M.M - 80
Time Allowed - 3 Hours
General Instructions:
All questions are compulsory.
The question paper is divided into three sections:
Syllabus of Section C: The half-yearly question paper is framed from the following chapters: A Bottle of Dew, The Raven and The Fox, Rama to the Rescue, The Unlikely Best Friends, A Friend's Prayer, The Chair, Neem Baba, What a Bird Thought, Spices that Heal Us
Forests are often called the "lungs of the planet" because they breathe in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which humans and animals need to survive. Every breath we take is connected, in some way, to the trees that stand silently across the world. Forests cover large areas of land and include many kinds of trees, shrubs, grasses, and plants. They are not just groups of trees, but living communities where every plant and animal plays an important role.
Beyond providing oxygen, forests are home to millions of species of plants, insects, birds, and animals. From tiny ants that build their homes in the soil, to huge elephants that walk through the jungle, all depend on forests for food and shelter. Many tribes and village communities also live in or near forests and collect fruits, honey, herbs, and wood for their daily needs. Forests also protect the soil from being washed away by heavy rain. Their roots hold the soil tightly, preventing landslides and floods. They also help regulate the Earth's temperature by absorbing heat and releasing moisture into the air.
However, despite their importance, forests are disappearing at an alarming rate. Trees are being cut down for timber, paper, furniture, and to clear land for farming and cities. This process is called deforestation. When forests are destroyed, animals lose their homes, plants become extinct, and soil becomes weak and dry. The balance of nature is disturbed, and this even affects weather patterns. If forests continue to disappear, the Earth may become hotter and many species may vanish forever.
Protecting our forests is not just about saving trees; it is about ensuring the survival of all living beings, including humans. Forests give us fresh air, medicine, fruits, wood, shade, and even beauty and peace. We must learn to use forest resources wisely so that future generations can also enjoy them.
Even small actions can help. We can plant more trees in our surroundings, avoid wasting paper, and recycle whenever possible. Schools and families can take part in tree-planting drives and awareness programmes. When we understand the value of forests, we begin to respect nature more deeply.
Forests are gifts of nature, and it is our duty to protect them. When we care for forests, we are really caring for our planet and all the life it supports.
Ans: They are called so because they breathe in carbon dioxide and release the oxygen we need to survive.
Ans: Forests protect the soil from being washed away by rain.
Ans: They are being cut down for timber and land.
Ans: It is about ensuring the survival of all living beings.
Ans: We can help by planting more trees and reducing our use of paper.
Ans: Regulate.
Ans: They are home to millions of species of plants and animals.
Ans: The Importance of Forests.
Ans: False.
Q2. Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. (10 marks)
Riya loved visiting her grandmother's village during the holidays. The village was surrounded by green fields and tall coconut trees. Every morning, Riya would wake up early to help her grandmother water the plants in the garden. Her grandmother believed that plants were living friends, and they grew better when cared for with love.
One day, Riya noticed that a small plant in the corner looked weak and droopy. She decided to water it daily and protect it from goats that sometimes entered the garden. After a few weeks, the plant grew taller and greener than the others. Riya felt proud and realised that patience and care can bring life and strength even to the weakest beings.
This experience also helped Riya understand the importance of nature. She promised herself that she would always respect plants and trees, because they silently support all living creatures on Earth.
