Half Yearly Class 9 English Set 1 (Solutions) | English Class 9 PDF Download

Time Allowed: 3 Hours
Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions:
1. This question paper comprises 11 questions. All questions are compulsory.
2. The question paper contains THREE sections:

• Section A: Reading Skills
• Section B: Grammar and Creative Writing Skills
• Section C: Literature Textbook

3. Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.

Section A

Q1. Read the text given below: [10 Marks]
The integration of environmental education into school curricula is essential for preparing students to address the pressing ecological challenges of the 21st century. As the world grapples with issues like climate change, deforestation, and pollution, young people must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to promote sustainability. Environmental education teaches students about ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on the planet, fostering a sense of responsibility toward nature. Through hands-on activities such as tree planting, recycling projects, or water conservation campaigns, students learn practical ways to reduce their ecological footprint. These activities also enhance critical thinking, as students analyse the causes and consequences of environmental degradation and propose solutions. For instance, studying the effects of plastic pollution in oceans can inspire students to advocate for reducing single-use plastics in their communities. Beyond academics, environmental education nurtures values like empathy and stewardship, encouraging students to care for their surroundings and future generations.
However, implementing effective environmental education faces several obstacles. Many schools, particularly in rural or underfunded areas, lack the resources to provide specialised training for teachers or access to up-to-date materials on environmental science. The curriculum is often overcrowded, with priority given to subjects like mathematics and language arts, leaving little room for interdisciplinary topics like sustainability. Additionally, misconceptions about environmental issues, often fueled by misinformation on social media, can confuse students and undermine their learning. Urban students may also feel disconnected from nature due to limited access to green spaces, making it harder to engage them in environmental topics. To overcome these challenges, schools can partner with local environmental organisations to provide workshops, field trips to nature reserves, or guest lectures from experts. Governments should invest in teacher training programs and develop standardised environmental education modules that align with national curricula. Community involvement is also crucial, as parents and local leaders can support initiatives like community gardens or clean-up drives, reinforcing the lessons learned in school. Technology can play a role by offering virtual simulations of ecosystems or online platforms for global environmental discussions, making learning interactive and accessible. By prioritising environmental education, schools can empower students to become proactive stewards of the planet, capable of driving meaningful change. This approach not only prepares students for future careers in fields like renewable energy or conservation but also instils a lifelong commitment to sustainable living, ensuring that they contribute to a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come.
Answer the following questions based on the passage:
(i) List two benefits of environmental education for students mentioned in the passage. (1 mark)

Ans: (a) Fostering a sense of responsibility toward nature.
(b) Enhancing critical thinking skills.

(ii) Select the option that corresponds to the meaning of the sentence: Environmental education fosters a sense of responsibility toward nature. (1 mark)
(a) It discourages care for the environment.
(b) It promotes accountability for protecting nature.
(c) It focuses only on academic skills.
(d) It ignores ecological issues.

Ans: (b)
Sol: The sentence emphasizes fostering responsibility, which means encouraging students to actively care for and protect the environment, aligning with option B.

(iii) Explain in about 40 words why implementing environmental education is challenging. (2 marks)

Ans: Implementing environmental education is challenging due to limited resources, such as inadequate teacher training and lack of materials, especially in rural schools. Overcrowded curricula prioritize core subjects, sidelining sustainability, while misinformation on social media confuses students, hindering effective learning.

(iv) What is the writer’s tone in the line: By prioritising environmental education, schools can empower students to become proactive stewards of the planet. Justify in about 40 words. (2 marks)

Ans: The writer’s tone is optimistic and motivational. The phrase “empower students to become proactive stewards” suggests confidence in schools’ ability to inspire action. By advocating for prioritization, the writer encourages positive change, emphasizing students’ potential to drive environmental progress.

(v) The phrase ‘ecological footprint’ in the passage refers to: (1 mark)
(a) The size of a forest.
(b) An individual’s impact on the environment through resource use.
(c) The number of trees planted.
(d) A type of shoe design.

Ans: (b)
The passage links ecological footprint to actions like recycling, indicating it measures how one’s resource consumption affects the environment.

