) Five
(c) Eight
(d) Seven

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

VI. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

7. What if spiders sold their silk? Imagine walking into a silk emporium run by arachnids, you would be greeted by a sales-spider: charming, young Ms/Mr Hairy legs, who would appraise you out of her/his eight or so eyes. “Welcome, welcome!” She/He would gush scanning you top-down, rubbing its hairy legs together in delight. “We have some of the finest, softest cradle silk you would ever want for your happy events. Wrapped up in it, your babies will be warm, safe and dry as they wait to hatch. It’s super-absorbent, too, and nappy rash will not be a problem!

9. But then, do animals really need sophisticated tools to get what they want? Cheetahs accelerate faster than Ferraris, pit vipers have heat-seeking sensors, eagles can locate a rabbit in a field from kilometres away, sharks smell a drop of blood in a whole ruddy ocean, bats use sonar, birds and bees see ultraviolet light, a falcon can dive at 320 kmph, snakes have a cocktail of venom that can bleed, paralyse or liquefy you to death, spiders’ silk still has us in a tizzy, chameleons and octopuses wear invisibility cloaks, and migratory birds have built-in navigation system – the list is endless!

10. We had the best brains and so were able to design miraculous tools. But look where we have ended up: we’ve gassed up the earth’s air, poisoned the water and have stocked enough weaponry to destroy ourselves a million times over. So really, who is the monkey with the wrench? [CBSE 2019 SET-IT]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What does it indicate when chimps make their own fishing rods?

(a) That animals and man have similar interests
(b) That monkeys also go fishing
(c) That animals like to imitate man
(d) That man is an animal who likes to fish

(ii) How do we know that chimps are intelligent?

(a) They try and ape man
(b) They use their brains to find solution to problems
(c) They kill bush-babies
(d) They love to eat termites

(iii) Why do orangutans use big leaves during downpour?

(a) Because they like big leaves when it starts to rain
(b) Because they do not like heavy rain
(c) Because they want to wet the leaves
(d) Because the leaves can keep the rain off their bodies

(iv) Why might the black kite start a fire?

(a) Because it is a fire bird
(b) Because it is hungry and looking for food
(c) Because it likes to watch fleeing animals
(d) Because it eats only cooked meat

(v) Why do big male elephants throw logs at electric fences?

(a) Because they want to be free
(b) Because they are great throwers
(c) Because they enjoy the sparks thus caused
(d) Because they are very strong animals

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Letter Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Samples

January 5, 2022July 27, 2021 by Prasanna

Letter Writing Class 12

Letter is a form of written communication. Letters are of two types: formal and informal. Formal letters include business letters, letter of complaints, letter to government officials, etc. Informal letters include letters to friends, relatives, acquaintances, etc.

Letter Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Samples

♦ Business Letters

Making enquiries/Asking for information
Replying to enquiries/Giving information
Placing orders/Sending replies
Cancelling orders
Registering complaints about products/services

♦ Official Letters

Registering complaints (roads, theft, etc.)
Making enquiries (courses, tours, etc.)
Making requests/appeals

♦ Letters to Editor

Giving suggestions/views on issues of public earliest/articles in the news/on a published letter.

♦ Job Letters

♦ Format of A Formal Letter

a. Letter to an Editor and Official Letters

Letter Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Sample 1

b. Application for a job

Sender’s Address
Date
Receiver’s Address
Subject: Post applied for Salutation
Letter Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Sample 2
Yours truly Signature
(Name of person in Capital letters)
Encl: (1) Curriculum Vitae

♦ Sample Letters

Placing Orders

Question 1.
Your school has opened a new activity wing for the kindergarten students for which you require play equipment. Write a letter to the Manager, OK Toys, 21, Daryaganj, Delhi, in about 120-150 words placing an order for educational toys and other play equipment. You are Neera/Naresh Manager, DML Public School, Delhi. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:
DML Public School,
Delhi
May 8, 20XX

The Manager
OK Toys
21, Daryaganj,
Delhi

Subject: Order for educational toys and play equipment

Dear Sir/Madam,

This is with reference to your advertisement in Delhi Times on 6th May, 20XX. You had advertised yourself as the wholesaler of educational toys and play equipment. Our school has opened a new activity wing for the kindergarten section. We require educational toys and other play equipment.

We require two block building sets, two pyramid sets, four balls and other educational toys and play equipment. Since we want only the best, please see if you could provide us Fisher Price or Baybee’s or other such branded items at discounted rates. We would appreciate if you could provide us details regarding the same before the 12th of this month. We are ready to make an immediate part payment in cash after confirming the order. Rest of the amount will be paid by cheque within 48 hours of the delivery. Please ensure that the products are of the best quality and are delivered within 10 days of the date of placing the order.

I hope you would respond as soon as possible, so that we can make the activity wing fully functional before the coming session.

Thanks and regards
Neera
Manager

Question 2.
You are Mr Malik, the coordinator of the ABC Public School. Write a letter to place a bulk order for school uniform to M/S Sinha Garments. (6 marks)
Answer:
12 Pandeer Road,
New Delhi
February 6, 20XX
M/s Sinha Garments
New Delhi
Subject: Order for school uniform sets

Dear Sir,
This letter is with reference to the meeting that took place at your factory. We wish to purchase uniform material for our students from you. Our requirement is as follows:

Serial No.	Size	Quantity
1.	Small	80
2.	Medium	75
3.	Large	45
A total of 200 Pieces.

Please note that the entire payment will be made only after the delivery. Kindly make the delivery on or before April 2, 20XX. I request you to offer us a discount on the order and send us the official bill along with the product.

Please review the order and if you have any recommendations, or need any clarification, please contact the undersigned.

We hope for a long-term association with you.

Yours sincerely
Karan Malik
Mob. No. 9811XXXXXX

Question 3.
You are the in-charge of the Medical Section of Gyanodaya Public School, Nehru Vihar, Alwar. Your stock of medicines is about to finish. Write a letter to the Director of Jambo Medicare, Delhi, ordering medical items like glucose, crocin, bandages, tincture, pain-healers, ointments, etc. Ask for discount on bulk order. Invent other necessary details. (100-120 words) (6 marks)
Answer:
Gyanodaya Public School
Nehru Vihar,
Alwar,
November 23, 20XX
The Director,
Jambo Medicare, Delhi

Subject: Order for Medical Items

Sir/Madam

I am the in-charge of the Medical Section of Gyanodaya Public School, Nehru Vihar, Alwar. I want to place an urgent order for some medical items.
Kindly provide the following items.

Glucose – 100 packets of 100 gm each
Crocin – 50 strips
Bandages – 200 bundles
Tincture – 50 bottles
Pain-reliever spray – 100 cans
Ointments (soframycin) – 100 tubes
Paracetamol – 10 strips

We request you to process this order latest by November 30, 20XX. The medicines should be in good condition. We reserve the right to cancel the order, if the medicines are not in proper condition or has exceeded the date of expiry.

Please grant me the usual institutional discount for the above mentioned items.

We would like to hear from you at the earliest.

Yours sincerely
XYZ
(Incharge, Medical Room)

Question 4.
You are Neeraj/Neeraja Shekhar, Principal, Vasant Public School, Pune. Your school has just started a music department. Write a letter to the Manager of Melody House, Pune, wholesale suppliers of musical instruments, placing an order for musical instruments for the school. Ask for a discount on the catalogue prices. (6 marks) [CBSE Paper 2018]
Answer:
Vasant Public School
Pune
August 9, 20XX
Manager
Melody House
Pune

Subject: Requirement of musical instruments

Sir,
Vasant Public School has introduced Music as a subject, and therefore, the department requires a few instruments to cater to the requirement of instrumental music. We have had the opportunity of availing your services from the time the school started 20 years ago.
We request you to provide the following instruments at the earliest and oblige.

Mridangam – 4 numbers
Tabla – 4 sets
Taanpura – 2 numbers
Harmonium – 4 numbers
Veena – 4 numbers
Guitar – 6 numbers
Keyboard – 2 numbers

We request you to give us the requisite institutional discount on the required instruments. Please ensure that all the instruments are in perfect condition.
You will be reimbursed as soon as the delivery is made.

Thanking you
Neeraja Shekhar
(Principal)

Letters of Complaint (6 marks)

Question 1.
Ms. Vibha Parthasarthy, HOD, English department, Oxford High School, Pune, had placed an order with National Electronics, Dadar, Mumbai, for recording equipment for the English lab. When the parcel was received, she observed that only 6 recorders were sent instead of 10 and three of them don’t work. Write a letter of complaint.

Question 2.
You are Tarun/Taruna who bought a new Luminous Inverter for your home from R.K. Electronics, Noida but found many functional problems as the charging is not done properly and battery water is getting leaked. Write a letter of complaint to the proprietor to take care of the same. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2019]
Answer:

12 D. Millenium Apartments
Noida

October 7, 20XX

The Proprietor
R.K. Electronics
Noida

Subject: Complaint about Invertor Sir,

Recently purchased from your showroom, Luminous Inverter Eco Volt + 1050 receipt no XYZ 3456 dated 28th September 20XX with a warranty of two years is hereby declared defective.

After the purchase, it worked for one week but later started showing some defects. There is constant fluctuation of the voltage (input-output). The battery does not get fully charged. It always shows the sign of low battery and gets overheated itself.

It is a matter of serious concern that such a reputed electronics company is selling defective pieces. As it seems to be technical defect, you are requested to send someone to check it. It is in the warranty period. Hope you will understand the inconvenience caused to the customers and do the needful as soon as possible.

Thanking you
Yours sincerely
Tarun

Question 3.
Yesterday you went to Sunrise Hospital, Market Road, New Delhi taking with you the victim of a hit and run accident. There were chaotic conditions in the casualty department. The injured was attended to after a lot of precious time had been lost. Write a letter of complaint in 120-150 words to the Medical Superintendent. You are Karan/Karuna, M114, Mall Road, Delhi. (6 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

M 114
Mall Road Colony
Delhi

April 23, 20XX

The Medical Superintendent
Sunrise Hospital,
Market Road
New Delhi

Subject: Chaotic conditions and poor attitude of the hospital staff

Respected Sir/Ma’am

This is with reference to the poor treatment meted out to a victim of a hit and run accident by your hospital staff on April 20, 20XX.

There were chaotic conditions in the casualty department. We reached the hospital at 6.30 in the evening. The doctor on duty was not available and came only after two hours. Even the nurses and the attendants were least interested in attending to the patient. As a rule, a hit and run patient should be attended to before registering the case and they cannot ask for the registration fee also. But I had to pay ?250. However, the hospital staff refused to do so and asked us to first register the case not caring for the profusely bleeding patient. The injured was attended to after a lot of precious time had been lost. Though the victim was finally saved, but he suffered a lot of blood loss.

I hope you will look into this matter and take strict action against the hospital staff. Only if this issue is resolved, many precious lives can be saved in future also.

Thanks and regards
Karuna

Question 4.
Park Lane, Chanakyapuram, Mysore is proud of having four reputed public schools ih close proximity to each other. In the morning and afternoon there is a heavy traffic along the road and hundreds of students are put to a lot of inconvenience.

Write a letter of complaint in 120-150 words to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) describing the problem. Suggest a few measures to regulate the traffic. You are Karuna Shetty/Karan Kumar, Principal, Sunrise Global School. (6 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

Karan Kumar
The Principal
Sunrise Global School
Mysore

April 29, 20XX

The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic)
Mysore

Subject: Poor traffic regulation in Park Lane. Chanakyapuram

Respected Sir/Ma’am

I am the Principal of Sunrise Global School. I want to draw your attention to the problems faced by students along Park Lane.

There are four reputed public schools in close proximity to each other in this area. In the morning and evening, there is heavy traffic along the road and hundreds of students are put to a lot of inconvenience. Crossing the street becomes a danger at these times. To add to the woes, due to the repair work on Sultan highway, heavy vehicles are being diverted here. Right now, this area is a potential accident hub. Though the school staff, and security are trying their best to keep students safe, the condition is deteriorating day by day.

Since there are four schools in this area, some stringent measures need to be taken, so that the students’ safety is not compromised. We would be grateful if you could kindly stop the plying of heavy vehicles on these roads. Also please ensure that these roads are either out of bounds for the general public from 7-8 a.m. and 2-3 p.m. Ensuring the presence of traffic police at these areas will also be helpful.

I hope you would address this issue at the earliest, so that the poor students, the future of our nation do not suffer.

Thanks and Regards
Karan Kumar

Question 5.
You bought a refrigerator two months ago from Mohan Sales, Ashok Vihar, Bangalore. It has developed certain problems regarding its functioning. Cooling has stopped and it is making a lot of noise. Write a letter of complaint to the Manager asking him for immediate repair/replacement of the same. You are Sachin/Shashi, 61 Pratap Enclave, Bangalore. (120-150 words) (6 marks)
Answer:

61 Pratap Enclave
Bangalore

June 4, 20XX

The Manager
Mohan Sales
Ashok Vihar,
Bangalore

Subject: Faulty Refrigerator

Dear Sir,
I bought a Godrej twin-door refrigerator from your M.G. Road showroom on May 15, 20XX vide receipt no. 061XX. But I regret to inform you that it is not giving satisfactory service.
Please find below the list of issues:

Its cooling system is not effective.
It makes a continuous buzzing noise.
The refrigerator consumes a lot of energy.
The Frost Free refrigerator has ice freezing in it.

I request you to advise me as to what is to be done in this regard. Kindly send your representative to inspect all these defects. A replacement of the refrigerator at the earliest would be the best way out, since it is still covered under warranty. I would very much appreciate an early response.

Yours sincerely
Sachin

Question 6.
You bought a flat from PQR Builders, Sector 55, Noida. Within a period of two months, you have started facing a lot of problems like seepage in the walls and ceilings, wall paint peeling off, leaking sanitary fittings, lift getting stalled, etc. Write a letter of complaint in 120-150 words to the Works Manager. You are Karuna/Karan, A9 D Apoorva Apartments, Noida. (6 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

Karan
A-9D
Apoorva Apartments
Noida

April 23, 20XX

The Works Manager
PQR Builders
Sector 55, Noida

Subject: Problems in the new flat

Dear Sir/Ma’am

I am Karan Kukreja. I purchased A-9 D, Apoorva Apartments from PQR Builders on February 23, 20XX (Registration No. 54D/12/20XX).

It has only been two months since I shifted to this flat. However, I have already started facing a lot of problems. The wall paint has started peeling off. The rainy season has not yet started, but there is already seepage in the walls and ceilings. The new sanitary fittings seem to be of inferior quality and are already leaking. We were also assured of 24-hour power and water availability, but that does not seem to be the case now. Drinking water comes only for four hours in the morning and power cuts have also become quite frequent. To add to the woes the lift gets stalled quite often. Our flat is on the third floor and this becomes quite a problem for my elderly parents.

I would really appreciate it if these issues are addressed at the earliest.

Yours sincerely
Karan Kukreja

Question 7.
Your school recently launched a GPRS system in the school buses which will enable the parents to keep track of their children while they are travelling in the bus. The service, however, is not smooth and is facing a lot of problems. As the Transport Incharge of DML Public School, Delhi, write a letter in about 120-150 words to the Manager, Forumloft, 21 Park Street, Delhi, complaining about the same. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:

DML Public School
Delhi

May 8, 20XX

The Manager
Forumloft
21, Park Street,
Delhi

Subject: Complaint regarding the new GPRS system

Dear Sir/ Madam

This is with reference to the new GPRS system purchased from your firm vide bill No. AEP 562349. We had ordered for 15 GPRS systems for our school buses to enable the parents to keep track of their children while they were travelling in the bus. These were installed by your technician on April 20, 20XX.

The GPRS systems worked perfectly well for 2-3 days. After that problems started cropping up. The GPRS system keeps fluctuating and keeps switching off by itself at intervals. The signal in the GPRS has poor receptivity and it is becoming tough to keep track of the bus. The whole purpose of installing the GPRS is lost if problems of this kind persist. Therefore, I request you to kindly fix the issue at the earliest.

I hope this letter will elicit a suitable response from our elected representatives.

Thanks and regards
Neeraj
Transport Incharge
91-954763236

Question 8.
You are Somita Roy, the librarian of ABC Public School, New Delhi. Write a letter to the Unique Book Co., New Delhi, complaining about the poor quality of books supplied to your library. (6 marks)
Answer:

ABC Public School
New Delhi

July 8, 20XX

The Unique Book Co.
New Delhi

Subject: Supply of poor quality of books

Dear Sir,
We regret to inform you that the quality of books supplied by you to our library is quite deplorable and poor. ABC Public School has been your old and regular customer. We placed an order for the purchase of about five-hundred books for the school library. The books supplied are poor in quality, not the latest editions and most of them are not the ones we had ordered.

Please note that errors made in the supply given below and expedite the matter at the earliest.

a. Thirty copies of Modern Mathematics (12th Standard) 2015 Edition Supplied.
b. Thirty copies of English Grammar (12th Standard) 2015 Edition Supplied. Whereas, 2019 Editions of the above-mentioned books are available in the market.
We ordered for thirty copies history of India’ by S.K. Rao but received 10 copies history of India’ by S.P. Singh.
Twenty copies of Science books are really in bad shape and cannot be accepted as such.

Please effect the changes on or before August 1, 20XX.
Yours faithfully
Somita Roy
Librarian

Question 9.
Last month, you went to Ooty and stayed at ‘Hotel Greenview’ for a week. Within two days, you found that the facilities provided were not good and you have to leave the hotel. On reaching home in Chennai, you decided to write a letter of complaint to the manager describing all that went wrong there. Demand a refund of the money paid in advance. Write a letter in 120-150 words. You are Omar/Amma, 12 B, Mount Road, Chennai. (6 marks) [CBSE (F) 2017]
Answer:

12B
Mount Road
Chennai

April 10, 20XX

The Manager
Hotel Greenview
Ooty

Subject: Lack of good facilities at the hotel

Respected Sir,
This is with reference to the booking made at your hotel on February 5, 20XX for a week but not getting the facilities as promised after reaching the hotel.

