Class 12 English (Core): CBSE Sample Question Papers (2024-25) | CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Humanities - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

 Page 1


1 
 
 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER  
ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301) 
CLASS-XII-(2024-25) 
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                     Maximum Marks: 80 
 
General Instructions 
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:  
 
i. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
ii. This question paper contains three sections: 
Section A: Reading Skills,  
Section B: Creative Writing Skills  
Section C: Literature.   
iii. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question 
number and part thereof in your answer sheet.    
iv. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.   
v. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions. 
 
SECTION A 
                                                  READING SKILLS                                           (22 marks) 
 
   1.     Read the following passage carefully:  
 
      
12 
(1) In a room filled with people, each face illuminated by the soft glow of their smartphones, 
moments drift away like autumn leaves in the wind. The constant hum of notifications fills the 
air, punctuating conversations like an incessant drumbeat. Every vibration or ping sends 
fingers flying to screens, a response ingrained by years of digital conditioning. The once-
reliable tick-tock of analog timepieces has been overshadowed by the constant flicker of 
notifications on the wrist watch, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real. 
 
(2) Anxiety gnaws at the edges of consciousness when the phone is out of reach, a phantom 
limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our digital appendage. The fear of 
missing out permeates every moment spent away from the screen, driving us to constantly 
check for updates and notifications. 
(3) Thumbs move with the speed and precision of skillful pianists, tapping out messages and 
scrolling through feeds with practiced ease. Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm 
of life remains unheard, drowned out by the dissonance of digital noise. The weight of 
constant connectivity forms a hunch upon our shoulders, a physical manifestation of the 
burden we carry in an age of information overload. Our minds are perpetually on high alert, 
scanning for the next wave of excitement that comes with each like, share, or comment. 
 
(4) And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea 
of digital faces. Genuine connections are fleeting, drowned out by the constant clamour for 
attention. In the pursuit of digital validation, we sacrifice the wealth of lived experience, 
trading meaningful moments for fleeting glimpses of connection. The true essence of life lies 
not in the pixels on a screen, but in the depth of human connection and the richness of 
shared experiences 
 
Page 2


1 
 
 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER  
ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301) 
CLASS-XII-(2024-25) 
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                     Maximum Marks: 80 
 
General Instructions 
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:  
 
i. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
ii. This question paper contains three sections: 
Section A: Reading Skills,  
Section B: Creative Writing Skills  
Section C: Literature.   
iii. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question 
number and part thereof in your answer sheet.    
iv. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.   
v. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions. 
 
SECTION A 
                                                  READING SKILLS                                           (22 marks) 
 
   1.     Read the following passage carefully:  
 
      
12 
(1) In a room filled with people, each face illuminated by the soft glow of their smartphones, 
moments drift away like autumn leaves in the wind. The constant hum of notifications fills the 
air, punctuating conversations like an incessant drumbeat. Every vibration or ping sends 
fingers flying to screens, a response ingrained by years of digital conditioning. The once-
reliable tick-tock of analog timepieces has been overshadowed by the constant flicker of 
notifications on the wrist watch, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real. 
 
(2) Anxiety gnaws at the edges of consciousness when the phone is out of reach, a phantom 
limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our digital appendage. The fear of 
missing out permeates every moment spent away from the screen, driving us to constantly 
check for updates and notifications. 
(3) Thumbs move with the speed and precision of skillful pianists, tapping out messages and 
scrolling through feeds with practiced ease. Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm 
of life remains unheard, drowned out by the dissonance of digital noise. The weight of 
constant connectivity forms a hunch upon our shoulders, a physical manifestation of the 
burden we carry in an age of information overload. Our minds are perpetually on high alert, 
scanning for the next wave of excitement that comes with each like, share, or comment. 
 
