English: CBSE Sample Question Paper with Solutions - 5 | Sample Papers for Class 11 Humanities - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

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 world we live in is constantly changing and evolving. Each passing day brings new challenges and opportunities. As we navigate through this ever-changing landscape, it is important to be equipped with the necessary skills to adapt and thrive.
One such skill is the ability to communicate effectively. Communication is the cornerstone of human interaction, and it plays a crucial role in our personal and professional lives. Whether we are speaking to a friend, giving a presentation, or negotiating a business deal, the way we communicate can make all the difference.
To communicate effectively, we must be clear, concise, and organized. We must be able to articulate our thoughts and ideas in a way that is easily understood by others. This requires not only a good command of language but also the ability to listen actively and respond appropriately.
In today's world, communication is no longer limited to face-to-face interactions. With the advent of technology, we now have access to a multitude of communication channels, such as email, social media, and video conferencing. While these tools have made communication more convenient and accessible, they also pose their own set of challenges. We must be mindful of the tone and context of our messages and ensure that they are appropriate for the medium we are using.
In addition to communication skills, it is also important to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The ability to analyze information, evaluate options, and make informed decisions is essential for success in both personal and professional settings.
To develop these skills, we must cultivate a mindset of curiosity and a willingness to learn. We should actively seek out new information and perspectives, challenge our own assumptions, and be open to constructive feedback.
In conclusion, effective communication and critical thinking are essential skills for success in today's world. By honing these abilities, we can navigate the challenges and opportunities that come our way with confidence and clarity.
(i) Which skill is crucial for human interaction?
(a) Problem-solving
(b) Communication
(c) Time management
(d) Technical expertise

Correct Answer is option b.

(ii) What are the three key factors in effective communication?
(a) Organization, concision, and grammar
(b) Clarity, organization, and grammar
(c) Conciseness, grammar, and tone
(d) Clarity, conciseness, and organization

Correct Answer is option d.

(iii) What is the importance of listening in effective communication?
(a) It helps to articulate thoughts and ideas.
(b) It ensures that the speaker is always in control.
(c) It helps to understand the message being conveyed.
(d) It is not necessary for effective communication.

Correct Answer is option c.

(iv) What are some of the challenges posed by technological communication channels?
(a) They require a good command of language.
(b) They can be easily misunderstood.
(c) They limit communication to written messages only.
(d) They are not as convenient as face-to-face interactions.

Correct Answer is option b.

(v) Which abilities are essential for success in personal and professional settings?
(a) Communication and teamwork
(b) Critical thinking and problem-solving
(c) Time management and multitasking
(d) Technical expertise and creativity

Correct Answer is option b.

(vi) What mindset is required to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities?
(a) A fixed mindset
(b) A growth mindset
(c) A narrow-minded mindset
(d) A rigid mindset

Correct Answer is option b.

(vii) What are some of the ways to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities?
(a) Avoid challenging assumptions and seek out confirmation bias.
(b) Be closed-minded and resist feedback.
(c) Be curious and seek out new information and perspectives.
(d) Ignore new information and rely on past experiences.

Correct Answer is option c.

(viii) What is the importance of being open to constructive feedback?
(a) It helps to improve communication skills.
(b) It helps to develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
(c) It helps to build relationships and trust.
(d) It is not necessary for success.

Correct Answer is option c.

(ix) Why is it important to adapt to the changing landscape?
(a) To be successful in personal and professional settings.
(b) To avoid challenges and obstacles.
(c) To limit exposure to new ideas and experiences.
(d) To maintain a fixed mindset.

Correct Answer is option a.

(x) Which of the following is not an essential skill for success in today's world?
(a) Communication
(b) Critical thinking and problem-solving
(c) Technical expertise
(d) Memorization of information

Correct Answer is option a.

Q.2. Read the passage carefully and then answer the following questions.

