Class 12 English (Elective): CBSE Marking Scheme (2024-25) | CBSE Sample Papers for Class 12 Humanities - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

 Page 1


MARKING SCHEME 
ENGLISH ELECTIVE-(Code-001) 
CLASS XII (2024-225) 
 
General Instructions:  
 
i. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers. These are in the 
nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete answer. The students can have 
their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due marks should be awarded 
accordingly.   
ii. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks 
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.  
iii. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no 
marks to be awarded. 
 
SECTION A- READING COMPREHENSION 
 
1. On the basis of your reading of the above excerpt, answer the following 
questions briefly. 
 
I      B. Distant and aloof 
II     B. indifferent and uncaring 
III    C. Her father, brother and many insignificant things 
IV     A. His heart is longing for love 
V      C. 1 is correct and 2 is incorrect. 
VI     C The fragility of life 
VII     A Metaphor 
VIII    C It explores the complexities of human connection and dependence. 
IX      D By emphasizing the isolation and loneliness of the characters 
X       The postmaster feels an immense sense of emptiness and loneliness  
XI  Tagore shows this when the postmaster feels an overwhelming 
 sense of isolation and longing for the city, influenced by the rural and 
 natural setting of Ulapur  
XII  Ratan could not reconcile herself to the postmaster’s ‘eternal philosophy’ 
 and therefore chose to stay in the village, anchored by her memories and 
 heartbreak. 
XIII  FALSE 
XIV    Man is a mortal being. Nobody can bond with someone forever on this 
 Earth  because eventually death will set them apart.  
XV  B. pretending to be surprised 
12x1=12 
2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer FOUR of five given 
questions. 
 
I B Human soul’s search for meaning and purpose in life 
     (The poet, in this poem, embarks on a philosophical quest which ultimately 
leads to the question of meaning of life while musing on the vastness and, at 
the same time, on the short breadth of life.) 
II A solitary, detached 
III spider’s tireless efforts to create a connection between itself and the world 
around it 
IV D. Pensive and sedate 
V It suggests that the connection may be fragile and delicate, but still essential 
to the soul’s sense of purpose and belonging in the world.   
4x1=4 
Page 2


MARKING SCHEME 
ENGLISH ELECTIVE-(Code-001) 
CLASS XII (2024-225) 
 
General Instructions:  
 
i. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers. These are in the 
nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete answer. The students can have 
their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due marks should be awarded 
accordingly.   
ii. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks 
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.  
iii. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no 
marks to be awarded. 
 
SECTION A- READING COMPREHENSION 
 
1. On the basis of your reading of the above excerpt, answer the following 
questions briefly. 
 
I      B. Distant and aloof 
II     B. indifferent and uncaring 
III    C. Her father, brother and many insignificant things 
IV     A. His heart is longing for love 
V      C. 1 is correct and 2 is incorrect. 
VI     C The fragility of life 
VII     A Metaphor 
VIII    C It explores the complexities of human connection and dependence. 
IX      D By emphasizing the isolation and loneliness of the characters 
X       The postmaster feels an immense sense of emptiness and loneliness  
XI  Tagore shows this when the postmaster feels an overwhelming 
 sense of isolation and longing for the city, influenced by the rural and 
 natural setting of Ulapur  
XII  Ratan could not reconcile herself to the postmaster’s ‘eternal philosophy’ 
 and therefore chose to stay in the village, anchored by her memories and 
 heartbreak. 
XIII  FALSE 
XIV    Man is a mortal being. Nobody can bond with someone forever on this 
 Earth  because eventually death will set them apart.  
XV  B. pretending to be surprised 
12x1=12 
2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer FOUR of five given 
questions. 
 
I B Human soul’s search for meaning and purpose in life 
     (The poet, in this poem, embarks on a philosophical quest which ultimately 
leads to the question of meaning of life while musing on the vastness and, at 
the same time, on the short breadth of life.) 
II A solitary, detached 
III spider’s tireless efforts to create a connection between itself and the world 
around it 
IV D. Pensive and sedate 
V It suggests that the connection may be fragile and delicate, but still essential 
to the soul’s sense of purpose and belonging in the world.   
4x1=4 
3. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer ANY FOUR of the 
given questions. 
I B impetus 
II 2003 (lowest literacy rate) 
III True (The passage talks about creation of new opportunities with 
enhancement in literacy rate) 
IV 83% 
V Rural education will help boost the overall economy. Furthermore, it will also 
help in reducing migration of people from rural areas to cites of employment 
and create new opportunities. 
 