(4) And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea 
of digital faces. Genuine connections are fleeting, drowned out by the constant clamour for 
attention. In the pursuit of digital validation, we sacrifice the wealth of lived experience, 
trading meaningful moments for fleeting glimpses of connection. The true essence of life lies 
not in the pixels on a screen, but in the depth of human connection and the richness of 
shared experiences 
 
2 
 
(5) As we navigate this brave new world of constant connectivity, let us not forget the value of 
presence and the beauty of being fully engaged in the moments that matter most. For in the 
end, it is not the number of likes or followers that defines us, but the depth of our 
connections and the richness of our experiences that truly matter. 
Created for Academic Usage / 421 words 
  Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
 
I. According to paragraph 1, what effect do smartphone notifications have on the 
people in the room? 
 
1 
 
II. How does the author use the metaphor of 'autumn leaves in the wind' to interpret the 
passing of time in the setting described? 
 
1 
III Read and complete the following sentence suitably. 
The phrase ‘a phantom limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our 
digital appendage’ suggests that just as an amputee might feel pain in a limb they no 
longer have, individuals can feel a sense of loss or incompleteness when they are 
separated from their digital devices. 
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.  
The concern this analogy points towards is about ______________. 
 
A. a deep (psychological) dependence on technology for a sense of wholeness or 
connection 
B. excessive physical damage that can be caused due to constant use of digital 
devices 
  
1 
IV Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage, with reference to paragraph 2. 
Designating specific hours each day to intentionally avoid checking digital devices 
can help __________________.  
 
 
1 
 
 
V Why does the writer refer to digital noise as 'dissonance' in paragraph 3? 
Because- 
A. It creates a jarring and chaotic environment that disrupts focus. 
B. It contributes to a sense of overload, overwhelming the senses. 
C. It interferes with our ability to engage with meaningful aspects of our life. 
D. It induces stress by interrupting with regular updates about the device. 
 
1 
 
VI. Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 3, to prove the following: 
The need to be perpetually engaged with digital notifications manifests in the body. 
1 
VII. In the line, ‘Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm of life remains 
unheard…,’ what does the phrase 'true rhythm of life’ refer to? (Paragraphs 3-4) 
 
2 
VIII Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 4.  
whisper: quietly: _______: loudly 
A. validation 
B. fleeting 
C. essence 
D. clamour 
1 
Page 3


1 
 
 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER  
ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301) 
CLASS-XII-(2024-25) 
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                     Maximum Marks: 80 
 
General Instructions 
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:  
 
i. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
ii. This question paper contains three sections: 
Section A: Reading Skills,  
Section B: Creative Writing Skills  
Section C: Literature.   
iii. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question 
number and part thereof in your answer sheet.    
iv. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.   
v. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions. 
 
SECTION A 
                                                  READING SKILLS                                           (22 marks) 
 
   1.     Read the following passage carefully:  
 
      
12 
(1) In a room filled with people, each face illuminated by the soft glow of their smartphones, 
moments drift away like autumn leaves in the wind. The constant hum of notifications fills the 
air, punctuating conversations like an incessant drumbeat. Every vibration or ping sends 
fingers flying to screens, a response ingrained by years of digital conditioning. The once-
reliable tick-tock of analog timepieces has been overshadowed by the constant flicker of 
notifications on the wrist watch, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real. 
 
(2) Anxiety gnaws at the edges of consciousness when the phone is out of reach, a phantom 
limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our digital appendage. The fear of 
missing out permeates every moment spent away from the screen, driving us to constantly 
check for updates and notifications. 
(3) Thumbs move with the speed and precision of skillful pianists, tapping out messages and 
scrolling through feeds with practiced ease. Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm 
of life remains unheard, drowned out by the dissonance of digital noise. The weight of 
constant connectivity forms a hunch upon our shoulders, a physical manifestation of the 
burden we carry in an age of information overload. Our minds are perpetually on high alert, 
scanning for the next wave of excitement that comes with each like, share, or comment. 
 