(vi) In sets a-e below, identify two sets of antonyms. (1 mark)
(A) promote and discourage
(B) sustainability and development
(C) enhance and reduce
(D) responsibility and duty
(E) access and restriction
Options:
(a) a and c
(b) b and d
(c) c and e
(d) a and e

Ans: (d)
“Promote” and “discourage” are opposites, as are “access” and “restriction,” making them antonyms, while other pairs like “responsibility” and “duty” are synonyms or unrelated.

(vii) Complete the sentence appropriately.  (1 mark)
Schools can promote environmental education by ____. 

Ans: Schools can promote environmental education by partnering with local environmental organizations for workshops

(viii) Complete the following sentence.    (1 mark)
Misinformation on social media can ____.

Ans: Misinformation on social media can confuse students about environmental issues

Q2.  Read the passage given below: [10 Marks]
The tradition of community service among students is a powerful means of fostering social responsibility and personal growth. Engaging in activities like organising food drives, mentoring younger children, or participating in neighbourhood clean-up efforts helps students develop empathy, leadership, and teamwork skills. 
Community service also instils a sense of pride and accomplishment, as students see the direct impact of their contributions, such as a cleaner park or a grateful community member. These experiences teach students the value of giving back, preparing them to be active citizens who address societal needs. Moreover, community service can enhance academic learning by connecting classroom concepts to real-world issues, such as studying local ecosystems through environmental projects. 
However, barriers like busy schedules, lack of awareness, or limited access to service opportunities prevent many students from participating. Schools often struggle to balance academic demands with extracurricular activities, leaving little time for service projects. Some students may also feel hesitant, unsure of how to start or doubting the significance of their efforts. To address these challenges, schools can embed community service into the curriculum, offering projects that align with subjects like social studies or science. 
Partnerships with local charities or non-profits can provide structured opportunities, while recognition programs, such as certificates or awards, can motivate students to get involved. Families and community leaders can further encourage participation by modelling service-oriented behaviours and sharing stories of impact. By promoting community service, schools cultivate a culture of compassion and civic engagement, empowering students to make a difference in their communities and beyond, while equipping them with skills for lifelong success.
Answer the following questions based on the passage:
(i) Infer one reason why students avoid community service. (1 mark)

Ans: Busy schedules due to academic pressures reduce community service participation.

(ii) Select the appropriate option to complete the following sentence: Community service helps students develop: (1 mark)
1. Empathy
2. Academic stress
3. Leadership
4. Isolation
5. Teamwork
(a) 1, 3, 5
(b) 2, 4
(c) 1, 2, 3
(d) 3, 4, 5

Ans: (a)
The text highlights empathy, leadership, and teamwork as skills devel- oped through activities like mentoring, and clean-ups, excluding negative traits like stress or isolation.

(iii) Analyse in about 40 words how community service benefits students’ growth.  (2 marks)

Ans: Community service fosters personal growth by developing empathy through helping others, leadership through organizing projects, and teamwork through collaboration. It builds confidence as students see tangible results, like a cleaner park, enhancing their social and emotional skills.

(iv) Give two reasons why community service is important for students. (2 marks)

Ans: It develops empathy by encouraging understanding of others’ needs. 
It instills civic responsibility, preparing students to address societal issues.

(v) Complete the following analogy correctly with a word/phrase from the passage:  (1 mark)
community service : empathy : : sports : ____ (Clue: Just as community service fosters empathy, sports fosters something.)

Ans: community service : empathy : : sports : teamwork
Just as community service fosters empathy, sports, as per the passage’s teamwork focus, promotes teamwork through collaboration, aligning with the analogy.

(vi) Community service instills a sense of ____ in students. (1 mark)

Ans: Community service instills a sense of pride in students.

(vii) Complete the following sentence:    (1 mark)
Schools can encourage community service by ____.

Ans: Schools can encourage community service by integrating service projects into the curriculum.

(viii) Select the appropriate option to complete the following sentence:  (1 mark)
Busy schedules lead to: 
(a) Increased community service
(b) Reduced community service
(c) Better leadership skills
(d) More academic success

Ans: (b)
The passage states busy schedules limit time for service, reducing participation.

Section B

Q3. Complete ANY TEN of twelve of the following tasks, as directed: [10 Marks]

(i) Fill in the blank by using the correct form of the word in the bracket.  (1 mark)
She ____ (read) a novel last evening.

Ans: She read a novel last evening.
The verb “read” in past simple tense (“read,” pronounced /red/) matches the past event “last evening.”

