English language & literature (code no. 184) with solutions
QUESTION – 1
Read the following text.
(1) Water is one of the most essential resources on Earth, yet it is often taken for granted. Despite its abundance, the reality is that only a small fraction of the world’s water is fresh and available for human use. With increasing populations, climate change, and industrial demands, the pressure on our water resources is growing. This makes water conservation not just a collective responsibility but a crucial individual duty. Each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource for future generations
(2) One of the primary reasons individual water conservation efforts are so important is the cumulative effect of small actions which may seem trivial on their own. However, when multiplied by millions of people, these actions can lead to substantial water savings. For example, a single dripping tap can waste over 15 litres of water a day. Imagine the water saved if every household in a city repaired just one leaky faucet. This highlights the power of collective individual actions in reducing water waste.
(3) Moreover, personal efforts towards water conservation often lead to greater awareness and education. When individuals take steps to conserve water, they become more conscious of their water usage and the importance of this resource. This awareness can then spread within communities, inspiring others to adopt similar practices. For instance, a family that installs water-saving devices in their home may encourage neighbours and friends to do the same, creating a ripple effect. This grassroots approach to conservation can be particularly effective in areas where larger-scale initiatives may be slow to implement or lacking in support.
(4) In addition to daily habits, individuals can also make a difference through more significant lifestyle choices. For instance, opting for drought-resistant plants in gardens and supporting water-efficient agriculture can all contribute to water conservation. Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is one of the largest consumers of water globally. By supporting sustainable farming practices, individuals can indirectly reduce the water footprint of their food.
(5) Critics might argue that individual efforts are negligible compared to the large-scale water consumption by industries and agriculture. However, this perspective overlooks the potential for individual actions to drive systemic change. When people collectively make water-conscious choices, they send a powerful message to businesses and policymakers about the importance of conservation.
(6) Each person’s commitment to saving water, no matter how small, contributes to a larger culture of sustainability. By making conscious choices and spreading awareness, individuals can help ensure that future generations can access the clean, fresh water they need to thrive. Water conservation is not just the responsibility of governments and industries; it is a shared duty that begins with each of us.
Source: CBSE Sample Paper 2024-25
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
I. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘each person’s effort towards conserving water can significantly impact the preservation of this vital resource’ emphasise?
ANS: It emphasises that personal responsibility is crucial in preserving water resources for future generations.
OR
ANS: It emphasises that small individual actions can collectively contribute to a substantial impact on water conservation.
II. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given. Water is often taken for granted, despite its essential nature because _________.
a) it is abundant and always easily accessible, making people less aware of its usage
b) its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value (paragraph 1)
ANS: b) its importance is not always recognised, leading people to overlook its value.
III. Support the writer’s idea that small individual actions towards water conservation are not trivial. (paragraph 2)
ANS: Small individual actions are impactful because collectively, they can result in substantial water conservation. For instance, repairing one dripping tap can save over 15 litres daily, demonstrating the power of collective efforts.
OR
ANS: When millions of people take similar small steps, like fixing leaky taps or reducing water usage, the cumulative effect becomes enormous.
IV. Select the option that best reflects the concept of a ‘ripple effect’ in the context of student life at school.
a) A student’s act of volunteering at a local charity leads to the school administration organising a large-scale fundraising event.
b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class. (paragraph 3)
ANS: b) A student who consistently follows good study practices inspires classmates to improve their study routines, creating a culture of academic excellence in the class.
V. State whether the following statement is True or False. (paragraph 3)
“This grassroots approach to conservation can be particularly effective in areas where larger-scale initiatives may be slow to implement or lacking in support.”
ANS: The statement is TRUE because large-scale initiatives require huge funds and efforts to bring change. So the grassroots approach can be more effective.
VI. The writer mentions ‘sustainable farming practices’ in paragraph 4. Which of the following is a sustainable farming practice?
A. Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides extensively to increase crop yields.
B. Clearing large areas of natural vegetation to expand farmland for organic farming.
C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
D. Relying solely on monoculture farming to maximise production efficiency.
ANS: C. Implementing crop rotation and using organic compost to maintain soil health.