4X1=4 
 SECTION B 
APPLIED GRAMMAR & CREATIVE WRITING 
 
4.  Transform the following sentences as per the given instructions. (Any 
eight) 
 
I. No sooner did the delegates arrive, that the meeting started. 
II. We lost our luggage as well as our ticket. / We lost our ticket as well as 
our luggage. 
III. The actor said that it gave him great pleasure to be there that evening. 
IV. If the car doesn’t arrive on time, we shall miss the concert. 
V. All we cared about was dance and drama. 
VI. They were asked to put combination of all their ideas into one document.  
VII. It was too hot for the rally to be held. 
VIII. Never have I seen, Sumirna losing her temper. 
IX. Priya asked her classmate if she would lend her the book the following 
day. 
X. Their dog is so friendly that it can’t be an effective guard dog. 
 
8X1=8 
5. Attempt any three of the following four questions in 120-150 words each. 
[Credit to be given to the candidate’s creativity in presentation of ideas, 
appropriate use of language and skills of reasoning. ] 
I. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
 
II. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
III. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
 Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
IV. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy)  
3x5=15 
6. Read the questions below and attempt ANY ONE of the following- 1x5=5 
Page 3


MARKING SCHEME 
ENGLISH ELECTIVE-(Code-001) 
CLASS XII (2024-225) 
 
General Instructions:  
 
i. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers. These are in the 
nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete answer. The students can have 
their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due marks should be awarded 
accordingly.   
ii. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks 
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.  
iii. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no 
marks to be awarded. 
 
SECTION A- READING COMPREHENSION 
 
1. On the basis of your reading of the above excerpt, answer the following 
questions briefly. 
 
I      B. Distant and aloof 
II     B. indifferent and uncaring 
III    C. Her father, brother and many insignificant things 
IV     A. His heart is longing for love 
V      C. 1 is correct and 2 is incorrect. 
VI     C The fragility of life 
VII     A Metaphor 
VIII    C It explores the complexities of human connection and dependence. 
IX      D By emphasizing the isolation and loneliness of the characters 
X       The postmaster feels an immense sense of emptiness and loneliness  
XI  Tagore shows this when the postmaster feels an overwhelming 
 sense of isolation and longing for the city, influenced by the rural and 
 natural setting of Ulapur  
XII  Ratan could not reconcile herself to the postmaster’s ‘eternal philosophy’ 
 and therefore chose to stay in the village, anchored by her memories and 
 heartbreak. 
XIII  FALSE 
XIV    Man is a mortal being. Nobody can bond with someone forever on this 
 Earth  because eventually death will set them apart.  
XV  B. pretending to be surprised 
12x1=12 
2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer FOUR of five given 
questions. 
 
I B Human soul’s search for meaning and purpose in life 
     (The poet, in this poem, embarks on a philosophical quest which ultimately 
leads to the question of meaning of life while musing on the vastness and, at 
the same time, on the short breadth of life.) 
II A solitary, detached 
III spider’s tireless efforts to create a connection between itself and the world 
around it 
IV D. Pensive and sedate 
V It suggests that the connection may be fragile and delicate, but still essential 
to the soul’s sense of purpose and belonging in the world.   
4x1=4 
3. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer ANY FOUR of the 
given questions. 
I B impetus 
II 2003 (lowest literacy rate) 
III True (The passage talks about creation of new opportunities with 
enhancement in literacy rate) 
IV 83% 
V Rural education will help boost the overall economy. Furthermore, it will also 
help in reducing migration of people from rural areas to cites of employment 
and create new opportunities. 
 
4X1=4 
 SECTION B 
APPLIED GRAMMAR & CREATIVE WRITING 
 
4.  Transform the following sentences as per the given instructions. (Any 
eight) 
 
I. No sooner did the delegates arrive, that the meeting started. 
II. We lost our luggage as well as our ticket. / We lost our ticket as well as 
our luggage. 
III. The actor said that it gave him great pleasure to be there that evening. 
IV. If the car doesn’t arrive on time, we shall miss the concert. 
V. All we cared about was dance and drama. 
VI. They were asked to put combination of all their ideas into one document.  
VII. It was too hot for the rally to be held. 
VIII. Never have I seen, Sumirna losing her temper. 
IX. Priya asked her classmate if she would lend her the book the following 
day. 
X. Their dog is so friendly that it can’t be an effective guard dog. 
 