(i) Where did Riya spend her holidays? (1 mark)
(a) In the city
(b) At a hill station
(c) At her grandmother's village
(d) At a beach
Ans: (c)
(ii) What did Riya help her grandmother with every morning? (1 mark)
(a) Cooking food
(b) Watering the plants
(c) Feeding animals
(d) Cleaning the house
Ans: (b)
(iii) Why did the small plant look weak? (1 mark)
(a) It was eaten by birds
(b) It did not get sunlight
(c) It was not protected from goats
(d) It was not watered properly
Ans: (d)
(iv) What happened to the plant after Riya cared for it? (1 mark)
(a) It dried up
(b) It stayed the same
(c) It grew taller and greener
(d) It was eaten by goats
Ans: (c)
(v) What quality did Riya learn from this experience? (1 mark)
(a) Laziness
(b) Anger
(c) Patience
(d) Fear
Ans: (c)
(vi) Why did Riya feel proud? (1 mark)
(a) She won a prize
(b) She travelled alone
(c) She helped the weak plant grow strong
(d) She built a garden
Ans: (c)
(vii) The plants were called "living friends" because they: (1 mark)
(a) could talk
(b) needed sleep
(c) responded to love and care
(d) walked around
Ans: (c)
(viii) What promise did Riya make? (1 mark)
(a) To cut trees when needed
(b) To ignore plants
(c) To always respect plants and trees
(d) To stop visiting the village
Ans: (c)
(ix) The word 'droopy' means: (1 mark)
(a) Fresh
(b) Hanging down
(c) Bright
(d) Strong
Ans: (b)
(x) Which word from the passage means 'quietly'? (1 mark)
(a) Proudly
(b) Weakly
(c) Silently
(d) Strongly
Ans: (c)
Ans:
OR
Ans:
Ans:123, Rose Street
New Delhi
19th December 2025My Dear Rahul,
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to tell you about my birthday celebration this year.
This year, I celebrated my birthday at home with my family and a few close friends. We decorated the house with balloons and streamers. In the evening, we had a small party with games, music, and lots of delicious food. My parents surprised me with a chocolate cake, and we all sang the birthday song together. I also received some wonderful gifts from my friends and family.
It was a fun and memorable day, and I really enjoyed every moment of it. I wish you could have been here to celebrate with me.
Yours lovingly,
Tushar
OR
Ans:
To
The Principal
Springfield High School
123 Green Avenue, New Delhi
Date: 19th December 2025Subject: Application for Leave
Respected Sir,
I am Aarav Sharma, a student of Class 8-B. I kindly request you to grant me leave for two days, on 21st and 22nd December 2025, as I need to attend my brother Rohan Sharma's wedding.
I shall be grateful for your kind consideration.
Thank you,
Yours obediently,
Aarav Sharma
Class 8-B
Ans: The Importance of Healthy Eating
Healthy eating is essential for a strong body and a sharp mind. Consuming a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and dairy provides the necessary nutrients for growth and energy. It helps in preventing diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart problems. Eating on time and avoiding junk food improves concentration and boosts immunity. Drinking plenty of water and limiting sugary drinks also play a vital role in maintaining good health. By making healthy food choices, we not only feel energetic but also lead a long and active life. Schools and parents should encourage children to develop healthy eating habits from an early age.
Q10. Fill in the blanks by choosing the correct option. (3 marks)
(i) The train _____ at 6 a.m. every day.
(a) leave
(b) leaves
(c) leaving
(d) left
Ans: (b)
(ii) Rohan and his friends _____ football after school.
(a) plays
(b) played
(c) play
(d) playing
Ans: (c)
(iii) She _____ her homework before dinner yesterday.
(a) finish
(b) finishes
(c) finishing
(d) finished
Ans: (d)
Date: 21 December 2025
Dear Diary,
Today turned out to be one of the most unforgettable days of my life. I finally gathered the courage to speak to Neem Baba. Sitting under the old neem tree, he looked calm and wise, almost as if he knew I was coming. I hesitated at first, but he welcomed me with a smile that instantly comforted me.
I shared the confusion and fear that had been troubling my heart. Neem Baba listened patiently and reminded me that life always gives us choices, and we must choose with honesty and courage. He told me not to run away from problems, because doing so only makes them grow bigger. His words made me think deeply about myself and my actions.
What touched me most was his faith in me. He said that every young person has the strength to create a better world, and that mistakes are only lessons-if we learn from them. After talking to him, I felt lighter, more confident, and ready to face whatever comes next.
Tonight, I will sleep with a calm mind and a hopeful heart. Thank you, Neem Baba, for showing me the right path.
- Amber
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