(4) And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea 
of digital faces. Genuine connections are fleeting, drowned out by the constant clamour for 
attention. In the pursuit of digital validation, we sacrifice the wealth of lived experience, 
trading meaningful moments for fleeting glimpses of connection. The true essence of life lies 
not in the pixels on a screen, but in the depth of human connection and the richness of 
shared experiences 
 
2 
 
(5) As we navigate this brave new world of constant connectivity, let us not forget the value of 
presence and the beauty of being fully engaged in the moments that matter most. For in the 
end, it is not the number of likes or followers that defines us, but the depth of our 
connections and the richness of our experiences that truly matter. 
Created for Academic Usage / 421 words 
  Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
 
I. According to paragraph 1, what effect do smartphone notifications have on the 
people in the room? 
 
1 
 
II. How does the author use the metaphor of 'autumn leaves in the wind' to interpret the 
passing of time in the setting described? 
 
1 
III Read and complete the following sentence suitably. 
The phrase ‘a phantom limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our 
digital appendage’ suggests that just as an amputee might feel pain in a limb they no 
longer have, individuals can feel a sense of loss or incompleteness when they are 
separated from their digital devices. 
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.  
The concern this analogy points towards is about ______________. 
 
A. a deep (psychological) dependence on technology for a sense of wholeness or 
connection 
B. excessive physical damage that can be caused due to constant use of digital 
devices 
  
1 
IV Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage, with reference to paragraph 2. 
Designating specific hours each day to intentionally avoid checking digital devices 
can help __________________.  
 
 
1 
 
 
V Why does the writer refer to digital noise as 'dissonance' in paragraph 3? 
Because- 
A. It creates a jarring and chaotic environment that disrupts focus. 
B. It contributes to a sense of overload, overwhelming the senses. 
C. It interferes with our ability to engage with meaningful aspects of our life. 
D. It induces stress by interrupting with regular updates about the device. 
 
1 
 
VI. Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 3, to prove the following: 
The need to be perpetually engaged with digital notifications manifests in the body. 
1 
VII. In the line, ‘Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm of life remains 
unheard…,’ what does the phrase 'true rhythm of life’ refer to? (Paragraphs 3-4) 
 
2 
VIII Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 4.  
whisper: quietly: _______: loudly 
A. validation 
B. fleeting 
C. essence 
D. clamour 
1 
3 
 
IX Why is it fair to say that the statement ‘And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, 
we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea of digital faces’ from paragraph 4, 
employs irony? 
A. Despite the intent to connect more effectively, the result is the opposite. 
B. The writer mocks the seriousness with which people approach digital 
connectivity. 
C. The writer exaggerates the effects of digital connectivity to highlight its impact. 
D. Use of ‘a sea of digital faces’ to symbolically represent digital platforms. 
 
1 
X Assess the potential challenges OR benefits of relying on survey outcomes for 
designing health interventions, as outlined in paragraph 5. 
2 
 
 
2. Read the following carefully. 10 
(1) Introduction:  
In the hasty lifestyle of today’s world, the choice of snacks can greatly impact one's health 
and well-being. This case study aims to analyse the preference for seasonal fruits compared 
to packaged snacks among different age groups and the implications for overall health. 
(2) Methodology: 
A survey was conducted among individuals across various age groups, ranging from 
children to seniors, to determine their snacking preferences. Participants were asked to 
indicate their preferred snack choices and provide reasons for their preferences. The data 
was then analysed to identify trends and patterns among different age demographics. 
(3) Survey Examination:  
The survey encompassed a comprehensive examination of snacking habits, including not 
only preferred snack choices but also delving into the underlying motivations and influences 
guiding these choices. Beyond mere preference, participants were encouraged to articulate 
the reasons behind their selections, providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature 
of snacking behavior. 
(4) Results: 
The survey results revealed interesting insights into snacking preferences among different 
age groups: 
Age-group % Preferred 
snack 
Reasons for preference 
Children 77 Seasonal fruits Taste, Health benefits, Parental guidance 
Teenagers 65 Packaged 
snacks 
Convenience, Taste, Peer influence 
Young 
adults 
52 seasonal  fruits 
and packaged 
snacks 
Transitional lifestyle(college, beginning careers, and 
establishing independence), Health consciousness, 
Convenience 
Middle-aged 83 Seasonal fruits Freshness, Nutrition, Health consciousness 
Elderly 90 Seasonal fruits Health benefits, Digestive ease 
 
 
(5) 
 