(ii) Identify the error and supply the correction for the following: 
The children play in the park every evening. Use the given format for your response:  (1 mark)

Ans: 

The subject “Children” is plural, requiring the base verb “play” without the singular “-s.”

(iii) Priya shared some news with Rohan. Report Rohan’s question:  (1 mark)
Are you joining the book club?

Ans: Rohan asked Priya whether she was joining the book club.

(iv) A teacher asked a student about homework. Report the teacher’s question.  (1 mark) 
Have you completed your essay?

Ans: The teacher asked the student whether he/she had completed his/her essay.

(v) The library has ____ books on history. (1 mark) 
(a) much/many 
(b) every/no 
(c) some/any 
(d) few/little

Ans: (a)
“Many” is used for countable nouns like “books,” whereas “much” is for uncountable nouns.

(vi) Select the option that identifies the error and supplies the correction for the following line. (1 mark) 
She write a letter to her friend every week.

Ans: (a)
The subject “She” requires the third-person singular “writes” in simple present, correcting the base form “write.”

(vii) May I use your pencil for the test? Select the correct modal: (1 mark)
(a) can
(b) might
(c) may
(d) should

Ans: (c)
“May” is appropriate for polite permission in formal requests like borrowing a pencil.

(viii) They ____ to the museum last Sunday. (1 mark)
(a) go
(b) went
(c) were going
(d) are going

Ans: (b)
The past simple “went” fits the specific past event “last Sunday.”

(ix) Fill in the blank by choosing the correct option to complete a line from a speech.  (1 mark)
We ____ work together to protect our environment.
(a) could
(b) must
(c) will
(d) may

Ans: (b)
“Must” conveys urgency and necessity in a speech about environmental protection, fitting the context.

(x) Complete the line from a story by filling the blank with the correct option. (1 mark)
The wind ____ fiercely, / Shaking the trees in the forest.
(a) blows, shakes
(b) blew, shook
(c) had blown, shaking
(d) blows, shaking

Ans: (b)
Past tense “blew” and “shook” align with the narrative’s past setting, describing a stormy scene.

(xi) Complete the given narrative by filling in the blank with the correct option.   (1 mark)
Playing sports ____ teamwork and discipline.
(a) is teaching
(b) teaches
(c) teach
(d) will teach

Ans: (b)
The singular subject “Playing sports” takes the third-person singular “teaches” for a general fact.

(xii) Either the book or the pen ____ on the table. 
(a) is 
(b) are 
(c) were 
(d) was

Ans: (a)
The singular subject in “Either the book or the pen” agrees with the singular verb “is” in present tense.

Q4. Write a descriptive paragraph in about 100-120 words on “A Rainy Day in My City”. [5 Marks] 

Ans: A rainy day transforms my city into a tranquil haven. Dark clouds blanket the sky, and raindrops patter rhythmically on rooftops, creating a soothing melody. Streets glisten under streetlights, reflecting a shimmering glow, while children gleefully splash in puddles. The earthy scent of wet soil fills the air, blending with the aroma of hot tea from bustling stalls. Trees sway gently, their leaves sparkling with droplets. I sit by my window, sipping warm coffee, watching the serene scene unfold. The rain rejuvenates the city, offering a perfect excuse for cozy moments indoors, wrapped in the calm of the day.

Q5. Write a diary entry in about 100-120 words about a day when you helped someone in need. [5 Marks] 

Ans: 20th November 2024, Thursday, 9:00 PM
Dear Diary,
Today, I helped Mrs. Sharma, my elderly neighbor, carry heavy grocery bags home. Her warm smile and gratitude touched my heart deeply. We chatted about her family, and she shared nostalgic stories, making me feel connected. She offered homemade cookies as thanks, which tasted like love. This small act of kindness reminded me how meaningful helping others can be, strengthening community bonds.  I’m inspired to look for more ways to make a difference, feeling fulfilled by today’s simple yet profound experience.
Yours,
Rohan

Section C

Q6. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given:
(i)  Prose Extract: [5 Marks]
Her mother noticed it one day when she was eight years old.  She had been playing the piano, but did not respond when her name was called.
(a) What did the mother notice about her daughter? (1 mark)

Ans: The mother noticed that her daughter did not respond when called while playing the piano.

