English Core (301) · Class XII · Chapter-wise Board Questions

(1) Ratan, a global brand in Dairy products, works on a business model popularly known as, ‘The Ratan Model’. This model aims to provide value for money to the customers and protect the interests of farmers simultaneously.

(2) The Ratan Model is a three-tiered structure that is implemented in its Dairy production : Firstly, Ratan acts as a direct link between milk producers and consumers that removes the middlemen. Secondly, farmers (milk producers) control procurement, processing and marketing. Thirdly, it is a professionally managed organization.

(3) One can understand the Ratan Model better by taking cognizance of ‘Ratan’s Target Audience’, where it has targeted the mass market of India with no premium offerings and works on providing the best quality products at affordable prices.

(4) So Ratan formulates its pricing policy on the low cost price strategy which has attracted a lot of customers in the past and it continues to do so.

(5) Another stance used by Ratan’s Target Audience is based on customer-wise targeting and industry wise targeting. This strategy divides the target audience on the following two bases :

(6) Segment wise break down of Customer – Based target Audience

Customers	Ratan products
Kids	Chocolate, Ratan cool, Ratan milk.
Youth	Ratan Pizza Cheese, Cheese spread.
Health Conscious	Ratan Shakti, Ratan Lite, Butter.

The above table showcases how Ratan has a diversified customer base.

(7) Industry Based Target Audience : Ratan has segmented milk for various industries such as ice-cream manufacturers, restaurants, coffee shops, and many similar industries. Further, it has segmented butter, ghee and cheese for bakeries, snack retailers, confectioneries, and many more.

(8) The target audience study tells us that Ratan has a strong presence in both Business to Business and Business-to-Customers.

(9) Ratan’s marketing campaigns and strategies are implemented in a very attractive way. For example, the story of the ‘Ratan Girl’ is a popular ‘ad’ icon. It is a hand drawn cartoon of a young girl.

Based on your understanding of the passage answer any six out of the seven questions given below : [1 × 6 = 6]

(i) What does ‘The Ratan Model’ aim at ? [1]

(ii) In dairy production how many tiers are there ? [1]

(iii) ‘Ratan acts as a direct link ...........’. Explain. [1]

(iv) ‘Ratan Target audience’ is described as a diversified market. Explain with reference to the given table. [1]

(v) Name the two basis on which Ratan divides the target audience. [1]

(vi) In which two spheres does Ratan have a strong presence ? [1]

(vii) Which is the most loved ad icon of Ratan ? [1]

(1) Our history makes it evident that the Indian Plastics Industry made a vigorous beginning in 1957 but it took more than 30 years for it to pervade Indian lifestyles. In 1979, ‘the market for plastics’ was just being seeded by the State-owned Indian Petrochemicals and it was only in 1994 that plastic soft drink bottles became a visible source of annoyance.

(2) In the same year, people in other cities were concerned about the state of public sanitation and also urged regulatory bodies to ban the production, distribution and use of plastic bags. However, the challenge was greater than it appeared at first.

(3) The massive generation of plastic waste in India is due to rapid urbanisation, spread of retail chains, plastic packaging from grocery to food and vegetable products, to consumer items and cosmetics. The projected high growth rates of GDP and continuing rapid urbanisation suggests that India’s trajectory of plastic consumption and plastic waste is likely to increase.

[Graph – Our World in Data] Global plastics production, 1950 to 2020. Annual global polymer resin and fiber production (plastic production), measured in metric tonnes per year. Line graph, series: World; vertical axis from 0 tonnes to 400 million tonnes (in steps of 50 million tonnes); horizontal axis: 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2015, 2020.

(4) According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report of 2018, India stands among few other countries like France, Mongolia and several African countries that have initiated total or partial national level bans on plastics in their jurisdictions. On World Environment Day in 2018, India vowed to phase out single-use plastics by 2022, which gave a much needed impetus to bring this change.

(5) In this context, thereafter, ten States (Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Odisha, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu) are currently sending their collected waste to cement plants for co-processing. Twelve other States/UTs are using plastic waste for polymer bitumen road construction and still four other States are using the plastic waste for waste-to-energy plants and oil production. A world of greater possibilities has now opened up to initiate appropriate and concrete actions to build up the necessary institutions and systems before oceans turn, irreversibly, into a thin soup of plastic.

(6) However, there is no one single masterstroke to counter the challenges witnessed by the staggering plastic waste management in the country. The time is now to formulate robust and inclusive National Action Plans, and while doing so, the country will establish greater transparency to combat the plastic jeopardy in a more sustainable and holistic way.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any six out of the seven questions given below : [6 × 1 = 6]

(i) What does the writer mean by ‘visible source of annoyance’ ? [1]

(ii) Why did people demand a ban on plastics ? [1]

(iii) What created a demand for plastics in India ? [1]

(iv) What does the line, ‘oceans turn, irreversibly into a thin soup of plastic’, suggest ? [1]

(v) What step can be taken to combat the challenges of plastic waste management ? What will be its impact ? [1]

(vi) With reference to the graph, write one conclusion that can be drawn about the production of plastics in 2019 (approximately). [1]

(vii) What does the upward trend of the graph indicate ? [1]

(1) Ratan, a global brand in Dairy products, works on a business model popularly known as, ‘The Ratan Model’. This model aims to provide value for money to the customers and protect the interests of farmers simultaneously.

(2) The Ratan Model is a three-tiered structure that is implemented in its Dairy production : Firstly, Ratan acts as a direct link between milk producers and consumers that removes the middlemen. Secondly, farmers (milk producers) control procurement, processing and marketing. Thirdly, it is a professionally managed organization.

(3) One can understand the Ratan Model better by taking cognizance of ‘Ratan’s Target Audience’, where it has targeted the mass market of India with no premium offerings and works on providing the best quality products at affordable prices.

(4) So Ratan formulates its pricing policy on the low cost price strategy which has attracted a lot of customers in the past and it continues to do so.

(5) Another stance used by Ratan’s Target Audience is based on customer-wise targeting and industry wise targeting. This strategy divides the target audience on the following two bases :

(6)

Segment wise break down of Customer – Based target Audience
Customers	Ratan products
Kids	Chocolate, Ratan cool, Ratan milk.
Youth	Ratan Pizza Cheese, Cheese spread.
Health Conscious	Ratan Shakti, Ratan Lite, Butter.

The above table showcases how Ratan has a diversified customer base.

(7) Industry Based Target Audience : Ratan has segmented milk for various industries such as ice-cream manufacturers, restaurants, coffee shops, and many similar industries. Further, it has segmented butter, ghee and cheese for bakeries, snack retailers, confectioneries, and many more.

(8) The target audience study tells us that Ratan has a strong presence in both Business to Business and Business-to-Customers.

(9) Ratan’s marketing campaigns and strategies are implemented in a very attractive way. For example, the story of the ‘Ratan Girl’ is a popular ‘ad’ icon. It is a hand drawn cartoon of a young girl.

Based on your understanding of the passage answer any six out of the seven questions given below : 1 × 6 = 6

(i) What does ‘The Ratan Model’ aim at ? [1]

(ii) In dairy production how many tiers are there ? [1]

(iii) ‘Ratan acts as a direct link ...........’. Explain. [1]

(iv) ‘Ratan Target audience’ is described as a diversified market. Explain with reference to the given table. [1]

(v) Name the two basis on which Ratan divides the target audience. [1]

(vi) In which two spheres does Ratan have a strong presence ? [1]

(vii) Which is the most loved ad icon of Ratan ? [1]

(1) Our history makes it evident that the Indian Plastics Industry made a vigorous beginning in 1957 but it took more than 30 years for it to pervade Indian lifestyles. In 1979, ‘the market for plastics’ was just being seeded by the State-owned Indian Petrochemicals and it was only in 1994 that plastic soft drink bottles became a visible source of annoyance.

(2) In the same year, people in other cities were concerned about the state of public sanitation and also urged regulatory bodies to ban the production, distribution and use of plastic bags. However, the challenge was greater than it appeared at first.

(3) The massive generation of plastic waste in India is due to rapid urbanisation, spread of retail chains, plastic packaging from grocery to food and vegetable products, to consumer items and cosmetics. The projected high growth rates of GDP and continuing rapid urbanisation suggests that India’s trajectory of plastic consumption and plastic waste is likely to increase.

Global plastics production, 1950 to 2020 (Our World in Data)
Annual global polymer resin and fiber production (plastic production), measured in metric tonnes per year.
[Line graph: vertical axis 0 tonnes to 400 million tonnes; horizontal axis 1950 to 2020; one line, ‘World’, rising steadily from 1950 to about 400 million tonnes around 2019–2020.]

(4) According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report of 2018, India stands among few other countries like France, Mongolia and several African countries that have initiated total or partial national level bans on plastics in their jurisdictions. On World Environment Day in 2018, India vowed to phase out single-use plastics by 2022, which gave a much needed impetus to bring this change.

(5) In this context, thereafter, ten States (Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Odisha, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu) are currently sending their collected waste to cement plants for co-processing. Twelve other States/UTs are using plastic waste for polymer bitumen road construction and still four other States are using the plastic waste for waste-to-energy plants and oil production. A world of greater possibilities has now opened up to initiate appropriate and concrete actions to build up the necessary institutions and systems before oceans turn, irreversibly, into a thin soup of plastic.

(6) However, there is no one single masterstroke to counter the challenges witnessed by the staggering plastic waste management in the country. The time is now to formulate robust and inclusive National Action Plans, and while doing so, the country will establish greater transparency to combat the plastic jeopardy in a more sustainable and holistic way.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any six out of the seven questions given below:

(i) What does the writer mean by ‘visible source of annoyance’? [1]

(ii) Why did people demand a ban on plastics? [1]

(iii) What created a demand for plastics in India? [1]

(iv) What does the line, ‘oceans turn, irreversibly into a thin soup of plastic’, suggest? [1]

(v) What step can be taken to combat the challenges of plastic waste management? What will be its impact? [1]

(vi) With reference to the graph, write one conclusion that can be drawn about the production of plastics in 2019 (approximately). [1]

(vii) What does the upward trend of the graph indicate? [1]

(1) Our history makes it evident that the Indian Plastics Industry made a vigorous beginning in 1957 but it took more than 30 years for it to pervade Indian lifestyles. In 1979, ‘the market for plastics’ was just being seeded by the state-owned Indian Petro-Chemicals and it was only in 1994 that plastic soft drink bottles became a visible source of annoyance.

(2) In the same year, people in other cities were concerned about the state of public sanitation and also urged regulatory bodies to ban the production, distribution and use of plastic bags. However the challenge was greater than it appeared at first.

(3) The massive generation of plastic waste in India is due to rapid urbanisation, spread of retail chains, plastic packaging from grocery to food and vegetable products, to consumer items and cosmetics. The projected high growth rates of GDP and continuing rapid urbanisation suggest that India’s trajectory of plastic consumption and plastic waste is likely to increase.