Implications for Interventions: 
By discerning the diverse preferences among different age groups, policymakers and health 
practitioners can tailor interventions to address specific demographic needs. For instance, 
targeting educational campaigns towards parents could empower them to instill healthy 
eating habits in their children from an early age. Concurrently, efforts to mitigate the 
Page 4


1 
 
 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER  
ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301) 
CLASS-XII-(2024-25) 
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                     Maximum Marks: 80 
 
General Instructions 
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:  
 
i. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
ii. This question paper contains three sections: 
Section A: Reading Skills,  
Section B: Creative Writing Skills  
Section C: Literature.   
iii. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question 
number and part thereof in your answer sheet.    
iv. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.   
v. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions. 
 
SECTION A 
                                                  READING SKILLS                                           (22 marks) 
 
   1.     Read the following passage carefully:  
 
      
12 
(1) In a room filled with people, each face illuminated by the soft glow of their smartphones, 
moments drift away like autumn leaves in the wind. The constant hum of notifications fills the 
air, punctuating conversations like an incessant drumbeat. Every vibration or ping sends 
fingers flying to screens, a response ingrained by years of digital conditioning. The once-
reliable tick-tock of analog timepieces has been overshadowed by the constant flicker of 
notifications on the wrist watch, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real. 
 
(2) Anxiety gnaws at the edges of consciousness when the phone is out of reach, a phantom 
limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our digital appendage. The fear of 
missing out permeates every moment spent away from the screen, driving us to constantly 
check for updates and notifications. 
(3) Thumbs move with the speed and precision of skillful pianists, tapping out messages and 
scrolling through feeds with practiced ease. Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm 
of life remains unheard, drowned out by the dissonance of digital noise. The weight of 
constant connectivity forms a hunch upon our shoulders, a physical manifestation of the 
burden we carry in an age of information overload. Our minds are perpetually on high alert, 
scanning for the next wave of excitement that comes with each like, share, or comment. 
 
(4) And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea 
of digital faces. Genuine connections are fleeting, drowned out by the constant clamour for 
attention. In the pursuit of digital validation, we sacrifice the wealth of lived experience, 
trading meaningful moments for fleeting glimpses of connection. The true essence of life lies 
not in the pixels on a screen, but in the depth of human connection and the richness of 
shared experiences 
 
2 
 
(5) As we navigate this brave new world of constant connectivity, let us not forget the value of 
presence and the beauty of being fully engaged in the moments that matter most. For in the 
end, it is not the number of likes or followers that defines us, but the depth of our 
connections and the richness of our experiences that truly matter. 
Created for Academic Usage / 421 words 
  Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
 
I. According to paragraph 1, what effect do smartphone notifications have on the 
people in the room? 
 
1 
 
II. How does the author use the metaphor of 'autumn leaves in the wind' to interpret the 
passing of time in the setting described? 
 
1 
III Read and complete the following sentence suitably. 
The phrase ‘a phantom limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our 
digital appendage’ suggests that just as an amputee might feel pain in a limb they no 
longer have, individuals can feel a sense of loss or incompleteness when they are 
separated from their digital devices. 
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.  
The concern this analogy points towards is about ______________. 
 
A. a deep (psychological) dependence on technology for a sense of wholeness or 
connection 
B. excessive physical damage that can be caused due to constant use of digital 
devices 
  
1 
IV Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage, with reference to paragraph 2. 
Designating specific hours each day to intentionally avoid checking digital devices 
can help __________________.  
 
 
1 
 
 
V Why does the writer refer to digital noise as 'dissonance' in paragraph 3? 
Because- 
A. It creates a jarring and chaotic environment that disrupts focus. 
B. It contributes to a sense of overload, overwhelming the senses. 
C. It interferes with our ability to engage with meaningful aspects of our life. 
D. It induces stress by interrupting with regular updates about the device. 
 
