Maximum Marks: 80
Time allowed: Two hours
Answers to this Paper must be written on the paper provided separately.
You will not be allowed to write during the first 15 minutes.
This time is to be spent in reading the question paper.
The time given at the head of this Paper is the time allowed for writing the answers.
Attempt all five questions.
The intended marks for questions or parts of questions are given in brackets [ ].
You are advised to spend not more than 30 minutes in answering Question 1 and 20 minutes in answering Question 2
Question 1
(Do not spend more than 30 minutes on this question.)
Write a composition (300 – 350 words) on any one of the following: [20]
- Write an original short story entitled ‘The Secret’.
- ‘A family without pets is an incomplete family’. Express your views either for or against this statement.
- Which do you prefer – morning, afternoon, evening, or night? Describe your favourite time of the day. What are the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings that you associate with your favourite time of the day? Why do you like this part of the day better than the others?
- Have you ever said or done something that changed the life of another person? Give an account of your words or actions that led to this change and describe how the experience made you feel.
- Study the picture given below. Write a story or a description or an account of what it suggests to you. Your composition may be about the subject of the picture or you may take suggestions from it; however, there must be a clear connection between the picture and your composition.
Solution 1 (a)
Riya had always been curious about the small, locked box her grandmother kept on the top shelf of her wardrobe. Whenever she asked about it, her grandmother would simply smile and say, “One day, when the time is right, you will know.”
Years passed, and the box remained a mystery. Riya’s grandmother grew older, and one day, she fell seriously ill. As Riya sat by her bedside, her grandmother took her hand and whispered, “It’s time, Riya. The key is in my old diary, hidden in the study. Open the box and you’ll understand everything.”
Riya’s heart pounded as she hurried to the study. She found the diary tucked away in a drawer and, flipping through the pages, she found the small, rusty key. With trembling hands, she unlocked the box. Inside, there was an old, faded photograph of a young woman who looked strikingly like Riya. Alongside it was a letter, written in her grandmother’s delicate handwriting.
As Riya read the letter, she discovered a secret that had been buried for decades. The young woman in the photograph was her grandmother’s sister, Aarti, who had disappeared under mysterious circumstances many years ago. The letter explained that Aarti had fallen in love with a man from a different community, something that was forbidden at the time. They had planned to elope, but before they could leave, tragedy struck. Aarti’s lover was killed in an accident, and heartbroken, she left home and was never seen again.
Riya’s grandmother had kept this secret, hoping to protect the family from the shame and sorrow that it might bring. But as the years went by, the burden of this secret weighed heavily on her heart. She had always hoped to find Aarti, but never did.
With tears in her eyes, Riya realized that the box held not just a secret, but a tale of love, loss, and the weight of family honor. She gently placed the items back in the box, locking it once more. The secret was no longer a mystery, but a chapter in her family’s history that she would cherish and keep safe, just as her grandmother had done.
Solution 1 (b)
I believe that a family without pets is indeed an incomplete family. Pets bring a unique joy and warmth that cannot be replaced by anything else. They add life to a household and create a special bond that strengthens family ties.
Pets, whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, or even a fish, become a part of the family. They offer companionship, especially to those who may feel lonely or isolated. A pet’s unconditional love and loyalty can bring comfort and happiness, making every member of the family feel valued and loved.
For children, pets can be their best friends. Growing up with a pet teaches kids important values like responsibility, empathy, and compassion. Feeding the pet, taking it for walks, or simply playing with it teaches children how to care for another living being. These lessons stay with them throughout their lives and help shape them into better individuals.
Moreover, pets are great stress relievers. After a long, tiring day, coming home to a wagging tail or a purring cat can instantly lift your spirits. Their presence alone can reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security. Pets also encourage physical activity, whether it’s taking the dog for a walk or playing fetch in the park, which is beneficial for the entire family’s health.
However, having a pet also requires commitment and effort. They need proper care, time, and attention, but the rewards far outweigh the responsibilities. The love and happiness they bring to a family make every effort worthwhile.
Solution 1 (c)
My favorite time of the day is evening. There is something magical about the transition from day to night that makes the evening special for me. After the hustle and bustle of the day, evening brings a sense of calm and relaxation.