We reached the hotel on February 6, 20XX, and paid an advance booking amount of 20,000. Within two days of the stay, we realised that the facilities and services provided at the hotel were not as per the commitment made by the authorities at the time of booking. The room service never responded on time of call and the hotel management staff was least bothered about the cleanliness in the rooms. We experienced frequent power cuts without any generator backup being provided. Apart from all this, the hotel staff was very rude and refused to accept their negligence. Therefore, we left the hotel for two days only and searched for another hotel. In view of these events, I would like to have a refund of my money that I paid in advance at the time of booking.

I hope you will look into this matter and take strict action against the hotel staff. Only if these issues are resolved, your customers will be satisfied, and the hotel will be a success.

Thanks and regards
Omar

Question 10.
You are Nitin/Natasha, staying at 20, S.F.S. Flats, Worli, Mumbai. You bought a mobile ^ phone from ‘Mobile Villa’, Mahim, Mumbai. The phone developed a problem within a few days of the purchase. Write a letter to the Sales Manager of the showroom complaining about the defect and seeking an immediate replacement. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2018]
Answer:

20, SFS Flats
Worli
Mumbai

November 17, 20XX

To The Sales Manager
Mobile Villa
Mahim
Mumbai

Subject: Complaint about defective mobile phone

Sir,
I recently purchased a mobile Samsung Note 3 from your showroom dated October 16, 20XX with vide receipt no. XYZ 1345 with a warranty of one year is hereby declared defective.

After the purchase, it worked properly for some days but later started showing some defects. It does not work properly. The battery backup is creating a problem. It gets switched off itself. The applications have stopped responding. The camera is also not working properly.

It is a matter of utmost grief that such a reputed company is found with defects. Although it seems to be a manufacturing defect, therefore, you are requested to either change the product or take the desirous action as soon as possible.

Thanking you
Yours sincerely
Nitin

♦ Letter to the Editor (6 marks)

Question 1.
Board examinations bring along a lot of stress and anxiety for not only the students but also the parents. With their heads buried in their books, students, especially those appearing for the board examinations, have time for ittle else, as they burn the midnight oil, learning and revising the syllabi. In Delhi alone, six school students and an anguished parent have taken their lives. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily expressing your views on the system. You are Rohit/Arpita Sood of 42, Sector A, Pocket B, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

42, Sector A, Pocket B
Vasant Kunj
New Delhi
(a) ……………………………………………
(b) ……………………………………………
New Delhi
Subject:
(c) ……………………………………………Sir,
Board examinations induce (d) ………………………………… It is really a shocking state of affairs where teenagers and even parents are driven to (e) ………………………………… ! Recent surveys reveal that the (f) ………………………………… because of pressure from the parents. The competition level in schools is also increasingly causing (g) ………………………………… It is important to have (h) ………………………………… to help them regain self-esteem, besides imparting skills to reduce stress. Teaching students breathing exercises, and yoga to increase their concentration levels and relaxation techniques (i) ………………………………… (j) …………………………………Yours truly
Arpita Sood

Answer:
(a) The Editor
(b) Hindustan Times
(c) Stress and anxiety due to examinations
(d) high levels of stress and anxiety among students
(e) taking their lives
(f) anxiety levels in those appearing for board exams are certainly high
(g) pressure on children to build-up
(h) counseling for students appearing for Board examinations
(i) will also help de-stress children
(j) Concerned agencies should take concrete steps to prevent stress from building up among students.

Question 2.
79, R. K. Puram (6 marks)
New Delhi- 110045
August 12, 20XX
The Editor Hindustan Times New Delhi – 1100XX

Subject: Organic Farming – A Boon!!!

Dear Sir,
A twenty-minute brisk walk daily will keep a man fit, an apple a day keeps a doctor away; are all old health proverbs which till today hold value, but is it really enough? “Ghar ka khana” is famous for its taste and hygienic condition. But I have one question: how safe is it. It’s not a doubt on mother’s love but on the raw materials (lentils, wheat/ rice, vegetables) she uses to cook food. Though we are all aware of the danger of the excess use of insecticides and pesticides (used by the farmers to grow vegetables) on the environment and human body, we still are quiet.

My question is why are we quiet When technology has developed so much when biotech has come up with an organic platform, why are we still stuck up in the traditional way of cultivation. The world has moved to organic farming years ago, but till today, India is lacking a lot in this field. The government has made a lot of schemes to promote organic farming, but unfortunately, our horticulture officers are not aware of it.

Biofertilizers, bio plant hormones, bio manures, etc. are easily available at Government farms but no one knows about it. Greenhouse farming, poly house farming, drip irrigation system all are easily available in India and to add to that, Government has provided a 70% subsidy on it, but how many farmers are aware of it.

Everyone demands a better tomorrow. Why can’t we stand up for a better and healthy tomorrow? It’s our right and today, technology has its way for it. The government should come forward to make every citizen aware of it. After all, it is our right to enjoy pesticide-free, clean food.

Yours sincerely
Vinaya

Question 3.

101, Nalanda Apartments
Janakpuri
New Delhi
February 2, 20XX
The Editor The Times of India New Delhi

Subject: Pollution: A Major Concern

Dear Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I would like to express my opinion with reference to a report claiming Delhi to be the most polluted city in the world (30th January 20XX pg-6).

It is a major concern for the residents of the national capital that the pollution levels of our materialistic city have increased by a huge margin. I am personally dumbstruck after reading this report by WHO. This is something which if not dealt with immediately, would result in an increase in many diseases. This would affect the people living in the capital. It would also show the country in a bad light since Delhi, being the capital, generates not only a lot of capital for the country but also is the hub of the tourism industry.

The ever increasing pockets of the humongous population have propelled them to move to four-wheelers, which in turn has increased pollution. Industries and deforestation add to the same. It is an irony that the most intelligent being on the planet is causing the most destruction.

I would feel grateful if this issue is highlighted appropriately and the masses come to know more about it. It is not only the responsibility of the government but also we, as responsible citizens, need to take steps to reduce pollution. After all, this is the launch period of the dream of Bapu Swachh Bharat. It is important that something is done in this regard so that the realisation of the dream is not nipped in the bud.

Yours sincerely
Shreyas Shridhar

Question 4.
Recently you went to your native village to visit your grandparents. You saw that some of the children in the age group of 5 – 14 (the age at which they should have been at school) remained at home, were working in the fields or simply loitering in the streets. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor of a National Daily analysing the problem and offering solutions to it. You are Navtej/Navita, M-114, Mount Kailash, Kanpur. (6 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2015]
Answer:

M-114, Mount Kailash
Kanpur- 208002

June 1, 20XX

The Editor
The Times of India
New Delhi-110002

Subject: Preventing illiteracy among children

Sir,
This is with reference to something that I came across while on a visit to my grandparent’s place in Nellore. I found many children in the age group of 5-14 not attending school. They remained at home, were working in the fields or simply loitering in the streets. It was very disheartening to see that even though the right to education has been made compulsory, many children still remain illiterate.

I found the children disinterested or rather indifferent towards education. The same attitude was prevalent among parents and elders. There was absolutely no motivation. I understand that poor parents need extra help in fields, but I believe that it should not be at the cost of their children’s education.

Parents need to take the initiative to educate their children. Not only the family but the school should also motivate and enroll students of the school-going age group. Often parents ask what good would a little education do. In order to prevent that thought, &kill development should be emphasised at school. Free meals, books, and uniforms should also be provided so that none of these remain the reason for illiteracy. After all, children are the future of tomorrow.

I hope this letter will serve as a wake-up call for the concerned authorities.

Yours sincerely
Navtej

Question 5.
When cricket teams go abroad, the members are allowed to take their wives, even friends along with them. Does this fact distract them or help them focus on their game in a better way? If it is good, why don’t we allow our athletes to enjoy the same privilege? Write a letter to the Editor of a National Daily in 120-150 words giving your views on the issue. You are Navtej/Navita, M-l 14, Mount Kailash, Kanpur. (6 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2015]
Answer:
M- 114, Mount Kailash
Kanpur-208002

June 1, 20XX

The Editor
The Times of India
New Delhi-110002

Subject: Pampered cricketers

Sir,
We have always felt that our cricketers are pampered a lot. This is evident with the BCCI reconsidering its ban on taking wives/friends abroad on games. Many say that taking wives/friends along is a good move as it gives the players the much needed emotional support and keeps them free from worries. It helps them concentrate on their game. But if that is the case, why aren’t our other players given the same privilege? Would it be not right to say that this kind of bias on the part of the association is all because cricket is the most popular game in the country? The question arises, ‘Is it a wise move to reinstate this ruling?’

Well, considering the way our cricketers are faring at major international matches after this privilege, there should not be any doubt as to the usefulness of such a ruling. But at the same time, it sometimes acts as a distraction. Players are unable to focus and give their best. It becomes more like a family outing rather than a sporting mission. Moreover, the wish to live up to the expectations of their family makes the players train harder. They put in their best because they know that their family feels that they will give their best. No training sessions are missed, ultimately leading to better performance.

Yours sincerely
Navita

Question 6.
You are Navtej/Navita, Secretary, Environment Club, Akash Public School, Agra. You, along with a group of students, went on a three-day tour through Corbett National Park. You found how the tourists abuse the available facilities and thus endanger the environment. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor of a National Daily highlighting the situation. Suggest ways through which the environment of the park can be saved. (6 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Answer:
Akash Public School
12, Besant Road
Agra-28XXXX

June 13, 20XX

The Editor,
The Times of India,
Mumbai

Subject: The deteriorating condition of Corbett National Park

Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the kind attention of the concerned authorities towards the deteriorating condition of Corbett National Park. India, with its rich flora and fauna, has a large tourism industry worldwide. Tourists from various countries throng our country to enjoy its rich beauty. A very beautiful part of this magnificence is our National Parks. We have around 110 national parks in our country, of which, Corbett National Park is the oldest.

Though it houses the mighty but endangered Bengal Tiger, its own future seems to be bleak. All this is because of tourism. Tourists harm the environment in many ways. They trample the vegetation and throw litter in places. Without even the slightest regard for the park, tourists disturb wildlife by throwing stones at the small animals and sometimes even running their tour vehicles behind them. They also park vehicles in prohibited areas. All this has led to major disturbances for the animals. Many animals, which used to roam around freely in the park, now run and hide on hearing humans. It is a pitiable state of affairs which the authorities should look into at the earliest.

Limiting visitors or at least their vehicles can be the first step towards safeguarding these animals. The tourists also need to be educated on this issue. People who abuse the facilities provided should be severely penalised. An increase in patrolling by forest guards and stricter implementation of laws will also help.

I request the authorities to look into the matter at the earliest and take the necessary steps, so that the purpose of national parks, of providing a home and safeguarding animals is not lost.

Yours truly
Navtej

Question 7.
On Teachers’ Day, you read in a newspaper that privately owned and managed schools hi small towns or even in the suburbs of metropolitan cities exploit their teachers by paying them just a fraction of their authorised salaries. This affects their performance in the classroom and thus, the lives of their students. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor of a National Daily raising your voice against such exploitation. Suggest ways to solve this problem. You are Navtej/Navita, 112 Taj Road, Agra. (6 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Answer:

112, Taj Road
Agra- 282002

June 13, 20XX

The Editor,
The Times of India,
Mumbai

Subject: Compromising on the quality of education

Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the kind attention of the concerned authorities towards the deplorable condition of education in certain privately owned and managed schools in small towns or even in the suburbs of metropolitan cities.

Of late, there has been a spurt of various privately owned and managed schools in small towns or even in the suburbs of metropolitan cities. Though this seems a promising trend for education, the quality of education in these schools is often questionable. Most of the time, the teachers employed are paid just a fraction of their authorised salaries. These teachers have to work for longer hours on less salary. This affects the quality of their teaching, in turn affecting the career of the students. Often the schools pay less on the pretext of less experience or low grades. No perks and allowances are paid. This also makes it difficult to get and retain quality teachers. This is the exploitation of students as well as their teachers.

It is important that laws regarding the employment of teachers be made more stringent. Also, instead of having a check done only by the school committee, it is important that continuous monitoring by the Government takes place. Only then, both the students and teachers will get respite. The school authorities should also be more humane.

I request the authorities to look into the matter at the earliest and take the necessary steps so that our future generations do not suffer.

Yours truly
Navita

Question 8.
Lack of job opportunities in rural areas is forcing people to migrate to cities. Every big city thus has a number of slums in it. Life in these slums is miserable. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor of a National Newspaper on how we can improve the living conditions in these slums. You are Karan/Karuna, Ml 14, Mall Road, Delhi. (6 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

M-114, Mall Road
Delhi

May 1, 20XX

The Editor
The Hindustan Times
Kasturba Gandhi Marg
New Delhi-110001

Subject: Need to improve living conditions in slums

Sir/Ma’am
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to draw the kind attention of the concerned authorities towards the miserable living conditions in slums. India is growing by leaps and bounds in every sector. However, the mushrooming slums in the city provide an altogether different scenario. A country’s growth depends on the growth of its people. The people living in slums don’t have basic amenities like food, shelter, and clothing. Many can be seen ravaging through dustbins to get food.

Lack of proper sanitation and living among such dreadful conditions lead to the spread of many diseases. There are many in the slums who have always been in the city. However, there are others who migrate from rural to urban areas to earn their livelihood. All this is due to a lack of job opportunities in rural areas. Thereby, many of them end up living in slums. Though the government has made housing provisions for these people, many are unaware of the same. Others who are aware, fight corruption to get these facilities. Still, others who get these facilities rent these houses to earn money. All this quadruples the problems faced by these people.

The government needs to ensure that people living in the slums get basic amenities. People should be made aware of existing job opportunities in rural areas. Better job opportunities and setting of small-scale industries should also be done in rural areas. Street plays should be organised in slums to make the slum dwellers aware of their rights. Provision to provide basic education should also be done. Only when the slum dwellers also get the basic necessities, can the nation be said to have truly progressed.

Yours sincerely
Karuna

Question 9.
Along with air and water pollution, our cities are also under an attack of noise pollution. Marriage processions, DJs during wedding receptions, loud music from neighbourhood flats, etc. are all sources of noise which is not good for the old, the ailing, and students. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the Editor of a local newspaper describing the problem and making a request to the concerned authorities to solve it. You are Karan/Karuna, M 114, Mall Road, Delhi. (6 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

Karuna
M 114, Mall Road
Delhi

June 13, 20XX

The Editor
The Hindu
New Delhi

Subject: Concern over the rising noise pollution

Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the kind attention of the concerned authorities towards the rising noise pollution in our cities.

Marriage processions, DJs during wedding receptions, loud music during campaigning and elections, are all sources of noise which is not good for the old, the ailing, and the students. Not only does it affect the health of people but also their behaviour. It causes hypertension, high-stress levels, hearing loss, and disturbed sleep. It also causes damage to psychological health. Lack of urban planning also increases exposure to unwanted sounds.

I hope the concerned authorities would look into this matter at the earliest and help resolve this issue.

Yours sincerely
Karuna

Question 10.
It gives you a good feeling when you read in the newspapers how patients from abroad come to hospitals in India and get themselves treated at a fraction of expenses they would have incurred elsewhere. Write a letter in 120-150 words to the editor of a National Daily describing the importance of medical tourism for India. You are Karan/Karuna M 114, Mall Road, Kanpur. (6 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

Karuna
M 114, Mall Road,
Kanpur

April 25, 20XX

The Editor
The Hindustan Times
New Delhi

Subject: Importance of medical tourism for India

Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the kind attention of the concerned authorities towards the importance of medical tourism for India. India is an international medical travel destination for patients seeking world-class treatment at competitive rates.

Over the years, India has grown to become the top-most destination for medical treatment because it scores high over a range of factors that determines the overall quality of care. From the quality of therapy, range of procedural and treatment options, infrastructure, and skilled manpower to perform any medical procedure with zero waiting time, the list of benefits of travelling for medical treatment in India are many. The high-end healthcare system in India is as good as the best in the world. With the wide range of world-class medical facilities, infrastructure, alternative treatment (Ayurveda, homeopathic, etc.) and therapies, India is a place par excellence.

Quality of care is what attracts people. However, quality services should not be beyond the affordability of the patient who requires it. If quality comes at an affordable cost, it is an unbeatable advantage. This combination of the highest quality and cost advantage is unique in India. Quick and immediate attention for surgeries and all interventions are assured in India. Another advantage is the number of English-speaking people in the country. This helps in better understanding and care for the patients.

These days, it seems that every country in the world promotes itself as a haven for medical tourism. The reality is that in most cases they offer sub-standard facilities and limited skills/qualifications. However, the Indian medical field with all its benefits is truly the best and requires only more promotion. This will help us earn foreign exchange, improve relations with other countries, and enhance India’s image in the outside world. I hope the concerned authorities would take further steps to enhance medical tourism in India.

Yours sincerely
Karuna

♦ Important Points

Layout: Make your headings clear and accurate. Grammar—Poor spelling, typos or bad grammar must be eradicated.
Place your personal details: Name, date of birth, and contact details at the start of the CV. Double-check your e-mail address and telephone number.
Education: List your qualifications, grades, where and when they were achieved for those with undergraduate degree and above. If you are still studying, you should state an estimated completion date and give an idea of when you would be available for full-time work.
Professional Qualifications: Professional qualifications, membership of professional bodies, etc. should be listed.
Training: List any appropriate training courses you have taken and any qualifications resulting from them.
Work Experience: List your employers and positions, and the dates and duration of employment. Provide a comprehensive job profile and list your duties and responsibilities.
Be honest when describing your language and IT skills.
- Specify oral and written language skills separately and describe them extensively instead of merely using an excellent/good/fair rating.
- Indicate what computer software and systems you can use and what you have done with them in your work.
Hobbies and interests: Try to include things that portray you in a good light and offer some value to how well you’ll perform in the position. Reading is great but doesn’t really show leadership, teamwork or drive. Team sports, charitable work, holding office for an organization all do.
- Keep your CV free of borders, clip art, extravagant font and other decorations.
- Expected salary: This is an area of negotiation and should never be included in your CV.