1 
 
VI. Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 3, to prove the following: 
The need to be perpetually engaged with digital notifications manifests in the body. 
1 
VII. In the line, ‘Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm of life remains 
unheard…,’ what does the phrase 'true rhythm of life’ refer to? (Paragraphs 3-4) 
 
2 
VIII Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 4.  
whisper: quietly: _______: loudly 
A. validation 
B. fleeting 
C. essence 
D. clamour 
1 
3 
 
IX Why is it fair to say that the statement ‘And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, 
we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea of digital faces’ from paragraph 4, 
employs irony? 
A. Despite the intent to connect more effectively, the result is the opposite. 
B. The writer mocks the seriousness with which people approach digital 
connectivity. 
C. The writer exaggerates the effects of digital connectivity to highlight its impact. 
D. Use of ‘a sea of digital faces’ to symbolically represent digital platforms. 
 
1 
X Assess the potential challenges OR benefits of relying on survey outcomes for 
designing health interventions, as outlined in paragraph 5. 
2 
 
 
2. Read the following carefully. 10 
(1) Introduction:  
In the hasty lifestyle of today’s world, the choice of snacks can greatly impact one's health 
and well-being. This case study aims to analyse the preference for seasonal fruits compared 
to packaged snacks among different age groups and the implications for overall health. 
(2) Methodology: 
A survey was conducted among individuals across various age groups, ranging from 
children to seniors, to determine their snacking preferences. Participants were asked to 
indicate their preferred snack choices and provide reasons for their preferences. The data 
was then analysed to identify trends and patterns among different age demographics. 
(3) Survey Examination:  
The survey encompassed a comprehensive examination of snacking habits, including not 
only preferred snack choices but also delving into the underlying motivations and influences 
guiding these choices. Beyond mere preference, participants were encouraged to articulate 
the reasons behind their selections, providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature 
of snacking behavior. 
(4) Results: 
The survey results revealed interesting insights into snacking preferences among different 
age groups: 
Age-group % Preferred 
snack 
Reasons for preference 
Children 77 Seasonal fruits Taste, Health benefits, Parental guidance 
Teenagers 65 Packaged 
snacks 
Convenience, Taste, Peer influence 
Young 
adults 
52 seasonal  fruits 
and packaged 
snacks 
Transitional lifestyle(college, beginning careers, and 
establishing independence), Health consciousness, 
Convenience 
Middle-aged 83 Seasonal fruits Freshness, Nutrition, Health consciousness 
Elderly 90 Seasonal fruits Health benefits, Digestive ease 
 
 
(5) 
 
Implications for Interventions: 
By discerning the diverse preferences among different age groups, policymakers and health 
practitioners can tailor interventions to address specific demographic needs. For instance, 
targeting educational campaigns towards parents could empower them to instill healthy 
eating habits in their children from an early age. Concurrently, efforts to mitigate the 
4 
 
influence of advertising and peer pressure on teenagers could involve regulatory measures 
and educational initiatives aimed at promoting critical thinking and informed decision-making. 
Furthermore, the prominence of seasonal fruits as a preferred snack choice among middle-
aged adults and senior’s points towards the importance of promoting access to fresh 
produce and nutritional education across all age demographics. 
(6) Conclusion:  
The survey outcomes serve as a roadmap for designing targeted interventions that not only 
cater to diverse demographic needs but also nurture a culture of health and well-being. By 
harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can collaboratively work 
towards building healthier communities and promoting sustainable practices for generations 
to come. 
Created for Academic Usage / 315 words 
   Answer the following questions, based on given passage. 
 
 
I. Complete the following suitably. 
 
In the introduction, the researcher links a hasty lifestyle with the choice of snacks in 
the study to highlight__________.  
 
1 
II. 
What would the following be classified as?  
To examine snacking preferences across various age groups in detail, and assess 
health implications. 
Select the appropriate response. 
A. Primary purpose       B. Secondary objective 
     C. Method of analysis            D. Research outcome 
 
1 
III. Give two points to support why it is likely that fresh fruits were given as an option to 
the survey participants to choose from in the study on snacking preferences. 
 