The Industrial Revolution: Innovations and Impact

The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain during the late 18th century and spread to other parts of Europe and North America in the early 19th century. The technological innovations of the Industrial Revolution transformed the way goods were produced, making it possible to produce goods on a larger scale and at a faster rate than ever before. One of the key innovations of the Industrial Revolution was the steam engine, which was developed in the late 18th century. The steam engine was used to power machinery in factories and to transport goods and people across the country via railroads and steamships. The steam engine was so important that it is often referred to as the driving force behind the Industrial Revolution.
Another important innovation of the Industrial Revolution was the cotton gin, which was invented in the United States in 1793. The cotton gin made it much easier and faster to separate cotton fibers from their seeds, which greatly increased the efficiency of cotton production. This led to a boom in the cotton industry and made cotton one of the most important crops in the world. The Industrial Revolution also led to significant changes in the way people lived and worked. Many people moved from rural areas to cities to work in factories, which were often located near sources of coal and iron. This led to the growth of urban areas and the development of new forms of housing, transportation, and entertainment.
The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on the world, transforming the way goods were produced and consumed, and leading to significant social and economic changes. However, it also had negative consequences, including environmental degradation, labor exploitation, and social inequality.
(i) What was one of the key innovations of the Industrial Revolution?
(a) The internet
(b) The steam engine
(c) The telephone
(d) The automobile

Correct Answer is option b.

(ii) What was the driving force behind the Industrial Revolution?
(a) The cotton gin
(b) The steam engine
(c) The spinning jenny
(d) The power loom

Correct Answer is option b.

(iii) Where was the cotton gin invented?
(a) Great Britain
(b) France
(c) United States
(d) Germany

Correct Answer is option c.

(iv) What did the cotton gin do?
(a) It made it easier to separate cotton fibers from their seeds
(b) It made it easier to weave cotton into cloth
(c) It made it easier to grow cotton
(d) It made it easier to harvest cotton

Correct Answer is option a.

(v) What changes did the Industrial Revolution bring to the way people lived and worked?
(a) People moved from cities to rural areas
(b) People stopped working in factories
(c) People stopped using coal and iron
(d) People moved from rural areas to cities to work in factories

Correct Answer is option d.

(vi) What led to the growth of urban areas during the Industrial Revolution?
(a) The development of new forms of housing, transportation, and entertainment
(b) The growth of the cotton industry
(c) The invention of the power loom
(d) The use of the spinning jenny

Correct Answer is option a.

(vii) What negative consequences did the Industrial Revolution have?
(a) Environmental degradation
(b) Labor exploitation
(c) Social inequality
(d) All of the above

Correct Answer is option d.

(viii) What was the main consequence of the cotton gin?
(a) A boom in the cotton industry
(b) A decline in the cotton industry
(c) An increase in the use of wool
(d) A decrease in the use of silk

Correct Answer is option a.

Q.3. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
Over the years, scientists have been fascinated by the phenomenon of bioluminescence. Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to produce light, which they use for various purposes. Some organisms use bioluminescence for defense, while others use it for communication or finding prey. One of the most fascinating examples of bioluminescence is found in deep-sea creatures. Many of these creatures live in total darkness, where they use bioluminescence to navigate, communicate, and attract prey. For example, the anglerfish has a long, thin filament on its head that glows in the dark, which it uses to lure prey.
Another example of bioluminescence is found in fireflies. Fireflies are beetles that produce light through a chemical reaction in their bodies. They use this light to attract mates and to warn off predators. Scientists are studying bioluminescence to learn more about how it works and how it can be applied in various fields. For example, bioluminescent proteins have been used in medical research to track the movement of cells in the body. Bioluminescence has also been used in the food industry to detect harmful bacteria in food. As scientists continue to study bioluminescence, they are discovering new and exciting applications for this fascinating phenomenon.

(i) On  the  basis  of  your  reading  the  passage,  make  notes  using  recognisable  abbreviations  wherever  necessary. Use a format you consider suitable, supply a suitable title.

Title: Bioluminescence: A Fascinating Phenomenon

Notes:

• Scientists fascinated by bioluminescence
• Bioluminescence = ability of living organisms to produce light
• Used for defense, communication, and finding prey
• Deep-sea creatures use bioluminescence to navigate, communicate, and attract prey
• Anglerfish has a glowing filament to lure prey
• Fireflies use bioluminescence to attract mates and warn off predators
• Bioluminescent proteins used in medical research to track cell movement
• Bioluminescence used in food industry to detect harmful bacteria
• Bioluminescence has potential for new and exciting applications (e.g. medicine, food industry)

(ii) Make a short summary of the passage in about 80 words.

Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to produce light, which they use for various purposes such as defense, communication, and finding prey. Deep-sea creatures use bioluminescence to navigate, communicate, and attract prey. Fireflies use bioluminescence to attract mates and warn off predators. Scientists are studying bioluminescence to learn more about how it works and how it can be applied in various fields such as medical research and food industry. Bioluminescence is a fascinating phenomenon with potential for new and exciting applications.

Q.4. Ajay or Anjali Arora wants to rent out a part of their house and needs to create an advertisement with all the relevant information for publication in the "To Let" column of HT.

OR

As Niranjan from Nabin Nagar, Guwahati, you aim to advertise your newly built flat for sale in the classified columns of 'The Assam Tribune.' Compose a suitable advertisement with all the required information, using a maximum of 50 words.

Q.5. We have seen that a vegetarian diet helps to boost our immunity. Write your thoughts on whether everyone should become vegetarian.

Everyone should become vegetarian

The speaker begins by quoting George Bernard Shaw and expressing the opinion that vegetarianism is becoming more accepted by mainstream society. The speaker argues that there are several compelling reasons for choosing a vegetarian diet, including health, environmental, economic, and ethical concerns. The speaker notes that research has shown that meat is not necessary for a healthy diet and can lead to clogged arteries and increased risk of heart disease. The speaker also suggests that humans have evolved to be herbivores and that a vegetarian diet can lead to increased energy and well-being. The speaker disagrees with the notion that vegetarian diets are deficient in protein and fat, citing nuts, soy, and milk products as sufficient sources of these nutrients. Ultimately, the speaker believes that all non-vegetarians should consider changing their stance based on the compelling reasons in favor of vegetarianism.

OR

Despite the fact that students have been using cell phones in their daily lives for nearly a decade, schools continue to oppose allowing the devices in the classroom. Schools are generally grappling with new technologies, but cell phones' reputation as an annoyance and distraction has been difficult to overcome. Prepare a debate in about 120-150 words in favour of or against the topic 'Cell phones should be allowed in schools' using the information provided below.

Cell Phones Should Be Allowed In Schools

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Today we are here to debate the topic of whether or not cell phones should be allowed in schools. While some argue that cell phones are a distraction and a nuisance, I believe that they should be allowed in schools for several reasons. Firstly, cell phones are a valuable tool for learning. With access to the internet, students can quickly and easily research information for their projects or assignments. Additionally, many educational apps and resources are available on cell phones, allowing students to enhance their learning experience. Secondly, cell phones can improve safety in schools. In case of emergencies or lockdowns, students and staff can use their cell phones to quickly contact emergency services or their loved ones. Cell phones can also be used to quickly alert authorities if they witness any dangerous behavior or activities.
Lastly, cell phones can teach students responsibility and accountability. By allowing students to bring their cell phones to school, they can learn how to properly use them and understand when it is appropriate to use them.
In conclusion, I believe that cell phones should be allowed in schools as they can enhance learning, improve safety, and teach students responsibility. It is time for schools to adapt to new technologies and embrace the potential benefits they can bring to the classroom.
Thank you.

Q.6. The Agra Administration recently launched a campaign to discourage the use of plastic bags. Write a 150-200-word speech on the topic 'Say no to plastics' for your morning assembly.

Say no to plastics

Good morning, respected Principal, teachers, and fellow students. My name is XYZ and I am from class XI. Today, I would like to share my opinion on the topic "Say No to Plastics". Although plastic bags are convenient to use, their non-biodegradable nature is causing serious harm to our environment. It is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure that the environment is clean and healthy to live in. Hence, it is essential to stop using plastic bags and opt for eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth or jute bags, paper bags, or cardboard boxes. We must raise awareness about the hazardous ill-effects of polythene bags and take appropriate measures to save our environment from further contamination. Let's work together to make our planet a better place to live in.
Thank you.