VII. List any two points that a powerful message sent to businesses and policy makers about the importance of water conservation might include. (paragraph 5)
ANS: Any 2 points-
a) It will stress the need for businesses to implement water-efficient technologies and methods to reduce their overall water consumption.
b) It will highlight the necessity for policymakers to create and enforce regulations that promote water conservation at home and the workplace.
c) It can emphasise the importance of investing in public education and awareness campaigns about water conservation to encourage broader community participation.
VIII. Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given. (paragraph 6) In the phrase ‘culture of sustainability,’ the word ‘culture’ refers to _________
A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
B. The artistic and traditional practices specific to a community’s heritage.
C. The lifestyle habits and choices that are popular among the urbane
D. The techniques and methods used in development efforts
ANS: A. A set of beliefs and practices shared by a group
QUESTION – 2
Read the following text.
(1) A thorough study conducted across several villages of northwest India unveiled fascinating insights into the mural* landscape. It revealed that a significant majority, comprising around 80%, of these vibrant artworks are meticulously crafted by the villagers themselves. Approximately 15% of the murals stem from collaborative endeavours between villagers and local or visiting artists.
(2) Surprisingly, a small fraction, about 5%, of the murals are the result of sponsored initiatives, often commissioned by governmental or non-governmental organisations. These murals convey social messages ranging from education and environmental conservation to public health awareness.
(3) Among the locally crafted murals, nearly 55% depict scenes from mythology and folklore, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region. About 26 % of these murals showcase daily life in the villages, capturing moments of joy, struggle, and victory. The remaining 19% feature abstract or contemporary themes, reflecting evolving artistic expressions in rural settings.
(4) Further analysis reveals that among the locally crafted murals, nearly 63% are found on the walls of community centres, temples, and other public spaces. Around 27 % adorn the exterior walls of residential houses. The remaining 10% are scattered across schools, health centres, and other institutional buildings, serving as educational tools and sources of inspiration for the younger generation.
(5) To delve deeper, comparisons across various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact are crucial. Analysing these facets not only provides a comprehensive understanding of mural creation in northwest Indian villages but also unveils avenues for cultural preservation, community development, and creative expression.
Source: CBSE Sample Paper 2024-25
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above
I. What does the use of the phrase ‘fascinating insights’ by the writer, in paragraph 1, tell us about their feelings?
A. The writer is expressing surprise.
B. The writer is conveying boredom and frustration.
C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
D. The writer is showing disappointment.
ANS: I. C. The writer is indicating interest and enthusiasm.
II. Select the option that is true for the assertion and reason given below.
Assertion: The murals in northwest Indian villages are meticulously crafted.
Reason: The murals are the result of collaborative endeavours.
A. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
B. Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
D. The assertion is false, but the reason is true.
ANS: C. The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
III. Identify the word that indicates that the writer anticipated a higher percentage of sponsored initiative murals.
ANS: SURPRISINGLY
IV. How do the murals in northwest Indian villages contribute to community engagement and awareness?
ANS: The murals in northwest Indian villages foster community engagement by depicting local stories, traditions, and social issues. They serve as visual tools to raise awareness on important topics like education, health, and environment, encouraging discussions and collective action among villagers.
OR
Murals in northwest Indian villages enhance community engagement by visually representing cultural heritage and contemporary issues. These vibrant artworks stimulate dialogue, foster unity, and inspire community-driven initiatives.
V. Read the given prompt and select the correct option in the brackets to fill in the blank. In Hari’s village, a mural depicting sustainable farming practices is showcased on the Panchayat office wall. The percentage of mural type that this would be counted in is. (26% / 19% / 55%)
ANS: 19% (category that features abstract or contemporary themes)
VI. What does the highest percentage of different mural themes suggest about the artistic preferences and cultural priorities in northwest Indian villages?
ANS: The highest percentage (55%) of mural themes in northwest Indian villages reflects strong artistic preferences towards them. Dominant themes, such as folklore, festivals, and mythology indicate a deep-rooted connection to heritage.
VII. Complete the sentence suitably. The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses highlight __________.
ANS: The significant presence of murals on the exterior walls of residential houses highlights the community’scommitment to preserving traditions vis-a-vis depicting their artistic expression and raising awareness on social and environmental issues.
VIII. Complete the following with a suitable reason. The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an ‘educational tool’ is because it can ____________.
ANS: The most likely reason the writer believes that a mural can serve as an “educational tool” is because it can visually communicate important messages, values, and lessons in an engaging and accessible way, reaching a wide audience regardless of literacy levels.