2 
IV. Paragraph 3 includes words – ‘motivations’ and ‘influences.’ 
Classify the following sentences as 'influence' or 'motivation': 
 
Sentence 1: Peer pressure leads teenagers to prefer packaged snacks over 
healthier options. 
Sentence 2: The drive to maintain health as one ages makes middle-aged adults to 
choose seasonal fruits. 
1 
V. Read the following: 
Seema regularly enjoys snacking on chips and cool drinks while watching movies. 
Mohan, her neighbour, prefers to snack on oranges and also some nuts 
occasionally. Arindam, who lives across, often tends to eat a mix of carrot sticks and 
instant noodles, in between meals. 
Select the option that identifies the correct demographic Seema, Mohan and 
Arindam belong to. 
A. Seema – young adult; Mohan – teenager; Arindam -middle-age 
B. Seema - teenager; Mohan – middle-age; Arindam -child  
C. Seema – young adult; Mohan – child; Arindam - teenager  
D. Seema - teenager; Mohan – elderly; Arindam -young adult  
 
1 
Page 5


1 
 
 SAMPLE QUESTION PAPER  
ENGLISH CORE (Code No. 301) 
CLASS-XII-(2024-25) 
Time allowed: 3 Hrs.                                                     Maximum Marks: 80 
 
General Instructions 
Read the following instructions very carefully and strictly follow them:  
 
i. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.   
ii. This question paper contains three sections: 
Section A: Reading Skills,  
Section B: Creative Writing Skills  
Section C: Literature.   
iii. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct question 
number and part thereof in your answer sheet.    
iv. Separate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.   
v. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions. 
 
SECTION A 
                                                  READING SKILLS                                           (22 marks) 
 
   1.     Read the following passage carefully:  
 
      
12 
(1) In a room filled with people, each face illuminated by the soft glow of their smartphones, 
moments drift away like autumn leaves in the wind. The constant hum of notifications fills the 
air, punctuating conversations like an incessant drumbeat. Every vibration or ping sends 
fingers flying to screens, a response ingrained by years of digital conditioning. The once-
reliable tick-tock of analog timepieces has been overshadowed by the constant flicker of 
notifications on the wrist watch, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real. 
 
(2) Anxiety gnaws at the edges of consciousness when the phone is out of reach, a phantom 
limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our digital appendage. The fear of 
missing out permeates every moment spent away from the screen, driving us to constantly 
check for updates and notifications. 
(3) Thumbs move with the speed and precision of skillful pianists, tapping out messages and 
scrolling through feeds with practiced ease. Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm 
of life remains unheard, drowned out by the dissonance of digital noise. The weight of 
constant connectivity forms a hunch upon our shoulders, a physical manifestation of the 
burden we carry in an age of information overload. Our minds are perpetually on high alert, 
scanning for the next wave of excitement that comes with each like, share, or comment. 
 
(4) And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea 
of digital faces. Genuine connections are fleeting, drowned out by the constant clamour for 
attention. In the pursuit of digital validation, we sacrifice the wealth of lived experience, 
trading meaningful moments for fleeting glimpses of connection. The true essence of life lies 
not in the pixels on a screen, but in the depth of human connection and the richness of 
shared experiences 
 
2 
 
(5) As we navigate this brave new world of constant connectivity, let us not forget the value of 
presence and the beauty of being fully engaged in the moments that matter most. For in the 
end, it is not the number of likes or followers that defines us, but the depth of our 
connections and the richness of our experiences that truly matter. 
Created for Academic Usage / 421 words 
  Answer the following questions, based on the passage above. 
 
I. According to paragraph 1, what effect do smartphone notifications have on the 
people in the room? 
 
1 
 
II. How does the author use the metaphor of 'autumn leaves in the wind' to interpret the 
passing of time in the setting described? 
 
1 
III Read and complete the following sentence suitably. 
The phrase ‘a phantom limb syndrome that leaves us feeling incomplete without our 
digital appendage’ suggests that just as an amputee might feel pain in a limb they no 
longer have, individuals can feel a sense of loss or incompleteness when they are 
separated from their digital devices. 
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.  
The concern this analogy points towards is about ______________. 
 