[Graph, placed after paragraph 3] Global plastics production, 1950 to 2020
Annual global polymer resin and fiber production (plastic production), measured in metric tonnes per year. (Our World in Data)
Line graph, one line labelled ‘World’: vertical axis from 0 tonnes to 400 Million tonnes in steps of 50 Million tonnes; horizontal axis marked 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2015, 2020.
Source : Geyer et.al. (2017)

(4) According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report of 2018, India stands among few other countries like France, Mongolia and several African countries that have initiated total or partial national-level bans on plastics in their jurisdictions. On World Environment Day in 2018, India vowed to phase out single-use plastics by 2022, which gave a much needed impetus to bring this change.

(5) In this context, thereafter ten states (Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya, Odisha, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu) are currently sending their collected waste to cement plants for co-processing, twelve other states/UTs are using plastic waste for polymer bitumen road construction and still four other states are using the plastic waste for waste-to-energy plants and oil production. A world of greater possibilities has now opened up to initiate appropriate and concrete actions to build up the necessary institutions and systems before oceans turn, irreversibly into a thin soup of plastic.

(6) However there is no one single masterstroke to counter the challenges witnessed by the staggering plastic waste management in the country. The time is now to formulate robust and inclusive National Action Plans and while doing so, the country will establish greater transparency to combat the plastic jeopardy in a more sustainable and holistic way.

(i) What does the writer mean by ‘visible source of annoyance’ ? [1]

(ii) Why did people demand a ban on plastics ? [1]

(iii) What created a demand for plastics in India ? [1]

(iv) With reference to the graph write one conclusion that can be drawn about the production of plastics in 2019 (approximately). [1]

(v) What does the upward trend of the graph indicate ? [1]

(vi) What does the line, oceans turning ‘irreversibly into a thin soup of plastic’, suggest ? [1]

(vii) What step must be taken to combat the challenges of plastic waste management ? What will be its impact ? [1]

(1) Research by a team of scientists has uncovered a surprising way to stimulate the development of healthy fat in humans. In the long-term, the team’s findings may have implications for the development of weight loss medication. These scientists found that the kind of stress that accompanies third degree burns may induce the human body to convert normal fat cells into brown fat, which burns calories at a higher rate. If future research can determine how and where the body accomplishes this conversion, it may be possible to develop drugs that induce artificial yet remarkably rapid fat burning in obese patients.

(2) White adipose tissue — normal, white fat — accounts for most of the fat in the bodies of most mammals. Small mammals and newborn humans, however have a high proportion of brown fat. The difference between the two types led scientists to believe that brown fat has the potential to combat obesity. This is because brown fat contains excess of mitochondria : the structures within body cells that are responsible for producing energy. This means that brown fat burns more calories and releases more heat when it burns. After all, the function of naturally occurring brown fat is to generate heat in small animals, or in human infants, who do not yet have the ability to shiver.

(3) The research began with the observation that patients with severe, widespread burns needed to consume more calories each day in order to maintain their weight. On studying the fat cells of 48 severe burn patients throughout their treatment, analysis of the fat samples revealed that what was once white adipose tissue had ‘browned,’ acquiring many characteristics similar to brown fat, including its ability to burn fat at a high rate.

Of course we are still long way from the practical applications of these findings. This research however indicates the possibility of converting white fat into brown and reveals something about the conditions that catalyze such a conversion.

BODY FAT CHANGES

[Graph: Percent of Total Body Fat (0–100) against Age (0–40). Brown Adipose Tissue: starts near 100 at age 0, falls to about 55 at age 20, rises to about 65 at around age 30, and stays at about 60 up to age 40. White Adipose Tissue: starts at 0 at age 0, rises to about 40 at age 20, dips to about 30 at around age 30, and rises to about 37 at age 40. Values read approximately from the printed graph.]

(i) What has the team of scientists uncovered ? [1]

(ii) What kind of implications will the team’s findings have ? [1]

(iii) Does the information in the graph support the author’s statements regarding brown fat percentages in humans ? [1]

(iv) Based on the data in the graph, state at what age does the greatest percent change occur in body fat type. [1]

(v) What accounts for most of the fat in the bodies of mammals ? [1]

(vi) What does the passage state about small mammals and newborn humans ? [1]

(vii) What does brown fat contain ? What is it responsible for ? [1]

(1) Too many parents these days can’t say no. As a result, they find themselves raising ‘children’ who respond greedily to the advertisements aimed right at them. Even getting what they want doesn’t satisfy some kids; they only want more. Now, a growing number of psychologists, educators and parents think it’s time to stop the madness and start teaching kids about what’s really important : values like hard work, contentment, honesty and compassion. The struggle to set limits has never been tougher – and the stakes have never been higher. One recent study of adults who were overindulged as children, paints a discouraging picture of their future : when given too much too soon, they grow up to be adults who have difficulty coping with life’s disappointments. They also have distorted sense of entitlement that gets in the way of success in the work place and in relationships.

(2) Psychologists say that parents who over indulge their kids, set them up to be more vulnerable to future anxiety and depression. Today’s parents themselves raised on values of thrift and self-sacrifice, grew up in a culture where ‘no’ was a household word. Today’s kids want much more, partly because there is so much more to want. The oldest members of this generation were born in the late 1980s, just as PCs and video games were making their assault on the family room. They think of MP3 players and flat screen TVs as essential utilities, and they have developed strategies to get them. One survey of teenagers found that when they crave for something new; most expect to ask nine times before their parents give in. By every measure, parents are shelling out record amounts. In the heat of this buying blitz, even parents who desperately need to say no find themselves reaching for their credit cards.

(3) What parents need to find, is a balance between the advantages of an affluent society and the critical life lessons that come from waiting, saving and working hard to achieve goals. That search for balance has to start early. Children need limits on their behavior because they feel better and more secure when they live within a secured structure.

(4) Older children learn self-control by watching how others, especially parents act. Learning how to overcome challenges is essential to becoming a successful adult. Few parents ask kids to do chores. They think their kids are already overburdened by social and academic pressures. Every individual can be of service to others, and life has meaning beyond one’s own immediate happiness. That means parents eager to teach values have to take a long, hard look at their own :

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any eight questions from the nine given below : [1 × 8 = 8]

(1) What is challenging for today’s parents ? [1]

(2) What will be the consequence of over indulging children ? [1]

(3) Why do parents get caught in the buying blitz ? [1]

(4) How do children learn critical life lessons ? [1]

(5) What is the impact of advertisements on children ? [1]

(6) Why do children need limits on their behaviour ? [1]

(7) How do older children learn self-control ? [1]

(8) Find a word in the passage which means ‘research’. (Paragraph 2) [1]

(9) Find a word in the passage which means ‘wealthy’. (Paragraph 3) [1]

(1) Very often, we do not take the first step towards a good cause because nothing gets done. There is much talk about environmental protection, air pollution and saving our forests. Do we really care ? If we do, here are a few things we can do to make our surroundings more pleasant.

(2) It is good to adopt a two-uses-attitude ! By putting an article to a second use, we are giving it a longer lease of life and using up less raw material from nature. One of the worst things we do is the abuse of paper. The clean sides of envelopes can be used to write small notes, lists and reminders around the house. The more paper we use, the more trees will have to be cut down. For the same reason, we should avoid the use of paper napkins or paper plates. Cloth napkins are just as good, for they can be washed and used over and over again.

(3) The one area which needs the most urgent attention is effective garbage disposal. People who are conscious about it follow rules and laws strictly. As a result, their neighbourhoods are clean and beautiful. A lot of people don’t care about the environment because they don’t understand the adverse effect that society has on it. It is important to convince people to care about the environment. The first step would be to convince people to change by providing simple alternative solutions and ways of doing things. The Internet is a powerful tool and a group of like-minded people can be formed on social media. People can share environmental stories and issues as well as pool in solutions and alternatives to educate one another. With the current state that our planet is in, it is imperative that people actively care about the environment and most importantly, act now.

(4) Similarly, each one of us can contribute to a cleaner environment. All kitchen waste should be collected separately. Those who have green fingers can turn this into valuable manure. Dig a pit and put the kitchen waste into it. When the pit is a little over half full, cover it up with mud. Let nature do the rest. Within three or six months, we will have a good garden manure. It can also be done as a community project by digging a large pit in the colony. Do take help of all the members, for nothing succeeds like co-operation.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any eight questions from the nine given below : [8 × 1 = 8]

(i) Why don’t we take the first step towards a good cause ? [1]

(ii) What is a two-uses-attitude ? [1]

(iii) What can we do to avoid the abuse of paper ? (Any two points) [1]

(iv) What is the result of an effective way of garbage disposal ? [1]

(v) How can the Internet be a powerful tool in spreading environmental awareness ? [1]

(vi) How can the making of garden manure be done as a community project ? [1]

(vii) How long does it take to make good garden manure ? [1]

(viii) Select a suitable word from the passage which means something in a bad and undesirable way. (Para 2) [1]

(ix) Pick out the word from the passage which means – completely necessary. (Para 3) [1]

(1) Too many parents these days can’t say no. As a result, they find themselves raising ‘children’ who respond greedily to the advertisements aimed right at them. Even getting what they want doesn’t satisfy some kids; they only want more. Now, a growing number of psychologists, educators and parents think it’s time to stop the madness and start teaching kids about what’s really important : values like hard work, contentment, honesty and compassion. The struggle to set limits has never been tougher – and the stakes have never been higher. One recent study of adults who were overindulged as children, paints a discouraging picture of their future : when given too much too soon, they grow up to be adults who have difficulty coping with life’s disappointments. They also have distorted sense of entitlement that gets in the way of success in the work place and in relationships.

(2) Psychologists say that parents who over indulge their kids, set them up to be more vulnerable to future anxiety and depression. Today’s parents themselves raised on values of thrift and self-sacrifice, grew up in a culture where ‘no’ was a household word. Today’s kids want much more, partly because there is so much more to want. The oldest members of this generation were born in the late 1980s, just as PCs and video games were making their assault on the family room. They think of MP3 players and flat screen TVs as essential utilities, and they have developed strategies to get them. One survey of teenagers found that when they crave for something new; most expect to ask nine times before their parents give in. By every measure, parents are shelling out record amounts. In the heat of this buying blitz, even parents who desperately need to say no find themselves reaching for their credit cards.

(3) What parents need to find, is a balance between the advantages of an affluent society and the critical life lessons that come from waiting, saving and working hard to achieve goals. That search for balance has to start early. Children need limits on their behavior because they feel better and more secure when they live within a secured structure.