IX. In the context of the last paragraph, describe the significance of comparing various parameters such as demographic patterns, subject matter, techniques, community engagement, and impact in understanding the mural landscape in northwest Indian villages.
ANS: It offers a holistic view of mural creation in northwest Indian villages. This analysis also helps to identify new ways for cultural preservation, community development, and creative expression.
Q 3 – will be added soon
QUESTION 4 A
You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in about 120 words, to the Project Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse effects of e-waste* pollution. Suggest measures for addressing its management through community
engagement and government initiatives.
*Discarded electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions, which are no longer in use or have reached the end of their lifecycle. |
You are Nirmal Pillai, a concerned citizen from Aluva, Kochi. Compose a letter in about 120 words, to the Project Head of the E-Waste Management Cell at Electronics Vatika, New Delhi, highlighting the adverse effects of e-waste pollution.
Aluva, Kochi
24th September, 2024
To
The Project Head
E-Waste Management Cell
Electronics Vatika
New Delhi
Subject: Concerns and Suggestions Regarding E-Waste Pollution
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to bring attention to the growing issue of e-waste pollution. Discarded electronic waste materials are non-biodegradable and contain numerous harmful chemicals. These toxic substances can seep into the soil and water, posing serious risks to the environment and human health too. Additionally, e-waste contributes to the expansion of landfills, leading to a shortage of available space.
To address this, I suggest launching community awareness programs to educate the public on proper e-waste recycling practices. Furthermore, the government should facilitate easy access to e-waste collection points and promote recycling through incentives. Holding manufacturers accountable for their products after their lifecycle ends would also be an effective step in reducing e-waste.
I hope these suggestions are considered for the benefit of our environment.
Yours sincerely,
Nirmal Pillai
QUESTION 4 B
You are Chhavi Pathak of Ranchi, Bihar. Write a letter in about 120 words addressing the Secretary of the City Municipal Authority. Detail the problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in the neighbourhood and request the delegation of personnel for regular pruning.
C-45, Ranchi,
Bihar
October 7, 2024
The Secretary
City Municipal Authority
Ranchi, Bihar
Subject: Request for Regular Pruning of Overgrown Trees and Shrubs
Dear Sir/Madam,
This is to draw your attention to the problem of overgrown trees and shrubs in our neighbourhood. These plants have grown excessively and are blocking roads and streetlights, which reduces visibility on the roads. Falling branches may also pose a potential safety risk, especially during the monsoon season.
I kindly request that you delegate personnel to prune and maintain these trees and shrubs regularly. This will ensure the area remains safe and well-lit for the community.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Chhavi Pathak
QUESTION 5 A
Q Read the product details on the label for a school bag:
ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG
1. Made from recycled materials
2. Ergonomic* design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel
3. Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers
4. Reflective strips for visibility and safety
5. Water-resistant fabric
6. Available in various vibrant colours and patterns
Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its ecofriendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects, and design options.
- Design that is intended to maximise comfort, efficiency, and safety for the user
Question Source: CBSE Sample Paper 2024-25
ANS: ANALYTICAL PARAGRAPH
This eco-friendly school bag is an excellent purchase due to its sustainable and practical features. Made from recycled materials, it promotes environmental responsibility, which is increasingly important for conscious consumers. The ergonomic design, with padded shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel, ensures comfort, even during extended use. Its spacious main compartment, equipped with multiple pockets and organizers, enhances functionality, allowing students to separately store books, stationery and other essentials. Reflective strips keep children safe by making them more visible to drivers in low light. Furthermore, the water-resistant fabric protects books and copies from rain. Lastly, its availability in various vibrant colours and patterns adds a stylish, customizable touch, appealing to students of different tastes.
OR
The Eco-Friendly School Bag offers numerous benefits, making it a wise purchase for students. First, its eco-friendly construction, made from recycled materials, supports environmental sustainability. The ergonomic design with padded shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel ensures comfort, reducing strain during daily use. Additionally, the bag’s spacious main compartment, multiple pockets, and organizers enhance functionality, providing ample space for books and essentials. Safety is prioritized with reflective strips, improving visibility during low-light conditions. The water-resistant fabric protects belongings from rain or spills, adding durability. Lastly, its variety of vibrant colours and patterns allows students to express their style. Overall, this school bag is a practical, safe, and eco-conscious choice for students.