As the sun sets, the sky turns into a beautiful canvas of orange, pink, and purple hues. This sight always leaves me in awe of nature’s beauty. The soft, fading light creates a peaceful atmosphere, making everything seem calmer and more serene.
Evenings are filled with soothing sounds that I enjoy. The chirping of birds as they return to their nests, the distant laughter of children playing in the park, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze create a symphony that is both relaxing and refreshing. It’s a time when the world seems to slow down, and you can hear and appreciate the small sounds that often go unnoticed during the busy day.
The air in the evening carries a different scent too. I love the smell of fresh earth after a hot day, especially if it has just rained. The cool breeze often brings with it the fragrance of flowers from nearby gardens, which adds to the charm of this time.
Evenings also bring a feeling of contentment and reflection. It’s a time when I can sit back and think about the day that has passed, plan for the next, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with family. I often spend my evenings with a cup of tea, watching the sky change colors or talking with loved ones.
Compared to the morning rush, the heat of the afternoon, and the quietness of the night, evening strikes a perfect balance. It’s a time of day that combines the best of everything—peace, beauty, and a sense of closure to the day. This is why evening is my favorite time of the day.
Solution 1 (d)
A few years ago, I experienced something that taught me the power of small actions and how they can change someone’s life. It was during my final year in school, and I had a classmate named Ravi who was shy and often kept to himself. Many students ignored him, and some even teased him for being quiet and different. I noticed that he always sat alone during lunch breaks and rarely spoke in class.
One day, I decided to sit with Ravi during lunch. At first, he was surprised and a little hesitant, but I started talking to him about school, our subjects, and general things. Slowly, he began to open up. I learned that he was dealing with some problems at home, which made him withdrawn. He also shared that he found it difficult to make friends because he felt that no one understood him.
I continued to sit with him during breaks and included him in conversations with other classmates. I also encouraged him to join group activities and participate more in class. Over time, Ravi started to come out of his shell. He became more confident and began to interact more with others. The change in him was remarkable—he started smiling more, his grades improved, and he even joined the school’s chess club, where he excelled.
Seeing Ravi’s transformation made me feel incredibly happy and proud. I realized that sometimes, all a person needs is a little kindness and someone to believe in them. My small effort to reach out to Ravi had a big impact on his life. He became more outgoing and made new friends, which he had always wanted but didn’t know how to achieve.
This experience taught me that our words and actions, no matter how small they seem, can make a significant difference in someone’s life. It made me more aware of the importance of being kind and understanding towards others, as you never know what they might be going through. Helping Ravi gave me a sense of fulfillment and showed me the true value of empathy and friendship.
Question 2
(Do not spend more than 20 minutes on this question.)
Select any one of the following: [10]
- You have changed your school recently. Write a letter to your friend in your old school telling him/her what you like about your new school but also what you miss about your old school.
- Some taps in your locality are left open all day resulting in a tremendous waste of water. Write a letter to the Municipal Commissioner of your town/city, complaining about the problem. Suggest ways in which this waste of water can be prevented.
Solution 2 (a)
Letter to a Friend About Changing Schools
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Pin Code]
[Date]
Dear [Friend’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to tell you about my new school, [New School Name]. It’s really different here—there are more facilities, like a big library and sports complex, and the teachers are very supportive. I’ve even joined the basketball team!
But honestly, I miss our old school a lot. I miss our group, the fun we had during breaks, and all the familiar faces. Making new friends is taking time, and nothing can replace the memories we shared.
I hope we can meet up soon. Write back when you can!
Take care,
[Your Name]
Solution 2 (b)
Letter to the Municipal Commissioner About Water Wastage
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Pin Code]
[Date]
To,
The Municipal Commissioner,
[City Name],
[Address of Municipal Office],
[City, State, Pin Code]
Subject: Water Wastage Due to Open Taps in [Locality Name]
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am writing to inform you about the constant water wastage in our locality due to taps being left open all day. This is a serious concern, especially given the water shortages we face.
I request you to kindly arrange for repairs and consider placing awareness signs to prevent this wastage.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Question 3
- Your school is organising a fete/carnival to raise funds for victims of the recent floods in your State.