(4) Older children learn self-control by watching how others, especially parents act. Learning how to overcome challenges is essential to becoming a successful adult. Few parents ask kids to do chores. They think their kids are already overburdened by social and academic pressures. Every individual can be of service to others, and life has meaning beyond one’s own immediate happiness. That means parents eager to teach values have to take a long, hard look at their own :

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any eight questions from the nine given below : 1 × 8 = 8

(1) What is challenging for today’s parents ? [1]

(2) What will be the consequence of over indulging children ? [1]

(3) Why do parents get caught in the buying blitz ? [1]

(4) How do children learn critical life lessons ? [1]

(5) What is the impact of advertisements on children ? [1]

(6) Why do children need limits on their behaviour ? [1]

(7) How do older children learn self-control ? [1]

(8) Find a word in the passage which means ‘research’. (Paragraph 2) [1]

(9) Find a word in the passage which means ‘wealthy’. (Paragraph 3) [1]

(1) Very often, we do not take the first step towards a good cause because nothing gets done. There is much talk about environmental protection, air pollution and saving our forests. Do we really care? If we do, here are a few things we can do to make our surroundings more pleasant.

(2) It is good to adopt a two-uses-attitude! By putting an article to a second use, we are giving it a longer lease of life and using up less raw material from nature. One of the worst things we do is the abuse of paper. The clean sides of envelopes can be used to write small notes, lists and reminders around the house. The more paper we use, the more trees will have to be cut down. For the same reason, we should avoid the use of paper napkins or paper plates. Cloth napkins are just as good, for they can be washed and used over and over again.

(3) The one area which needs the most urgent attention is effective garbage disposal. People who are conscious about it follow rules and laws strictly. As a result, their neighbourhoods are clean and beautiful. A lot of people don’t care about the environment because they don’t understand the adverse effect that society has on it. It is important to convince people to care about the environment. The first step would be to convince people to change by providing simple alternative solutions and ways of doing things. The Internet is a powerful tool and a group of like-minded people can be formed on social media. People can share environmental stories and issues as well as pool in solutions and alternatives to educate one another. With the current state that our planet is in, it is imperative that people actively care about the environment and most importantly, act now.

(4) Similarly, each one of us can contribute to a cleaner environment. All kitchen waste should be collected separately. Those who have green fingers can turn this into valuable manure. Dig a pit and put the kitchen waste into it. When the pit is a little over half full, cover it up with mud. Let nature do the rest. Within three or six months, we will have a good garden manure. It can also be done as a community project by digging a large pit in the colony. Do take help of all the members, for nothing succeeds like co-operation.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer any eight questions from the nine given below:

(i) Why don’t we take the first step towards a good cause? [1]

(ii) What is a two-uses-attitude? [1]

(iii) What can we do to avoid the abuse of paper? (Any two points) [1]

(iv) What is the result of an effective way of garbage disposal? [1]

(v) How can the Internet be a powerful tool in spreading environmental awareness? [1]

(vi) How can the making of garden manure be done as a community project? [1]

(vii) How long does it take to make good garden manure? [1]

(viii) Select a suitable word from the passage which means - something in a bad and undesirable way. (Para 2) [1]

(ix) Pick out the word from the passage which means - completely necessary. (Para 3) [1]

(1) Very often, we do not take the first step towards a good cause because we say to ourselves, “The task is so big. What can I do alone ?” So nothing gets done. There is much talk about environmental protection, air pollution and saving our forests. Do we really care? If we do, here are a few things we can do to make our surroundings more pleasant.

(2) It is good to adopt a two-uses-attitude! By putting an article to a second use, we are giving it a longer lease of life and using up less raw material from nature. One of the worst things we do is the abuse of paper. The clean sides of envelopes can be used to write small notes, lists and reminders around the house. The more paper we use, the more trees will have to be cut down. For the same reason, we should avoid the use of paper napkins or paper plates. Cloth napkins are just as good, for they can be washed and used over and over again.

(3) Another area which needs the most urgent attention is effective garbage disposal. People who are conscious about it follow rules and laws strictly. As a result, their neighbourhoods are clean and beautiful. Similarly, each one of us can contribute to a cleaner environment. All kitchen waste should be collected separately. Those of you who have green fingers can turn this into valuable manure. Dig a pit and put the kitchen waste into it. When the pit is a little over half full, cover it up with mud. Let nature do the rest. Within three or six months, we will have a good garden manure. It can also be done as a community project by digging a large pit in the colony. Do take help of all the members, for nothing succeeds like co-operation.

(4) A lot of people don’t care about the environment because they don’t understand the adverse effect that society has on it. It is important to convince people to care about the environment. The first step would be to convince people to change by providing simple alternative solutions and ways of doing things. The internet is a powerful tool and a group on social media of like-minded people can be formed. People can share environmental stories and issues, as well as pool in solutions and alternatives to educate one another. With the current state that our planet is in, it is imperative that people actively care about the environment and most importantly to act now.

(i) Why don’t we take the first step towards a good cause ? [1]

(ii) What is a two-uses-attitude ? [1]

(iii) What can we do to avoid the abuse of paper ? (any two points) [1]

(iv) What is the result of an effective way of garbage disposal ? [1]

(v) What procedure can one adopt for kitchen waste ? [1]

(vi) How can making of garden manure be done as community project ? [1]

(vii) How long does it take to make good garden manure ? [1]

(viii) Select a suitable word from the passage which means – being concerned or interested. (Para 3) [1]

(ix) Pick out the word from the passage which means – completely necessary ? (Para 4) [1]

(1) Last week, a wild elephant was radio-collared for the first time in Assam’s Sonitpur district. A joint initative of the State Forest Department and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) India, it is being described as a step to study and mitigate human-elephant conflict. The department plans to collar at least five elephants in high-conflict habitats in the coming months. Experts say the exercise is challenging and runs the risk of low success.

(2) What it means ? Radio collars are GPS-enabled collars and can relay information about an elephants’ whereabouts. They weigh roughly 8 kg and are fitted around the elephant’s neck. Collaring includes identifying a suitable candidate (generally an adult elephant), darting it with a sedative, and fitting the collar around its neck before it is revived. Additionally, the team also attaches an accelerometer to the collar to “understand what exactly the elephant is doing at any given time (running, walking, eating, drinking, etc.).”

(3) Why is it done ? The objectives are two-fold, said M.K. Yadava, Chief Wildlife Warden, Assam. “Information from the GPS would help us track and study the movement patterns of the herd, across regions and habitats,” he said. Added Hiten Baishya of the WWF, “We will know where they are moving, which corridors they frequent, if the habitat is sufficient, if it needs protection, etc.” This would help in understanding what is driving the conflict. The second objective is incidental : The collar would serve as an early warning system to people if elephants are moving in their direction. “And this would help mitigate conflict incidents,” said veterinarian and elephant expert Kushal Konwar Sarma, who is involved in the exercise.

(4) The Plan in Assam : In March 2020, the Ministry of Environment of Forest and Climate Change gave approval to collaring of five elephants in Assam’s Sonitpur and Biswanath districts. It set a number of conditions, including “minimum trauma” to elephants and submission of periodic reports. The Challenges : Collaring is an extremely time consuming and challenging exercise. “We have to identify the matriarch of the herd we will tag ....... identification alone takes time and involves us stalking them for days,” said the elephant expert Sarma.

(5) For tranquilisation, Baishya said, “We go on foot. There is risk — for both our life and the elephant’s life. But we have very skilled experts on board and they are doing the job with utmost care.” Officials said, not all components for radio collaring are available in India including collars and tranquilising drugs. These have to be imported and are expensive. The state’s topography, marked by hills and rivers poses another challenge. Also elephants grow, “Collars may become tight, so we usually take a senior elephant so there is less chance of growth.” Baishya said, “Many times, elephants are not able to keep the collar on. They will have it on for maximum six months, before it falls off,” said Bibhuti Lakhar, a senior scientist. Last year, an elephant, which had strayed into Guwahati from Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary in 2019, was radio-collared on a trial basis. “We monitored it for a month, but due to the weight of the belt and the elephant brushing against trees, the signal was feeble and ultimately the collar fell off,” said a forest official.

(6) Is it worth it ? Yadava said while there were risks and the success rate was low, there has been no better mechanism than collaring to study conflict long-term.

(i) Show evidence from the passage that radio collaring of elephants is a challenging task. [1]

(ii) What purpose is served by radio collaring of elephants ? [1]

(iii) Which device in the collar gives information about the elephant’s activities ? [1]

(iv) What are the twin objectives of collaring the elephants ? [1]

(v) What two conditions are prescribed by the concerned Ministry for collaring elephants ? [1]

(vi) Why is collaring a time consuming exercise ? [1]

(vii) Why is it not advisable to put a collar on a young elephant ? [1]

(viii) Why does the collar fall off from the elephant’s neck ? [1]

(ix) Find the word in the passage which means “to make a person or animal unconscious”. (Para 5) [1]

(1) Introduction : India faces a serious road safety challenge. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 4.8 lakh road accidents were reported in 2023, leading to 1.72 lakh deaths. Many of these could have been avoided by simple precautions – wearing helmets, fastening seatbelts and following speed limits. These statistics aren’t just numbers; they represent lives lost and family dynamics changed forever.

Causes of Road Accidents in India (2023)
S. No.	Causes	%
1.	Overspeeding	56
2.	Drunk driving	8
3.	No seatbelt/helmet	15
4.	Distraction (mobiles)	6
5.	Mechanical failure	4
6.	Weather/road condition	6
7.	Others	5

(2) Methodology : Recognising this, several cities are becoming proactive, especially near school zones. The municipal corporations and traffic police have introduced stricter school-zone safety measures – speed bumps, zebra crossings and digital signboards. This led to a 30% drop in minor accidents near schools, within a year. The success lay in combining infrastructure with awareness. Parents, teachers and traffic marshals helped monitor traffic during school hours.

(3) Survey : It’s not just governments stepping up. In many cities, class XI and XII students launched a campaign called ‘Ride Right’, promoting helmet use among two-wheeler riders. They handed out stickers, ran roadshows and launched a ‘No Helmet, No Selfie’ challenge that went viral. Over 2000 riders pledged to wear helmets daily. Their success even led to invitations from the municipal body to speak in other schools – proof of how youth-led efforts can spark policy engagement.

(4) Results : Technology is also playing a significant role. Automation through AI-powered traffic cameras, digital signs and automated lights is being implemented in metros to reduce human error and improve monitoring including Pilot projects such as iRASTE and AI based road safety pilot to predict and prevent accidents using real time data and alerts for drivers. These systems have led to a 40% rise in fine collection, showing improved rule enforcement. GPS based alert systems in school buses now notify parents of speeding or unscheduled stops – another step towards safer school commutes.

(5) Implication for interventions : Still, personal responsibility is the most powerful safety tool. Whether it’s a student cyclist using the left lane or a pedestrian waiting for the signal, every right choice sets an example. A popular slogan in school says it best : ‘I follow, I influence.’ Road safety is about respecting life, valuing time, and leading by example.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) What strategy does the author use in paragraph (1) to highlight the seriousness of road accidents ? [1]

1. use of statistics and emotional appeal.
2. humour and satire
3. technical jargon and neutrality
4. personal anecdotes and optimism

(ii) What evidence from the passage suggests that stricter school-zone measures were effective ? [1]

1. the number of schools increased rapidly.
2. there was a 30% drop in minor accidents near schools.
3. teachers and parents opposed the new rules.
4. students stopped commuting by bicycle.