Q.7. Read the following paragraphs and fill in the blanks with the correct form of verbs from the options given. (Do any 4)
Once  there  was  a  king.  He  (i) ________ for  his  benevolence.  Everyday  he  (ii) ________ the  hungry    and  (iii)  ________ the poor before he (iv)  ________ his food. He (v) ________ so for many years. He (vi) ................... by his subjects.
(i) (a) know (b) knew (c) is known (d) was known
(ii) (a) feed (b) feeds (c) fed (d) will feed
(iii) (a) clothes (b) clothed (c) will clothe (d) was clothed
(iv) (a) takes (b) took (c) will take (d) was taken
(v) (a) did (b) does (c) will do (d) do not do
(vi) (a) love (b) loved (c) loves (d) was loved

(i) (d) was known (ii) (c) fed (iii) (b) clothed (iv) (b) took (v) (a) did (vi) (d) was loved

Q.8. Choose the correct option and rearrange the following words or phrases to make meaningful sentences.
(i) on / my bicycle / to / go / I used to / my school
(a) I used to go to my school on my bicycle.
(b) I used to go to my bicycle on my school.
(c) I used to go on my bicycle on my school.
(d) To my school, I used to go on my bicycle.

Correct Answer is option a.

(ii) boy / each / was punished / of the class / yesterday
(a) Each boy was punished yesterday of the class.
(b) Yesterday each of the boy class was punished.
(c) Each boy of the class was punished yesterday.
(d) Boy of the class each was punished yesterday.

Correct Answer is option c.

(iii) how / you had / at the interview / done / us / let / know
(a) Let us know how you had done at the interview.
(b) Let how you had done us know at the interview.
(c) Let know us how you had done at the interview.
(d) Let at the interview know us how you had done.

Correct Answer is option a.

Q.9. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
John had always been a fitness enthusiast. He loved to exercise and eat healthy food. Last week, he participated in a marathon and completed it successfully. John felt proud of his achievement and decided to train for a triathlon next.
(i) What is John's hobby?
(a) Reading books
(b) Exercising and eating healthy food
(c) Watching movies
(d) Playing video games

Correct Answer is option b.

(ii) What is John planning to do next?
(a) Participate in a marathon again
(b) Start a new job
(c) Train for a triathlon
(d) Go on a vacation

Correct Answer is option c.

(iii) What did John do last week?

John participated in a marathon and completed it successfully.

Q.11. Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow.
Maria loves to travel and explore new places. Last summer, she visited Europe and had a great time. She visited various countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. Maria enjoyed trying different cuisines and experiencing different cultures. She also made new friends and learned some new languages.
(i) What is Maria's hobby?
(a) Cooking
(b) Traveling
(c) Reading
(d) Painting

Correct Answer is option b.

(ii) Which countries did Maria visit last summer?
(a) China, Japan, and Korea
(b) France, Spain, and Italy
(c) Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji
(d) Brazil, Argentina, and Peru

Correct Answer is option b.

(iii) What did Maria enjoy doing during her trip?
(a) Shopping
(b) Trying different cuisines and experiencing different cultures
(c) Staying in the hotel room
(d) Watching TV

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.12. Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow.
The rise of nationalism in Europe was a significant event in world history. Nationalism emerged as a powerful force in the 19th century, with the formation of nation-states based on a common language, culture, and history. This movement had a profound impact on the political and social landscape of Europe, leading to the formation of modern nation-states and the reshaping of European borders.
(i) What is the main idea of this passage?
(a) The rise of nationalism in Europe
(b) The impact of modern nation-states
(c) The formation of European borders
(d) The significance of world history

Correct Answer is option a.

(ii) What was the cause of the rise of nationalism in Europe?
(a) The formation of modern nation-states
(b) The reshaping of European borders
(c) A common language, culture, and history
(d) The political and social landscape of Europe

Correct Answer is option c.

(iii) What was the impact of the rise of nationalism on Europe?
(a) The formation of modern nation-states
(b) The reshaping of European borders
(c) The emergence of a powerful force
(d) All of the above

Correct Answer is option d.

(iv) Which century did nationalism emerge as a powerful force in Europe?
(a) 18th century
(b) 19th century
(c) 20th century
(d) 21st century

Correct Answer is option b.

Q.12. Answer the following questions in 40-50 words each:
(a) What was the woman with the broad back's reaction when the narrator said, "I am Mrs. S's daughter"?

The narrator observed Mrs. Dorling holding onto the door as though she didn't want it to open any wider, but she didn't show any signs of recognition and just stared at the narrator silently.

OR

Who was Joe Morgan? Why had he been waiting for Dr. Andrew Manson?

In the mining town of Blaenelly, Joe Morgan worked as a driller. He was a sturdy, hefty, middle-aged man. Joe and his wife Susan had been married for almost two decades and were anticipating the birth of their first child. Joe was presently awaiting the arrival of the doctor to assist Susan in the delivery.