Question 1.
Draft an application with bio-data in about 120-150 words for the post of the Librarian hi Vision Senior Secondary School, Calicut. You are Radhika/Rajeev from 21, Cherry Road, Madurai. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:

1, Cherry Road
Madurai

May 23, 20XX

The Principal
Vision Senior Secondary School
Calicut

Subject: Application for the post of Librarian Dear Sir/Ma’am

This is with reference to your advertisement in The Times of India for the post of Librarian in your school. I am interested in the position and would like to apply for the same.

Attached is my resume for your perusal.

Thanking you
Radhika
Letter Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Samples 3
Question 2.
Write an application (including a resume) in 120-150 words for the post of Receptionist Advertised in a National Newspaper by JKL Publishers, Peshwa Road, Pune. You are Karuna, Ml 14, Mall Road, Pune, a graduate from SNDT University, and have done a Secretarial Practice Course from YWCA, Mumbai. (6 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

M, 114
Mall Road,
Pune

May 2, 20XX

The Director,
JKL Publishers,
Peshwa Road,
Pune

Subject: Application for the post of Receptionist

Sir/Madam,

This is with reference to the advertisement published in The Hindu, on 28 April, 20XX for the post of a Receptionist. I would like to put forth my application for the same.

I am a graduate in Arts from SNDT University. I have also done a Secretarial Practice Course from YWCA, Mumbai. I am well versed in shorthand and MS office.

I would request you to consider my application for the post. Looking forward to a positive reply.

Thanking you
Your truly
Karuna
Enel. -Resume
Letter Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Samples 4
Question 3.
You are Mark Harris from Birmingham. You saw a requirement for an engineering Consultant in the company “Day Job Ltd”. Write a letter in about 120-150 words offering your candidature for the post as mentioned by you. (6 marks)
Answer:

120 Made UP Street,
Birmingham,

February 16, 20XX

Mathew Gordon
Manager,
Dayjob Ltd.
120 Vyse Street,
Birmingham

Subject: Application for Professional Engineering Consultant position

Dear Mr. Gordon,
In response to the recently advertised position on the Dayjob.com website, please consider my resume in your search for a professional Engineering Consultant.

You mentioned in your advert the need for candidates to have an ability to analyse large amounts of technical data and to provide detailed analysis and planning of new engineering facilities. I feel that with my three years of experience as an engineering consultant at my present place of employment, I have all of these qualities and much more. Overall I have worked in the engineering industry for over 10 years and have extensive knowledge of machine breakdowns, fault finding, mechanical repairs, and significant large-scale project engineering exposure.

I am known for my excellent client-facing skills and have participated in proposals and presentations that have landed six-figure contracts. I also excel in merging business and user needs into high-quality, cost-effective design solutions whilst keeping within budgetary constraints.

I see your vacancy as a unique opportunity to work in a high-class engineering department and to benefit from the latest cutting-edge technology systems. I jump at the opportunity to gain experience with one of the most recognisable industry names in the world and look forward to playing an important role in helping you to deliver the changes required to achieve your ambitions.

In summary, I am able to offer your company great enthusiasm, passion, and strong capabilities for advancement in the engineering consulting industry. I thank you in advance for considering my application and I would very much like an opportunity to meet with you personally to discuss my candidacy further.

Yours sincerely
Mark Harris

Question 4.
You are Shobha/Sushil from 56, A Block, Saket, Agra. Write an application along with a personal resume in 120-150 words in response to the following advertisement: Wanted an experienced hockey coach having B.P.Ed Degree for our school. Apply to the Principal, Agarsen Public School, Agra by 15th March, 20XX. (6 marks) [CBSE (1/2/1) 2019]
Answer:

56, A Block, Saket
Agra

March 12, 20XX

The Principal
Agrasen Public School
Agra

Subject: Application for the post of a hockey coach.

Sir,
This letter is in response to your advertisement in “The Times of India” dated 1st March, 20XX. I wish to offer my service for the post of a hockey coach in your reputed institution. I am a B.P.Ed Degree holder with two years of experience in Mahatma Gandhi School. At this point, I wish to join an established institution like yours for the advancement of my career.

Please find enclosed my resume herewith for your kind reference. I hope you will find me suitable for the said post. I assure you that I shall work with utmost devotion and sincerity to your full satisfaction. I look forward to attending an interview at your convenience.

Yours truly
Sushil
Enclosed: Resume and Testimonials

RESUME

Full Name: Shushil Kumar
Father’s Name: Mr. Ram Kumar
Date of Birth: 21st July, 1988
Marital Status: Unmarried
Academic Qualifications:

M. A. English from Indira Gandhi University, Agra with 75%
B.P.Ed from Government College of Teachers, IP University, Delhi with 70%
State-level certified badminton champion
Qualified for National level

Experience: Worked as a Physical Education teacher at Mahatma Gandhi School, Agra.
Salary Expected: 70,000 per month
Permanent Address: 56, A Block, Saket, Agra
Contact Number: 96xxxxxxxx
Email ID: [email protected]
Reference:

Mr. Jack Lewis -94xxxxxx24 Principal -Mahatma Gandhi School, Agra
Mr. Avinash Singh -77xxxxxxx6 Principal- DAV Public School, Agra

♦ Letter for Enquiry (6 marks)

Question 1.

Syed Shakir Iqbal, Head Boy of St Fidelis School, Aligarh is organizing an educational tour for the senior students of History to Bhimbetka Caves near Bhopal. Write a letter to the Manager Youth Hostel, Bhopal, requesting him for information regarding the availability of rooms and charges.

ST. FIDELIS SCHOOL
45, Gular Road
Aligarh

Tel.: 072-234456

(a) ……………………………………………..
Youth Hostel
Bhopal
14 February 20XX
Subject: (b)
Sir,
The senior students of our school (c) …………………………….. during the first week of April. (d) …………………………….. for 4 days and visit the (e) …………………………….. As there are 14 boys and an accompanying Master, we would like eight rooms. We shall be grateful if you (f) ……………………………..
1. (g) ……………………………..
2. (h) ……………………………..
3. meals provided by you
(i) ……………………………..
(j) ……………………………..

Syed Shakir Iqbal
Head Boy

Answer:
(a) The Manager
(b) Inquiry about the availability of rooms and charges
(c) plan to visit Bhopal
(d) We plan to stay there
(e) Bhimbetka caves to study the paintings
(f) provide us with the following information:
(g) the availability of rooms on a twin-sharing basis
(h) charges per day for the rooms
(i) Hoping for an early response
(j) Yours truly

Question 2.
You are John/Jennifer, the incharge of Tour and Excursion Club of Grand Public School, Agra. During the summer break, you are planning to organise a tour to a place of historical importance. Write a letter to the India Travel and Tour Agency, Agra, enquiring about the charges, facilities, and all the other necessary details. (6 marks)
Answer:

Grand Public School,
Agra

April 6, 20XX
The Manager,
India Travel and Tour Agency,
Agra

Subject: Enquiry about the charges and facilities

Sir,
Grand Public School, Agra is organising a tour to a place of historical importance during the summer break. We are planning a tour in the first week of May. It would be a tour for three days. We are a group of twenty-five students, four teachers and two peons. Kindly furnish the following details regarding the tour and oblige.

Information regarding the package tours provided by your agency.
Arrangement for accommodation of the students, the teachers and the peons.
Number of rooms and their total charges.
Arrangements of breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the charges per head.
Arrangement of luxury buses and the charges for each bus.
Any other information or relevant details regarding the tour.

Yours faithfully
John/Jennifer
(Educator)
Tour Incharge

Question 3.
You intend to join coaching classes at International Coaching Centre situated in Raipur. The institute specialises in teaching science to classes XI-XII. Write a letter of enquiry in 120-150 words addressed to the Administrator incharge of the institute seeking clarification about the timings, duration, staff, transport and other necessary details for joining the institute. You are Rajesh/Rajni 2, Library Road Jabalpur. (6 marks)
Answer:

2, Library Road
Jabalpur

March 12, 20XX

The Administrator
International Coaching Centre
Rajpur

Subject: Letter of Enquiry

Sir,
I am a student of Class X. I have appeared for my Boards, and am quite confident of securing an A+ in all the subjects. I am interested in pursuing a career in the field of medicine. Therefore, I wish to join your coaching classes. I would be greatly obliged if you give me the following information:

Time schedule for admission process
No. of days in a week/weekend classes/vacation classes
Timings of weekday/weekend classes and vacation classes
Duration of the different courses
Staff
Transportation facilities
Fee for the different courses

Also do let me know all other details pertaining to your institute.

I would be obliged if you could give me the necessary information at the earliest, so as to enable my parents to do the needful.

Yours sincerely
Rajesh

Question 4.
You are Mallika/Mayank, student of Class XII, Modern School, Shimla. You are eager to enter the National Film Academy, Shimla after your board results. Write a letter to the Director of the film academy seeking information regarding admission procedure, eligibility criteria, fee structure, placement opportunities, etc. (6 marks) [CBSE Paper 2018]
Answer:

Modern School
Shimla

November 17, 20XX

The Director
National Film Academy
Shimla

Subject: Seeking information about Film Academy

Sir,
I am Mayank, a student of Class XII of Modern School, Shimla. I have given my board exams and am waiting for my board results. I would like to join a course in Film Academy after my result, therefore, would like to inquire about the course.

I shall feel highly obliged if you please let me know about the following:

Admission procedure
Eligibility criteria
Fee Structure
Mode of payment
Placement opportunities

Also, let me know if there is any scholarship scheme. Please send me the detail on my e-mail id: [email protected], so that I can pursue my course.

Thanking you
Yours sincerely
Mayank

Question 5.
You are Seetha/Surya living in Bangalore. You and your friends are planning a week-long holiday to a hill station. Write a letter making necessary enquiries from the tour operator before you make your final decision. (6 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:

154, Brindavan Apartments
Bangalore
April 1, 20XX

Lazeet Travels & Tours,
M. G. Road
Bangalore

Subject: Details of tour plans

Dear Ms. Bhavna

We came across your tour brochure for hill stations last week. We are interested in the Kodaikanal-Thekkady-Munnar package that you have mentioned in the brochure. We are a group of 10 from Bangalore between the ages of 25-35. Since the brochure does not give the complete details of the package, we would be interested in knowing the full details. We would like to know the tour charges, time and date of travel, mode of travel, food, and accommodation for the trip. We would also like a complete itinerary. Also, it would be great if you could suggest some other packages that you offer for a week-long hill station trip. Please inform us about any other requirements for the trip.

Thank you in anticipation
Surya

Article Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Examples, Samples

January 5, 2022July 27, 2021 by Prasanna

Article Writing Class 12

Writing an article is quite challenging. It involves a high degree of creativity, a wide vocabulary, a thorough knowledge of the subject, and a lot of organizational abilities.

Article Writing Class 12 Format, Topics, Examples, Samples

Articles express the personal opinions of the writer. Input for an article/speech may be in the form of verbal/visual input. The output may be descriptive or argumentative.

Purpose Articles are written:

to present information on a variety of themes (describing an event; a person and his life and actions; places; experiences, opinions on topics of social interest; arguments for or against a topic) in a long and sustained piece of writing.
to pass on such information in a wide range of contexts (magazine, school, newspaper, etc.).

Content
An article should contain

a title that is eye-catching and that summarizes the theme.
content that is clear, accurate and offers a balanced view of issues.
paragraphs that
introduce the theme,
bring out the cause-effect relationship and
conclusion, suggestions, personal observations, predictions.
original ideas.
logical arrangement of ideas.
a by-line.

♦ Sample Articles

Question 1.
By 2050, India will be amongst the countries which will face acute water shortage. You are highly alarmed and terrified of the future world without water. To write an article on ‘Save Water – Are we doing enough?’ for the local daily in 150-200 words. (10 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2019]
Answer:

Save Water-Are we doing enough?
By XYZ

‘Water -the elixir of life’. When people have ample facilities, they don’t care but when they are short of it then only, they realise how important it is to them. As water scarcity is all around in the metro cities, the situation is alarming. The man’s body is 70% water. Water is probably the most important resource on earth. Water is essential for life, i.e., plant life, animal life as well as human life. It is also needed for many human activities, such as cooking and washing.

What would the future be without water? Are we doing enough to save it? Perhaps not. Human callousness towards the misuse of water is taking him to a dungeon of its scarcity. The acute shortage of water is going to affect adversely on all. People throw garbage in the Yamuna. Water pollution is on the rise. The day is not so far away when it will prove right, ‘Water water everywhere, not a drop to drink’.

The need of the hour is to use it judiciously. People should use it moderately. One should use used water for plants. Everyone should stop washing cars with running water. A pledge should be taken to conserve this universal solvent. The motto of ‘Save Water – Save Life’ should be understood. The wholehearted efforts must be put it to save it.

Let us live, let her live, and let us help her live with pride courage, and freedom.

Question 2.
Our performance in Rio Olympics has told us that we do not pay enough attention to athletics and outdoor games. It is time we revise our attitude. Sports should be an important part of the school’s daily routine. Write an article in 150-200 words in the ‘Importance of Outdoor Games’. You are Sreeja/Thomas. (10 marks) [CBSE Paper 2018]
Answer:

Importance of Outdoor Games
By Thomas

The impact of computerisation is severely affecting the youth today. Sports and games that were only outdoor have now become primarily virtual, and boys and girls are literally glued to the screens of their monitor sets playing computer games.

What is however worrying is the poor performance of our athletes, swimmers, footballers, bikers, car racers or basketball players to name a few. Outdoor games are very much neglected at home and given little importance in most school curriculums. Physical exercises through sports and games not only tone and maintain our bodies but relax our mind too thus, warding off several diseases at an early age and on the contrary, increases the resistance to innumerable ailments.

The body of a young person not only remains flexible but acquires toughness that keeps his comfortable even at old age too. Even the septuagenarians abroad play badminton, table tennis, or trek to maintain their health. Local clubs, state and national level coaching camps need to create better ambiance, give encouragement, and pool in government commitments to discover and nurture sports, talents to improve our performance in the international arena for sports.

Two silver and bronze medals in the Rio Olympics bring our heads down in shame. Is this the outcome of years of training to lakhs of players from a country with about 1.2 billion population? Does it mean that real talents are either not interested or yet to be discovered or lost indoors in the virtual world of computers?

Question 3.
Every teenager has a dream to achieve something in life. What they are going to become tomorrow depends on what our youth dream of today. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘What I want to be in life’. You are Simranjit/Smita. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2017]
Answer:

What I Want in Life
By Simranjit

Ever since I was a child, I minutely observed my father, who was in the Indian Police Service. I decided that one day, I would be like him; as idealistic and ethical as any human can be.

The youth around have dreams that I guess are dependent on their exposures and experiences. I have been not only drilled with discipline, honesty, transparency, diligence, and academic regularity but had grown up with exemplaries in my ambiance of such virtues of life. Time is changing and I know that compatibility and compromise are the order of the day. However, I have a holistic scheme to develop on the atmosphere created by my role model father.

Regularity is what I adhere to, but simultaneously efficient time management helps me to cultivate my hobbies of playing badminton, swimming, reading, writing, travelling, slum literacy, and martial arts. Policing has a wider range of functions and I enjoy being an indirect participant in the community. Policing with some of my father’s colleagues, whereby not only do I get to meet the demarcated class of people who are mentored to be re-introduced to the mainstream of the society but I have an opportunity to practically know how situations make criminals and nobody is a born one.

I know fulfilling my wishes and materialising my dream to be born as IPS of the highest order will have paths laid with horns, hot coals, and incredible impediments, but the love for my father and this nation should be the foremost incentive to make my dream come true.

Question 4.
Teenagers are full of energy as well as ideas. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘How to Channelise the Energy of the Teenagers’. You are Tejinder/Simran. You may use the following clues:

Teenagers curious-full of questions-question elders-sometimes even wrongly- generation gap-may go astray-effect on society-how to channelise-productive hobbies-social work-sports-part-time, etc.
(10 marks) [CBSE (F) 2017]
Answer:

How to Channelise the Energy of the Teenagers
By Tejinder

The students in their teenage or early adulthood are full of physical and emotional energy. Unless this energy is rightly channelised to positive avenues, it is possible that they use it negatively because they cannot stop themselves.

Teenagers are curious to know more. This is the age when they develop their outlook towards the world. They are full of questions about the world around them and about themselves. These young adults question their elders, sometimes even wrongly, and try to make their own decisions. This creates a generation gap. The influence of cinema and media promotes rash behaviour as heroic. If at this time, their energy is not channelized in a positive direction, they may go astray and can affect society negatively.

In channelising a teenager’s energy, the parents and the mentor in schools play the most important roles. Parents should inculcate and educate their children about the right and wrong things. They should teach them their culture and stories of courage and good manners, engage the students in positive and social activities apart from academics. The students who have underutilized time end up using it in unwanted activities. Encourage them to take part in productive hobbies, social work, part-time jobs, and sports of their interest. Art, culture, and literature are also avenues for using youth energy.

The most important of all, educational institutions should be a place where they have the freedom to express, develop confidence and skills, and that develop good behaviour and discipline. Every teacher should become a personality development trainer. The dynamic energy of the youth needs to be channelised positively and not politically or by media.