(iii) What would the following be classified as ?
Students launched a campaign called “Ride Right” promoting helmet use among two wheeler riders.
Select the appropriate response : [1]

1. primary purpose
2. secondary objective
3. method of analysis
4. research outcome

(iv) Give two points to support the success of the No Helmet – No Selfie Challenge. [2]

(v) Which word from paragraph 4 best conveys the idea of ‘ensuring compliance through authoritative measures’ especially in the context of traffic systems ? [1]

1. collection
2. enforcement
3. monitoring
4. automation

(vi) Analyze why does the author emphasise that both technology and personal responsibility are important in promoting road safety. [2]

(vii) Complete the following with a suitable reason :
Road safety is about personal responsibility because __________. [1]

(viii) Which of the following inferences is best supported by the data in the table ? [1]

1. enforcement of helmet and seat belt rules would address the cause of road deaths.
2. speeding is the key issue, which requires technological and behavioural interventions.
3. mobile phone use while driving is the fastest growing cause of accidents.
4. drunk driving accounts for more deaths than ‘no helmet/seat belt’ and distractions combined.

The Rise of Urban Farming in Indian Cities : A sustainable future or Fleeting Trend

Introduction :

(1) As India’s metropolises swell under the weight of population growth, pollution and food insecurity, a quiet revolution is unfolding on rooftops and balconies : urban farming. Once seen as a hobby for the eco-conscious elite, urban agriculture is now being explored as a practical solution to city-based food shortages, environmental degradation, and even mental health challenges.

Methodology – survey – explanation

(2) In 2024, a survey by the Indian Institute of Sustainable Agriculture revealed that 1 in 7 urban households in Tier-1 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, now practise some form of food cultivation ranging from herbs on kitchen shelves to aquaponic systems on terraces. The motivations are varied : some grow spinach and tomatoes to escape pesticide exposure, while others experiment with hydroponics as a side hustle. Municipal authorities are also catching on; in Chennai and Pune, tax rebates and community grants are now offered to promote green roof tops.

Results : (3)

Year	City	% of Households Engaged	Notable Initiatives
2022	Bengaluru	9%	‘Grow Your Own Food’ Campaign
2023	Delhi	11%	Rooftop farming subsidy scheme
2024	Pune	15%	Terrace Garden Tax Rebate
2025	Hyderabad	18% (projected)	App-based Micro Farm Programme

Data Table : Urban Farming Trends (2022-2025)

Effects :

Advocates urge that farming reduces ‘food miles’ (the distance food travels from farm to fork), improves air quality, and reconnects city dwellers with the rhythms of nature. Critics, however, are skeptical. They argue that lack of space, high initial costs for equipment, and unreliable yields make urban farming unsustainable at scale. Moreover, without regulation, concern about rooftop safety and water use efficiency persists.

Implications :

(4) Still, the momentum is growing. NGOs like ‘Haryali’ and start-ups like ‘Rangeen’ have emerged, offering seed kits, app-based guidance and balcony farming workshops. For young professionals navigating fast-paced lives, this offers something tangible : control, calm and climate action, all from a window ledge.

Conclusion :

(5) Whether urban farming becomes a permanent fixture of Indian city life or remains a well-intentioned trend will depend not just on individual choices but on how cities plan, regulate and integrate agriculture into their concrete jungles.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

Complete the following suitably :

(i) In the introduction (Para 1), the writer emphasizes on the transformative potential of a quiet revolution by __________. [1]

(ii) What would the following be classified as ?
‘In Chennai and Pune, tax rebates and community grants are now offered to promote green roof tops’. [1]

1. primary purpose
2. incentives
3. methodology
4. implications

(iii) Based on the passage, why might people opt to grow spinach and tomatoes on their own at home rather than purchasing them ? (Para 2) [1]

(iv) If the current trend as depicted in the table continues, which Indian city is most likely to emerge as a national model for tech-integrated urban farming by 2026 ? Give your reasoning. [2]

(v) Analyze from the given data, what distinguishes Pune’s approach from Hyderabad’s in encouraging urban farming ? [1]

(vi) Write any two major challenges that have catalyzed the rise of urban farming. [1]

(vii) Name two incentives provided by NGOs or start-ups that encourage urban farming. How does this movement benefit the urban workforce ? (Para 4) [2]

(viii) Which of the following is NOT a challenge associated with urban farming, according to the passage ? [1]

1. limited space availability
2. excessive food production
3. high equipment costs
4. inconsistent production

(1) Introduction : Nutrition plays a critical role in human development, especially during periods of growth, aging, and recovery. This case study explores the changing nutritional requirements across age groups — from children to the elderly — highlighting how dietary habits must adapt to support health and wellbeing.

(2) Methodology : A team of dietitians conducted a three-month observational study across five schools, two universities, three workplaces, and two retirement communities. Nutritional intake was recorded using food diaries, and health parameters were monitored through BMI, energy levels, and blood reports.

(3) Survey Examination : Participants were grouped into four age categories : children (6 – 12 years), adolescents (13 – 19 years), adults (20 – 59 years), and elderly (60+ years). Surveys assessed daily intake of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), alongside hydration habits and meal frequency.

(4) Results : Children had higher energy and protein needs per kilogram of body weight, essential for growth and cognitive development. Adolescents showed increased calorie and calcium requirements due to rapid bone growth and hormonal changes. Adults required balanced intake to maintain weight and prevent chronic diseases, while the elderly needed more fibre, calcium and vitamin D to support bone health and digestion. Interestingly, adolescents consumed the most processed foods, while elderly participants had the most balanced diets due to regular meal routines. Adults often skipped meals due to work stress. Dehydration was common in both children and the elderly.

(5) Implications and Interventions : The findings highlight the need for age-specific dietary education. In schools, awareness programmes on healthy snacks and hydration were introduced. For working adults, meal planning workshops and healthy vending machines were recommended. Retirement homes integrated vitamin D supplements and fibre-rich meals into weekly menus. Across all groups, hydration reminders were implemented using digital tools and scheduled water breaks.

(6) Conclusion : Nutritional needs vary significantly with age, influenced by physical, cognitive, and lifestyle factors. Regular assessments and tailored interventions are essential for promoting long-term health across populations.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably.
In the introduction, the researcher links changing dietary requirements to highlight __________. [1]

(ii) What would the following be classified as ?
Nutritional intake was recorded using food diaries.
Select the appropriate response : [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(iii) Give two points to support how the case study explored various age groups. (Paragraphs 2, 3) [2]

(iv) Paragraph 4 includes the words ‘development’ and ‘prevent’. Classify the following sentences as ‘development’ and ‘prevent’.
Sentence A : Children had higher energy and protein needs per kilogram of body weight, essential for growth.
Sentence B : Adolescents need increased calcium so that their bone growth is not impacted. [1]

(v) Although all age groups require balanced intake, why do the elderly need more fibre ? (Paragraph 4) [1]

(vi) Complete the sentence suitably.
Digital tools were used to give hydration reminders to ____________. (Paragraph 5) [1]

1. ensure people did not get dehydrated
2. avoid starvation
3. ensure gradual weight loss
4. balance consumption of processed food

(vii) Why is age-specific nutrition important ? Give textual evidence to support your answer. [2]

(viii) What is the key takeaway of the study ? [1]

(1) Introduction : Biodiversity refers to the wide variety of living organisms — plants, animals, and microorganisms — that exist on Earth. India is one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world, with ecosystems ranging from the Himalayas to the coastal regions. Biodiversity ensures food, medicine, oxygen, soil fertility, and balance in the environment. However, it is under serious threat due to deforestation, overpopulation, industrial pollution, and climate change.

(2) Methodology : This case study is based on data collected from government reports, field surveys, and interviews with farmers, students, and forest workers. Researchers focused on biodiversity in forests, rivers, and agricultural land to understand its importance and the challenges of conservation.

(3) Survey Examination : A survey was carried out in three states — Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Assam. Local people were asked how biodiversity affected their lives. Farmers reported that many crops were failing due to climate change. Students recognized that forests are essential for clean air and water. Forest workers shared that several species like elephants and tigers are decreasing in number. The survey revealed both awareness and concern among people about the urgent need for conservation.

(4) Results : The findings showed that :

• forest cover has declined in several regions.
• endangered species are at risk of extinction.
• communities are directly affected by reduced rainfall, poor soil quality, and crop loss.
• people believe that conservation programmes and stricter laws are urgently required.

(5) Implications for Interventions : To protect biodiversity, the government should increase afforestation programmes and create strict rules against illegal hunting and logging. Schools should promote biodiversity education to raise awareness among children. Farmers should be encouraged to use organic farming, water conservation, and mixed cropping. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands.

(6) Conclusion : Biodiversity is the foundation of human survival. It gives us food, medicine, water, and clean air. If biodiversity is destroyed, humans will also suffer. This case study highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts in India. Only by working together — governments, communities, and individuals — can we protect biodiversity and ensure a healthy future for generations to come.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably :
India is one of the __________ countries in the world. (Paragraph 1) [1]

(ii) Which would the following be classified as ?
Researchers focused on biodiversity in forests, rivers, and agricultural land to understand its importance and the challenges of conservation. (Paragraph 2) [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(iii) Give two points to support how biodiversity affects forest workers and farmers. (Paragraph 3) [2]

(iv) Based on the case study, analyse areas that have revealed urgent need for awareness and conservation. (Paragraph 3) [1]

(v) Paragraph 5 uses words like ‘afforestation’ and ‘awareness’. Classify the following sentences as ‘afforestation’ and ‘awareness’.
Statement 1 : Local communities must work together to restore forests, rivers, and wetlands.
Statement 2 : Schools must promote biodiversity education. [1]

(vi) Identify the stakeholders who should come together to create a healthy future for generations to come. (Paragraph 6) [1]

(vii) In what way is biodiversity the foundation of human survival ? (Paragraph 6) [1]

(viii) Mention two eco-friendly farming methods in India from the passage. [2]

(1) Introduction : Deforestation, the clearing of forest land for other uses, is a global environmental catastrophe with profound and often irreversible consequences. While its impact on climate change and biodiversity loss is widely recognised, its most immediate and devastating effects are often borne by indigenous tribes, whose existence is inextricably linked to the health of forest ecosystems. These communities, guardians of ancient knowledge and sustainable practices, face not only the loss of their physical homes but also the erosion of their cultural identity and traditional livelihoods.