OR
Simplest Answer
The Eco-Friendly School Bag is a great choice for students because of its many useful features. It’s made from recycled materials, which helps protect the environment. The padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel make it comfortable to carry. With a big main compartment and several pockets, it has plenty of space to organize books and other items. The reflective strips make it safer for kids to be seen in the dark. The water-resistant fabric keeps everything inside dry, even in rain. Moreover, the bag comes in different bright colours and patterns, so students can pick one they like. Overall, this bag is a smart, safe, and eco-friendly option for school.
QUESTION 5 B
Q 5(B) Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area.
A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture,
such as a miniature fort, with multiple levels and slides.
Swings adorned with colourful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a
zip line.
A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers
Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional
chaupals or gazebos.
Trees, shrubs, and flower beds
Ample open space
Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the
suitability of this playground.
Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, and suitability for different age
groups, and overall experience.
Source: CBSE Sample paper 2024-25
Explanation of the Question (Analytical Paragraph Writing)
You need to analyze (study carefully) the details of a playground being planned for your area. Think about:
- Safety: Is the playground safe for children to play?
- Inclusivity: Can children of all abilities and backgrounds use it?
- Fun Features: Does it have activities that kids will enjoy?
- Age Groups: Is it suitable for both small kids and older ones?
- Overall Experience: Will people feel happy and relaxed using the playground?
Sample Analytical Paragraph
The proposed playground for our area seems highly suitable for children and families. Its central climbing structure, inspired by traditional Indian architecture, offers a safe and exciting activity for kids of all ages. Features like swings with Indian patterns, monkey bars, and a zip line add fun and variety. The water play area is creative and refreshing, especially during summer. Shaded seating areas resembling chaupals provide comfort for parents and caregivers, encouraging inclusivity. Additionally, the trees and flower beds enhance the space’s beauty and provide shade. With ample open space, it is perfect for activities like running and group games. Overall, this playground blends safety, fun, and cultural richness, making it ideal for everyone in the community.
SECTION D: LITERATURE TEXTBOOK
QUESTION – 6
6 Read the given extracts and answer any one of the two questions given below.
A With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still. He could hear nothing. But it only lasted a minute. The next moment he felt his wings spread outwards. The wind rushed against his breast feathers, then under his stomach, and against his wings. He could feel the tips of his wings cutting through the air. He was not falling headlong now. He was soaring gradually downwards and outwards. (His First Flight)
I What effect does the experience, as described in the lines below, have on the baby seagull?
‘With a loud scream he fell outwards and downwards into space. Then a monstrous terror seized him and his heart stood still.’
Choose the most suitable option.
A. exhilarates
B. overwhelms
C. energises
D. confuses
ANS: B. Overwhelms
II How does the author’s use of descriptive language enhance the narrative technique in the paragraph?
ANS: The author’s use of descriptive language makes the incident real-like and lets the reader visualise and feel the emotions of the baby seagull.
III Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket.
The use of the word ‘rushed’ adds to the sense of (speed/relief), in the extract.
ANS: speed
IV How does the seagull’s feelings towards the end of the extract contrast with the initial feeling of terror?
ANS: The seagull’s initial feeling of terror contrasts sharply with the sense of excitement and achievement as it learns to fly and soars.
B And Suddenly Bholi noticed that the teacher was standing by her side, smiling at her. “What’s your name, little one?” “Bh-Bho-Bho-.” She could stammer no further than that. Then she began to cry and tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood. She kept her head down as she sat in her corner, not daring to look up at the girls who, she knew, were still laughing at her. When the school bell rang, all the girls scurried out of the classroom, but Bholi dared not leave her corner. Her head still lowered and she kept on sobbing. “Bholi.” The teacher’s voice was so soft and soothing! In all her life she had never been
called like that. It touched her heart. (Bholi)
I What is the tone the teacher is UNLIKELY to have used in the line, ‘“What’s your name, little one?”.’
A. reassuring
B. comforting
C. settling
D. calming
ANS: C. settling
II How does the author’s use of Bholi ‘s perspective help build the narrative in the extract?
ANS: It allows the author to convey the impact of the teacher’s kindness and the cruelty of her classmates’ laughter more effectively.
III Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket. The word ‘flood’ in the line ‘…tears flowed from her eyes in a helpless flood.’This indicates that Bholi was crying (uncontrollably / unintentionally).
ANS: uncontrollably
IV How does the teacher’s comforting demeanour contrast with the behaviour of other girls in the classroom?
ANS: While the teacher tries to support and encourage Bholi to speak, the girls’ laughter pushes her back towards hesitation.
Q 7 (A) POETRY
Read the given extracts and answer the questions for any one of the two, given.
He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage. (Tiger in the Zoo)
I What is the most likely reason the poet chooses to say ‘vivid’ stripes instead of just stating the colours of the stripes?
ANS: because the stripes are very clear and bright. The word ‘vivid’ might be used to show the attention-catching quality of the tiger’s appearance.
II Fill the blank with ONE word.
The tiger’s stalking suggests a movement that he is _____________ within the confines of its cage.
ANS: restless
III How does the poet reinforce the contrast between the tiger’s confined environment and its internal emotions?
ANS: By using the word ‘quiet’ twice in the given lines.
IV Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the given extract.
A. Sings aloud in the morn, This bird so small and sweet, Perched on a branch green, Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet. | B. Perched on a branch green, This bird so sweet and lean, Sings aloud in a voice sweet, Chirp, chirp, tweet, tweet. |
C. This bird sings without a care, sweet Perched on a branch green, A song with the world to share, With its feelings so keen. | D. This bird so small and Sings aloud in the morn Perched on a green branch Singing its own melody |
ANS: The rhyming scheme of the given comprehension is – ABCB
The correct answer is option (A). (There are some printing errors in the question paper.)
Q 7(B) POETRY
Belinda paled, and she cried Help! Help!
But Mustard fled with a terrified yelp,
Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household,
And little mouse Blink strategically mouseholed.
(The Tale of Custard the Dragon)
I Examine the portrayal of Blink in the given lines.
ANS: The poet portrays Blink, the mouse, as quick-witted and strategic. When danger arises, Blink cleverly hides in its hole, emphasizing its cautious and self-preserving nature.
OR
The poet shows Blink, the mouse, as smart and careful. When danger comes, Blink quickly hides in its hole, showing it knows how to stay safe.
II Complete the following suitably. The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda __________________.
ANS: The word ‘paled’ implies that Belinda was overcome with fear and turned pale, showing her terror.
III What kind of picture is painted by the poet through the line, ‘Ink trickled down to the bottom of the household’?
ANS: The phrase ‘trickled down’ shows the slow and cautious movement of the cat to avoid danger. It is opposite to the mouse’s swift movement.
IV What kind of atmosphere is created through these lines? Select the correct option
- Urgency 2. Apprehension 3. Uncertainty 4. Mystery 5. Aggression
A. 1 and 4
B. Only 2
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 4 and 5
ANS: C. 1, 2 and 3
Q 8 LITERATURE
Answer any four of the following five questions, in about 40-50 words. 4×3=12
I How does the ignorance about Mijbil as a creature in the urban environment of London reveal insights into people’s perceptions and knowledge regarding animals? (Mijbil the Otter) 3 marks
ANS: The ignorance about Mijbil in London shows how people often lack knowledge about unfamiliar animals. Their curiosity and surprise at seeing an otter reveal how urban environments limit understanding of nature and its creatures, leading to narrow perceptions about wildlife.
II How does the imagery of the trees’ movement from the house to the forest, in‘Trees’, reflect broader themes of liberation and growth in human experiences? 3 marks
ANS: The movement of trees from the house to the forest symbolizes freedom and growth. It reflects human desires for liberation from confinement, portraying life’s constant struggle to break free from restrictions and embrace natural growth and independence.
III What does the postmaster’s reaction to Lencho’s letter reveal about his character? (A Letter to God) 3 Marks
ANS: The postmaster was surprised to see Lencho’s letter to God. He admired Lencho’s strong faith and did not want to disappoint him. He decided to help by collecting money from his colleagues and sending it to Lencho in God’s name. This shows that the postmaster was kind, helpful, and had a good heart.
IV Assess the narrative’s effectiveness in portraying the tension between the comfort of familiarity and the allure of the unfamiliar in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. 3 marks
ANS: The narrative effectively portrays the tension between familiarity and the unfamiliar in Madam Rides the Bus. Valli’s excitement about her bus journey reflects her desire to explore the unknown, while her reluctance to step outside the bus shows her attachment to safety and familiarity.