Question 5.
You are Vignesh/ Viharika. Of late, there has been an increase in the number of suicide cases among students because of the increased workload. You are deeply disturbed and decide to write an article for the ‘The Hindu’. Write the article in 150-200 words. (10 marks)
Answer:

Student Suicides on a Rise
By Vignesh

It is common these days for youngsters to come up with expressions like very little leisure time. I believe there are two main causes of this situation. The first is parental pressure and the second is competition for university places.

The parents want to see their children do well in school and have a successful career. This makes them exert pressure on their children to spend hours each day studying. Some even arrange extra tuition for their children. As a consequence, their leisure time is extremely limited and the pressure on them is considerable.

The second cause is related to the higher education system. Due to less number of seats at the university level, only those students with very good grades manage to obtain a place. This contributes to the pressure on teenagers since they must work long hours to have any chance of success.

One solution to the problem is to create awareness among parents. Schools should inform parents that too much pressure can lead to anxiety, stress and depression. They should be shown ways in which they can help their children lead more balanced lives with a reasonable amount of leisure time.

Another effective measure would be for the government to invest in the creation of more university places. This could he done by expanding existing universities or by building new ones. This would reduce the competition for places giving teenagers some of their precious free time back.

Question 6.
You are an active member of the Animals Lovers’ Club of your school which works
for preventing cruelty to animals. Write an article in 150-200 words for your school magazine emphasising the need to co-exist peacefully with animals. You are Zaheeda/ Zahir of P.K. Senior Secondary School, Hyderabad. (10 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2015]
Answer:

Stop Cruelty Towards Animals
By Zaheeda

Every day in India animals are beaten, neglected, or forced to struggle for survival. Left in unsanitary conditions with no food or water, they have little hope as they live out their days without the compassion they deserve. Some are found and rescued, given the chance to experience how great life and humans can be; others aren’t so lucky. To grow as a nation, we must fight for these abused animals’ rights and severely punish heartless owners.

It is up to us to speak for these creatures who lack a voice. Who will if we don’t? It is important that stringent laws are made to protect all animals. Large fines and lengthy prison time should be levied. Seasoned abusers should not be allowed to own animals. Along with these laws, we need officials who will strongly enforce them. Police and psychologists, both need to work in tandem to understand the link between animal cruelty and violence against people. To better protect communities, work should be done to increase public awareness of these crimes.

It’s not only up to the legal system to ensure that communities across the country are aware and educated about animal cruelty. There are plenty of things that citizens can do everyday. The simplest action is for people to take care of their own pets and learn the facts, so they can educate others on proper animal care. Another easy way to help is by donating to or volunteering at a local animal shelter. By writing letters, you can remind your local lawmakers that animal abuse is a real problem that needs to be addressed.

It is our job to be the voice for creatures who cannot speak up for themselves. As a nation, we need to make it our priority to come together and ensure the safety of our beloved pets.

Question 7.
Over the past few years there has been a constant rise in coaching institutes and private tuition centres all over India. Write an article in about 150-200 words highlighting the exploitation of young minds that seek sincere counselling and proper direction. You are Gurpreet, a student of Class XII of Indira Public School, Jamshedpur. (10 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2015]
Answer:

Coaching Institutes – The Real Purpose
By Gurpreet

The recent trend of joining a coaching institute to get good marks has led to the mushrooming of coaching institutes and private tuition centres all over India. The real purpose of coaching institutes was to provide help by providing students proper guidance. Of late, however, the purpose has become exploitation of young minds.

Some may say that it is a tall claim. Others might still say that we cannot blame the whole §et because of some money-minded people. Being a victim of this rigmarole of coaching and tuitions, I can say from my experience that things are not the same. Parents and children diligently, visit various coaching institutes, in order to choose the best. The counsellors at the institute aim to fill their centres with the cream, so that their results are not compromised. In case a weak student comes for coaching, they sincerely offer a crash course knowing fully well that the needs of the student are different.

All this because if the student (without any doubt in this particular case) does not get through any entrance exam or does not get good marks, one can always say that they did only a crash course. Such exploitation of the students and their parents needs to be regulated by the Education Department. Parents should be made aware of the various courses at the coaching institute. The most important thing would be to believe in their wards and understand that just like earlier days, children can still do well without any extra help from coaching centres. True, some students might need such help, but it should not be done to blindly follow a trend.

Question 8.
Ragging has raised its ugly head again. A recent incident at a prestigious school has shown that this evil has not yet come to an end. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘Ragging, an Evil’. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]

a practice from the British era
original aim, respect for hierarchy
enforcing traditions, discipline
prefect – a teacher substitute
misuse of authority
vulgar aspect
fatalities
solution

Answer:

Ragging, An Evil
By Navtej

Ragging is a social evil which has spread to the educational institutions. It has to be eradicated with a heavy hand, so that lives of innocent students who fell victims to these evils, can be saved. Initially, ragging started in British era with the excuse that it was to teach the social hierarchy in early career, and also learn other important values in life. Ragging has let down humanity on innumerable occasions. It is also a pity that the practice has been going on for decades and the victims of last year become the perpetrators this year. In the name of the ‘Tradition’, this course is on and the authorities keep mum on the happenings in their institutions. Under the pretext of fun, a poor student is often assaulted, sometimes even stripped and intimidated by his seniors. The chilling incident continues to haunt him throughout his life, and he unknowingly develops various psychological disorders.

After experiencing the evil of ragging, a student develops a feeling of revenge for his ‘unjustified harassment’ and derives pleasure in ragging his juniors. So, the trend goes on and students continue to suffer.

Those who surrender before their seniors are set free from the torment after going through a series of inhuman acts, but those who refuse to follow their diktats are subjected to barbaric and brutal treatment and are forced to urinate on high voltage heaters, take part in naked parades, shave off their moustaches and beards, and stand upside down on their heads, etc. The situation sometimes turns so bad that it compels the victim being ragged to commit suicide.

In spite of the strict warning by the Supreme Court for enforcement of these recommendations, some institutions have failed in this regard. Therefore, seeing the gravity of the situation and inhuman aspect associated with it, ragging has been declared a criminal offence. We need stringent laws and punishment for the criminals.

Strict action should be taken against students indulging in ragging. There should be sensitisation on the issues. More activities requiring the collaboration of both seniors and juniors, will also help bridge this gap.

Question 9.
India is a tourist’s dream destination. Give your views on the tourism potential of India in an article in 150-200 words. You are Navtej/Navita.

places of worship – religious tourism – foreigners – places of historical interest – the rich – hill stations during summers – the sun-kissed beaches in winters – leisure tourism – medical tourism – world class hospitals (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Answer:

India – A Dream Destination
By Navita

From the snow clad mountains in the North to the desert areas of Rajasthan to the beaches of Goa, India is a land of diversity-Diversity of culture, religion, language, food, occupation. Besides this, exquisite monuments and temples together with archaeological finds for the tourists make India a travellers delight. In fact, diversity is synonymous with India. Being the birth place of many religions like Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism, India is also an ideal place for religious tourism. Places like Bodhgaya, Shirdi, and Rishikesh are thriving because of religious tourism.

The other attractions include beautiful beaches, forests and wildlife, and landscapes for ecotourism, snow, river and mountain peaks for adventure tourism, technological parks and science museums for science tourism, centres of pilgrimage for spiritual tourism, heritage trains and hotels for heritage tourism. The Indian handicrafts particularly jewelleries, carpets, leather goods, ivory and brass work are the main shopping items of foreign tourists. A new growth sector is medical tourism. It is currently growing steadily with world class hospitals. Yoga, ayurveda and natural health resorts also attract tourists.

However, the tourism industry in India has been generating very low revenue of late. It would be worthwhile to look at the factors that have led to this untapped potential. The major constraint in the expansion of international tourist traffic to India is non – availability of adequate infrastructure.

Indian tourism has vast potential for generating employment and earning large sums of foreign exchange besides giving a boost to the country’s overall economic and social development. Much has been achieved by way of increasing trains and railway connectivity to important tourist destinations, four-lane roads connecting important tourist centres and increasing availability of accommodation by adding heritage hotels to the hotel industry and encouraging paying guest accommodation. But much more remains to be done, if India is to become a world player in the tourism industry.

Question 10.
In the year to come (if you have not already done this year) you are going to celebrate our 18th birthday. Write an article in 150-200 words on the joys and responsibilities of being eighteen. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2015]
Answer:

I am Eighteen!
By Navtej

Reaching milestones in age (For example, hitting 18, 21, silver jubilee or sweet sixteen) is a great birthday to celebrate! It packs all that magical ‘specialness’ which a normal year doesn’t. Whether it actually brings along that much more in its stride is still a question. For me, becoming 18 was an awesome feeling. I was allowed to vote. That for me was the best part of turning 18. Becoming responsible for your actions is again something I really loved, as it leads to proper personality development and our parents are no longer responsible for us.

It also brings with it a feeling of independence and loads of freedom. They said that age was just a number! I don’t think so! Turning 18 has led to a thousand new duties entrusted upon us. Right to vote, driving, helping parents with their work; the list is endless. It opened up a new domain of responsibilities and made us aware how much our parents deal with. As they say, grass is always greener on the other side. When we were kids, we wanted to be adults but now that we are adults, we want to be kids again! With every age comes lots of experience and learning so just go along with it, live life to the fullest and no matter what your age, don’t forget to be yourself! But remember, being 18 is also about being more responsible, mature, thoughtful and balanced.

Question 11.
Write an article in 150-200 words on how we can make India a carefree and enjoyable
place for women when they can go wherever they like to without any fear of being stared at, molested or discriminated against. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2015]
Answer:

Women safety in india
By Navita

Women in India, today, are becoming the most vulnerable section as far as their safety and security is concerned. When we turn the pages of a newspaper, we come across many headlines reporting cases of molestation, harassment, trafficking, ill treatment of women in houses, violence against women in remote areas, etc. Women feel unsafe and unsecure and feel that their freedom and liberty are jeopardised. It is unbearable to imagine the plight of women who are sufferers of such crimes. It is a jolt on the confidence of the women, of society and on our judicial system.

We generally play the blame game for any such incidence and hence, have not succeeded to reach the root cause of this issue. An effective implementation of laws protecting women’s rights is the first step in this direction. There should be stringent laws and the perpetrators of such crimes should be severely punished. We also need to create social awareness about these issues and ostracise those who commit such crimes and not the victims. Better surveillance by law enforcing authorities is also required. The last but the most effective would be to compulsorily teach self-defence techniques to girls and women in schools, colleges, offices and residential colonies. Only when these measures are taken, India can become a carefree and enjoyable place for women.

Question 12.
Emotionally as well as intellectually, a woman is as good as a man if not better. Yet we
don’t allow her the same status as a man enjoys in society. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘Status of Women in Society’. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2015]
Answer:

Status of Women in Society
By Navtej

The worth of a civilisation can be judged by the place given to women in the society. One of the several factors that justify the greatness of India’s ancient culture is the honourable place granted to women. However, the status of women in India has been subject to many great changes over the past few millenniums. From equal status with men in ancient times through the low points of the medieval period, to the promotion of equal rights by many reformers, the history of women in India has been eventful. In modern India, women have adorned high offices in India including that of the President, Prime Minister, Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Leader of the Opposition.

However, women in India generally are still exposed to numerous social issues. Though emotionally as well as intellectually a woman is as good as a man, they are not allowed the same status as a man in the Indian society. Even when women are working, they are not given equal pay for equal work at certain places. To add to all these woes, they are stared at, ill-treated and discriminated against at home, at workplace and in the society.

We need to promote education and skill development for women. They should be given priority in jobs. We also need more women-friendly laws. Though we celebrate Women’s Day on March 8, what we need in reality is to understand the real contribution that women make to the society. It is not just about celebrating one day. In fact it is about understanding and thanking all the women in our lives. We need to understand the small sacrifices that they make every day, so that we can have a better tomorrow.

Question 13.
When children watch TV, the adults generally scold them without realising that some programmes on TV can be educative too. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘TV as a tool of instruction’. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

Tv as a Tool of Instruction
By Navita

Since the invention of TV, there have been contrasting views on its usability. Many parents believe that watching violence on television makes the children aggressive and violent. Parents also believe that watching too much television is not good for health. Excessive TV watching (more than 3 hours a day) can also contribute to sleep difficulties, behaviour problems, lower grades, and other health issues. Television makes us antisocial, taking the place of family and friends. Many people call it the idiot box and feel that watching TV is just a waste of time and resources. Time which could be spent in doing something important and enriching is lost. Children feel lost without television. They do not have any hobby or creativity left.

But is TV viewing so bad? Are there no educative programmes on TV? Children feel that they are not always wrong and immature. They can also take right decisions. Parents must have faith in their children. Parental discretion is important but not always. Some shows can motivate people who are interested in that field and help them to pursue their dreams. Not only does it keep one entertained and informed, it also expands one’s horizon. Certain channels like Discovery Science and History TV are good and informative. To supplement education with entertainment, children can also watch cartoons, though the proportion needs to be maintained. Sometimes, it can be a family viewing session too. This will in fact bring the family together.

Question 14.
Mid-day meal scheme in the schools introduced by the government serves several purposes. Millions of children from the deprived sections of society get nutritious food leading to good health, are attracted to the schools, kept from going astray and developed into good citizens. The scheme may have some drawbacks too. Write an article in 150-200 words on all aspects of the scheme. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Answer:

Mid-day Meal Scheme
By Navita

The renowned ‘midday meal project’ is a famous school meal scheme in the country, India. The scheme began in the year 1960. The main objective of the scheme is to provide day lunch to students during working school days. Some other important aims of this scheme include: protecting students from study-room hunger, improved socialization especially among the students, increasing enrollment as well as attendance, social empowerment; addressing malnutrition, etc. It also prevents children from going astray and develops them into good citizens.

However, there are certain drawbacks to this scheme. Sometimes, due to lack of monitoring and hygiene, children are provided with contaminated food. This is furthered by corruption at all levels. In most places, teachers manage kitchens and are often not dignified in distributing food. A lack of infrastructure in schools and delay in payment by the Government further aggravates the issue. Children are often treated as burden. Only when the government, school authorities and the parents join hands, can this mid-day meal scheme be a true success.

Question 15.
Morning assembly in the schools gives a cool and calm start to the otherwise hectic schedule of the day. It can be a means of passing important information to the students. What are your views on this significant event of the day? Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘Importance of Morning Assembly’. You are Navtej/Navita. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Answer:

Importance of Morning Assembly
By Navtej

Morning assembly is the most important feature of the school curriculum, where students learn the value of collective prayer and are exposed to the need to inculcate moral and ethical values. The morning assembly helps each child to showcase his or her talent and ensure a robust start of the day. They are also guided to the path of spiritualism through educational talks. Meditation and introspection form an integral feature of the morning assembly. It is a symbol of unity of our school. It helps children to cultivate a sense of belonging towards the school. The assembly is creative canalisation of the innate talent of students and is an integral part of the school activities.

Morning assembly provides a channel to release information related to the school operations, such as the club activities and extra-curricular activities. We can know what is going on in the school every day. It also provides a training platform for both, the students and the teachers to share their ideas about cultures, festivals and current affairs. To conclude, morning assembly plays a major part in the development of a child.

Question 16.
On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, the Honourable PM of India had an interactive Session with students from all over the country through satellite link. Your school also made special arrangements for the students to view the telecast. Write an article in aboutl50-200 words for your school magazine giving details of the talk and its impact on you. You are Akshay/Akshita of Brightland Public School. (10 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:
On the occasion of Teacher’s Day, the Honourable Prime Minister, Mr Ram Kumar Sharma interacted with students from all over the country through satellite link. Our school made special arrangements for the students to view the telecast in the school auditorium. It was indeed an enthralling experience to see the great dignitary interacting with the students. The importance of teacher’s in shaping our lives was an important part of his talk. Mr Sharma talked about how he was thankful to his teachers for instilling the beliefs that he has today.

He thanked his teachers for helping him fulfil his dreams. Whatever difficulties may come one’s way, one should strive hard to succeed. He gave examples from his childhood about the times when he had to walk 10 kms to reach school. It was difficult but he used to wade through even deep waters during rains, so that he could study. His talk was truly inspiring. We realised how only after one has put in full efforts, one gets complete satisfaction, the sense of achievement. He motivated the students to give their best in the face of difficulties, so that they can be successful in life.

Question 17.
On the occasion of Earth Day, you participated in various eco-friendly campaigns initiated by your school. Write an article in about 150-200 words for your school magazine giving details of these campaigns and the impact on you. You are Akshay/ Akshita of Brightland Public School. (10 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:

Earth Day Celebrations
By Akshita

On the occasion of Earth Day, April 22, various eco-friendly campaigns were organised by our school. Many of you might question, why we celebrate Earth Day? It’s because we seem to have forgotten what a beautiful gift we have been given in the form of planet earth. We also seem to have forgotten that this is our home and we need to keep it in order to stay healthy and alive.

Over the centuries, we have ruthlessly used and depleted the earth’s resources. All this has led to severe problems like depletion of the ozone layer, cyclones, flash floods, earthquakes, tsunami, forest fires, global warming, etc. To satisfy our quest for modernisation, heavy amount of deforestation is also taking place. All this has harmed the earth’s environment. The ice at the Polar caps has started to melt due to the rise in earth’s temperature.

All this is bringing the doom’s day nearer. So, days like the Earth Day remind us to be caring and loving to the earth. This Earth Day, our school had a series of enlightening lectures on the theme ‘Save Earth’ by the famous environmentalist Dr Ramakant Mishra. Poster making competition, planting saplings, cleanliness drive in and around the school were also organised.