(2) Survey Examination : Consider the plight of the Arava Tribe, a hypothetical indigenous community living deep within a remote part of the Arava Basin. For generations, the Arava have co-existed peacefully with the rainforest, drawing from its richness for food, healing and spiritual nourishment. Their traditional knowledge, passed down through generations, encompasses intricate understanding of plant properties, animal behaviour and sustainable resource management. The Arava’s diet comprises forest-sourced fruits, nuts, wild game and freshwater fish, reflecting their deep ecological integration. Their shelters, constructed from indigenous materials and their ceremonial practices, aligned with seasonal forest rhythms, underscore a lifestyle symbiotically tied to their natural surroundings.

(3) Methodology and Implications : Moreover, in recent decades, the Arava’s ancestral lands have been encroached upon by illegal logging operations, cattle ranching and agricultural expansion. Vast tracts of their forest homes have been systematically cleared, leading to a cascade of environmental and social impacts. Environmentally, the loss of tree cover has resulted in localized climate shifts, including increased temperatures and altered rainfall patterns, leading to prolonged droughts and unpredictable floods. Biodiversity has plummeted, with many plant species vital for Arava medicine disappearing and traditional hunting grounds shrinking, impacting their food security. The pollution of waterways from agricultural runoff further compromises their health and access to clean drinking water.

(4) Effects and Conclusion : From a social and cultural perspective, the effects are equally dire. The destruction of sacred sites within the forest has severed spiritual ties. The forced displacement of families due to land loss has led to the breakdown of community structures and increased vulnerability to external diseases. Traditional knowledge, once practical for survival, becomes less relevant in a deforested landscape, leading to cultural erosion, particularly among younger generations. This disruption often results in increased poverty, loss of identity and heightened conflict with encroaching outsiders.

Social and Cultural Impacts of Deforestation on Indigenous Tribes

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably :
In the introduction, the author links deforestation with the global environment to highlight __________. [1]

(ii) What would the following be classified as ?
These communities ..... face not only the loss of their physical homes but also the erosion of their cultural identity.
Select the appropriate response. [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(iii) What does the phrase ‘aligned with seasonal forest rhythms’ suggest about the Arava’s cultural practices and way of life ? (Any two points) (Paragraph 2) [2]

(iv) Paragraph 3 includes the words — ‘encroached’ and ‘impact’. Classify the following sentences as ‘encroached’ or ‘impact’.
Sentence 1 : Illegal logging operations, cattle ranching and agricultural expansion have been systematically clearing forest area.
Sentence 2 : Plant species vital for medicine disappeared and waterways pollution compromised health. [1]

(v) Give two points to support how Arava’s diet and lifestyle reflects ecological integration. [1]

(vi) Analyse how indigenous communities face both physical loss and erosion of cultural identities. [2]

(vii) Which statement most accurately captures the fundamental message conveyed by the passage ? [1]

1. Deforestation has contributed to changes in diet and health patterns among forest dwellers.
2. Environmental degradation causes irreversible spiritual and economic damage to modern societies.
3. Indigenous tribes are impacted by deforestation, losing their environment, traditions, identity and culture.
4. The efforts to preserve forests must prioritize biodiversity over tribal welfare.

(viii) According to the given table, which two social or cultural impacts of deforestation are rated as most severe ? [1]

1. forced displacement and increased poverty
2. destruction of sacred sites and cultural erosion
3. breakdown of community structure and heightened conflict
4. vulnerability to diseases and loss of identity

(1) Introduction :
Students constantly seek methods to enhance their learning experience and academic performance. This research shows that music has long been considered a potential factor in creating productive study environments. It examines the influence of different music genres, including classical Indian music, on students’ concentration, retention, and overall study effectiveness. The current investigation provides insights into how various musical elements impact cognitive functions during study sessions among secondary school students. The study is relevant in the present times as digital influences govern our lives to quite an extent and pose a distraction.

(2) Methodology :
A structured questionnaire along with controlled study sessions was employed to gather information on the subject. Participants were exposed to different music conditions while completing standardized comprehension and memory tasks to measure performance objectively.

(3) Survey Examination :
Among the 140 study participants, 68 were boys and 72 were girls. For analytical purposes, the study considered both subjective preferences and objective performance metrics for each type of music condition during study sessions.

(4) Results :

S.No	Music Type	Preference (%)	Performance Improvement (%)
1.	No music	21·4	27·8
2.	Classical Indian (Instrument)	18·6	33·5
3.	Popular music with lyrics	42·1	12·3
4.	Ambient/Background	17·9	26·4

It is also seen that students showed varying preferences in music while they are studying. Though popular songs were most preferred, classical Indian instrumental music (particularly ragas like Bhupali and Yaman) demonstrated the highest performance enhancement. Instrumental compositions without lyrics generally yielded better results than vocal music across all genres.

(5) Implications for Learning :
It was observed that classical Indian ragas, designed with specific melodic patterns, had unique benefits for concentration and memory. The structured mathematical patterns in these compositions appeared to stimulate neutral pathways associated with logical thinking, however, familiar songs with lyrics frequently caused distraction by activating language processing centres. The tempo and complexity of music also significantly affected concentration levels, with moderate complexity providing optimal stimulation without overwhelming cognitive resources.

(6) Conclusion :
Although individual preferences vary considerably, objective performance metrics indicate that instrumental music, particularly classical Indian compositions, can enhance study effectiveness for most students. The absence of lyrics, structured melodic patterns and appropriate tempo appear to be key factors in creating an optimal auditory study environment. Students would benefit from experimenting with different music conditions to determine what works best for their individual cognitive styles rather than simply choosing based on their personal preferences.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage.

(i) Choose the correct option :
............ instrumental music outperforms vocal music for study efficiency.
The above statement is true as : [1]

1. Instrumental music is less distracting than songs with lyrics.
2. Classical compositions are inherently superior to modern music.
3. Students prefer instrumental music as they can play the instruments.
4. Vocal processing interferes with memory formation.

(ii) Why does the author suggest that classical Indian ragas have unique benefits for concentration ? [1]

(iii) How does the author validate the claim that classical Indian music improves performance ? [2]

(iv) “The ideal study environment is highly individualised.” Analyse the statement with reference to the text. [1]

(v) Complete the following suitably :
The author puts forth the fact that personal music preference should not be the only __________ for selecting study accompaniment. [1]

(vi) Paragraph 4 includes the phrases, “preference” and “performance improvement”.
Classify the following sentences according to these concepts.
Sentence 1 : Most students chose to listen to popular music with lyrics during study sessions.
Sentence 2 : Test scores improved by 33·5% when students studied with classical Indian instrumental music. [1]

(vii) Give two points to support how music selection makes a major impact on study effectiveness. [2]

(viii) Read and complete the following sentence suitably :
The study is very relevant in contemporary times, because : [1]

1. music is increasingly accessible to students.
2. academic pressure requires optimal study methods.
3. classical traditions are being forgotten.
4. concentration challenges are more prevalent with digital distractions.

Case Study : Tourism in India

(1) Introduction : India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical sites, attracts millions of tourists each year. Tourism significantly contributes to India’s GDP, generating employment and boosting infrastructure. This case study explores factors impacting tourism in India, examines seasonal patterns, and assesses tourist satisfaction through a survey.

(2) Methodology : The study involved primary data collection through a structured survey targeting 500 tourists across major destinations like Delhi, Jaipur, Goa and Kerala. Additionally, secondary data from government reports and tourism boards were used. The survey included questions about preferences, challenges and satisfaction levels, focusing on various demographics, including international and domestic tourists.

(3) Survey Examination : Tourists were surveyed on travel preferences, challenges encountered, accommodation satisfaction and cultural experiences. Feedback highlighted India’s appeal due to its history and cultural diversity, but also noted issues like infrastructure gaps and pollution.

(4) Results : The study found that most tourists preferred historical sites and beaches. International tourists were drawn to heritage sites, while domestic tourists preferred nature destinations. Satisfaction was high among tourists who experienced local culture, but infrastructure issues and overcrowding at key locations were common complaints. Overall, 85% of tourists expressed a desire to revisit.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) Complete the following suitably.
In the introduction, the researcher links tourism to India’s GDP to highlight __________. [1]

(ii) What would the following be classified as ?
The study involved primary data collection through a structured survey
Select the appropriate response. [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(iii) Give two points to support why the study involved primary data and secondary data. [2]

(iv) Paragraph 3 includes words – ‘preferences’ and ‘challenges’.
Classify the following sentences as ‘preference’ or ‘challenge’ :
Sentence 1 : Feedback highlighted India’s appeal due to its history and cultural diversity. [1]
Sentence 2 : Also noted issues like infrastructure gaps and pollution. [1]

(v) List any two points tourists were asked about in the survey. [1]

(vi) What were the more preferred destinations ? [1]

(vii) Analyse why though there was satisfaction among tourists, there were some complaints. [1]

(viii) What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study ? [1]

1. tourists expressed a desire to revisit.
2. tourist will visit historical sites.
3. domestic tourism will increase.
4. to promote India as a tourist destination.

(1) This report presents findings from the Youth Aspirations in India Survey in which 5,764 youth between the ages of 15 and 30 were asked about their employment, education, and skilling aspirations.

(2) Indian youth valued higher education. 50 percent of respondents aspire to attain a post-graduate degree, 24 percent a PhD, and 21 percent a bachelor’s degree. Only 2 percent of respondents hope to attain a college or vocational diploma as their highest form of education.

(3) Respondents have a strong preference for attaining higher education degrees. At the same time, there is an awareness of changing skills requirements and an interest in augmenting their skills. 76 percent of youth report being very interested in pursuing a skills development programme. 70 percent of youth identified more employment opportunities as the main motivation for wanting to pursue skills development training.

(4) A study related to their job preference reveals their strong desire for job security and opportunities for career advancement. It is evident from the following data :

Percentage	Preference
49	Public Sector
23	Private Sector
17	Entrepreneurship

(5) In the context of technological adoption and digitization, jobs and tasks, along with the competencies required to execute them, are changing. 86 percent of youth feel very or moderately up to date with changes in skills requirements. Yet, 39 percent of youth feel very prepared or prepared for their ideal job, while 16 percent of youth feel either not prepared or very unprepared for their ideal job.

(6) Female respondents’ education and employment aspirations match, if not exceed, those of male respondents. Yet, female respondents face discriminatory biases in hiring, have less paid work experience than their male counterparts, and face greater barriers in pursuing skills development opportunities. 60 percent of female respondents, for example, report having no paid work experience, compared to 54 percent of male respondents. In addition, 15 percent of female respondents report personal biases such as marital status, gender, age, or family background as a main barrier to employment compared to 9 percent of male respondents. While more female respondents report being very interested in participating in a skills development programme, only 19 percent have enrolled in a programme, compared to 26 percent of male respondents.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) As per the survey, Indian youth is broadly focussed on [1]

1. skill development and entrepreneurship.
2. private sector jobs and technology.
3. higher education and career opportunities.
4. vocational diploma and public sector jobs.