Write a notice to be put up on the school notice board giving details of the event. [5] - Write an e-mail to the Principal of a neighbouring school, inviting him/her to send their students to attend the fete/carnival. [5]
Solution 3 (a)
ABC School, [Your City]
NOTICE
Fete/Carnival to Raise Funds for Flood Victims
Date: [Date]
Our school is organizing a Fete/Carnival to raise funds for the victims of the recent floods in our state. The event will be filled with fun activities, games, food stalls, and entertainment for all. Details are as follows:
Date: [Date of the Event]
Time: [Start Time] to [End Time]
Venue: School Grounds
Entry Fee: [Amount]
All proceeds from the event will be donated to the flood relief fund. We encourage all students, parents, and staff to participate and contribute to this noble cause.
Let’s come together to make a difference!
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Date]
Solution 3 (b)
E-mail to the Principal of a Neighbouring School
Subject: Invitation to Attend Fete/Carnival for Flood Relief Fund
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to invite you and your students to our upcoming Fete/Carnival at ABC School, [Your City], on [Date]. The event is being organized to raise funds for the victims of the recent floods in our state.
The Fete will include a variety of activities, games, food stalls, and performances, making it a fun-filled day for everyone. We would be honored to have your students join us and contribute to this important cause.
Please let us know if your school would like to participate.
Thank you for your support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
ABC School, [Your City]
Question 4
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Attending classes inside a railway carriage seemed unusual enough, but the seating arrangements turned out to be unusual, too. At Totto-chan’s previous school each pupil was assigned a specific desk. But here they could sit anywhere they liked at any time.
The most unusual thing of all about this school, however, was the lessons themselves.
Schools normally schedule one subject, for example history, during the first period, when everyone in the class just did history; then say, arithmetic in the second period, when you just did arithmetic. But here it was quite different. At the beginning of the first period, the teacher made a list of all the problems and questions in the subjects to be studied that day. Then she would say, “Now, start with any of these you like.”
So, whether you started on history or arithmetic or something else didn’t matter at all. Someone who liked composition might be writing something, while behind you someone who liked chemistry might be boiling something in a flask over an alcohol burner.
This method of teaching enabled the teachers to observe — as the children progressed to higher grades — what they were interested in as well as their way of thinking and their character. It was an ideal way for teachers to really get to know their pupils.
As for the pupils, they loved being able to start with their favourite subject, the fact that they had all day to cope with the subjects they disliked meant they could usually manage them somehow. So, study was mostly independent, with pupils free to go and consult the teacher whenever necessary. Then pupils would be given further exercises to work at alone. It was study in the truest sense of the word, and it meant there were no pupils just sitting inattentively while the teacher talked and explained.
The first-grade pupils hadn’t quite reached the stage of independent study, but even they were allowed to start with any subject they wanted.
Some copied letters of the alphabet, some drew pictures, some read books, and some even did physical exercises.
Just then the boy sitting behind her got up and walked toward the blackboard with his notebook, apparently to consult the teacher. Totto-chan stopped looking around the room and fixed her eyes on his back as he walked. The boy dragged his leg, and his whole body swayed from side to side. Totto-chan wondered at first if he was doing it on purpose, but she soon realized the boy couldn’t help it.
The boy said brightly, “My name’s Yasuaki. What’s yours?”
She was so glad to hear him speak that she replied loudly, “I’m Totto-chan.”
Adapted from Totto-chan
(a) Give the meaning of the following words as used in the passage:
One-word answers or short phrases will be accepted.
- assigned
- ideal
- independent
(b) Answer the following questions briefly in your own words.
- What was unusual about the seating arrangement? [2]
- How did the method of teaching help the teacher? [2]
- Why did the pupils enjoy their lessons at this school? [2]
- What different things did the first-grade pupils do? [2]
- Which sentence in the passage tells us that the boy had difficulty in walking like other children? [1]
(c) In not more than 50 words, describe how the children were taught. [8]
Solution 4 (a)
- Assigned: Allocated or given a specific place or task.
- Ideal: Perfect or most suitable.
- Independent: Self-directed or not reliant on others.
Solution 4 (b)
- The unusual aspect of the seating arrangement was that students were not assigned specific desks. They could sit wherever they liked at any time.
- The method of teaching helped the teacher observe the students’ interests, thought processes, and character as they progressed to higher grades, allowing the teacher to better understand each student.
- The pupils enjoyed their lessons because they could start with their favorite subjects and had the freedom to study independently at their own pace, without being restricted to a fixed schedule.