Special screening of James Cameroon’s movie ‘Avatar’ was also conducted to make the students aware of the importance of saving earth. These programs were thoroughly enjoyed by the students. Many students also pledged to do their share to help the planet. Students were made aware of how little things like switching off lights and fans when not in use, stop using plastic bags, saving fuel by walking small distances, recycling paper can go a long way in saving the earth. Let us pledge to save earth this Earth Day.

Question 18.
India is a land of diversity. One way in which it makes us feel proud of it is the number of festivals we enjoy. Write an article in 150-200 words on, ‘Festivals of India’. You are Karuna/Karan. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

Festivals of India
By Karan

India is a land of fairs and festivals. People belonging to different communities and different religions live here, therefore, many festivals are celebrated regularly every year. Among these festivals, some are religious, some are based on seasons while some are of national importance. The commonality being the great enthusiasm in a colourful atmosphere.

Diwali, Dussehra, Raksha Bandhan, Id-ul-Fitr, Id-ul-Zuha, Christmas, Mahavir Jayanti, Guru Nanak Jayanti, Ganesh Chaturthi, etc. are the religious festivals of India. These festivals are celebrated by different communities, but they are celebrated as a whole. We can see festive atmosphere everywhere in India.

Holi, Baisakhi, Basant Panchami, Bihu, Pongal, Onam, etc. are seasonal or harvest festivals. During the harvest festival, the farmers worship the sun, the earth and the cattle as thanks giving for a bounteous harvest.

Then comes our national festivals – The Independence Day, The Republic Day and Gandhi Jayanti. These festivals are celebrated by all communities throughout the country. The Independence Day celebrated on 15th August every year reminds us those numerous freedom fighters that made the Britishers leave the country. Our long-cherished dream of freedom came true. All these days are observed with great national feeling. On The Republic day, a colourful parade starts from Vijay Chowk which ends at the Red Fort.

The festivals make our life colourful. People come together to welcome with open arms and forget the narrow differences. Festivals are very important and they must be celebrated with pomp.

Question 19.
Rising pollution, fast and competitive lifestyle, lack of nutritious food, etc. have caused health woes for a large section of our population. Providing health care used to be a charitable and ethical activity. Today, it has become commercialised, a money spinning business. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘How to provide proper health care to the common man’. You are Karan/Karuna. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

How to Provide Proper Health Care to the Common Man?
By Karan

In the rat-race to earn more and live a better lifestyle, people do not have time to take care of themselves. Exercising, yoga, meditation have become uncommon these days. They have become fancy terms which people only talk about. Rising pollution, fast and competitive lifestyle, lack of nutritious food, etc. have caused health woes for a large section of our population. Providing health care used to be an ethical activity. Today, it has become commercialised. The poor illiterate man who goes to the hospital for some other treatment ends up losing kidney. Such cases of kidney theft in hospitals have become quite common. Doctors refuse to start treatment of people unless payment is done. Can the poor afford?

Many government hospitals are in pathetic conditions. There are hardly any provisions for the sick. The government hospital doctors have made the hospitals a referral point for their private practices. Inclusion of private sector in health care has made the entire situation commercialised. Unnecessary tests and operations are done without any human concern. Proper health care has stopped being affordable even to the middle class, leave alone the poor class.

Though the cost of treatment is lower than the west, it is still \iot affordable to the common man. The government needs to take necessary steps and allocate more funds to the health care in India. Better health care facilities at the Primary health care centres, provision of essential medicines free of cost, strict vigilance on the doctors at the government hospitals, health insurance should be improved and private hospitals should provide health care to the common man at affordable cost. “Prevention is better than cure”. Therefore, proper precaution and care should start at home.

Question 20.
India is an emerging economy. We are rich in natural resources. Yet a significant
proportion of our people are living below poverty line. One cause of this poverty is our rising population. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘How to keep a check on population’. You are Karuna/Karan. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

How to Keep a Check on Population?
By Karima

“We all worry about population explosion but we don’t worry about it at the right time.” With limited resources and an ever increasing population, the developing countries face a lot of problems. As per United Nations population statistics, the world population grew by 30% between 1990 and 2010 which is an alarmingly high rate. There are many ways of keeping a check on our population. Out of the many, the most important is women empowerment; it should be up to women if they want to have a child or not. They shouldn’t be forced to give birth to a child just for the continuity of a family name.

Secondly, as education is the most powerful tool, the society needs to be made aware of the current situations and be educated enough that they break the stereotypes. With a powerful legislation and making sure that the laws and policies get implemented, population can be controlled more effectively. A proper family planning can also help to curb the menace. All of these measures are just a few of the many. It is the need of the hour to control the population in order to handle the problem of scarcity of resources and for a steady economic development.

Question 21.
Women feel unsafe on the road, at their place of work and even at home. There is an urgent need to change the male mindset in its attitude towards women. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘How to make women feel safe’. You are Karan/Karuna. (10 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

How to Make Women Feel Safe?
By Karuna

The status of women in India has been subject to great changes over the past few millennia. Today, Indian women are found working in all fields like aeronautics, space, politics, banks, schools, sports, businesses, army, police, and many more.

However in the recent years, we have seen a lot of changes. On the one hand, we find female figurines being worshipped in our temples, on the other hand, we hear about the manifold increase in crime against women. Molestation, dowry deaths, rape, murder have all become everyday news now. With the rising number of rape cases in the country, more and more women have fear regarding their safety. Women are harassed everywhere at all times.

Perpetrator of such crimes have been found to have a stereotypical male mindset, that the job of a woman is only to beget children. It has been found that crimes against women are rising due to the lack of gender-friendly environment and improper functional infrastructure, such as consumption of alcohol and drugs in open area, lack of adequate lighting, safe public toilets, sidewalks, lack of effective police service, lack of properly working helpline numbers, etc. There is an urgent need to understand and solve this problem of women safety, so that women feel equally safe in their own country. The police need to be more pro-active.

Counselling at home and in the schools is required to ensure gender equality. It is important that women are made aware of their rights, for example, cyber-crime against women is also punishable. To feel safe, it is important that women/girls are motivated to join self-defense classes, so that she can fight for herself. Let us all work together to make this world a better and safer place to live in.

Question 22.
According to 2011 census, literacy rate of hundred per cent or around has been achieved by only a couple of states in India. Illiteracy is found mostly among the old and the deprived sections of society. What can the youth do to spread literacy in society? Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘Role of students in eradicating illiteracy’. You are Karuna/Karan. (10 marks) [CfiSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

Role of Students in Eradicating Illiteracy
By Karan

Literacy is a key element in the progress of any nation. In its absence, people often become helpless. It also hinders their development. Though the literacy rate in India has grown over a period of time, literacy is still below average in the country. Despite many government programmes, India’s literacy does not show any improvement. Illiteracy is found mostly among the old and the deprived sections of society. Though some states in India have achieved 100% literacy, the real purpose is yet to be achieved. Students in particular can do a lot in this regard. The youth can help the rural people in many ways, by spreading education among them, by developing adult education programmes and by removing ignorance from their life.

Education creates awareness. Various street plays can be staged to make people aware of the benefits of education. Being a part of programmes like ‘Each one Teach one’ will also help the cause. During summer vacation, students can set up various camps to teach people. If students pledge to eradicate illiteracy from the country and work towards achieving that goal, surely our country will also become a nation of literates soon.

Question 23.
Increase in the number of private vehicles has caused problems like rising air pollution, traffic jams, lack of parking space, road rage, etc. The solution lies in the use of public transport. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘The Importance of Public Transport’. You are Karan/Karuna. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

The Importance of Public Transport
By Karuna

Nowadays with the arrival of low end private vehicles in the market, we find people preferring private vehicles over public transport. This increase in the number of private vehicles has led to rising levels of congestion and air pollution. Increasing number of road accidents, incidents of road rage in most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private vehicles in use. The increasing number of private vehicles contribute to greenhouse gases, further leading to global warming. In order to reverse this decline in the quality of life in cities, attempts must be made to encourage people to use public transport more. There are many benefits of using public transport.

Firstly, it is affordable and accessible any day, and at most times to the public, unlike private transport where the responsibility of maintaining and financing the vehicle falls on the shoulders of the owner. The increasing cost of fuel further gives a reason for use of public transport. Private vehicle owners need to check the road-worthiness of the vehicle and ensure that the vehicle is taxed and insured.

Secondly, public transport is a means of relieving traffic congestions since a greater number of passengers can be accommodated in it. Less number of vehicles means less fuel consumption, thereby saving fuel. Reducing the number of vehicles on the road has the effect of reducing the Amount of air pollution in the environment, reducing global warming. This will lead to better health of individuals. Furthermore, in this fast paced life where people do not have time to interact with others, public transport gives an opportunity not only to relax but also to interact with other people. Therefore, public transport is very important and should be advocated.

Question 24.
In certain states of India there is a great imbalance in the male female ratio. This is the result of special treatment given to boys in the family. Why is it so? How can we change this mindset? Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘Gender Discrimination in Society’. You are Karuna/Karan. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

Gender Discrimination in Society
By Karan

India is a male dominant society. Men enjoy certain privileges over women. Birth of a boy is celebrated, whereas girl’s birth is considered as a curse. It is pity that in a country where women are said to be worshipped, there is widespread discrimination. Even before they are born, injustice is meted out to them in this male chauvinistic world in varying degrees. Certain brutal practices like female foeticide throw light on our attitude. The girl child is considered a liability and doesn’t enjoy the privileges of a boy. She is denied the advantages of proper education. The dowry system haunts parents and the harassment she is subjected to at the in-laws often force her to commit suicide.

Even in enlightened homes, women have to live their life under surveillance, if not in strict ‘purdah’. Working women are physically and verbally abused, denied opportunities of growth and subjected to discrimination.

Social evils like dowry system, honour killing, human trafficking, societal dogmas, etc., take a toll on women. Only education and economic independence can empower women. Proper law making and execution, spreading awareness, exemplary punishment for the predators etc., surely will bring positive changes. Women need to be empowered instead of treating them as a helpless victim of male chauvinism. Let us live, let her live and let us help her live in better developed society.

Question 25.
For admission to colleges, there is a lot of competition today. For one available seat, there are hundreds of candidates. Such a situation leads to stress on the minds of students in the schools. However, the practice of Yoga can help them feel calm and stress-free. Write an article in 150-200 words on the topic, ‘Importance of Yoga to Students’. You are Karan/Karuna. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

Importance of Yoga to Students
By Karan

Yoga is a holistic method of fitness that aims at balancing the body through various poses and meditative techniques. It aims at all-round health and improves all systems of the body. It is suitable for any age group.

Yoga can have great importance for students. Students these days have to face stiff competition. To reach the number-one spot has become a priority for everyone. There is a mad rush among hundreds of candidates to get that one available seat in college. All this creates stress among students. This is where yoga helps. The practice of yoga can help them feel calm and stress-free. The benefits of yoga for students can be manifold. Yoga makes students flexible, helping them remain fit. Some particular asanas like surya namaskars increase the blood flow to the brain, helping the brain to function better.

Regularly practising yoga also helps students to concentrate better and train the body to do things unconsciously. Breathing exercises in yoga or pranayama are also very helpful to students. They help in removing stress and tension from their minds and reducing behavioural problems. It keeps their mind healthy and decreases physical ailments. Yoga also helps in reducing depression, a by-product of stress. It calms mind and helps students concentrate better.

Meditation skills also help students focus on important things. Seeing the benefits of yoga, the United Nations has declared 21 June as the International Day of Yoga and it is celebrated worldwide since the year 2015. So with these umpteen benefits rolled into one, let us make yoga a part of our life.

Question 26.
Education has always been a noble profession. Our ancestors received their learning at gurukuls and ashrams. Even in the near past, pathshalas (schools) were associated with places of worship. Today, education is fast becoming commercialised. Parents halve to shell out a lot of money on coaching classes, tuition fees, etc. Write an article in 150-200 words on ‘The State of Education Today’. You are Karan/Karuna. (10 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2016]
Answer:

The State of Education Today
By Karan

Education is a means of acquiring knowledge, skills, values and beliefs. It enables people to know the real world. It enlightens them and helps in bringing out the individuality. Education helps people in forming perspectives. Having said all this, education in India is in a deplorable state today. It has become a source of producing large number of unemployed graduates. Though there has been a spurt of various colleges, the quality of education is questionable. It has become more of a money generating enterprise. The students who come out of these educational institutes these days lack the basic communication and problem-solving skills.

Education has become just a degree. It has become commercialised. This is evident from the flourishing coaching centres and tutorials. To add to the woes, the education system is all about rote-learning and curbs creativity and originality. The real purpose of education is lost. Education has become marks-oriented without any actual learning happening on the part of the students. There is a mindless rat race to get good marks, but it is not done with understanding of the subject, it is highly focused on marks.

To aid to this state, there is a poor student- teacher ratio in schools. For 60 students, there will be only one teacher. How can a single teacher focus on all the students at the same time? The need of the hour is to redefine the purpose of education-it should not be making of endless number of puppets, who have lost their individuality and their power to think; rather it should be to make strong individuals. After all, these children are our future, the future of our nation.

Unseen Passage For Class 12 Factual With Answers 2020

January 5, 2022July 27, 2021 by Prasanna

Unseen Passage For Class 12 Factual

Unseen Passage For Class 12 Factual With Answers Pdf 2020

English Comprehension Passages with Questions and Answers for Grade 12

♦ Solved Passages:

I. Read the poem and answer the questions.

The Sluggard

– Isaac Watts

‘Tis the voice of the sluggard; I heard him complain,
“You have waked me too soon, I must slumber again.”
As the door on its hinges, so he on his bed,
Turns his sides and his shoulders and his heavy head.

“A little more sleep, and a little more slumber;”
Thus he wastes half his days, and his hours without number,
And when he gets up, he sits folding his hands,
Or walks about sauntering, or trifling he stands.

I pass’d by his garden, and saw the wild brier,
The thorn and the thistle grow broader and higher;
The clothes that hang on him are turning to rags;
And his money still wastes till he starves or he begs.

I made him a visit, still hoping to find
That he took better care for improving his mind:
He told me his dreams, talked of eating and drinking;
But scarce reads his Bible, and never loves thinking.

Said I then to my heart, “Here’s a lesson for me,”
This man’s but a picture of what I might be:
But thanks to my friends for their care in my breeding,
Who taught me betimes to love working and reading.

Choose the correct option.

(a) The word ……………………., in stanza l, means the same as the word ‘sleep’.
i. sluggard
ii. slumber
iii. heavy head
Answer:
ii. slumber

(b) The word ……………………. rhymes with the word ‘higher’.
i. brier
ii. ‘heart
iii. none of the above
Answer:
i. brier

(d) The word ‘sauntering’ means the same as …………………….
i. walking in a slow relaxed way
ii. running very fast
iii. none of the above
Answer:
i. walking in a slow relaxed way

On the basis of your reading of the poem answer these questions.

1. What does the sluggard protest?
2. What does the simile in stanza one imply?
3. What does the sluggard long for?
4. What does the sluggard do in his waking hours?
5. What kind of a housekeeper is the sluggard? Give evidence.
6. Why did the poet visit him? What was the poet’s reaction?
Answer:
1. The Sluggard protested against being woken up from sleep too early. He wanted to sleep some more.
2. The simile implies that the sluggard is never far from his bed and his relationship with his bed is like that of the door with the hinges.
3. The sluggard longed for some more hours of sleep.
4. In his waking hours, the sluggard sat around idly, and loitered around purposelessly.
5. The sluggard was not a meticulous housekeeper as his garden was overgrown with wild briar. The thorns and the thistles in his lawn had grown tall and thick with neglect.
6. The poet visited the sluggard hoping that he indulged in some intellectual activity although he was physically idle. The poet was however disappointed to find that he dreamt only about eating and drinking. The sluggard seldom read the Bible and was not fond of thinking.

Find words or phrases in the poem which mean the same as the following.

1. countless (stanza 2)
2. rarely (stanza 4)
Answer:
1. without number
2. scarce

II. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Maharana Pratap ruled over Mewar only for 25 years. However, he accomplished so much grandeur during his reign that his glory surpassed the boundaries of countries and time turning him into an immortal personality. He, along with his kingdom, became a synonym for valour, sacrifice and patriotism. Mewar had been a leading Rajput kingdom even before Maharana Pratap occupied the throne. Kings of Mewar, with the cooperation of their nobles and subjects, had established such traditions in the kingdom, as augmented their magnificence, despite the hurdles of having a smaller area under their command and less population. There did come a few thorny occasions when the flag of the kingdom seemed sliding down. Their flag once again heaved high in the sky, thanks to the gallantry and brilliance of the people of Mewar.

2. The destiny of Mewar was good in the sense that barring a few kings, most of the rulers were competent and patriotic. This glorious tradition of the kingdom almost continued for 1,500 years since its establishment, right from the reign of Bappa Rawal. In fact, only 60 years before Maharana Pratap, Rana Sanga drove the kingdom to the pinnacle of fame. His reputation went beyond Rajasthan and reached Delhi. Two generations before him, Rana Kumbha had given a new stature to the kingdom through victories and developmental work. During his reign, literature and art also progressed extraordinarily. Rana himself was inclined towards writing and his works are read with reverence, even today. The ambience of his kingdom was conducive to the creation of high quality work of art and literature. These accomplishments were the outcome of a longstanding tradition, sustained by several generations.

3. The life of the people of Mewar must have been peaceful and prosperous during the long span of time; otherwise such extraordinary accomplishment in these fields would not have been possible. This is reflected in their art and literature as well as their loving nature. They compensate for lack of admirable physique by their firm but pleasant nature. The ambience of Mewar remains lovely, thanks to the cheerful and liberal character of its people.