8X1=8 
5. Attempt any three of the following four questions in 120-150 words each. 
[Credit to be given to the candidate’s creativity in presentation of ideas, 
appropriate use of language and skills of reasoning. ] 
I. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
 
II. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
III. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
 Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
IV. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy)  
3x5=15 
6. Read the questions below and attempt ANY ONE of the following- 1x5=5 
The marks may be divided as: 
Format 1 (heading + name of contributor) 
Content –2 marks (inputs from the verbal cues to be used) 
Expression – 2 marks (grammatical accuracy, vocabulary, coherence, fluency) 
 
 
 
7. (I) 
                                   SECTION C– TEXTBOOK & FICTION 
Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below: 
(A) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. BECAUSE she is abandoning the security of her home and job to run away 
with a man. She worries that others might view her decision as reckless and 
unwise, particularly since her place at work would be easily replaced. 
 
ii. would be filled by advertisement, implying that the company would quickly 
find a replacement for her, making her feel replaceable and undervalued. 
 
iii. she values security and stability, as evidenced by her concerns about 
having shelter, food, and familiar surroundings. At the same time, she is 
apprehensive about how her actions might be perceived by others and the 
impact on her reputation. This shows that she places importance on societal 
approval and the opinions of her peers. 
 
iv. judge her harshly. The text suggests they might view her as a fool for 
running away with a man, indicating they would not be supportive or 
understanding of her decision but rather critical and judgmental. 
 
v. Gossipy and judgmental 
 
vi    D. agreed 
 
(B) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
 
i. Frau Frieda 
ii. The narrator knew her as Frau Frieda as a compatriot, which suggests they 
shared the same nationality or background. 
iii. After second world war, Vienna had become a hot bed of Black 
marketeering and espionage. 
iv. She wasn’t a native of Vienna. The word ‘fugitive’ shows that. 
v. She still ate at students’ tavern owing to her allegiance to her roots. 
vi. A. spying 
 
 
 
6X1=6 
7.(II) A) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. The speaker would use "symphony" and "song" to create their imaginative 
vision. 
ii. ii. Metaphor 
iii. The speaker believes the symphony and song would have such a profound 
and delightful effect on them that it would inspire them to create a 
fantastical and imaginative vision, symbolized by the "dome in air." 
iv. The poet wants to achieve a transcendent, creative vision through music, 
where they can build an imaginative and wondrous world, represented by 
6X1=6 
Page 4


MARKING SCHEME 
ENGLISH ELECTIVE-(Code-001) 
CLASS XII (2024-225) 
 
General Instructions:  
 
i. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers. These are in the 
nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete answer. The students can have 
their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due marks should be awarded 
accordingly.   
ii. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks 
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.  
iii. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no 
marks to be awarded. 
 
SECTION A- READING COMPREHENSION 
 
1. On the basis of your reading of the above excerpt, answer the following 
questions briefly. 
 
I      B. Distant and aloof 
II     B. indifferent and uncaring 
III    C. Her father, brother and many insignificant things 
IV     A. His heart is longing for love 
V      C. 1 is correct and 2 is incorrect. 
VI     C The fragility of life 
VII     A Metaphor 
VIII    C It explores the complexities of human connection and dependence. 
IX      D By emphasizing the isolation and loneliness of the characters 
X       The postmaster feels an immense sense of emptiness and loneliness  
XI  Tagore shows this when the postmaster feels an overwhelming 
 sense of isolation and longing for the city, influenced by the rural and 
 natural setting of Ulapur  
XII  Ratan could not reconcile herself to the postmaster’s ‘eternal philosophy’ 
 and therefore chose to stay in the village, anchored by her memories and 
 heartbreak. 
XIII  FALSE 
XIV    Man is a mortal being. Nobody can bond with someone forever on this 
 Earth  because eventually death will set them apart.  
XV  B. pretending to be surprised 
12x1=12 
2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer FOUR of five given 
questions. 
 