V Summarise the role of the use of parentheses in the poem ‘Amanda!’.
ANS: The parentheses in ‘Amanda!’ represent Amanda’s silent thoughts, contrasting her mother’s scolding. They highlight Amanda’s longing for freedom and imagination, emphasizing her inner world amidst external criticism.
Q 9
9 Answer any two of the following three questions, in about 40-50 words. 2×3=6
I. How does Matilda’s desire for material wealth drive the plot of ‘The Necklace’?
ANS: Matilda’s desire for a luxurious lifestyle leads her to borrow a necklace to attend a grand party. She loses the necklace and replaces it with an expensive one, plunging herself and her husband into ten years of hardship to repay the debt. This twist shapes the story’s tragic irony.
II. Justify the opinion that Ebright’s early successes were essential for his later achievements in science.
ANS: Ebright’s early successes, such as winning competitions for his butterfly collection and research, built his confidence and honed his scientific skills. These achievements nurtured his curiosity, discipline, and determination, paving the way for his significant contributions to science later in life.
III. How does ‘The Book that Saved the Earth’ include elements of satirical science fiction?
The play humorously depicts Earth being saved by a book of nursery rhymes mistaken as a weapon by Martians. It uses satire to mock human fears and the absurdity of misunderstandings while blending futuristic concepts like Martian invaders with light-hearted storytelling.
Q 10
10 Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words 6 marks
I. Both poems ‘Dust of Snow’ and ‘Fire and Ice’ use contrasting elements of nature to convey their respective messages about life and human emotions but they do it differently.
In ‘Dust of Snow,’ Robert Frost uses gentle and positive elements of nature, like snow, a Hemlock tree, and a crow, to highlight how small acts in nature can uplift one’s mood and transform a day. The poem conveys hope and positivity. On the other hand, in ‘Fire and Ice,’ Frost uses destructive forces of nature, fire symbolizing desire and ice symbolizing hatred, to explore the destructive potential of human emotions. The poem warns of catastrophic consequences when emotions like greed and hatred go unchecked. While one poem celebrates nature’s healing power, the other reflects on the darker side of human emotions, showcasing contrasting themes and tones.
II. Both the texts, ‘For Anne Gregory’ and ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ grapple with the idea that external attributes are fleeting and subject to decay. Examine the similarities.
Both ‘For Anne Gregory’ and ‘The Sermon at Benares’ emphasize the transient nature of external appearances and material aspects of life. In the poem, W.B. Yeats conveys that physical beauty is superficial and temporary, as true love should value inner qualities. Similarly, in ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ Lord Buddha teaches that life’s attachments and desires, including physical attributes, lead to suffering and are impermanent. Both texts encourage focusing on inner values rather than fleeting external traits. The poem addresses personal relationships, while the sermon offers a broader spiritual message. Despite their contexts, both stress the importance of inner essence over outer appearances.
Q 11
11 Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 100-120 words. 6 marks
I. Evaluate how Griffin’s character is shaped by a combination of personal ambition, the unintended consequences of his scientific pursuits, and the reactions of the society he faces.
Griffin’s character in ‘The Invisible Man’ reflects a mix of ambition and its consequences. His desire to achieve invisibility shows his brilliance and determination, but his lack of moral responsibility leads to chaos. Griffin’s experiment makes him invisible but isolates him, as society fears and rejects him. This rejection makes him bitter, and he uses his power selfishly, creating destruction. His story shows how unchecked ambition and unethical choices can lead to downfall, especially when society reacts negatively. Griffin’s experiences highlight the dangers of ignoring morality in pursuing personal goals.
II. Evaluate how James Herriot’s characterisation contributes significantly to the overarching theme of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
In ‘James Herriot’s stories,’ his compassionate and observant character highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. Herriot’s gentle handling of animals and his efforts to educate owners about their pets’ needs reflect his dedication. Through his encounters with careless or loving pet owners, he emphasizes the responsibility humans have toward animals. His empathy and patience with both animals and their owners inspire readers to value and care for pets properly. Herriot’s actions and personality connect deeply with the theme of treating animals with kindness and ensuring their well-being.
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