4. One may observe astonishing pieces of workmanship, not only in the forts and palaces of Mewar but also in public utility buildings. Ruins of many structures which are still standing tall in their grandeur are testimony to the fact that Mewar was not only the land of the brave but also a seat of art and culture. Amidst aggression and bloodshed, literature and art flourished and creative pursuits of literature and artists did not suffer. Imagine, how glorious the period must have been when the Vijaya Stambha, which is the sample of our great ancient architecture even today, was constructed. In the same fort, Kirti Stambha is standing high, reflecting how liberal the then administration was, which allowed people from other communities and kingdoms to come and carry out construction work. It is useless to indulge in the debate, whether the Vijaya Stambha was constructed first or the Kirti Stambha. The fact is that both the capitals are standing side-by-side and reveal the proximity between the king and the subjects of Mewar.

5. The cycle of time does not remain the same. Whereas, the reign of Rana Sanga was crucial in raising the kingdom to the acme of glory; it also proved to be his nemesis. History took a turn. The fortune of Mewar, the land of the brave, started waning. Rana tried to save the day with his acumen which was running against the stream and the glorious traditions for sometime. [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
How did Maharana Pratap turn into an immortal personality?
(a) He ruled Mewar for 25 years
(b) He added a lot of grandeur to Mewar
(c) Of his valour, sacrifice and patriotism
(d) Both (b) and (c)
Answer:
(d) Both (b) and (c)

Question (ii)
What were the difficulties in the way of Mewar?
(a) Lack of cooperation of the nobility
(b) Ancient traditions of the kingdom
(c) Its small area and small population
(d) The poverty of the subjects
Answer:
(c) Its small area and small population

Question (iii)
What was the thorny occasion?
(a) When the flag of Mewar seemed to be lowered
(b) When the flag of Mewar was hoisted high
(c) When the people of Mewar showed gallantry
(d) Both (a) and (c)
Answer:
(d) Both (a) and (c)

Question (iv)
Why was Mewar lucky?
(a) Because all of its rulers were competent
(b) Because most of its people were competent
(c) Because most of its rulers were incompetent
(d) Because only a few of its people were competent
Answer:
(b) Because most of its people were competent

Question (v)
Which is the sample of our great ancient architecture even today?
(a) Palace of Mewar
(b) Port of Mewar
(c) Vijaya Stambha
(d) Kirti Stambha
Answer:
(c) Vijaya Stambha

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
Who was the earliest King of Mewar?
Answer:
The earliest king of Mewar mentioned in the passage is Bappa Rawal.

Question (ii)
What was Rana Kumbha’s contribution to the glory of Mewar?
Answer:
Rana Kumbha gave new stature through victories and development work. The literature and art progressed. His writing is revered even today.

Question (iii)
What does the writer find worth admiration in the people of Mewar?
Answer:
According to the writer, the people of Mewar are of a pleasant nature and liberal character. They are cheerful, gallant and brilliant.

Question (iv)
How did art and literature flourish in Mewar?
Answer:
As there was peace and prosperity in Mewar over a long period of time, so the rulers had a liberal attitude. They were also more inclined towards art and literature.

Question (v)
How did the rulers show that they cared for their subjects?
Answer:
The rulers cared a lot for their subjects. The nobles cooperated with the subjects. They built public utility buildings. People lived peacefully and had prosperous lives. They built the Vijaya Stambha and Kirti Stambha.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-5) which means ‘the most perfect thing that can exist or be achieved’.
Answer:
acme

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-5) which means ‘becoming weaker in strength’.
Answer:
waning

III. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. South India is known for its music and for its arts and rich literature. Madras or Chennai can be called the cultural capital and the soul of Mother India. The city is built low in pleasant contrast to the ghoulish tall structures of Mumbai and Kolkata. It has vast open spaces and ample greenery. The majestic spacious Mount Road looks like a river, wide and deep. A stroll on the Marina beach in the evening with the sea glistening in your face is refreshing. The breeze soothes the body, it refreshes the mind, sharpens the tongue and brightens the intellect.

2. One can never feel dull in Chennai. The intellectual and cultural life of the city is something of a marvel. Every street corner of Chennai has a literary forum, a debating society and music, dance and dramatic club. The intelligent arguments, the sparkling wit and dashing irony enliven both the political and the literary meetings. There is a young men’s association which attracts brilliant speakers and equally brilliant listeners to its meetings. It is a treat to watch the speakers use their oratorical weapons. Chennai speakers are by and large sweet and urbane, though the cantankerous, fire-eating variety is quite often witnessed in political campaigning. The urbane speakers weave their arguments slowly like the unfolding of a leisurely Carnatic raga.

3. Music concerts and dance performances draw packed houses. There is hardly any cultural family in Chennai that does not learn and patronise music and dance in its pristine purity. Rukmani Devi Arundale’s ‘Kalakshetra’ is a renowned international centre. It has turned out hundreds of celebrated maestros and dancers who have brought name and glory to our country. Carnatic music has a peculiar charm of its own. It has the moon’s soft beauty and moon’s soft pace. Thousands of people flock to the temple ‘maidans’ to get drunk with the mellifluous melodies of their favourite singers. They sit out all night in the grueling heat, swaying to the rhythm of ‘nadaswaram’ and rollicking with the measured beats of ‘mridangam’. M.S. Subbulakshmi is considered to be the nightingale of the South.

4. The Gods might descend from heaven to see a South Indian damsel dancing. There are several varieties of South Indian dance – Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, etc. Age cannot wither nor custom stale its beautiful variety. Bharatnatyam is the most graceful and enchanting dance form, whereas Kathakali is most masculine and virile. South Indian dances combine voluptuousness with purity. Here, every muscle and fibre of the body vibrates into life, and as the tempo increases, a divine flame-like passion bodies forth as if making an assault on heaven.

5. South Indian dress, particularly of the males, is puritanically simple. There you cannot distinguish a judge from an ‘ardali’ by their dress. South Indian ladies too look charming and graceful in their colourful Kanjeevaram and Mysore silk sarees.

6. South Indian cuisine, especially ‘dosa’, ‘idli’ and ‘vada’ are so delicious that now we
can enjoy them almost everywhere in India as well as in some foreign countries. The Madras ‘idli’, which was a favourite of Gandhiji, is served with ‘sambhar’ and ‘coconut chutney’. [CBSE Sample Paper 2015, (AI) 2015]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 x 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
For what is South India mainly known?
(a) For tasty food
(b) For its traditional, music, art, literature
(c) For scenic beauty
(d) For its delicate and precise ways
Answer:
(b) For its traditional, music, art, literature

Question (ii)
Why is it a treat to watch the speakers?

(a) Because they use oratorical weapons
(b) Because they are witnessed in campaigning
(c) Because they weave their arguments fastly
(d) Because they argue and complain a lot.
Answer:
(a) Because they use oratorical weapons

Question (iii)
What is M.S. Subbulakshmi considered to be?
(a) Graceful and enchanting
(b) Masculine and virile
(c) Nightingale of the South
(d) Moon’s soft beauty
Answer:
(c) Nightingale of the South

Question (iv)
Which is the South Indian dance form?
(a) Bharatnatyam
(b) Kuchipudi
(c) Kathakali
(d) All of these
Answer:
(d) All of these

Question (v)
Why are South Indian dances special?
(a) Because Gods come from heaven to see them
(b) Because there aren’t many varieties of dance
(c) Because they are pure as well as sensuous
(d) Because they make an assault on heaven
Answer:
(c) Because they are pure as well as sensuous

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
How does the breeze on Marina Beach affect the author?
Answer:
The breeze soothes the body, refreshes the mind, sharpens the tongue and brightens the intellect.

Question (ii)
How do we know that music is very important for the people of South India?
Answer:
Music concerts draw packed houses. Thousands of people flock to the temple ‘maidans’ and sit through the gruelling heat of the night to enjoy the music of their favourite singers.

Question (iii)
What is the common connection between language, music and dance of South India?
Answer:
The common connection between language, music and dance of South India is their pure, divine and enchanting nature.

Question (iv)
What makes Carnatic music charming?
Answer:
Music of Karnataka is charming because of its soft beauty and pace.

Question (v)
What is Kalakshetra renowned for?
Answer:
Kalakshetra is an international centre which has produced hundreds of celebrated maestros and dancers.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-2) which means ‘confident, comfortable and polite in social situations’.
Answer:
urbane

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘having a pleasant and flowing sound’.
Answer:
mellifluous

IV. Read the following passage Carefully.

1. Smoking is the major cause of mortality with bronchogenic carcinoma of the lung and is one of the factors causing death due to malignancies of larynx, oral cavity, oesophagus, bladder, kidney, pancreas, stomach and uterine cervix and coronary heart diseases.

2. Nicotine is the major substance present in the smoke that causes physical dependence. The additives do produce damage to the body. For example, ammonia can result in a 100-fold increase in the ability of nicotine to enter into the smoke.

3. Levulinic acid, added to cigarettes to mask the harsh taste of the nicotine, can increase the binding of nicotine to brain receptors, which increases the ‘kick’ of nicotine.

4. Smoke from the burning end of a cigarette contains over 4,000 chemicals and 40 carcinogens. It has long been known that tobacco smoke is carcinogenic or cancer-causing.

5. The lungs of smokers collect an annual deposit of l-l’A pounds of the gooey black material. Invisible gas phase of cigarette smoke contains nitrogen, oxygen and toxic gases like carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, acrolein, hydrogen-cyanide and nitrogen-oxides. These gases are poisonous and in many cases, interfere with the body’s ability to transport oxygen.

6. Like many carcinogenic compounds, they can act as tumour promoters or tumour initiators by acting directly on the genetic makeup of cells of the body leading to the development of cancer.

7. While smoking, within the first 8-10 seconds, nicotine is absorbed through the lungs and quickly ‘moved’ into the bloodstream and circulated throughout the brain. Nicotine can also enter the bloodstream through the mucous membranes that line the mouth (if tobacco is chewed) or nose (if snuff is used) and even through the skin. Our brain is made of billions of nerve cells and they communicate with each other by chemical messengers called neurotransmitters.

8. Nicotine is one of the most powerful nerve poisons and binds stereo-selectively to nicotinic receptors which is located in the brain, autonomic ganglia, the medulla, neuromuscular junctions. It is located throughout the brain and plays a critical role in cognitive processes and memory.

9. The nicotine molecule is shaped like a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is involved in many functions including muscle movement, breathing, heart-rate, learning and memory. Nicotine, because of the similar structure with acetylcholine, when it gets into the brain, attaches itself to acetylcholine sites and produces toxic effect.

10. In high concentrations, nicotine is more deadly. In fact, one drop of purified nicotine on the tongue can kill a person. It has been used as a pesticide for centuries.

11. Recent research studies suggest that acute nicotine administration would result in increased dopamine release from the brain, producing perceptions of pleasure and happiness, increased energy and motivation, increased alertness, increased feeling of vigour during the early phase of smoking.

12. However, notwithstanding these superficial effects, research shows that the relationship between smoking and memory loss is strongest in people who smoke more than 29 cigarettes each day and this is not specific to the socio-economic status, gender and a range of associated medical conditions. Smoking may speed up age-related memory loss and the details are not yet clear. Some studies suggest that repeated exposure to high nicotinic smoke related to the ‘Brain-wiring’ is nothing but neuro-biochemistry that deals with complex interaction among genetic experience and biochemistry of brain cells.

13. ‘NO’ is a unique molecule which plays an important role in a number of beneficial and some of the harmful brain and body mechanisms, for example, synapse formation, drug tolerance and local regulation of cerebral blood flow, Parkinson’s disease, etc. It is also found that people who smoke more cigarettes a day have poorer memories in middle age than non-smokers.

14. Some experts say that smoking is linked to memory problems because it contributes to narrowed arteries that restrict blood-flow to the brain. One of the causes of memory decline in relation to the brain function could be the nerve cell death or decreased density of interconnected neuronal network due to the loss of dendrites, the tiny filaments which connect one nerve cell to another. Abstinence from smoking is essential, not only to avoid these systemic effects but also to reduce the ill-effects on the environment. [CBSE Sample Paper 2017]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What does the presence of nicotine in the smoke cause?

(a) Physical dependence
(b) Heart disease
(c) Kidney stone
(d) Tumour
Answer:
(a) Physical dependence

Question (ii)
What does the gas of cigarette smoke contain?
(a) Nitrogen
(b) Oxygen
(c) Carbon-monoxide
(d) All of these
Answer:
(d) All of these

Question (iii)
What does the poisonous gas of a cigarette do to our body?
(a) Act as tumour promoters
(b) Interfere with the body’s ability to transport oxygen
(c) Malignancies of the larynx
(d) None of these
Answer:
(b) Interfere with the body’s ability to transport oxygen

Question (iv)
What would result in the acute nicotine administration?
(a) Increased dopamine release from the brain
(b) Producing perceptions of pleasures and happiness
(c) Increased energy and motivated
(d) All of these
Answer:
(d) All of these

Question (v)
What has been used as a pesticide for centuries?
(a) Nicotine
(b) Nitrogen
(c) Acrolein
(d) Formaldehyde
Answer:
(a) Nicotine

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
How is smoking the major cause of mortality?
Answer:
Smoking is the major cause of mortality as it causes lung cancer, tumours in the larynx, mouth, kidney, pancreas, stomach, and uterine cervix. It also leads to the blockage of arteries causing heart diseases.

Question (ii)
What makes people addicted to cigarettes?
Answer:
Nicotine in a cigarette makes the people addicted to it and also causes physical dependence.

Question (iii)
What are neurotransmitters?
Answer:
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers. They help millions of nerve cells to communicate with each other.

Question (iv)
How does nicotine produce toxic effects?
Answer:
Nicotine produces toxic effects. It gets into the brain and attaches itself to acetylcholine sites. Their union causes toxic effects.

Question (v)
According to the experts, how is smoking linked to memory?
Answer:
Experts say that smoking is linked to memory as it narrows arteries. It restricts the free flow of blood to the brain. It causes the death of nerve cells or the decline of brain memory.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-1) which means ‘a number of deaths’.
Answer:
mortality

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘the act of not doing something’.
Answer:
abstinence

V. Read the following carefully.

1. Early automobiles were sometimes only ‘horseless carriages’ powered by gasoline or steam engines. Some of them were so noisy that cities often made laws forbidding their use because they frightened horses.

2. Many countries helped to develop the automobile. The internal combustion engine, invented in Austria and France was an early leader in automobile manufacturing. But it was in the United States after 1900 that the automobile was improved most rapidly. As a large and growing country, the United States needed cars and trucks to provide transportation in places not served by trains.

3. Two brilliant ideas made possible the mass production of automobiles. An American inventor named Eli Whitney thought of one of them, which is known as ‘standardisation of parts’. In an effort to speed up production in his gun factory, Whitney decided that each part of a gun could be made by machines, so that it would be exactly like all the others of its kind.

4. Another American, Henry Ford developed the idea of the assembly line. Before Ford introduced the assembly line, each car was built by hand. Such a process was, of course, very slow. As a result, automobiles were so expensive that only rich people could afford them. Ford proposed a system in which each worker would have only a portion of the wheels. Another would place the wheels on the car. And still, another would insert the bolts that held the wheels to the car. Each worker needed to learn only one or two routine tasks.

5. But the really important part of Ford’s idea was to bring the work to the worker. An automobile frame which looks like a steel skeleton was put on a moving platform. As the frame moved past the workers, each worker could attach a single part. When the car reached the end of the line, it was completely assembled. Oil, gasoline, and water were added and the car was ready to be driven away. With the increased production made possible by the assembly line, automobiles became much economical and, more and more people were able to afford them.

6. Today, it can be said that wheels run America. The four rubber tyres of the automobile move America through work and play.

7. Even though the majority of Americans would find it hard to imagine what life could be without a car, some have begun to realise that the automobile is a mixed blessing. Traffic accidents are increasing steadily and large cities are plagued by traffic congestion. Worst of all, perhaps, is the air pollution caused by the internal combustion engine. Every car engine burns hundreds of gallons of fuel each year and pumps hundreds of pounds of carbon monoxide and other gases into the air. These gases are one source of the smog that hangs over large cities. Some of these gases are poisonous and dangerous to health, especially for someone with a weak heart or respiratory disease.

8. One answer to the problem of air pollution is to build a car that does not pollute. That’s what several major automobile manufacturers are trying to do. But building a clean car is easier said than done. So far, progress has been slow. Another solution is to eliminate car fumes altogether by getting rid of the internal combustion engine. Inventors are now working on turbine-powered cars, as well as on cars powered by steam and electricity. But most of us won’t be driving cars run on batteries or boiling water for a while yet. Many automakers believe that it will take years to develop practical models that are powered by electricity or steam.

9. To rid the world of pollution-pollution is caused not just by cars, but by all of the modern industrial life-many people believe that we must make some fundamental changes in the way many of us live. Americans may, for example, have to cut down on the number of privately owned cars and depend more on public mass transit systems. Certainly, the extensive use of new transit systems could cut down on traffic congestion and air pollution. But these changes, sometimes clash head-on with other urgent problems. For example, if a factory closes down because it cannot meet government pollution standards, a large number of workers suddenly find themselves without jobs. Questioning the quality of the air they breathe becomes less important than worrying about the next paycheque. Drastic action must be taken, if we are to reduce traffic accidents, traffic congestion and air pollution. While wheels have brought better and more convenient transportation, they have also brought new and unforeseen problems. Progress, it turns out, has more than one face. [CBSE Delhi, (AI) 2016]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

Question (i)
What did the United States need for transportation in places that were not served by trains?
(a) They needed trains
(b) They needed fuel
(c) They needed cars and trucks
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(c) They needed cars and trucks

Question (ii)
What did Henry Ford develop?
(a) The idea of the assembly line
(b) Horseless carriages
(c) Automobile frame
(d) Wheels for the car
Answer:
(a) The idea of the assembly line

Question (iii)
What was the impact of the increased production made by the assembly line?
(a) Automobiles became much economical
(b) More people were able to afford them
(c) Traffic accidents increased
(d) Both (a) and (c)
Answer:
(d) Both (a) and (c)

Question (iv)
What is the one solution to the problem of air pollution?
(a) To burn hundreds of gallons of fuel each year
(b) To build a car that does not pollute
(c) To increase the production of cars
(d) To provide transportation in all the places
Answer:
(b) To build a car that does not pollute

Question (v)
What has brought better and more convenient transportation?
(a) Engines
(b) Public mass transport systems
(c) Wheels
(d) None of these
Answer:
(a) Engines

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

Question (i)
How does standardisation of parts help to make mass production possible?
Answer:
Standardisation of parts leads to mass production. Each part of a gun could be made by machines so that it would be exactly like all the others of its kind.