I B Human soul’s search for meaning and purpose in life 
     (The poet, in this poem, embarks on a philosophical quest which ultimately 
leads to the question of meaning of life while musing on the vastness and, at 
the same time, on the short breadth of life.) 
II A solitary, detached 
III spider’s tireless efforts to create a connection between itself and the world 
around it 
IV D. Pensive and sedate 
V It suggests that the connection may be fragile and delicate, but still essential 
to the soul’s sense of purpose and belonging in the world.   
4x1=4 
3. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer ANY FOUR of the 
given questions. 
I B impetus 
II 2003 (lowest literacy rate) 
III True (The passage talks about creation of new opportunities with 
enhancement in literacy rate) 
IV 83% 
V Rural education will help boost the overall economy. Furthermore, it will also 
help in reducing migration of people from rural areas to cites of employment 
and create new opportunities. 
 
4X1=4 
 SECTION B 
APPLIED GRAMMAR & CREATIVE WRITING 
 
4.  Transform the following sentences as per the given instructions. (Any 
eight) 
 
I. No sooner did the delegates arrive, that the meeting started. 
II. We lost our luggage as well as our ticket. / We lost our ticket as well as 
our luggage. 
III. The actor said that it gave him great pleasure to be there that evening. 
IV. If the car doesn’t arrive on time, we shall miss the concert. 
V. All we cared about was dance and drama. 
VI. They were asked to put combination of all their ideas into one document.  
VII. It was too hot for the rally to be held. 
VIII. Never have I seen, Sumirna losing her temper. 
IX. Priya asked her classmate if she would lend her the book the following 
day. 
X. Their dog is so friendly that it can’t be an effective guard dog. 
 
8X1=8 
5. Attempt any three of the following four questions in 120-150 words each. 
[Credit to be given to the candidate’s creativity in presentation of ideas, 
appropriate use of language and skills of reasoning. ] 
I. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
 
II. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
III. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
 Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
IV. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy)  
3x5=15 
6. Read the questions below and attempt ANY ONE of the following- 1x5=5 
The marks may be divided as: 
Format 1 (heading + name of contributor) 
Content –2 marks (inputs from the verbal cues to be used) 
Expression – 2 marks (grammatical accuracy, vocabulary, coherence, fluency) 
 
 
 
7. (I) 
                                   SECTION C– TEXTBOOK & FICTION 
Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below: 
(A) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. BECAUSE she is abandoning the security of her home and job to run away 
with a man. She worries that others might view her decision as reckless and 
unwise, particularly since her place at work would be easily replaced. 
 
ii. would be filled by advertisement, implying that the company would quickly 
find a replacement for her, making her feel replaceable and undervalued. 
 
iii. she values security and stability, as evidenced by her concerns about 
having shelter, food, and familiar surroundings. At the same time, she is 
apprehensive about how her actions might be perceived by others and the 
impact on her reputation. This shows that she places importance on societal 
approval and the opinions of her peers. 
 
iv. judge her harshly. The text suggests they might view her as a fool for 
running away with a man, indicating they would not be supportive or 
understanding of her decision but rather critical and judgmental. 
 
v. Gossipy and judgmental 
 
vi    D. agreed 
 
(B) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
 
i. Frau Frieda 
ii. The narrator knew her as Frau Frieda as a compatriot, which suggests they 
shared the same nationality or background. 
iii. After second world war, Vienna had become a hot bed of Black 
marketeering and espionage. 
iv. She wasn’t a native of Vienna. The word ‘fugitive’ shows that. 
v. She still ate at students’ tavern owing to her allegiance to her roots. 
vi. A. spying 
 
 
 
6X1=6 
7.(II) A) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. The speaker would use "symphony" and "song" to create their imaginative 
vision. 
ii. ii. Metaphor 
iii. The speaker believes the symphony and song would have such a profound 
and delightful effect on them that it would inspire them to create a 
fantastical and imaginative vision, symbolized by the "dome in air." 
iv. The poet wants to achieve a transcendent, creative vision through music, 
where they can build an imaginative and wondrous world, represented by 
6X1=6 
the "sunny dome" and "caves of ice." 
v. creates a vivid and fantastical vision, highlighting the transformative and 
imaginative power of music. This imagery helps convey the depth of the 
speaker's delight and the grandeur of the world they envision through the 
influence of music. 
vi. C. kill 
B) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. The poem is set in the autumn season, as indicated by the falling leaves 
and the time of year when the swans gather at Coole Park. 
ii. "The trees" symbolize the changing seasons and the passage of time, as 
indicated by the leaves falling from them, which serves as a contrast to the 
swans' apparent timelessness 
iii. The swans might symbolize beauty, grace, and the constancy of nature 
amidst the changing seasons. They could also represent a sense of 
longing or nostalgia, as the speaker reflects on the passage of time. 
iv. At the beginning of the passage, the speaker perceives the swans as part 
of a serene and beautiful autumn scene. By the end of the passage, the 
speaker’s perception shifts as the swans suddenly take flight, creating a 
sense of dynamic movement and perhaps a realization of the fleeting 
nature of their beauty. 
v. The swans are initially described as being on the "brimming water among 
the stones," suggesting a calm and tranquil scene. Then, the speaker 
observes the swans suddenly mounting and scattering in "great broken 
rings upon their clamorous wings," indicating a sudden, loud, and 
energetic movement. 
vi. D. tranquil 
 
8. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in 30-40 words.  1x2=2 
 I. Frank wanted Eveline to leave with him for Buenos Aires to start a new life. 
Despite the opportunity for a better life with Frank, Eveline is torn between 
her desire to escape and her sense of duty to her family, particularly her 
father and her deceased mother's memory. 
II. The swans in "The Wild Swans at Coole" can be seen as multifaceted 
symbols that represent the complexities of human existence, the passage 
of time, the beauty and mystery of the natural world, and the enduring 
power of art and inspiration. 
 
 
9. Answer any one of the following two questions in 40-50 words each.  
 
1x3=3 
 I. Marquez characterizes Frau Frieda's dreams as a "stratagem for 
surviving." This implies that he viewed her dreams not necessarily as 
accurate prophecies but as a way for her to navigate and cope with the 
difficulties of life. Her dreams might have served as a psychological and 
emotional tool to provide her with a sense of purpose, hope, and direction. 
II. The poem opens with Coleridge describing his vision of the palace and 
gardens of Kubla Khan, which he envisions in intricate detail. These vivid 
and fantastical images are a testament to the poet's imaginative capacity 
to create an entire world within his mind. Rich and sensory descriptions 
transport the reader into the dreamlike landscape he envisions. 
 
 
Page 5


MARKING SCHEME 
ENGLISH ELECTIVE-(Code-001) 
CLASS XII (2024-225) 
 
General Instructions:  
 
i. The Marking Scheme carries only suggested value points for the answers. These are in the 
nature of Guidelines only and do not constitute the complete answer. The students can have 
their own expression and if the expression is correct, then due marks should be awarded 
accordingly.   
ii. If a student has attempted an extra question, answer of the question deserving more marks 
should be retained and the other answer scored out with a note “Extra Question”.  
iii. If more than one option is mentioned in the answer of multiple choice questions, then no 
marks to be awarded. 
 
SECTION A- READING COMPREHENSION 
 
1. On the basis of your reading of the above excerpt, answer the following 
questions briefly. 
 
I      B. Distant and aloof 
II     B. indifferent and uncaring 
III    C. Her father, brother and many insignificant things 
IV     A. His heart is longing for love 
V      C. 1 is correct and 2 is incorrect. 
VI     C The fragility of life 
VII     A Metaphor 
VIII    C It explores the complexities of human connection and dependence. 
IX      D By emphasizing the isolation and loneliness of the characters 
X       The postmaster feels an immense sense of emptiness and loneliness  
XI  Tagore shows this when the postmaster feels an overwhelming 
 sense of isolation and longing for the city, influenced by the rural and 
 natural setting of Ulapur  
XII  Ratan could not reconcile herself to the postmaster’s ‘eternal philosophy’ 
 and therefore chose to stay in the village, anchored by her memories and 
 heartbreak. 
XIII  FALSE 
XIV    Man is a mortal being. Nobody can bond with someone forever on this 
 Earth  because eventually death will set them apart.  
XV  B. pretending to be surprised 
12x1=12 
2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer FOUR of five given 
questions. 
 
I B Human soul’s search for meaning and purpose in life 
     (The poet, in this poem, embarks on a philosophical quest which ultimately 
leads to the question of meaning of life while musing on the vastness and, at 
the same time, on the short breadth of life.) 
II A solitary, detached 
III spider’s tireless efforts to create a connection between itself and the world 
around it 
IV D. Pensive and sedate 
V It suggests that the connection may be fragile and delicate, but still essential 
to the soul’s sense of purpose and belonging in the world.   
4x1=4 
3. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Based on your understanding of the passage, answer ANY FOUR of the 
given questions. 
I B impetus 
II 2003 (lowest literacy rate) 
III True (The passage talks about creation of new opportunities with 
enhancement in literacy rate) 
IV 83% 
V Rural education will help boost the overall economy. Furthermore, it will also 
help in reducing migration of people from rural areas to cites of employment 
and create new opportunities. 
 