(b) When King Tut was buried, how was he lavished with royals?

King Tut was bestowed with a plethora of dazzling and valuable items, including precious collars, necklaces, bracelets, rings, amulets, ceremonial aprons, sandals, sheaths, and more. All of these items, as well as his coffin, were constructed from pure gold. It was believed that he would carry these possessions with him to the afterlife.

OR

The narrator ’s grandmother looked like ‘the winter landscape in the mountains’. Comment

Dressed in immaculate white garments, the grandmother's hair appeared to be a gleaming silver color. Her pristine white attire and silvery locks gave her the appearance of a wintry snow-capped mountain. Additionally, her aura exuded a sense of serenity and calmness similar to that of a mountain.

(c) What happened to the poetess' mother in 'A Photograph'?

The mother of the poetess was a tall girl even when she was just twelve years old. She had a pleasant countenance and relished swimming and wading in the ocean with her cousins. In later years, she would have found it amusing to recall the garments they wore during their seaside vacation.

OR

In the poem "Father to Son," what is the father's problem?

Despite living with his son in the same household for several years, Father struggles to comprehend his son. He feels as though he knows very little about him.

Q.13. Answer any one of the following questions in about 120–150 words:
Describe the author's journey from the pass's summit to his stay in Hor.

At an elevation of 5,515 meters, the pass's summit was identified by a pile of rocks known as a cairn. Following tradition, the author and two others circumambulated the cairn in a clockwise direction. The author experienced a severe headache due to the high altitude. However, as they descended to the other side of the pass, the headache vanished, and the author was relieved. They paused for lunch around 2 p.m. and continued their journey until they reached the small town of Hor in the late afternoon. Daniel departed from there and traveled to Lhasa in a truck that was heading in that direction. Tsetan opted to repair his punctured tires in Hor and sent the author to a cafe for roughly thirty minutes. Although the author sat by the shore of the holy lake Manasarovar in Hor, he found it to be contaminated and littered with debris. After Tsetan returned, they resumed their trip.

OR

Everyone on board helped to save Wavewalker. Justify.

The success of overcoming a difficult situation as a team requires every member to work towards their best. This was evident when Wavewalker encountered a massive wave in the Southern Indian Ocean. The narrator was thrown off the ship but managed to get back on board and began rescue efforts. While trying to prevent water from entering the ship, Mary, his wife, took over the wheel and bravely steered the ship without panicking about the safety of their children. Larry Vigil and Herbert Seigler worked hard by continuously pumping out water until all leaks were plugged, repaired, or covered. Even though little Jonathan and Suzanne were injured on the upper deck, they did not create panic. They bore their isolation and pain in a way that allowed their parents and the other two sailors to ensure the best efforts of everyone on board to save Wavewalker.

Q.14. Answer the question in about 120–150 words:
What is the central theme of the play "Mother's Day"? Has the writer effectively brought it out? Discuss.

The play's central theme revolves around the position of women in their own households. Although the housewife devotes herself to serving her family with complete dedication, sincerity, and affection, she is never accorded the respect, attention, or gratitude she deserves. Her leniency and desire to please everyone often diminishes her status to that of an unpaid domestic worker in her own home. Instead of being politely asked for help, she is ordered to do it, and no gratitude is expressed in return. The theme is depicted through the portrayal of the Pearson family, in which Mrs. Pearson is the overburdened mother. Her daughter Doris, son Cyril, and husband George take her services for granted and have become thoughtless and selfish. The personalities are interchanged, and the harsh treatment meted out to them by the personality of Mrs. Fitzgerald (in the body of Mrs. Pearson) reforms them, and they willingly obey the mother.

OR

How did the King of Melon City end up in such a bind?

The King of Melon City announced the construction of an arch over the main thoroughfare, which was soon completed. However, one day as the King was riding through the thoroughfare, his Crown hit the arch and fell off, causing him to feel dishonoured. He decided to punish the chief of builders by hanging him, who in turn blamed the labourers, leading to the King's decision to hang all the labourers. The labourers, in turn, blamed the size of the bricks, and the masons put the blame on the architect. The King ordered the architect to be hanged, but the architect pointed out that he had made changes to the plans at the King's request. The King found himself in a difficult position as he was held responsible for the mishap. Despite being a just and fair King, he was confused and did not know what to do.