Question (ii)
How does the assembly line help to make mass production possible?
Answer:
Ford introduced the assembly line in which each worker has to make only a portion. One would make a part of the wheel, another would place it on the car and the third would insert the bolts. This brought a revolution in mass production which was very slow before the assembly line.

Question (iii)
Why do some Americans call the automobile a mixed blessing? Write any two points.
Answer:
The Americans call the automobile a mixed blessing. The automobile has led to cause a large number of traffic accidents and also a lot of traffic congestion. The second problem is the problem of pollution of air caused by toxic gases like carbon monoxide.

Question (iv)
What suggestions are offered in the passage for getting rid of pollution?
Answer:
There are two suggestions given in the passage, first that the Americans will have to cut down the number of privately owned cars and depend on mass transit systems. The second suggestion is the use of non-conventional fuel like steam or electricity in place of petrol.

Question (v)
What do many automakers believe?
Answer:
Many automakers believe that it will take years to develop practical models that are powered by electricity or steam.

Question (vi)
Find a word from the passage (para-2) which means ‘fastly or suddenly’.
Answer:
rapidly

Question (vii)
Find a word from the passage (para-8) which means ‘to remove or take away’.
Answer:
eliminate

♦Unsolved Passages:

I. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Swachh Bharat Mission is a massive mass movement that seeks to create a clean India by 2019. The father of our nation, Mahatma Gandhi, always puts emphasis on cleanliness as cleanliness leads to a healthy and prosperous life. Keeping this in mind, the Indian government launched the Swachh Bharat Mission on October 2, 2014. The mission will cover all rural and urban areas. The urban component of the mission was implemented by the Ministry of Urban Development, and the rural component by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.

2. The mission aims to cover 1.04 crore households, provides 2.5 lakh community toilets, 2.6 lakh public toilets, and a solid waste management facility in each town. Under the programme, community toilets will be built in residential areas where it is difficult to construct individual household toilets. Public toilets will also be constructed in designated locations, such as tourist places, markets, bus stations, railway stations, etc. The programme will be implemented over a five-year period in 4,401 towns. Of the 62,009 crores likely to be spent on the programme, the Centre will pitch in 14,623 crores. Of the Centre’s share of? 14,623 crore, 7,366 crores will be spent on solid waste management, 4,165 crores on individual household toilets, ? 1,828 crore on public awareness and 655 crores on community toilets.

3. The programme includes the elimination of open defecation, conversion of unsanitary toilets to pour flush toilets, eradication of manual scavenging, municipal solid waste management, and bringing about a behavioural change in people regarding healthy sanitation practices.

4. The Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan has been restructured into the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin). The mission aims to make India an open defecation-free country in five years. Under the mission, a huge amount will be spent for the construction of about 11 crores 11 lakh toilets in the country. Technology will be used on a large scale to convert waste into wealth in rural India, in the form of bio-fertilizer and different forms of energy. The mission is to be executed on a war footing with the involvement of every gram panchayat, panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad in the country, besides roping in large sections of the rural population and school teachers and students in this endeavour.

5. As part of the mission, for rural households, the provision for a unit cost of individual household toilets has been increased from 10,000 to 12,000 so as to provide for water availability, including for storing, hand-washing, and cleaning of toilets. The central share for such toilets will be 9,000, while the state share will be 3,000. For North-Eastern states, Jammu & Kashmir, and special category states, the Central share will be 10,800 and the state share will be 1,200. Additional contributions from other sources will be permitted.

6. A ‘Swachh Bharat Run’ was organised at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on October 2, 2014. According to a statement from the Rashtrapati Bhavan, around 1,500 people participated and the event was flagged off by President Pranab Mukherjee. Participants in the run included officers and staff of the Secretariat, the President’s Bodyguard, Army Guard, and Delhi Police as well as their families. NIT Rourkela Ph.D. students have made a short film on Swachh Bharat which conveyed the message that Swachh Bharat is not a one-day event. It should be part of our life, only then we can achieve our goal of Swachh Bharat (Clean India).

7. The Swachh Bharat Kosh (SBK) has been set up to facilitate and channelise individual philanthropic contributions and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to achieve the objective of Clean India (Swachh Bharat) by the year 2019. The Kosh will be used to achieve the objective of improving cleanliness levels in the rural and urban areas, including the schools. The allocation from the Kosh will be used to supplement and complement departmental resources for such activities. To incentivise contributions from individuals and corporate, modalities are being considered to provide tax rebates, wherever possible.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) When was the Swachh Bharat Mission implemented?
(a) October 2
(b) October 30
(c) November 14
(d) December 2

(ii) By which year does the mission seek to create Clean India?
(a) 2015
(b) 2017
(c) 2019
(d) 2016

(iii) By whom was the rural component of the mission implemented?
(a) Ministry of Urban Development
(b) Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation
(c) Ministry of Rural Development
(d) Ministry of Cleanliness and Sanitation

(iv) Where was the ‘Swachh Bharat Run’ organised?
(a) Rashtrapati Bhavan
(b) India Gate
(c) Jammu and Kashmir
(d) Rural India

(v) What has been restructured into the Swachh Bharat Mission?
(a) Nirmal Abhiyan
(b) Nirmal Mission
(c) Nirmal Bharat Mission
(d) Bharat Bachao Mission

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) When was Swachh Bharat Abhiyan launched? What idea led to its launch?
(ii) What are the aims of the Swachh Bharat mission?
(iii) What is the aim of Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan?
(iv) Why was the ‘Swachh Bharat Run’ organised? Who participated in the event?
(v) What is the purpose of Swachh Bharat Kosh?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘to get rid of something completely’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘helping poor people by giving them money’.

II. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. The Ig Nobel Prizes are a parody of the Nobel Prizes. They are given each year in early October for ten unusual or trivial achievements in scientific research. The stated aim of the prizes is to “honour achievements that first make people laugh, and then make them think.” The awards are sometimes veiled criticism (or gentle satire), but are also used to point out that even the most absurd-sounding avenues of research can yield useful knowledge. Organised by the scientific humour magazine ‘Annals of Improbable Research’ (AIR), they are presented by a group that includes Nobel laureates at a ceremony at Harvard University’s Sanders Theatre. They are followed by a set of public lectures by the winners at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

2. The first Ig Nobels were created in 1991 by Marc Abrahams, editor and co-founder of the Annals of Improbable Research. He is the master of ceremonies at all subsequent awards ceremonies. Awards were presented at that time for discoveries “that cannot, or should not be reproduced”. Ten prizes are awarded each year in many categories, including the Nobel Prize categories of Physics, Chemistry, Physiology/Medicine, Literature, and Peace, but also other categories such as public health, engineering, biology, and interdisciplinary research. The Ig Nobel Prizes recognise genuine achievements, with an exception of three prizes awarded in the first year to fictitious scientists Josiah Carberry, Paul DeFanti, and Thomas Kyle.

3. The awards are sometimes veiled criticism (or gentle satire), as in the two awards given for homeopathy research, prizes in “science education” to the Kansas and Colorado state boards of education for their stance regarding the teaching of evolution, and the prize awarded to Social Text after the Sokal Affair. Most often, however, they draw attention to scientific articles that have some humorous or unexpected aspect. Examples range from the statement that black holes fulfil all the technical requirements to be the location of hell, to research on the “five-second rule”, a tongue-in-cheek belief that food dropped on the floor will not become contaminated if it is picked up within five seconds. In 2010, Sir Andre Geim became the first person to receive both a Nobel Prize and an individual Ig Nobel Prize.

4. The prizes are presented by genuine Nobel laureates, originally at a ceremony in a lecture hall at MIT, but now in Sanders Theatre at Harvard University. It contains a number of running jokes, including Miss Sweetie Poo, a little girl who repeatedly cries out, “Please stop, I’m bored,” in a high-pitched voice if speakers go on too long. The awards ceremony is traditionally closed with the words: “If you didn’t win a prize and especially if you did better luck next year!” The ceremony is co-sponsored by the Harvard Computer Society, the Harvard-Radcliffe Science Fiction Association, and the Harvard-Radcliffe Society of Physics Students.

5. Throwing paper airplanes onto the stage is a long-standing tradition at the Ig Nobels. In past years, Physics professor, Roy Glauber swept the stage clean of the airplanes as the official “Keeper of the Broom” for years. Glauber could not attend the 2005 awards because he was travelling to Stockholm to claim a genuine Nobel Prize in Physics. Delegates from the Museum of Bad Art are often on hand to display some pieces from their collection too.

6. The ceremony is recorded and broadcasted on National Public Radio and is shown live over the internet. The recording is broadcasted every year, on the Friday after U.S. Thanksgiving, on the public radio program Science Friday. In recognition of this, the audience chants the first name of the radio show’s host, Ira Flatow.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) How many Ig Nobel Prizes are given each year?
(a) 3
(b) 4
(c) 7
(d) 10

(ii) Who created the first Ig Nobel Prize?
(a) Thomas Kyle
(b) Marc Abrahams
(c) Josiah Carberry
(d) Paul DeFanti

(iii) In which year were fictitious scientists awarded Ig Nobel Prize?
(a) 1990
(b) 1991
(c) 1992
(d) 1995

(iv) What is a long-standing tradition at the Ig Nobels?
(a) Throwing paper airplanes onto the stage
(b) Throwing tomatoes onto the stage
(c) Leaving the winners’ handprints on the stage
(d) Winners sweeping the stage

(v) Where is the ceremony recorded and broadcasted?
(a) Harvard Computer Society
(b) Kansas
(c) National Public Radio
(d) Colorado

B. Answer the following questions briefly.

(i) Why are Ig Nobel Prizes termed as a parody of the Nobel Prizes?
(ii) Who organises the Ig Nobel Prizes?
(iii) Who was the first person to receive both, a Nobel Prize and an individual Ig Nobel Prize?
(iv) What is the criteria for awarding Ig Nobel Prize?
(v) What is the Miss Sweetie Poo joke? When is it cracked?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-1) which means ‘an imitation of the style of something or someone’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘a gradual process of change and development’.

III. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Almost 3,000 years of food evolution has taken place for the pizza pie to reach its current delicious state today. Although flat breads have been around for 6,000 years, the word, “pizziare” started appearing in Italian writings as far back as 1000 B.C. The word pizza itself is believed to have originated from an Old Italian word meaning ‘a point’, which in turn became the Italian word “pizziare”, which means to pinch, or to pluck.

2. Tomatoes were first introduced to Italy from South America in 1522. At first, the tomato was believed to be poisonous. Fortunately, the poorer peasants of the region finally overcame their doubts about tomatoes in the 17th century and began adding it to the bread dough, and the first pizzas were created.

3. Before the tomato arrived in the 1500s, the first pizzas in Naples were white, made with garlic, olive oil, salt, anchovies, and probably lard. Neapolitans were the first in Europe to embrace the tomato, since it was deemed poisonous in Europe as a member of the nightshade family. With the rise in popularity of tomato, people started using it more and more. Mozzarella cheese was also slowly gaining ground. Mozzarella had become available in Italy only after water buffalo were imported from India in the 7th century (mozzarella was first made with water buffalo milk). Its popularity grew very slowly until the last half of the 18th century. In fact, cheese and tomatoes did not meet on a pizza until 1889.

4. The most commonly considered pizza (tomato, mozzarella, basil) was supposedly created on June 11, 1889 by a pizza-maker named Raffaele Esposito. This Pizzaiolo (pizza-maker in Italian and spelled Pizzaiuolo in Neapolitan) created a special pizza for the visit of Queen Margherita of Savoia. He made three different pizzas, but the Queen fell in love with one in particular, topped with three ingredients representing the three colours of the Italian flag. The Italian flag was represented by the tomatoes (red), mozzarella (white), and basil (green). Esposito named this pizza “Pizza alia Margherita” in honour of the Queen. Whether Esposito was the first to use those ingredients or not, this is known as the classic Neapolitan pizza or the modern-day tomato-and-cheese pizza.

5. In the latter half of the 19th century, pizza migrated to America with the Italians. By the turn of the century, the Italian immigrants had begun to open their own bakeries and were selling groceries as well as pizza. Gennaro Lombardi opened the first true US pizzeria in 1905 at 531/3, Spring Street in New York City, a part of town known as “Little Italy”.

6. In India, of late, pizza has become a popular food. It has become a fashion and also a manner of showing that one is part of the famous Western culture. In fact, it is more of a fashion statement. The popularity of the food is rocketing. This is evident from a report by Fortune magazine. The two giants of the pizza industry, Pizza Hut and Dominos, are in hot competition with each other in India. India has 134 Pizza Huts and 149 Dominos locations, with each chain opening 50 stores a year.

7. The popularity of pizza in India, Fortune claims, is because of its similarity to India’s native cuisine. Unlike Chinese and Japanese, Indians eat leavened bread (roti/naan), and a popular traditional version slathers it in butter and garlic- not unlike garlic bread, the most often ordered side dish at both Dominos and Pizza Hut franchises in India. Cheese (paneer) is ubiquitous in India’s northern cuisine. Tomatoes and all kinds of sauces are prevalent everywhere. Combine these ingredients into one gooey, oily, tasty dish that you can eat with your hands-as Indians traditionally do-and you have a hit. Compare this with other popular food or noodles. Sometimes, it slurps down our forks, and off the plate, and here we land up in a whole lot of mess. Add to this, the embarrassment which would have been caused had the place been a famous restaurant or the boss’s party. The one thing that increases the love for pizza among one and all is that we can all eat it with our hands.

8. Experts estimate that the Indian pizza market will grow at a compound annual rate of 15 percent. As per estimates of the Ministry of Food Processing, the ready-to-eat market in India today exceeds 40 billion (US $ 800 million), with the size of the heat-and-eat pizza market being 2.5 billion (US $ 50 million). Most of those sales will come in large metropolises and mini-metros like Pune, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What does the word ‘pizza’ mean?
(a) To pinch
(b) To cut
(c) To slice
(d) To encircle

(ii) From where were tomatoes first introduced to Italy?
(a) North America
(b) Europe
(c) South America
(d) China

(iii) Which pizza represented the Italian flag?
(a) Tomato and mozzarella
(b) Mozzarella and basil
(c) Mozzarella, tomato and basil
(d) Mozzarella, tomato and spinach

(iv) Who opened the first true US pizzeria in 1905?
(a) Raffaele Esposito
(b) Gennaro Lombardi
(c) Neapolitans
(d) None of these

(v) Why is pizza popular in India?
(a) Because it has become a fashion
(b) Because it is a part of the famous western culture
(c) Because of its similarity to India’s native cuisine
(d) All of these

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) Why was mozzarella not used initially in pizzas? When was it first used?
(ii) Why did Raffaele make a special pizza? How many pizzas did he make?
(iii) When did pizza migrate to America? Who opened ‘Little Italy’ in US?
(iv) According to Fortune, why is pizza becoming popular in India?
(v) According to the author, how does pizza differ from noodles?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘considered’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-7) which means ‘found everywhere’.

IV. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Jane Goodall was born in London, England, on April 3, 1934. On her second birthday, her father gave her a toy chimpanzee named Jubilee. Jubilee was named after a baby chimp in the London Zoo and seemed to foretell the course that Jane’s life would take. To this day, Jubilee sits in a chair in Jane’s London home. From an early age, Jane was fascinated by animals and animal stories. By the age of 10, she was talking about going to Africa to live among the animals there. At that time, in the early 1940s, this was a radical idea because women did not go to Africa by themselves.

2. As a young woman, Jane finished school in London, attended a secretarial school, and then worked as a documentary filmmaker for a while. When a school friend invited her to visit Kenya, she worked as a waitress until she had earned the fare to travel there by boat. She was 23 years old.

3. Once in Kenya, she met Dr. Louis Leakey, a famous paleontologist and anthropologist. He was impressed with her thorough knowledge of Africa and its wildlife and hired her to assist him and his wife on a fossil-hunting expedition to Olduvai Gorge. Dr Leakey soon realised that Jane was the perfect person to complete a study he had been planning for some time. She expressed her interest in the idea of studying animals by living in the wild with them, rather than studying dead animals through paleontology.

4. Dr. Leakey and Jane began planning a study of a group of chimpanzees who were living on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Kenya. At first, the British authorities would not approve of their plan. At the time, they thought it was too dangerous for a woman to live in the wilds of Africa alone. But Jane’s mother, Vanne agreed to join her, so that she would not be alone. Finally, the authorities gave Jane the clearance she needed in order to go to Africa and begin her study.

5. In July of 1960, Jane and her mother arrived at Gombe National Park then called Tanganyika and now called Tanzania. Jane faced many challenges as she began her work. The chimpanzees did not accept her right away, and it took months for them to get used to her presence in their territory. But she was very patient and remained focussed on her goal. Little by little, she was able to enter their world.

6. At first, she was able to watch the chimpanzees only from a great distance, using binoculars. As time passed, she was able to move her observation point closer to them while still using camouflage. Eventually, she was able to sit among them, touching, patting, and even feeding them. It was an amazing accomplishment for Jane and a breakthrough in the study of animals in the wild. Jane named all of the chimpanzees that she studied, stating in her journals that she felt each had a unique personality.