(ii) With reference to paragraph 3, what is the latest trend among Indian youth in preparing themselves for the job market ? [1]

(iii) With reference to the table, state one reason for entrepreneurship being the last preference among Indian youth. [1]

(iv) Cite two evidences from the text to show that gender bias is still a hindrance in the progress of women in society. [2]

(v) Complete the following sentence suitably.
The driving force for the Indian youth to join a skill development programme is __________. [1]

(vi) Paragraph 5 uses words ‘competencies’ and ‘adoption’. Classify the following sentences which talks about ‘competency’ and which talks about ‘adoption’.
Sentence – 1 : Ria embraced new technology to gain global market for her paintings.
Sentence – 2 : Ria displays her artistic skill through her paintings. [1]

(vii) Cite two evidences from the text to show that Indian youth is adapting itself to the needs of the job market. [2]

(viii) Choose the correct option :
The main road blocks to employment opportunities for females are :
(i) lack of interest
(ii) marriage
(iii) lack of opportunities
(iv) over qualification
(v) family background [1]

1. (i) & (ii)
2. (iii) & (iv)
3. (ii), (iii) & (v)
4. (iv) & (v)

(1) Introduction : Humans are social creatures with a deep desire to interact with one another. Recent developments in technology have made it possible for billions of people worldwide to use cell phones to satisfy this need. The current study aims to analyse the impact of smartphone use among various categories of people in Kerala, India. The present study will provide an insight into the extent and magnitude of people’s reliance on smartphones to communicate in this modern age and the dwindling nature of social relationships.

(2) Methodology : A google form created questionnaire was used to gather information on the subject from a sample of participants who were from various districts in Kerala, India.

(3) Survey Examination : Among the 131 study participants, 66 were men and the remaining 65 were women. For convenience, the study considered only the main purpose for which a smartphone is used by any given individual.

(4) Results :

S.No	Purpose	Frequency	Percentage
1.	Academic	21	11.11
2.	Communication	56	29.63
3.	Entertainment	48	25.40
4.	Others	64	33.86

Individuals differed in their interests and preferences regarding their choice of communication medium. Some preferred direct conversation, while others conveyed their messages through virtual mediums of communication, that did not involve any face-to-face interaction.

(5) Implications for Interventions : It was observed that individuals were interested in using their smartphones even when they were dining. This constant use can have several disadvantages such as reckless use of mobile phones, including prolonged hours of radiation exposure, over-calorie intake due to binge eating, leading to obesity, and other health problems. It is also a vital tool to achieve social progress.

The use of phones while travelling can sometimes detract from an individual’s enjoyment of the serenity of the environment, the scenic beauty of picnic spots, and affect the way an individual behaves and interacts with his or her co-travellers.

(6) Conclusion : It is true that most of the population under different age and gender categories use smartphones every day, but there is no significant fall in the duration spent in direct face-to-face conversation with fellow beings, except in very few individuals. The majority of people agree that traditional face-to-face communication is more comfortable, reliable, and expressive than text messages, phone calls, or electronic mail.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably.
In paragraph (1), the author highlights the use of smartphones to __________. [1]

(ii) How does the author validate the fact that smartphones take away the joy of beauty around us ? [1]

(iii) Paragraph (4) includes the phrases, direct communication and virtual communication.
Classify the following sentences as direct and virtual communication :
Sentence 1 : Most of the students attend online classes on mobile phones.
Sentence 2 : He arranged for a get-together to meet his school friends. [1]

(iv) In paragraph (5), ‘By reckless use of mobile phones’ the author blames : [1]

1. binge eating
2. mobile phones
3. responsibility of man
4. demands of society

(v) Give two points to support how smartphones make a major impact on man’s life. [2]

(vi) What would the following be classified as ?
There is no significant fall in the duration spent in direct face-to-face conversation.
Select the appropriate response : [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(vii) ‘Technological development is a double-edged sword.’
Analyse the above statement with reference to the text. [2]

(viii) The study is very relevant in the contemporary times, because : [1]

1. we are living in the 21st century.
2. it is an era of IT revolution.
3. mobile phones have penetrated everyone’s life.
4. mobile phones are used by students for academic purposes.

(1) Introduction : In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of daily life, profoundly affecting how individuals interact and perceive the world. This case study aims to analyze the impact of social media on the mental health of different age groups in Indian society and explore the implications for overall well-being.

(2) Methodology : A survey was conducted among individuals across various age groups, ranging from teenagers to seniors, to determine their social media usage patterns. Participants were asked to indicate the amount of time they spend on social media platforms and describe their feelings and experiences related to its use. The data was then analyzed to identify trends and patterns among different age demographics.

(3) Survey Examination : The survey encompassed a comprehensive examination of social media habits, including not only the frequency and duration of usage but also the emotional and psychological effects of social media engagement. Participants were encouraged to articulate their experiences, providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of social media’s impact on mental health.

(4) Results : The survey results revealed interesting insights into social media usage and its effects on mental health among different age groups. Teenagers are deeply entrenched in exploring their self image and forming their identity. They are heavily reliant on their peer relationships and are vulnerable to the social aspects of online platforms to connect with friends and share experiences. As a result, their usage is higher that of other age groups.

S.No.	Age group	%	Average daily usage (hours)	Reported effects
1.	Teenagers	72	3.5	Anxiety, peer pressure, cyberbullying
2.	Young Adults	68	3.0	Stress, depression, Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
3.	Middle-aged	54	2.0	Information overload, sleep disturbance
4.	Seniors	32	1.5	Loneliness, sense of connection, digital fatigue

(5) Implications for Interventions : By discerning the diverse effects of social media among different age groups, policy makers and mental health practitioners can tailor interventions to address specific demographic needs, e.g., educational campaigns aimed at teenagers could empower them to navigate social media more responsibly, while support groups for seniors can enhance their digital literacy and reduce feelings of loneliness.

(6) Conclusion : The survey outcomes serve as a roadmap for designing targeted interventions that not only cater to diverse demographic needs but also promote mental well-being. By harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards building healthier online communities and promoting sustainable digital practices for generations to come.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Complete the following suitably :
In the introduction, the researches link the digital age with the impact of social media on mental health to highlight __________. [1]

(ii) Choose the correct option :
To examine social media usage patterns across various age groups in detail and assess the mental health implications will be classified as : [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Method of analysis
3. Secondary purpose
4. Research outcome

(iii) Give two points to support why it is likely that social media usage was a key factor in the study on mental health. [2]

(iv) Paragraph (3) includes the words – ‘emotional and psychological’. Classify the following sentences as ‘emotional’ or ‘psychological’. [1]

1. Educational campaigns aimed at teenagers could empower them to navigate social media more responsibly.
2. Support groups for seniors can enhance their digital literacy and reduce feelings of loneliness.

(v) Read the following text :
Rahul has a tendency to spend late night hours engaging in social media to avoid missing out on latest updates on different events. His friend, Rajneesh spends many hours on social media due to peer pressure whereas their close friend, Dr. Sharma uses social media to stay connected with his near and dear ones.
Select the option that identifies the correct demographic Rahul, Rajneesh and Dr. Sharma belong to : [1]

1. Rahul - middle-aged, Rajneesh - young adult, Dr. Sharma - teenager.
2. Rahul - young adult, Rajneesh - middle-aged, Dr. Sharma - senior.
3. Rahul - middle-aged, Rajneesh - young adult, Dr. Sharma - senior.
4. Rahul - young adult, Rajneesh - teenager, Dr. Sharma - senior.

(vi) Why is the average daily usage of social media highest among teenagers ? [1]

(vii) According to paragraph (5), analyze how targeted interventions based on the diverse effects of social media on different age groups can lead to improved mental health outcomes. [2]

(viii) Select the appropriate response :
What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insight from the study ? [1]

1. increase profitability through enhanced social media marketing.
2. build healthier online communities.
3. reduce the cost of healthcare services.
4. expand the range of available social media platforms.

(1) Introduction : In the face of rapid urbanization, effective waste management has become a critical issue in Indian cities. This case study aims to analyze the recycling practices among different demographics in urban India and their implications for sustainable urban development.

(2) Methodology : A survey was conducted among residents of various urban areas, ranging from teenagers to elderly citizens, to determine their waste management and recycling habits. Participants were asked to indicate their preferred methods of waste disposal and recycling and provide reasons for their choices. The data was then analyzed to identify trends and patterns among different age groups.

(3) Survey Examination : The survey comprehensively examined waste disposal habits. Participants were encouraged to share the reasons for their selections, providing invaluable insight into waste management behaviour.

(4) Results : The survey results revealed interesting insights into waste management and recycling practices among different age groups.

S. No.	Age group for preference	%	Preferred Method	Reasons for Preference
1.	Teenagers	55%	Recycling	Environment awareness, school programme, peer pressure
2.	Young adults	68%	Recycling & Reuse	Sustainability, convenience, social responsibility
3.	Middle-aged	73%	Segregation at source	Health concerns, civic responsibility, easy to manage
4.	Elderly	62%	Traditional disposal	Habit, lack of awareness, convenience

(5) Implications for Interventions : By discerning the diverse preferences among different age groups, policy-makers and environmental activists can not only make interventions to address specific demographic needs, but also delve into the underlying motivations and influences guiding these choices. For instance, targeting educational campaigns towards teenagers and young adults could empower them to adopt sustainable waste management practices. Concurrently, efforts to enhance the infrastructure for segregation at source and provide incentives for recycling could improve overall waste management.

(6) Conclusion : The survey outcomes serve as a roadmap for designing targeted interventions that not only cater to diverse demographic needs but also foster a culture of sustainability. By harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards building cleaner and more sustainable urban environments for future generations.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) Complete the following suitably : [1]
In the introduction, the researcher links rapid urbanization with waste management by highlighting that ___________.

(ii) What would the following be classified as ? [1]
To examine waste management practices across various age groups in detail.
Select the appropriate response.

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(iii) Give two points to support why it is likely that recycling was given as an option to the survey participants to choose from, in the study on waste management practices. [2]

(iv) Paragraph (5) includes words like ‘motivations’ and ‘interventions’. Classify the following sentences as motivation or intervention. [1]

1. Targeting educational campaigns towards teenagers and young adults could empower them to adopt sustainable waste management practices.
2. Efforts to enhance the infrastructure for segregation at source.

(v) Read the following text : [1]
Radhika actively participates in school programmes that promote recycling. Her neighbour, Ragini, prefers recycling and reusing items for their environmental benefits. However, their neighbour Mrs. Gupta sticks to traditional disposal methods out of habit.
Select the option that identifies the correct demographic they belong to :

1. Radhika – middle-aged; Ragini – young adult; Mrs. Gupta – elderly
2. Radhika – teenager; Ragini – young adult; Mrs. Gupta – elderly
3. Radhika – young adult; Ragini – elderly; Mrs. Gupta – middle-aged
4. Radhika – elderly; Ragini – middle-aged; Mrs. Gupta – teenager

(vi) Why is the percentage to adopt recycling methods higher among young adults ? [1]

(vii) Analyze how targeted interventions based on the diverse waste management preferences of different age groups can lead to improved environmental outcomes. (paragraph 5) [2]

(viii) What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study ? [1]

1. Increase profitability through enhanced recycling infrastructure
2. Build cleaner urban environments
3. Reduce the cost of waste management
4. Expand the range of recycling programmes available

(1) Introduction : As the world grapples with climate change, renewable energy has emerged as a crucial solution. This case study aims to analyze the increasing use of renewable energy in India, its adoption across different sectors, and the implications for society and the environment.