(b) How did the girl’s condition affect her pursuit of music? Answer in about 40 words. (2 marks)

Ans: The girl’s deafness posed significant challenges to her music pursuit, as she couldn’t hear sounds conventionally. She adapted by feeling vibrations and practiced relentlessly, with mentor support, eventually excelling as a percussionist despite her condition.

(c) Which of the following is NOT true about the girl’s condition? (1 mark)
(i) It was noticed when she was eight.
(ii) It affected her ability to hear.
(iii) It prevented her from playing the piano.
(iv) It was noticed during a piano session.

Ans: (iii)
The extract implies she continued playing piano, adapting to her deafness, so her condition did not prevent her from playing.

(d) What does the phrase ‘did not respond’ suggest about the girl’s condition? (1 mark)

Ans: The phrase ‘did not respond’ suggests the girl’s inability to hear,  indicating her deafness, as she was unaware of her mother’s call while focused on the piano.

OR
(ii) Poetry Extract: [5 Marks]
I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfree, / And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made…
(a) What does the speaker plan to do in the poem? (1 mark)

Ans: The speaker plans to go to Innisfree and build a small cabin there.

(b) How does the poet convey the speaker’s longing for a peaceful place?  Answer in about 40 words. (2 marks)

Ans: The poet conveys the speaker’s longing for peace through vivid imagery of Innisfree’s natural beauty, like lake waters and tranquil glades, contrasting with urban chaos. This evokes a deep yearning for simplicity and solitude.

(c) Identify the poetic device used in the line And a small cabin built there. (1 mark)
(i) Imagery
(ii) Simile
(iii) Metaphor
(iv) Alliteration

Ans: (i)
The line paints a vivid picture of a cabin made of clay and wattles, appealing to the reader’s senses.

(d) What does the phrase ‘clay and wattles’ suggest about the cabin? (1 mark)

Ans: The phrase ‘clay and wattles’ suggests the cabin is simple and rustic, built from natural, humble materials, reflecting the speaker’s desire for a modest, nature-connected life.

Q7. Read the given extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the two given:
(i)  Poetry Extract: [5 Marks]
Subtle but strong, you blow, / Come friend or foe, I’ll grow…

(a) Who is the speaker addressing in the poem? (1 mark)

Ans: The speaker is addressing the wind.

(b) How does the speaker describe their response to challenges?  Answer in about 40 words. (2 marks)

Ans: The speaker describes their response to challenges as resilient, stating they will grow stronger whether the wind is a gentle friend or a harsh foe. This reflects determination to thrive despite adversity, symbolizing inner strength.

(c) Identify the poetic device used in the line Subtle but strong, you blow. (1 mark)
(i) Oxymoron
(ii) Personification
(iii) Simile
(iv) Alliteration

Ans: (i)
‘Subtle but strong’ combines contradictory qualities, highlighting the wind’s dual nature.

(d) What does the phrase ‘friend or foe’ suggest about the speaker’s attitude? (1 mark)

OR
(ii) Prose Extract: [5 Marks]
At that fair he wanted everything – the toys, the sweets, the garland, the balloon.  But his parents did not buy him anything.
(a) Who is the ‘he’ referred to? (1 mark)

Ans: The ‘he’ is the boy at the fair.

(b) Why did the boy want everything at the fair? Answer in about 40 words. (2 marks)

Ans: The boy wanted everything at the fair due to his excitement and curiosity, captivated by the vibrant array of toys, sweets, and balloons. His young age and the fair’s allure fueled his desire for all its offerings.

(c) Which of the following is NOT true about the boy’s behaviour? (1 mark)
(i) He was excited about the fair.
(ii) He desired multiple items.
(iii) He bought all the items he wanted.
(iv) His parents did not fulfil his wishes.

Ans: (c)
​The extract states his parents did not buy anything, so he did not get the items.

(d) What does the phrase ‘wanted everything’ suggest about the boy’s feelings?   (1 mark)

Ans: The phrase ‘wanted everything’ suggests the boy’s overwhelming excitement and eagerness, reflecting a childlike enthusiasm for the fair’s attractions.

Q8. Answer ANY FOUR of the following five questions in about 40-50 words: [4 x 3 = 12 Marks]
(i) How does the narrator describe the mechanical teacher’s teaching method?

Ans: The narrator describes the mechanical teacher’s method as monotonous and imper- sonal, delivering lessons via screens without interaction. Unlike old schools, where human teachers fostered engaging discussions, the mechanical system isolates students, lacking the warmth of human connection.

