General Instructions:
(i) The Question paper is divided into three sections:
Section A: Reading - 26 marks
Section B: Writing Skills and Grammar- 23 marks
Section C: Literature - 31 marks
(ii) All questions are compulsory.
(iii) You may attempt any section at a time.
(iv) All questions of that particular section must be attempted in the correct order.
Q.1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, work, and entertain ourselves. With just a few clicks, we can access vast amounts of information, connect with people from all over the world, and shop for anything we want. However, the internet is not without its drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns is privacy. As we navigate through websites and social media platforms, we leave a digital trail of our personal information. This data can be collected, analyzed, and used for targeted advertising, identity theft, and other malicious activities.
To address this issue, many internet users have turned to virtual private networks (VPNs). VPNs encrypt our online activity, making it difficult for anyone to intercept and read our data. They also hide our IP address, which makes it harder to track our online behavior. VPNs can be used on a variety of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets. They are especially popular among people who travel frequently and use public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured and vulnerable to cyber attacks.
However, using a VPN is not a foolproof solution. While it can protect our privacy to some extent, it also has some disadvantages. For example, using a VPN can slow down our internet connection and cause buffering when streaming videos or downloading large files. Additionally, not all VPNs are created equal. Some are free, but they may not provide adequate security or privacy protections. Others are paid, but they may be too expensive for some users. Finally, some countries restrict or even ban the use of VPNs altogether, making it difficult for people to access the internet freely and securely.
Despite these challenges, VPNs remain an important tool for internet privacy and security. By choosing a reputable VPN provider and being aware of the potential drawbacks, we can enjoy the benefits of the internet without compromising our personal data.
(i) What is the main concern about the internet according to the passage?
(a) The amount of information available online.
(b) The fact that it can be used for targeted advertising.
(c) The difficulty in accessing it securely.
(d) The lack of personal privacy.
(ii) What is a virtual private network (VPN)?
(a) A type of social media platform.
(b) A way to encrypt online activity.
(c) An online shopping website.
(d) An alternative to public Wi-Fi networks.
(iii) Who is most likely to use a VPN?
(a) Someone who enjoys streaming videos.
(b) Someone who rarely uses the internet.
(c) Someone who frequently travels and uses public Wi-Fi networks.
(d) Someone who prefers using free internet services.
(iv) What is a disadvantage of using a VPN?
(a) It can cause buffering when streaming videos.
(b) It can only be used on laptops.
(c) It can only be used in certain countries.
(d) It can make our personal data more vulnerable.
(v) What is the main benefit of using a VPN?
(a) Accessing the internet freely and securely.
(b) Avoiding targeted advertising.
(c) Increasing internet speed.
(d) Allowing for unlimited file downloads.
(vi) What is the main difference between free and paid VPNs?
(a) Free VPNs provide better security than paid VPNs.
(b) Paid VPNs are only available on certain devices.
(c) Free VPNs are slower than paid VPNs.
(d) Paid VPNs are more expensive than free VPNs.
(vii) Why do some people find it difficult to access the internet securely?
(a) Because they don't have a VPN.
(b) Because they don't have the right device.
(c) Because they live in a country that restricts VPN use.
(d) Because they don't know how to use the internet.
(viii) What is one potential drawback of using public Wi-Fi networks?
(a) They are more expensive than using a VPN.
(b) They can be slower than using a VPN.
(c) They can be more secure than using a VPN.
(d) They can be vulnerable to cyber attacks.
(ix) What is one way to increase online security other than using a VPN?
(a) Installing antivirus software.
(b) Downloading large files.
(c) Using public Wi-Fi networks.
(d) Sharing personal information on social media.
(x) Why is it important to protect personal data online?
(a) Because personal data is useless to hackers.
(b) Because personal data can be sold for profit.
(c) Because personal data is not stored online.
(d) Because personal data is only accessible to government officials.