(2) Methodology : A survey was conducted among households, businesses, and industries across various regions in India. Participants were asked about their primary source of energy (traditional fossil fuels or renewable energy) and the reasons for their preferences. The data was then analyzed to identify trends and patterns among different demographics and sectors.

(3) Survey Examination : The survey encompassed a comprehensive examination of energy consumption habits, not only focusing on the preferred sources of energy but also delving into the underlying motivations and influences guiding these choices. Beyond mere preference, participants were encouraged to articulate the reasons behind their selections, providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of energy consumption.

(4) Results : The survey results revealed interesting insights into the energy preferences among different groups :

S. No.	Demographic Preferences	%	Preferred Source	Reasons for Preference
1.	Households	62%	Renewable	Environmental concerns, cost savings, government incentives
2.	Small Businesses	55%	Renewable	Cost efficiency, public image, sustainability
3.	Large Industries	48%	Renewable	Long-term savings, corporate responsibility compliance
4.	Rural Areas	71%	Renewable	Accessibility, reliability, local employment opportunities
5.	Urban Areas	58%	Renewable	Environmental awareness, incentives, modern infrastructure

(5) Implications for Interventions : By discerning the diverse preferences among different demographics, policymakers, and energy providers, one can tailor interventions to address specific needs. For instance, increasing government incentives and subsidies for renewable energy can encourage more households and businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Concurrently, efforts to improve the infrastructure for renewable energy can enhance its reliability and accessibility. By harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards building a cleaner and more sustainable future for generations to come.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably :
In the introduction, the researcher links climate change with the rise of renewable energy by highlighting ________. [1]

(ii) What would the following be classified as ?

To examine energy preferences across various demographics in detail, and assess their implications. [1]

Select the appropriate response :

1. Primary purpose
2. Method of analysis
3. Secondary objective
4. Research outcome

(iii) Mention the two steps adopted in the survey methodology. [2]

(iv) Paragraph (3) includes the words – ‘motivations’ and ‘influences’. Classify the following sentences as influence or motivation. [1]

Sentence 1 : Government incentives lead households to prefer renewable energy over traditional fossil fuels.

Sentence 2 : The desire for long-term savings makes large industries choose renewable energy.

(v) Read the following text : [1]

Rajan, a rural household head, prefers using solar panels for energy due to their reliability and the local employment opportunities they provide. His neighbour, Rama, a small business owner, values renewable energy for its cost efficiency and sustainability. Meanwhile Suresh, who runs a large industry, opts for renewable energy due to corporate responsibility and compliance with regulations.

Select the option that identifies the correct demographic they belong to.

1. Rajan – household worker; Rama – small business owner; Suresh – large industry owner
2. Rajan – rural employee; Rama – urban worker; Suresh – household head
3. Rajan – rural household head; Rama – small business owner; Suresh – large industry owner
4. Rajan – urban worker; Rama – large industry owner; Suresh – rural worker

(vi) Although both rural and urban areas prefer renewable energy, why is the preference percentage higher among rural areas ? [1]

(vii) Analyse how targeted interventions based on diverse energy preferences of different demographics can lead to improved environmental outcomes. (Paragraph (5)) [2]

(viii) What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study ? [1]

1. increase profitability through enhanced renewable infrastructure
2. build a sustainable future
3. reduce the cost of energy
4. expand the range of renewable energy products available

(1) Introduction : One of the unfortunate paradoxes of our lives today is that despite adequate food production and unimaginable advances in technology, one in three persons worldwide is not getting enough of the right food to eat and approximately 800 million of seven billion sleep hungry every night. Not surprisingly, this makes poor diet the No. 1 risk factor by far, for the global burden of disease.

(2) Findings : Poor diets globally are more responsible for ill health as compared with the combined effect of drugs, tobacco and alcohol. Women and children continue to be the most vulnerable, with 156 million stunted children in the world and 40% of women anaemic. Add to this the fact that the world adds 2,00,000 new people to its population every day, of which India adds 58,000. This translates to the need to feed two billion more people by 2050 and to support a higher demand for major crops, estimated to increase by 50%, from 2·5 to 3·5 billion tonnes.

(3) Purpose : Target 3 for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 is to “halve per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer level, and reduce food losses along production and supply chains, including post-harvest losses”. Food loss is valued at $ 1 trillion globally by the Food and Agriculture Organisation, enough to feed the 800 million who sleep hungry every night. The SDGs have put the spotlight on food loss and waste, prompting discussions on solutions through better farming practices, technology, information, and consumer behaviour changes.

(4) Implications : In developed countries, ‘food waste’ occurs more at the consumer household level, whereas in emerging economies, it is the supply chain that leads to ‘food loss’ during harvest, storage or transit, due to poor infrastructure and inadequately aligned processes. Investment in creating adequate cold storage capacity alone can significantly reduce food loss. Food loss is also nutrition loss, productivity loss, and GDP loss. India, for instance, loses 40% of its food, translating to approximately $ 7·5 billion .

(5) Suggestions : To provide a dignified quality of life, India must enhance agricultural productivity, diversify crops, and eliminate food loss and waste with a firm resolve and timely action. Investments in infrastructure, information systems, technology, and public-private partnerships are critical. Minimising food loss has the potential to be transformative in multiple ways.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Complete the following suitably.
The ‘paradox’ that the author mentions in the introduction refers to ___________. [1]

(ii) Analyse why poor diet is the No. 1 risk factor for diseases globally. [1]

(iii) What would the following be classified as ?
‘This makes poor diet the No. 1 risk factor by far for the global burden of disease.’
Select the appropriate response. [1]

1. Primary purpose
2. Secondary objective
3. Method of analysis
4. Research outcome

(iv) Target 3 for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 is to : [1]

1. produce enough food to feed the 800 million who sleep hungry every night.
2. reduce food waste worth $ 1 trillion globally.
3. reduce per capita global food waste by 50% at all levels.
4. reduce per capita global food waste by 50% along production and supply chains.

(v) Discuss the difference in food waste with regard to developed countries and emerging economies. Answer in about 40 words. [2]

(vi) Paragraph (2) includes the words – effect and demand. Classify the following sentences as ‘effect’ or ‘demand’.
Sentence 1 – 156 million stunted children in the world.
Sentence 2 – This translates to the need to feed two billion more people by 2050. [1]

(vii) Analyse what impact food loss has on a country’s economy. [1]

(viii) India can ensure a dignified way of life for its citizens by :
(A) ____________________
(B) ____________________ [2]

(1) A recent survey conducted by an independent research firm sought to measure levels of happiness among youth aged 16 - 24 years in seven countries. The findings revealed some intriguing insights into what makes today’s youth happiest, as well as which factors influence their overall well-being. In India, an overwhelming majority of the youth reported feeling satisfied with their lives, with 87% rating of their overall happiness as ‘high’ or ‘very high.’ Financial security was identified as the primary source of happiness for 66%, followed by family support (89%), having a purpose in life (50%), and work or studies (40%). Unfortunately, 65% reported feeling stress related to academic performance or workload, while 25% reported feeling lonely. These figures point to a need for increased mental health support among India’s youth.

(2) These surveys also revealed that family support is an important source of contentment for young people across countries. In Europe, 59% of respondents said that their families were a major source of happiness; in France this figure was 67%, and 63% in Germany. In North America, 64% rated family as an important factor for well-being in Canada, while 61% did so in the United States. Similarly, 89% of survey respondents in India named family support as a major contributor to their overall contentment level.

(3) It is clear that stress has a significant impact on the happiness of today’s youth. The findings suggest that young people need better resources to manage their mental health and well-being. This may include access to counselling services, mindfulness activities and support groups to help them cope with challenging circumstances. It is also important to provide financial support so as to reduce some of the economic pressures.

(4) In India, 65% of youth surveyed reported feeling anxious about their academic performance or workload, while 25% felt lonely. These figures are especially significant given how important family support is for young people’s overall contentment.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) What are the two findings that the survey mentioned in paragraph 1 reveals ? Answer in about 40 words. [2]

(ii) Explain in about 40 words the statement “It is also important to provide financial support so as to reduce some of the economic pressures.” [2]

(iii) Elaborate giving data, the statement “Stress has a significant impact on the happiness of today’s youth.” [1]

(iv) Which of the following factors, with reference to the given passage, does not play a substantial role in the well-being of Indian youth ? [1]

1. Family support and strong ties
2. Social connection and technology
3. Books and literature
4. Economic stability

(v) State whether True or False, with reference to the given passage :
It is not necessary to provide financial support to the youth as only academic performance plays an upper hand in deciding the stress level. [1]

(vi) What are the top choices which are of maximum value to today’s youth ? [1]

I. Collectivism
II. Social media
III. Individualistic society
IV. Family ties

Options :

1. I and II
2. II and III
3. I and IV
4. II and IV

(vii) The mental health of today’s youth can be managed by resources like __________ and __________. [1]

(viii) Write the following sources that provide happiness to today’s youth in descending order : [1]

(a) purposefulness
(b) financial status
(c) family support
(d) stress

(1) A recent survey conducted by an independent research firm sought to measure levels of happiness among youth aged 16 – 24 years in seven countries. The findings revealed some intriguing insights into what makes today’s youth happiest, as well as which factors influence their overall well-being. In India, an overwhelming majority of the youth reported feeling satisfied with their lives, with 87% rating their overall happiness as ‘high’ or ‘very high.’ Financial security was identified as the primary source of happiness for 66%, followed by family support (89%), having a purpose in life (50%), and work or studies (40%). Unfortunately, 65% reported feeling stress related to academic performance or workload, while 25% reported feeling lonely. These figures point to a need for increased mental health support among India’s youth.

(2) These surveys also revealed that family support is an important source of contentment for young people across countries. In Europe, 59% of respondents said that their families were a major source of happiness; in France this figure was 67%, and 63% in Germany. In North America, 64% rated family as an important factor for well-being in Canada, while 61% did so in the United States. Similarly, 89% of survey respondents in India named family support as a major contributor to their overall contentment level.

(3) It is clear that stress has a significant impact on the happiness of today’s youth. The findings suggest that young people need better resources to manage their mental health and well-being. This may include access to counselling services, mindfulness activities and support groups to help them cope with challenging circumstances. It is also important to provide financial support so as to reduce some of the economic pressures.