4X1=4 
 SECTION B 
APPLIED GRAMMAR & CREATIVE WRITING 
 
4.  Transform the following sentences as per the given instructions. (Any 
eight) 
 
I. No sooner did the delegates arrive, that the meeting started. 
II. We lost our luggage as well as our ticket. / We lost our ticket as well as 
our luggage. 
III. The actor said that it gave him great pleasure to be there that evening. 
IV. If the car doesn’t arrive on time, we shall miss the concert. 
V. All we cared about was dance and drama. 
VI. They were asked to put combination of all their ideas into one document.  
VII. It was too hot for the rally to be held. 
VIII. Never have I seen, Sumirna losing her temper. 
IX. Priya asked her classmate if she would lend her the book the following 
day. 
X. Their dog is so friendly that it can’t be an effective guard dog. 
 
8X1=8 
5. Attempt any three of the following four questions in 120-150 words each. 
[Credit to be given to the candidate’s creativity in presentation of ideas, 
appropriate use of language and skills of reasoning. ] 
I. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
 
II. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
III. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow) 
 Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy) 
IV. The marks may be divided as 
Content – 2 marks 
Organisation – 1 mark (fluency, coherence, logical flow)  
Expression – 2 marks (vocabulary, originality of ideas, grammatical accuracy)  
3x5=15 
6. Read the questions below and attempt ANY ONE of the following- 1x5=5 
The marks may be divided as: 
Format 1 (heading + name of contributor) 
Content –2 marks (inputs from the verbal cues to be used) 
Expression – 2 marks (grammatical accuracy, vocabulary, coherence, fluency) 
 
 
 
7. (I) 
                                   SECTION C– TEXTBOOK & FICTION 
Attempt any one of the two extracts (A) and (B) given below: 
(A) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. BECAUSE she is abandoning the security of her home and job to run away 
with a man. She worries that others might view her decision as reckless and 
unwise, particularly since her place at work would be easily replaced. 
 
ii. would be filled by advertisement, implying that the company would quickly 
find a replacement for her, making her feel replaceable and undervalued. 
 
iii. she values security and stability, as evidenced by her concerns about 
having shelter, food, and familiar surroundings. At the same time, she is 
apprehensive about how her actions might be perceived by others and the 
impact on her reputation. This shows that she places importance on societal 
approval and the opinions of her peers. 
 
iv. judge her harshly. The text suggests they might view her as a fool for 
running away with a man, indicating they would not be supportive or 
understanding of her decision but rather critical and judgmental. 
 
v. Gossipy and judgmental 
 
vi    D. agreed 
 
(B) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
 
i. Frau Frieda 
ii. The narrator knew her as Frau Frieda as a compatriot, which suggests they 
shared the same nationality or background. 
iii. After second world war, Vienna had become a hot bed of Black 
marketeering and espionage. 
iv. She wasn’t a native of Vienna. The word ‘fugitive’ shows that. 
v. She still ate at students’ tavern owing to her allegiance to her roots. 
vi. A. spying 
 
 
 
6X1=6 
7.(II) A) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. The speaker would use "symphony" and "song" to create their imaginative 
vision. 
ii. ii. Metaphor 
iii. The speaker believes the symphony and song would have such a profound 
and delightful effect on them that it would inspire them to create a 
fantastical and imaginative vision, symbolized by the "dome in air." 
iv. The poet wants to achieve a transcendent, creative vision through music, 
where they can build an imaginative and wondrous world, represented by 
6X1=6 
the "sunny dome" and "caves of ice." 
v. creates a vivid and fantastical vision, highlighting the transformative and 
imaginative power of music. This imagery helps convey the depth of the 
speaker's delight and the grandeur of the world they envision through the 
influence of music. 
vi. C. kill 
B) Read the extract given below and answer the questions which follow:  
i. The poem is set in the autumn season, as indicated by the falling leaves 
and the time of year when the swans gather at Coole Park. 
ii. "The trees" symbolize the changing seasons and the passage of time, as 
indicated by the leaves falling from them, which serves as a contrast to the 
swans' apparent timelessness 
iii. The swans might symbolize beauty, grace, and the constancy of nature 
amidst the changing seasons. They could also represent a sense of 
longing or nostalgia, as the speaker reflects on the passage of time. 
iv. At the beginning of the passage, the speaker perceives the swans as part 
of a serene and beautiful autumn scene. By the end of the passage, the 
speaker’s perception shifts as the swans suddenly take flight, creating a 
sense of dynamic movement and perhaps a realization of the fleeting 
nature of their beauty. 
v. The swans are initially described as being on the "brimming water among 
the stones," suggesting a calm and tranquil scene. Then, the speaker 
observes the swans suddenly mounting and scattering in "great broken 
rings upon their clamorous wings," indicating a sudden, loud, and 
energetic movement. 
vi. D. tranquil 
 
8. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in 30-40 words.  1x2=2 
 I. Frank wanted Eveline to leave with him for Buenos Aires to start a new life. 
Despite the opportunity for a better life with Frank, Eveline is torn between 
her desire to escape and her sense of duty to her family, particularly her 
father and her deceased mother's memory. 
II. The swans in "The Wild Swans at Coole" can be seen as multifaceted 
symbols that represent the complexities of human existence, the passage 
of time, the beauty and mystery of the natural world, and the enduring 
power of art and inspiration. 
 
 
9. Answer any one of the following two questions in 40-50 words each.  
 
1x3=3 
 I. Marquez characterizes Frau Frieda's dreams as a "stratagem for 
surviving." This implies that he viewed her dreams not necessarily as 
accurate prophecies but as a way for her to navigate and cope with the 
difficulties of life. Her dreams might have served as a psychological and 
emotional tool to provide her with a sense of purpose, hope, and direction. 
II. The poem opens with Coleridge describing his vision of the palace and 
gardens of Kubla Khan, which he envisions in intricate detail. These vivid 
and fantastical images are a testament to the poet's imaginative capacity 
to create an entire world within his mind. Rich and sensory descriptions 
transport the reader into the dreamlike landscape he envisions. 
 
 
10. Answer any one of the following two questions in 120-150 words each 
 
1x5=5 
 I. A K. Ramanujan's poem "Time and Time Again" primarily focuses on the 
cyclical nature of time and personal contemplation rather than explicitly 
addressing communal disharmony. Readers may find indirect or symbolic 
references to social and communal issues in the text. 
The poet explores themes related to time, memory, and the repetitive 
nature of existence. The poem's central concerns revolve around 
personal experiences, emotions, and reflections rather than overtly 
addressing communal disharmony. Ramanujan's primary intent appears 
to be the exploration of individual consciousness and the human 
condition. 
It's possible for readers to interpret the poem in a broader context and 
draw connections to themes of communal disharmony indirectly. For 
example, the cyclical nature of time and the recurrence of certain 
experiences could be seen as a commentary on the persistent cycles of 
conflict and division within societies. The idea of feeling trapped in 
repetitive patterns might metaphorically symbolize the inability of 
communities to break free from historical conflicts. 
II. In his essay "Film-Making," Ingmar Bergman, discusses various aspects 
of filmmaking and the relationship between a filmmaker and their 
audience. He emphasizes the importance of honesty and authenticity in 
the filmmaker's communication with the audience.  
Bergman believes that a filmmaker should use film as a means of 
genuine self-expression. He argues that filmmakers should create films 
that are deeply personal and reflective of their own thoughts, emotions, 
and experiences. In doing so, they establish an intimate connection with 
the audience by sharing their inner world. 
A filmmaker's work should emotionally engage the audience. He suggests 
that films should evoke genuine emotional responses from viewers, 
whether it be joy, sadness, fear, or introspection. Bergman believes that 
this emotional engagement is central to the filmmaker's relationship with 
the audience. 
He views filmmaking as a form of communication and dialogue between 
the filmmaker and the audience. He emphasizes that the filmmaker 
should communicate openly and honestly through their work, treating the 
audience as intellectual and emotional equals who can understand and 
appreciate the complexities of the human experience. 
 
 
11. Answer any one of the following questions in 30-40 words. 
Suggestive Responses 
I. The conflict is primarily about the clash between the human desire for control 
and exploitation of nature, represented by the characters of Captain and 
Madan, and the innate wildness and freedom of the tiger. 
II. Margayya's initial success as a financial expert leads to his downfall primarily 
through a combination of overconfidence, unethical behaviour, financial 
mismanagement, and a loss of support and trust from his community. His 
downfall was a consequence of prioritizing personal gain over ethical values 
and long-term financial prudence. 
 
1x2=2 
12 Answer any one of the following questions in 40-50 words. 1x3= 3