- The first-grade pupils engaged in various activities such as copying letters of the alphabet, drawing pictures, reading books, and doing physical exercises.
- The sentence that indicates the boy had difficulty walking is: “The boy dragged his leg, and his whole body swayed from side to side.”
Solution 4 (c)
The children were taught through a flexible and independent learning system where they could choose which subject to study first. They worked on their own, consulted the teacher when needed, and received further exercises. This method allowed them to focus on their interests and learn at their own pace.
Question 5
(a) Fill in each of the numbered blanks with the correct form of the word given in brackets. Do not copy the passage but write in correct serial order the word or phrase appropriate to the blank space. [4]
Example:
(0) taught
By the time she was three, Matilda had (0) ____ (teach) herself to read by (1) ____ (study) newspapers and magazines that (2) ____ (lie) around the house. At the age of four, she could (3) ____ (read) fast and well and she naturally began (4) ____ (hanker) after books. The only book in the whole of this enlightened household was something called Easy Cooking (5) ____________ (belong) to her mother, and when she had read this from cover to cover and had (6) ____ (learn) all the recipes by heart, she (7) ____ (decide) she (8) ____ (want) something more interesting.
(b) Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.
- It has been raining ____ two hours.
- He just scraped ____ his examination.
- Mrs. Kapoor was bent ____ attending the meeting.
- She is proud and looks ____ on her colleagues.
- Rahul plays football ____ his grandfather.
- The mother was sitting ____ the sick child all night.
- Monica is leaning ____the wall.
- Rosie is very good ____ art and craft.
(c) Join the following sentences to make one complete sentence without using and, but or so: [4]
- Sarah and Tyra are twins. They look exactly alike.
- Rohan does not like to play cricket. He does not like to play hockey either.
- Sania pushed as hard as she could. The door would not open.
- The school bus drove through the gate. The clock was striking eight at that moment.
(d) Re-write the following sentences according to the instructions given after each. Make other changes that may be necessary, but do not change the meaning of each sentence. [8]
(i) The librarian orders books for the school library every year.
(Begin: Books…)
(ii) No one will deny that the children have worked very hard this year.
(Begin: Everyone…)
(iii) As soon as the teacher enters, she is greeted by her students.
(Begin: No sooner…)
(iv) She is so busy that she finds no time to entertain her friends.
(Rewrite using ‘too’)
(v) In spite of the very hot weather, Kevin stepped out to buy some bread.
(Begin: Despite.…)
(vi) Sheela will be selected for the competition only if she goes for the auditions.
(Begin: Unless….)
(vii) I would rather eat fruit than a lot of unhealthy junk food.
(Begin: I prefer….)
(viii) The tree was cut down ruthlessly.
(Begin: They…)
Solution 5 (a)
By the time she was three, Matilda had (0) taught (teach) herself to read by (1) studying (study) newspapers and magazines that (2) were lying (lie) around the house. At the age of four, she could (3) read (read) fast and well and she naturally began (4) to hanker (hanker) after books. The only book in the whole of this enlightened household was something called Easy Cooking (5) belonging (belong) to her mother, and when she had read this from cover to cover and had (6) learned (learn) all the recipes by heart, she (7) decided (decide) she (8) wanted (want) something more interesting.
Solution 5 (b)
- It has been raining for two hours.
- He just scraped through his examination.
- Mrs. Kapoor was bent on attending the meeting.
- She is proud and looks down on her colleagues.
- Rahul plays football with his grandfather.
- The mother was sitting by the sick child all night.
- Monica is leaning against the wall.
- Rosie is very good at art and craft.
Solution 5 (c)
- Sarah and Tyra, who are twins, look exactly alike.
- Rohan neither likes to play cricket nor hockey.
- Despite Sania pushing as hard as she could, the door would not open.
- The school bus drove through the gate while the clock was striking eight.
Solution 5 (d)
- Books for the school library are ordered by the librarian every year.
- Everyone acknowledges that the children have worked very hard this year.
- No sooner does the teacher enter than she is greeted by her students.
- She is too busy to find time to entertain her friends.
- Despite the very hot weather, Kevin stepped out to buy some bread.
- Unless Sheela goes for the auditions, she will not be selected for the competition.
- I prefer eating fruit to eating a lot of unhealthy junk food.
- They cut down the tree ruthlessly.