Q.2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, spanning over 2,300 kilometers (1,400 miles) off the coast of Australia. It is home to a vast array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish and 600 species of coral. The Great Barrier Reef is also a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.
However, the reef is under threat from a range of factors, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Rising sea temperatures due to climate change are causing coral bleaching, which can lead to the death of corals. Pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial waste can harm marine life, and overfishing can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.
Efforts are being made to protect the reef, such as reducing carbon emissions and implementing sustainable fishing practices. The Australian government has also invested millions of dollars in research and conservation efforts.
(i) Where is the Great Barrier Reef located?
(a) South America
(b) Africa
(c) Australia
(d) Antarctica
(ii) How long is the Great Barrier Reef?
(a) 1,300 kilometers
(b) 2,300 kilometers
(c) 3,300 kilometers
(d) 4,300 kilometers
(iii) How many species of fish are found in the Great Barrier Reef?
(a) 600
(b) 1,500
(c) 2,000
(d) 2,500
(iv) What is causing coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef?
(a) Pollution
(b) Overfishing
(c) Rising sea temperatures
(d) All of the above
(v) What can pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial waste do to marine life?
(a) Harm them
(b) Help them
(c) Have no effect
(d) Make them grow faster
(vi) What can overfishing do to the ecosystem?
(a) Balance it
(b) Disrupt it
(c) Improve it
(d) Have no effect
(vii) What efforts are being made to protect the Great Barrier Reef?
(a) Reducing carbon emissions
(b) Implementing sustainable fishing practices
(c) Investing in research and conservation efforts
(d) All of the above
(viii) Which country's government has invested millions of dollars in research and conservation efforts for the Great Barrier Reef?
(a) Brazil
(b) Canada
(c) Australia
(d) China
Q.3. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
Emotional intelligence refers to a person's ability to recognize, understand, and manage their own emotions and those of others. It is a crucial aspect of personal and professional success, and research has shown that individuals with high emotional intelligence tend to be more successful in their careers and personal lives than those who do not possess this trait.
One of the key benefits of emotional intelligence is the ability to form and maintain positive relationships with others. People with high emotional intelligence are able to understand and empathize with others' emotions, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner. They are also more likely to be perceived as trustworthy and dependable, which can be important in both personal and professional settings.
Another benefit of emotional intelligence is the ability to manage stress and handle difficult situations effectively. People with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to cope with challenging circumstances and are less likely to become overwhelmed by stress. They are also better at regulating their own emotions, which can help them to stay calm and focused under pressure.
Emotional intelligence is not a fixed trait, and it can be developed and improved over time. Some ways to improve emotional intelligence include developing self-awareness, practicing active listening, and seeking feedback from others. By improving emotional intelligence, individuals can enhance their personal and professional relationships, become more effective leaders, and achieve greater success in their careers and personal lives.
(i) Make notes based on your reading of the passage, using recognisable abbreviations where necessary. Use a format that you think is appropriate, and provide a suitable title.
(ii) In about 80 words, write a short summary of the passage.
Q.4. You are the CEO of a major corporation. Your company requires the services of a Chartered Accountant. Create a classified advertisement of no more than 50 words for publication in the Times of India, New Delhi.
OR
Saran Gupta is your name. You want to rent out your flat in Bangalore's business district. Create a well-circulated daily advertisement with all of the necessary information. (Word count is limited to 50).
Q.5. The use of animals in laboratories for dissection has been prohibited by the government. In approximately 120-150 words, argue for or against this decision.
OR
The 'No detention until class VIII' policy is not in the best interests of students. In 120-150 words, write a debate in support or opposition to the motion.
Q.6. The advancement of a nation is dependent on the empowerment of women. Obsessed with this idea, write a speech for the Youth Conclave on the topic, 'Empowering the women'.