7. One of the first significant observations that Jane made during the study was that chimpanzees make and use tools, much like humans do, to help them get food. It was previously thought that humans alone used tools. Also thanks to Jane’s research, we now know that chimps eat meat as well as plants and fruits. In many ways, she has helped us to see how chimpanzees and humans are similar. In doing so, she has made us more sympathetic towards these creatures, while helping us to better understand ourselves.

8. The study started by Jane Goodall in 1960 is now the longest field study of any animal species in their natural habitat. Research continues to this day in Gombe and is conducted by a team of trained Tanzanians.

9. Jane’s life has included much more than just her study of the chimps in Tanzania. She pursued a graduate degree while still conducting her study, receiving her Ph.D. from Cambridge University in 1965. In 1984, she received the J. Paul Getty Wildlife Conservation Prize for helping millions of people understand the importance of wildlife conservation to life on this planet. She has been married twice: first to a photographer and then to the director of National Parks. She has one son.

10. Dr. Jane Goodall is now the world’s most renowned authority on chimpanzees, having studied their behaviour for nearly 40 years. She has published many scientific articles. She has written two books and has won numerous awards for her groundbreaking work. The Jane Goodall Institute for Wildlife Research, Education, and Conservation was founded in 1977 in California but moved to the Washington, D.C., area in 1998. Its goal is to take the actions necessary to improve the environment for all living things.

11. Dr. Goodall now travels extensively, giving lectures, visiting zoos and chimp sanctuaries, and talking to young people involved in environmental education. She is truly a great conservationist and an amazing human being.

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What do chimpanzees eat?
(a) Only meat
(b) Only plants
(c) Only fruits
(d) All of these

(ii) Where did Jane and her mother arrive in the July month of 1960?
(a) Africa
(b) Lake Tanganyika
(c) London
(d) Gombe National Park

(iii) What was a breakthrough in the study of animals in the wild?
(a) To watch chimpanzees from a distance
(b) To move the observation point closer
(c) To be able to sit among chimpanzees
(d) None of these

(iv) Why did Jane receive the J. Paul Getty Wildlife Conservation Prize?

(a) For pursuing a graduate degree while still conducting her study
(b) Helping millions of people understand the importance of wildlife conservation
(c) For founding the Jane Goodall Institute for Wildlife Research, Education and Conservation
(d) For travelling extensively, giving lectures, and visiting zoos

(v) Which of the following is not true about chimpanzees?
(a) Chimpanzees are often comfortable with strangers.
(b) Chimpanzees eat meat as well as plants and fruits.
(c) Chimpanzees use tools to help them get food.
(d) Different chimpanzees have different personalities.

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) Why did Doctor Leakey choose Jane to work with him?
(ii) What is the main idea of this article?
(iii) How has Jane Goodall’s work helped us understand chimpanzees better?
(iv) What might happen to them in the future due to her work? Use examples from the passage to support your answer.
(v) What is the main goal of Jane Goodall Institute for Wildlife Research, Education and Conservation?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-3) which means ‘an organised journey for a particular purpose’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-6) which means ‘an important discovery or event that helps to improve a situation or provide an answer to a problem’.

VI. Read the following passage carefully. (12 marks)

1. Archaeology is the scientific study of the remains of past human culture. Archaeologists investigate the lives of early people by studying the objects that people have left behind. Such objects include buildings, artwork, tools, bones, and pottery. Archaeologists may make exciting discoveries, such as a tomb filled with gold or the ruins of a magnificent temple in the midst of a jungle. However, the discovery of a few stone tools or grains of hardened corn may reveal even more about early people.

2. Archaeological research is the chief means to learn about societies that existed before the invention of writing about 5,000 years ago. It also provides an important supplement to our knowledge of ancient societies that left written records. In America, archaeology is considered a branch of anthropology, the scientific study of humanity and human culture. European archaeologists, however, think of their work as closely related to the field of history. Archaeology differs from history in which historians mainly study the lives of people as recorded in written documents. Archaeologists look for information about how, where, and when cultures developed.

Like other social scientists, they search for reasons why major changes have occurred in certain cultures. Some archaeologists try to understand why ancient people stopped hunting and started farming. Others develop theories about what caused people to build cities and to set up trade routes. In addition, some archaeologists look for reasons behind the fall of such early civilizations like the Mayas in Central America and the Romans in Europe.

3. Archaeologists examine any evidence that can help them explain how people lived in past times. Such evidence ranges from the ruins of a large city to a few stone flakes left by someone making a stone tool long ago.

4. The three basic kinds of archaeological evidence are artefacts, features, and ecofacts. Artifacts are objects that were made by people and can be moved without altering their appearance. Artefacts include objects like arrowheads, pots and beads. Artefacts from a society with a written history may also include clay tablets and other written records. Features consist mainly of houses, tombs, irrigation canals, and other large structures built by ancient people. Unlike artifacts, features cannot be separated from their surroundings without changing their form.

Ecofacts reveal how ancient people responded to their surroundings. Examples of ecofacts include seeds and animal bones. Any place where archaeological evidence is found is called an archaeological site. To understand the behaviour of the people who occupied a site, archaeologists must study the relationship between the artefacts, features, and ecofacts found there. For example, the discovery of stone spearheads near bones of an extinct kind of buffalo at a site in New Mexico showed that early human beings had hunted buffalo in that area.

5. If objects are buried deep in the ground, their position in the earth also concerns archaeologists. The scientists study the layers of soil and rock in which objects are found to understand the conditions that existed when the objects were placed there. In some places, archaeologists find many levels of deposits called strata. The archaeological study of strata, called stratigraphy, developed from the study of rock layers in geology. Archaeologists use special techniques and equipment to gather archaeological evidence precisely and accurately. They also keep detailed records of their findings because much archaeological research destroys the remains being studied. Locating sites is the first job of the archaeologist. Sites may be above found, underground or underwater. Some large sites are located easily because they are clearly visible or can be traced from descriptions in ancient stories or other historical records. Such sites include the pyramids of Egypt and the ancient city of Athens in Greece.

6. Archaeologists use systematic methods of discovering sites. The traditional way to find all the sites in a region is through a foot survey. In this method, archaeologists space themselves at measured distances and walk in pre-set directions. Each person looks for archaeological evidence while walking forward. Scientific methods are used to help discover underground sites. Aerial photography, for example, can reveal variations in vegetation that indicate the presence of archaeological evidence. Archaeologists describe, photograph, and count the objects they find. They group the objects according to type and location. Three steps are followed to interpret the evidence found. They are classification, dating, and evaluation. [CBSE 2019 SET-IT]

A. On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the following questions by
choosing the most appropriate option. (1 × 5 = 5 marks)

(i) What are the best sources of finding out archaeological facts?
(a) Artwork, building, bones and pottery
(b) Tombs filled with gold
(c) Grains of hardened corn
(d) Ruins of a magnificent temple

(ii) What are the basic kinds of archaeological evidence?
(a) Artefacts, features and ecofacts
(b) Mayan and Roman civilizations
(c) Cultural developments in written documents
(d) Cities and trade routes

(iii) What is an archaeological site?
(a) Where tombs and buildings exist
(b) Where archaeological evidence is found
(c) Where extinct animal bones are located
(d) Where ancient civilizations perished

(iv) How is archaeology taken in America?
(a) As lives of people as recorded in written documents
(b) As study of humanity and human culture
(c) As closely related to the field of history
(d) As written records of ancient people

(v) Which of the following do archaeologists not study?
(a) Ancient hunting and farming (b) Ancient cities and trade routes
(c) Fall of some civilizations (d) Weather and climate

B. Answer the following questions briefly. (1 × 7 = 7 marks)

(i) What do archaeologists do?
(ii) What is archaeological research?
(iii) What do European archaeologists think of their subject?
(iv) What kinds of evidence are used by archaeologists?
(v) What methods do archaeologists employ to discover archaeological sites?
(vi) Find a word from the passage (para-1) which means ‘thrilling’ or ‘interesting’.
(vii) Find a word from the passage (para-4) which means ‘reacted’.

Notice Writing Class 12 Format, Examples, Topics, Exercises

January 5, 2022July 27, 2021 by Prasanna

Notice Writing Class 12

Notice Writing Class 12 Format, Examples, Topics, Exercises

A notice is a formal means of communication. The purpose of a notice is to announce or display information to a particular group of people. Notices are generally meant to be put up on specific display boards, whether in schools or in public places. Notices issued by the government appear in newspapers.

This grammar section explains English grammar in a clear and simple way. There are example sentences to show how the language is used. NCERT Solutions for Class 12 English will help you to write better answers in your Class 12 exams. Because the Solutions are solved by subject matter experts.

♦ A notice should be written in the following format:

The name of the organisation issuing the notice
The title ‘NOTICE’
A heading to introduce the subject of the notice
The date
The body of the notice
The writer’s signature, name (in block letters), and designation

♦ Sample Notice:

Question 1.
As Secretary of the Eco Club of Avabai Petit School, Mumbai, draft notice in not more than 50 words, informing the club members about the screening of Leonardo Dicaprio’s film ‘11th Hour’ in the school’s auditorium.

Sarvodaya Education Society, a charitable organisation is coming to your school to distribute books among needy students. As Head Boy/Head Girl, Sunrise Public School, Surat, write a notice in about 50 words asking such students to drop the lists of books they need in the box kept outside the Principal’s office. You are Navtej/ Navita. (4 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2015]
Answer:

Question 2.
Your club is going to organise an inter-class singing competition. Write a notice in about 50 words inviting names of the students who want to participate in it. Give all the necessary details. You are Navtej/Navita, Secretary, Music Club, Akash Public School, Agra. (4 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2015]
Answer:

Akash Public School, Agra
Notice

January 15, 20XX

Inter-Class Singing Competition

The Music Club Announces “Swar Tarangam”, an Inter-Class Singing Competition for classes VI, VII & VIII on February 27, 20XX. The theme for the Competition is ‘Devotional or patriotic song’. Interested students should register with j the Music department. The auditions will be held from 27th January – 5th February j in the School Auditorium. There will be 6 entries from each class, i.e., VI, VII & VIII. The list of finalists will be put up on the notice board on February 7, 20XX. For further details, contact the undersigned.
Navtej
Secretary
Music Club

Question 3.
Your school is organising a SPICMACAY programme on the occasion of the World ‘Dance Day wherein the renowned Bharatnatyam dancer, Geeta Chandran would be giving a lecture-demonstration. As the President, Cultural Society of your school, draft notice in about 50 words, informing the students about the same. You are Rakhsita/Rohit of MVN Public School. (4 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2016]
Answer:

Mvn Public School
Notice

April 20, 20xx

World Dance Day Celebration

On the occasion of World Dance Day, our school is organising a SPICMACAY presentation by the renowned Bharatnatyam dancer, Geeta Chandran. Students from Class IX-XII are eligible to attend the lecture-demonstration. Interested students may j register with their class teacher. For any further details, please contact the undersigned.
Venue: School Auditorium
Date: April 29th
Time: 10 a.m.
Rakshita, Class XII
President, Cultural Society

Question 4.
Water supply will be suspended for eight hours (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) on the 6th of March for cleaning the water tank. Write a notice in about 50 words advising the residents to store water for a day. You are Karan Kumar/Karuna Bajaj, Secretary, Janata Group Housing Society, Palam Vihar, Kurnool. (4 marks) [CBSE Delhi 2016]
Answer:

Janata Group Housing Society
Notice

February 27, 20XX

Water Tank Cleaning

This is to inform all the residents that the water supply will be suspended for eight j hours (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) on the 6th of March for cleaning of the water tank. All the residents are advised to store water for a day. The inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.
Karan Kumar-Secretary
Palam Vihar, Kurnool

Question 5.
Yesterday, during lunch break you misplaced your notes on chemistry lectures. You want to get them back. Write a notice in about 50 words for the school noticeboard. You are Karuna/Karan, a student of class XII A. (4 marks) [CBSE (AT) 2016]
Answer:

Avn Public School!
Notice

February 27, 20xx

Chemistry Notes Misplaced

I have lost my chemistry lecture notes on 14 January, 20XX during lunch break ! ! between 12-12.30 p.m. They were in a red Classmate folder It was left in the school j ! ground, on a seat in the east pavilion. Whosoever has found it, kindly return it to me.
Karuna
Class XII A

Question 6.
After the rain, cases of dengue, chikungunya, etc. are on the rise in your city. As a Principal, Sunshine Public School, Manu Vihar, you have decided to allow your students to wear full sleeve shirts and trousers in the school for a period of one month. Write the notice in about 50 words. (4 marks) [CBSE (Delhi) 2017]
Answer:

Sunshine Public School, Manu Vihar
Notice

August 10, 20xx

Dress Code as Preventive Measure

This is to hereby inform all students of Sunshine Public School, Manu Vihar that j from August 11, 20XX to September 11, 20XX you have to wear full sleeve shirts and j trousers in the school as protection against dengue, malaria, and chikungunya that has become endemic here. i
Vijaya Vyas
(Principal)

Question 7.
You are Health Secretary, Students Council Citizens Public School, Ram Bagh, Varanasi. The Council has decided to start from the 2nd of October a week-long cleanliness drive around the school. Draft a notice in about 50 words asking class XI students to enroll for the drive. (4 marks) [CBS.E (Delhi) 2017]
Answer:

Students Council Citizens Public School, Ram Bagh
Notice

September 23, 20xx

Cleanliness Drive

This is to hereby inform the Middle and High School students that the Students Council of our school has decided to undertake a drive for cleanliness in and around our school. The details for the drive are as follows:
Venue: School Ground & 2 km around school
Date: October 2, Gandhi Jayanti
Time: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Special Guest: Chairman, MCD
You will be provided with cleaning gadgets.
Varun Kaushik;
Health Secretary

Question 8.
R.J. Public School is located in Central Government employee’s residential colony. Cultural Society of the school has decided to organise a fancy dress show on the 25th of January in which each participant will wear the dress particular to his/her region. The aim is to show the cultural diversity of India. As Secretary, write a notice in about 50 words inviting the names of those who want to participate. (4 marks) [(Delhi) 2017]
Answer:

R. J. Public School, Pune
Notice

December 28, 20xx

Fancy Dress Exhibition

This is to inform and invite participation for a Fancy Dress Show, highlighting the :
Cultural Diversity of India. The eager participants are to note the following and enroll: with the dress and cultural ideas in detail.
Venue: Community Centre
Date: January 25, 20XX
Time: 10 a.m.- 1p.m.
Theme: India’s Cultural Diversity
Chief Guest: Lt. Col. S. S. Sandhu
Entry: No Fee
Vinod Khaitan:
(Cultural Secretary)

Question 9.
An NGO has approached your school to offer book grants to needy students. As Head Girl of Sunshine Public School, Aram Bagh, write a notice in about 50 words asking students who are in need to put their requests into the box kept outside the Principal’s office. (4 marks) [CBSE (Delhi) 2017]
Answer:

Sunshine Public School, Aram Bagh
Notice

April 15, 20xx

Book Grants For the Needy

This is to inform the needy students of our school that ‘Books for AH’, an NGO, wishes to provide books for needy students. Those in need of books, kindly submit your requirements subject and class wise. Write the complete name of the book and the publisher, neatly on a sheet of paper Write your own name, class, and section too, and j put it in the dropbox outside the Principal’s office.
Richa Sodi
(Head Girl)

Question 10.
The Principal, Sunshine Public School, Dindigul has invited the Inspector of Police (Traffic) to deliver a lecture on ‘Road Safety’ in her school. Draft a notice in about 50 words informing the students to assemble in the school auditorium. (4 marks) [CBSE (AI) 2017]
Answer:

Sunshine Public School, Dindigul
Notice

March 10, 20xx

Road Safety Awareness

This is to inform the students of Middle and High School that a lecture will be delivered on Road Safety to create awareness amongst them. The following are the details:
Venue: Senior Assembly Area
Date: March 18,20XX
Time: 9 a.m.-10 a.m.
Resource Person Inspector of Police (Traffic)
For any further information, contact the undersigned.
Diljit
(Principal)

Question 11.
Twenty-five years ago, a government school was opened in Adampur, your village.
As a part of its silver jubilee celebrations, the school has decided to honour the meritorious old students who are now holding important positions in life. As a Head Boy/Girl, draft notice in about 50 words inviting students of classes IX and XII to attend the function in the school hall. (4 marks) [CBSE (F) 2017]
Answer:
Question 12.
You are Simar/Smriti of Lotus International School, Jodhpur. Your school has decided to contribute in controlling traffic near your school and require the names of volunteers from IX to XII. Write a notice in about 50 words to be displayed on the noticeboard. (4 marks) [CBSE Sample Paper 2019]
Answer:

Lotus International School, Jodhpur
Notice

October 7, 20xx

Contribution in Controlling Traffic

This is for the information of the students from classes IX to XII. The school has decided to contribute in controlling traffic near the school. Therefore, all the students who want to volunteer for this social cause may give their names to the undersigned i latest by tomorrow. For further details, contact the undersigned.
Simar; (Head Boy)

Question 13.
The Arts Club of your school is going to organise a Drawing and Painting Competition. Write a notice in not more than 50 words, to be displayed on the school noticeboard, inviting students to participate in it. Give all the necessary details. You are Rishabh/ Ridhima, Secretary, Arts Club, Sunrise Public School, Gurugram, Haryana. (4 marks) [CBSE (1/1/1) 2019]
Answer:

Sunrise Public School, Gurugram, Haryana
Notice

May 5, 20xx

Attention! Art Lovers!

Arts Club will host a Drawing and Painting Competition on 19th June 20XX at the school amphitheater at 10:00 a.m.
All talented students must participate in the competition. For further details, contact; the undersigned.
Rishabh/Ridhima
Secretary, Arts Club