(ii) How did Albert Einstein’s early experiences shape his curiosity?

Ans: Albert Einstein’s early experiences, like his fascination with a compass and love for mathematics, sparked his scientific curiosity. These moments encouraged him to question natural phenomena deeply, laying the foundation for his revolutionary theories in physics.

(iii) How does Kezia’s relationship with her father evolve throughout the story?

Ans: Kezia initially fears her strict father, perceiving him as distant and intimidating. Through his comforting actions, like soothing her during a nightmare, she discovers his caring side, transforming their relationship into one of trust and affection.

(iv) What challenges does the musician face in pursuing her passion, and how are they overcome?

Ans: The musician faces deafness, which hinders her ability to hear music conventionally. She overcomes this by sensing vibrations, practicing diligently, and receiving mentor guidance, enabling her to master percussion and pursue her passion successfully.

(v) Describe the poet’s feelings about the rain and its effect on his memories.

Ans: The poet feels nostalgic and soothed by the rain, which evokes childhood memories and a sense of comfort. The sound of raindrops creates a dreamlike state, connecting him to past emotions and fostering introspection.

Q9. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions in about 40-50 words: [2 x 3 = 6 Marks]
(i)  How does the kingdom’s unusual system affect its people?

Ans: The kingdom’s unusual system, with reversed day-night routines and arbitrary justice, confuses and burdens its people. It disrupts daily life, causing inefficiency and unrest, as citizens struggle to adapt to illogical rules and unfair punishments.

(ii) How does Toto’s behaviour cause trouble for the family?

Ans: Toto’s mischievous behavior, like breaking dishes or escaping, disrupts the family’s routine, requiring constant supervision and cleanup. His antics create chaos, forcing the family to adjust their schedules to manage his unpredictable actions.

(iii)  How does Iswaran’s storytelling style make his tales effective?

Ans: Iswaran’s storytelling style, rich with vivid details and dramatic flair, makes his tales engaging by creating suspense and immersion. His ability to blend reality with imagination captivates listeners, making ordinary events seem extraordinary and compelling.

Q10. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 100-120 words: [6 Marks]
(i)  Discuss how the musician’s perseverance inspires others to overcome obstacles.

Ans: The musician’s perseverance, despite her deafness, inspires others to overcome obstacles. By learning to feel vibrations and practicing relentlessly, she masters percussion, demonstrating that determination can triumph over physical limitations. Her mentor’s guidance and her unwavering commitment highlight the power of resilience. Her success motivates others to face challenges with courage, showing that passion and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements, regardless of adversity. This story encourages individuals to persist through difficulties, fostering hope and determination.

(ii) Analyse the theme of decision-making in the poem about choosing a path in a forest.

Ans: The theme of decision-making in the poem about choosing a path in a forest emphasizes the impact of choices on one’s life. The speaker’s selection of the less-traveled road reflects individuality and courage to follow a unique path. This decision, made with uncertainty, shapes the speaker’s future, suggesting that choices define destiny. The poem underscores the importance of thoughtful decisions, as even small choices can lead to significant outcomes. It inspires readers to embrace unconventional paths with confidence, trusting their instincts.

Q11. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 100-120 words: [6 Marks]
(i)  How does the boy’s experience at the fair reflect the theme of longing and realisation? 

Ans: The boy’s experience at the fair reflects the theme of longing and realization. Initially, he longs for toys, sweets, and balloons, captivated by the fair’s allure. When he gets lost, his desire for material items vanishes, replaced by a desperate yearning for his parents. This shift reveals his realization of their emotional importance, highlighting that love and security outweigh material possessions. The experience matures him, deepening his appreciation for family over fleeting desires.

(ii) How does Iswaran’s narrative style affect the narrator’s perception of events?

Ans: Iswaran’s narrative style, with its vivid imagery and dramatic exaggerations, profoundly affects Mahendra’s perception of events. His stories transform mundane incidents into thrilling tales, sparking Mahendra’s imagination and curiosity. This immersive story- telling makes Mahendra view the world through a lens of wonder, where ordinary moments seem extraordinary. It influences his emotional engagement with his surroundings, blending reality with fantasy. The style fosters a deeper connection to Iswaran’s narra- tives, enriching Mahendra’s experiences.