A. a deep (psychological) dependence on technology for a sense of wholeness or 
connection 
B. excessive physical damage that can be caused due to constant use of digital 
devices 
  
1 
IV Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage, with reference to paragraph 2. 
Designating specific hours each day to intentionally avoid checking digital devices 
can help __________________.  
 
 
1 
 
 
V Why does the writer refer to digital noise as 'dissonance' in paragraph 3? 
Because- 
A. It creates a jarring and chaotic environment that disrupts focus. 
B. It contributes to a sense of overload, overwhelming the senses. 
C. It interferes with our ability to engage with meaningful aspects of our life. 
D. It induces stress by interrupting with regular updates about the device. 
 
1 
 
VI. Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 3, to prove the following: 
The need to be perpetually engaged with digital notifications manifests in the body. 
1 
VII. In the line, ‘Yet amidst the flurry of activity, the true rhythm of life remains 
unheard…,’ what does the phrase 'true rhythm of life’ refer to? (Paragraphs 3-4) 
 
2 
VIII Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 4.  
whisper: quietly: _______: loudly 
A. validation 
B. fleeting 
C. essence 
D. clamour 
1 
3 
 
IX Why is it fair to say that the statement ‘And yet, for all our efforts to stay connected, 
we find ourselves increasingly isolated in a sea of digital faces’ from paragraph 4, 
employs irony? 
A. Despite the intent to connect more effectively, the result is the opposite. 
B. The writer mocks the seriousness with which people approach digital 
connectivity. 
C. The writer exaggerates the effects of digital connectivity to highlight its impact. 
D. Use of ‘a sea of digital faces’ to symbolically represent digital platforms. 
 
1 
X Assess the potential challenges OR benefits of relying on survey outcomes for 
designing health interventions, as outlined in paragraph 5. 
2 
 
 
2. Read the following carefully. 10 
(1) Introduction:  
In the hasty lifestyle of today’s world, the choice of snacks can greatly impact one's health 
and well-being. This case study aims to analyse the preference for seasonal fruits compared 
to packaged snacks among different age groups and the implications for overall health. 
(2) Methodology: 
A survey was conducted among individuals across various age groups, ranging from 
children to seniors, to determine their snacking preferences. Participants were asked to 
indicate their preferred snack choices and provide reasons for their preferences. The data 
was then analysed to identify trends and patterns among different age demographics. 
(3) Survey Examination:  
The survey encompassed a comprehensive examination of snacking habits, including not 
only preferred snack choices but also delving into the underlying motivations and influences 
guiding these choices. Beyond mere preference, participants were encouraged to articulate 
the reasons behind their selections, providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature 
of snacking behavior. 
(4) Results: 
The survey results revealed interesting insights into snacking preferences among different 
age groups: 
Age-group % Preferred 
snack 
Reasons for preference 
Children 77 Seasonal fruits Taste, Health benefits, Parental guidance 
Teenagers 65 Packaged 
snacks 
Convenience, Taste, Peer influence 
Young 
adults 
52 seasonal  fruits 
and packaged 
snacks 
Transitional lifestyle(college, beginning careers, and 
establishing independence), Health consciousness, 
Convenience 
Middle-aged 83 Seasonal fruits Freshness, Nutrition, Health consciousness 
Elderly 90 Seasonal fruits Health benefits, Digestive ease 
 
 
(5) 
 
Implications for Interventions: 
By discerning the diverse preferences among different age groups, policymakers and health 
practitioners can tailor interventions to address specific demographic needs. For instance, 
targeting educational campaigns towards parents could empower them to instill healthy 
eating habits in their children from an early age. Concurrently, efforts to mitigate the 
4 
 
influence of advertising and peer pressure on teenagers could involve regulatory measures 
and educational initiatives aimed at promoting critical thinking and informed decision-making. 
Furthermore, the prominence of seasonal fruits as a preferred snack choice among middle-
aged adults and senior’s points towards the importance of promoting access to fresh 
produce and nutritional education across all age demographics. 
(6) Conclusion:  
The survey outcomes serve as a roadmap for designing targeted interventions that not only 
cater to diverse demographic needs but also nurture a culture of health and well-being. By 
harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can collaboratively work 
towards building healthier communities and promoting sustainable practices for generations 
to come. 
Created for Academic Usage / 315 words 
   Answer the following questions, based on given passage. 
 