Q.7. Fill in blanks with the appropriate option given below. (Do any 4)
Yesterday, as I (a) ...... along the mall, a taxi (b) ....... near me. A man (c) ...... me by my first name.I (d) ...... as I failed to recognize the man, who (e) ....... and repeating my name.
(a) (i) walks (ii) is walking (iii) was walking (iv) had been walking
(b) (i) stopped (ii) stops (iii) to stop (iv) will stop
(c) (i) addressing (ii) addressed (iii) to address (iv) has addressed
(d) (i) is surprised (ii) was surprised (iii) surprising (iv) to surprise
(e) (i) smiles (ii) to smile (iii) was smiling (iv) has been smiling
Q.8. Rearrange the following words or phrases to make meaningful sentences:
(a) the / sparrow / from / city / it / disappeared / house / has / seems / common / the / that
(b) factors / and / pollution / herbs / native / important / the / responsible / are / loss / shrubs / of / and
(c) age / of / at / five I a I years / child / not / much / does / understand
Q.9. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
The sun was setting behind the mountains, casting a warm orange glow across the valley. The birds chirped and sang their final songs of the day, as if bidding farewell to the sun.
(i) What was the sun doing behind the mountains?
(a) Rising
(b) Setting
(c) Stationary
(d) None of the above
(ii) What were the birds doing as the sun was setting?
(a) Sleeping
(b) Chirping and singing
(c) Flying away
(d) None of the above
(iii) What color was the glow cast across the valley by the setting sun?
Q.10. Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow.
The sun was shining bright in the sky as Sarah walked through the park. She loved the warmth of the sun on her face and the sound of the birds chirping in the trees. As she walked, she saw a small puppy running towards her.
(i) What was the weather like when Sarah was walking in the park?
(a) Raining
(b) Snowing
(c) Sunny
(d) Cloudy
(ii) What did Sarah enjoy about the weather?
(a) The rain
(b) The snow
(c) The warmth of the sun
(d) The cold breeze
(iii) What did Sarah see running towards her?
(a) A squirrel
(b) A small puppy
(c) A bird
(d) A cat
Q.11. Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow.
The rain was pouring down heavily outside. Jack sat by the window, watching as the drops fell from the sky and splashed onto the ground below. He had always found the rain to be calming, and it was one of his favorite sounds. Suddenly, there was a loud clap of thunder, causing Jack to jump in his seat. He looked outside and saw a bolt of lightning strike a tree in the distance. The lights flickered and went out, leaving Jack in complete darkness.
(i) What was Jack doing by the window?
(a) Sleeping
(b) Watching the rain
(c) Reading a book
(d) Listening to music
(ii) What was Jack's reaction to the thunder?
(a) He was scared
(b) He was angry
(c) He was excited
(d) He was indifferent
(iii) What happened after the thunder?
(a) The lights went out
(b) The rain stopped
(c) Jack fell asleep
(d) Jack went outside
(iv) What did Jack see after the lightning struck?
(a) A bolt of lightning
(b) A rainbow
(c) A shooting star
(d) A tree
Q.12. Answer the following questions in 40 to 50 words each.
(a) Describe Professor Gaitonde and Khan Sahib's conversation about where they needed to go.
OR
Why did the author choose the shorter route despite the high mountain passes?
(b) Why did the author choose the shorter route despite the high mountain passes?
OR
What does 'A Photograph' teach us about the poetess' mother?
(c) What, according to Doris, could be the cause of her mother's odd behaviour? Is Cyril on her side?
OR
What did Andrew think about marriage? What was the source of his resentment and perplexity
Q.13. Answer any one of the following questions in about 120–150 words:
Draw a character sketch of Khushwant Singh's grandmother as portrayed by him in the lesson 'The Portrait of a Lady'.
OR
What kind of damage did bad weather cause to 'Wavewalker'?
Q.14. Answer the question in about 120–150 words:
Describe the narrator's return to Mrs. Dorling's home.
OR
Make a comparison between uncle Khosrove and cousin Mourad.
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