 
I. Complete the following suitably. 
 
In the introduction, the researcher links a hasty lifestyle with the choice of snacks in 
the study to highlight__________.  
 
1 
II. 
What would the following be classified as?  
To examine snacking preferences across various age groups in detail, and assess 
health implications. 
Select the appropriate response. 
A. Primary purpose       B. Secondary objective 
     C. Method of analysis            D. Research outcome 
 
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III. Give two points to support why it is likely that fresh fruits were given as an option to 
the survey participants to choose from in the study on snacking preferences. 
 
2 
IV. Paragraph 3 includes words – ‘motivations’ and ‘influences.’ 
Classify the following sentences as 'influence' or 'motivation': 
 
Sentence 1: Peer pressure leads teenagers to prefer packaged snacks over 
healthier options. 
Sentence 2: The drive to maintain health as one ages makes middle-aged adults to 
choose seasonal fruits. 
1 
V. Read the following: 
Seema regularly enjoys snacking on chips and cool drinks while watching movies. 
Mohan, her neighbour, prefers to snack on oranges and also some nuts 
occasionally. Arindam, who lives across, often tends to eat a mix of carrot sticks and 
instant noodles, in between meals. 
Select the option that identifies the correct demographic Seema, Mohan and 
Arindam belong to. 
A. Seema – young adult; Mohan – teenager; Arindam -middle-age 
B. Seema - teenager; Mohan – middle-age; Arindam -child  
C. Seema – young adult; Mohan – child; Arindam - teenager  
D. Seema - teenager; Mohan – elderly; Arindam -young adult  
 
1 
5 
 
VI. Although children, middle-aged, and elderly groups all prefer seasonal fruits, why is 
the preference percentage highest among the elderly? 
1 
VII. Analyse how targeted interventions based on the diverse snacking preferences of 
different age groups can lead to improved health outcomes. (Paragraph 5) 
 
2 
VIII What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study? 
A. Increase profitability through enhanced snack marketing 
B. Building healthier communities 
C. Reducing the cost of healthcare services 
D. Expanding the range of available snack product 
1 
                
SECTION B 
CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18 marks) 
 
3. Attempt any one of the two, (A) or (B), in about 50 words 
 
1x4=4 
A. Your school is planning to conduct an inter-class seminar on the topic ?The Importance of 
Mental Health ?to create awareness in adolescents. As the head of the organising 
committee, write a notice to inform all students about the seminar and invite registrations 
from classes XI-XII. Include other necessary details. Put your notice in a box. 
 
OR 
B. Your school is organising an inter-House webinar on enhancing coding skills, As the 
President of the Computer Club, write a notice to inform all House members from IX-XII 
about the webinar and specify the number of registrations invited per House. Include other 
necessary details. Put your notice in a box. 
 
4. Attempt any one of the two, (A) or (B), in about 50 words. 
 
1x4=4 
A. Draft an invitation in not more than 50 words from Vani Gopalan, Chief Project Officer of an 
NGO, for the launch of the 'Each One Teach One' programme, addressed to school 
Principals and Coordinators. Mention a compelling highlight of the programme along with 
other necessary details 
 
 OR 
B. An invitation had been issued by Mr. Cherian, the HR Head of your company inviting you for 
the company picnic. As Joseph Vijayan, Asst. Manager, Operations, draft a reply in not more 
than 50 words, consenting to attend. 
 
5. Attempt any one of the two, (A) or (B), in 120 150 words 
 
1x5=5 
A. 
 
Financial literacy is increasingly recognised as a crucial 21st-century skill for young 
individuals. Write a letter to the editor of a local daily discussing the benefits of providing 
financial literacy education to children. Also, suggest effective ways to raise awareness 
about the importance of this education among parents and guardians. You may use some of 
the given cues along with your own ideas to draft the letter. You are a counsellor, Chitra 
Mahapatra from Puri, Odisha.