(4) In India, 65% of youth surveyed reported feeling anxious about their academic performance or workload, while 25% felt lonely. These figures are especially significant given how important family support is for young people’s overall contentment.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) What are the two findings that the survey mentioned in paragraph 1 reveals? Answer in about 40 words. [2]

(ii) Explain in about 40 words the statement “It is also important to provide financial support so as to reduce some of the economic pressures.” [2]

(iii) Elaborate giving data, the statement “Stress has a significant impact on the happiness of today’s youth.” [1]

(iv) Which of the following factors, with reference to the given passage, does not play a substantial role in the well-being of Indian youth? [1]

1. Family support and strong ties
2. Social connection and technology
3. Books and literature
4. Economic stability

(v) State whether True or False, with reference to the given passage :
It is not necessary to provide financial support to the youth as only academic performance plays an upper hand in deciding the stress level. [1]

(vi) What are the top choices which are of maximum value to today’s youth?
I. Collectivism
II. Social media
III. Individualistic society
IV. Family ties
Options : [1]

1. I and II
2. II and III
3. I and IV
4. II and IV

(vii) The mental health of today’s youth can be managed by resources like __________ and __________. [1]

(viii) Write the following sources that provide happiness to today’s youth in descending order :
(a) purposefulness
(b) financial status
(c) family support
(d) stress [1]

(1) Without specialised equipment, humans would be lost in these deep-sea habitats, so how do fish make it seem so easy ? Much of this is due to a biological phenomenon known as electroreception — the ability to perceive and act upon electrical stimuli as part of the overall senses. This ability is only found in aquatic and amphibious species because water is an efficient conductor of electricity.

(2) One fascinating use of electroreception has been observed between the weakly electric fish. When two such electric fish meet in the ocean using the same frequency, each fish will then shift the frequency of its discharge so that they are transmitting on different frequencies. Doing so prevents their electroreception faculties from becoming jammed.

(3) Electroreception can also play an important role in animal defences. Rays are one such example. Young ray embryos develop inside egg cases that are attached to the sea bed. The embryos keep their tails in constant motion to pump water and allow them to breathe through the egg’s casing. If the embryo’s electroreceptors detect the presence of a predatory fish in the vicinity, however, the embryo stops moving (and in doing so, ceases transmitting electric currents) until the predator has moved on.

(4) Many people fear swimming in the ocean because of sharks. Sharks hunt with extraordinary precision. They initially lock on to their prey through a keen sense of smell. As the shark reaches in proximity of its prey, it tunes into electrical signals that ensure a precise strike on its target; this sense is so strong that the shark even attacks blind by letting its eyes recede for protection. In areas where shark attacks on humans are likely to occur, scientists are exploring ways to create artificial electroreceptors. These would disorient the sharks and repel them from swimming beaches.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Infer the advantage that aquatic or amphibious species have over human beings. Answer in about 40 words. [2]

(ii) A possible use for electroreception that will benefit humans is to : [1]

1. use water as it is an efficient conductor of electricity.
2. act on electrical stimuli.
3. change electrical frequency to prevent it from being jammed.
4. jam electrical frequencies.

(iii) Explain in about 40 words the use of electroreception between the weakly electric fish. [2]

(iv) Identify a young ray embryo from the following : [1]

1. It fears electric signals.
2. It keeps its tail in constant motion.
3. It stations itself on land.
4. It disorients sharks.

(v) Complete the sentence appropriately.
A shark hunts with accuracy because ________________. [1]

(vi) Why does a shark recede its eyes when it attacks ? [1]

(vii) In areas where shark attacks on humans are likely to occur, scientists : [1]

1. suggest putting barriers.
2. are exploring ways to create artificial electroreceptors.
3. suggest blinding them.
4. are exploring ways to warn swimmers.

(viii) State True or False.
The title – ‘Understanding Electroreception and its Uses is Significant for Human Beings’ is appropriate for this passage. [1]

(1) We’re all familiar with the usual reasons workers cite for wanting to stay away even after lockdowns have long ended: flexible schedules, not having to commute, and of course, increased productivity. However, productivity isn’t the only reason people want to stay away from the office. We recently surveyed 1,000 remote workers to find out what’s really keeping them tied to their work-from-home lives.

(2) The findings include : 72% want to be able to take a nap or exercise during the day. Nearly three out of four remote workers surveyed stated that the ability to take a nap or workout during the workday was one of the reasons they wanted to stay home. Though these activities may very well increase worker productivity, there’s no doubt that a nap on the kitchen couch would be frowned upon in the office.

(3) 73% want to be able to watch TV while they work. Three out of four respondents again say that being able to entertain themselves with TV, podcasts, music, or other media is one of the reasons they want to keep their work-from-home lifestyle.

(4) 62% cite concerns about their appearance. Well over half of respondents stated that they are concerned about their co-workers seeing them in-person again after such a long time apart. Whether it’s weight loss or gain, not having the right clothes, or another concern about appearance, most would rather not have to worry about the way they look to their co-workers outside a Zoom call.

(5) When asked to choose the reason that most affects their desire to keep working from home, predictable answers like caring for children and lack of a commute were still the most common number one reasons. 14% of respondents stated that working remotely was so important to them, that they would not go back to work in-person even if their employers required it.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) ‘..... these activities will increase productivity’. By ‘productivity.’ the author refers to [1]

1. products produced
2. efficiency of the employee
3. time spent by the employee
4. number of activities

(ii) What change in the work place would bring those people back to office who want amusement ? [1]

1. giving long breaks
2. free coffee and tea
3. building entertainment lounge
4. spacious conference hall

(iii) As per the survey, why do health conscious people prefer to work from home ? [1]

(iv) Complete the following sentence appropriately :
The passage ends on a note that some people are resolved to __________. [1]

(v) Explain one inference that can be drawn from para 1 about the reason for people’s preference to work from home. [1]

(vi) State whether the statement given below is True or False :
The survey reveals that people deeply miss socializing in the work from home style. [1]

(vii) Explain in your own words how appearance is one of the factors for people’s preference for work from home. [2]

(viii) As per the survey, what top priorities of people prevent them from going to office ? [2]

(1) People below the age of 20 and above the age of 50 are more likely to believe fake news. Those relatively new to the use of the internet still do not grasp the concept of fake information over these platforms, reveals a new survey ‘Countering Misinformation in India.’ This survey has been conducted jointly by Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI).

(2) At least 40% of the respondents believed in ‘misinformation’ received over social media if it came with leading backgrounds and evidence, while 34% of them believe the information when it is shared by a trustworthy organization.

(3) The dominant factor that drives people to forward such information is their belief that it might benefit others and help in their safety. In fact, that was the response of almost 50% of the respondents. This was compounded by the fact that at least 20% of the respondents expressed their lack of trust in conventional media thus their faith in contents shared by common people over social media.

(4) But even then, newspapers still remain the top source of information for most. At least 53% of the respondents trust what is generally perceived as neutral media and only 29% trust technology and social media platforms.

(5) However, what was surprising was that almost 45% of the respondents did not even know about the existence of fact-checking organization and most did not even know that journalists had to verify data before they let it out. Only 26% of the respondents believe that it is the responsibility of the media to curb or identify fake news. Many respondents also put the responsibility of identifying such fake news on an individual.

(6) The survey has found that first time or early users of the Internet platforms are more susceptible to fake news than others. There is a need for building capacities and creating a National Civic Digital Literacy Strategic Plan.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) Select the option that comes under conventional media : [1]

1. Instagram
2. Newspaper
3. Facebook
4. E-mail

(ii) Select the correct option :
One factor that prompts people to believe fake news is that [1]

1. it supports their point of view
2. they are biased
3. it is from a reliable site
4. it has more ‘likes’ and ‘shares’

(iii) What according to the passage are the intentions of people who share information ? [1]

(iv) Which reason do you infer from the passage is responsible for journalists spreading misinformation ? [1]

(v) Complete the sentence appropriately :
The threat faced by the new entrants in social media is __________. [1]

(vi) Explain your understanding of the difference between ‘misinformation’ and ‘fake news’. [1]

(vii) As per your inference drawn from para (1), which category of people fall as victims to fake news ? [2]

(viii) What is the blame game that goes on in fixing the onus of identifying fake news ? [2]

(1) In a rapidly changing world, transition from school to work has become more complex and challenging for young people, as finding employment is difficult for the youth. If academic studies may be an excellent path to successful career and lives, other types of education like ‘Vocational Education and Training (VET) programmes are more than ever being emphasized by governments globally to support work-ready professionals with relevant on-the-job experience to match the needs of various industries.

(2) According to the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), India aims to skill 400 million people by 2025. Vocational training programmes, such as Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) provide training in fields such as engineering, health care, hospitality, construction and more. According to NSDC estimates, India is expected to witness significant job creation. With the help of this training, opportunities for self-employment have been enhanced. As of July 2021, over 1.5 million candidates have been placed in various jobs after acquiring vocational training.

(3) Vocational training programmes also encourage entrepreneurship by providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills required to establish and operate their own businesses. The NSDC states that out of the 12 million people entering the workforce in India every year, only 4.5 million are skilled, highlighting the need for further vocational training initiatives. Vocational training plays a significant role in India by addressing the skill gap, improving employability, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving economic growth. This contributes to the nation’s overall development and individual prosperity.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) What are the problems faced by many young people when they shift from school to work ? [1]

1. Finding employment
2. Transition
3. Loneliness
4. Social anxiety

(ii) Why are governments promoting Vocational Education and Training programmes ? [1]

(iii) Infer why the National Skill Development Corporation of India has increased its efforts to skill 400 million people in 2025. Answer in about 40 words. [2]

(iv) Share evidence from the text, in about 40 words, to support the view that vocational training improves self-employment. [2]

(v) Identify the entrepreneur from the three people who has acquired vocational training. [1]

1. Ravi : I am working as a carpenter and getting very high wages.
2. Narain : I have acquired the skill of cooking and will work for an established hotel.
3. Bani : After doing a course in fashion designing, I have opened my own boutique.

(vi) How does vocational training help in bridging the skill gap ? [1]

(vii) Complete the sentence appropriately.
The NSDC states that less than half the people entering the workforce in India are skilled so __________. [1]

(viii) State True or False :
The title ‘Improve Your Skills, Gain Better Jobs’ is appropriate for this passage. [1]

(1) Seagulls, as you know, never falter, never stall. To stall in the air is for them a disgrace and a dishonour. But Jonathan Livingston Seagull, unashamed, stretching his wings again in that trembling hard curve — slowing, slowing, and stalling once more — was no ordinary bird. Most gulls don’t bother to learn more than the simplest facts of flight — how to get from shore to food and back again. For most gulls, it is not flying that matters, but eating. For this gull, though, it was not eating that mattered, but flight. More than anything else, Jonathan Livingston Seagull loved to fly.

(2) This kind of thinking, he found, is not the way to make oneself popular with other birds. Even his parents were dismayed as Jonathan spent the whole day alone, making hundreds of low-level gliders, experimenting. “Why, Jon, why ?” his mother asked. “Why is it so hard to be like the rest of the flock, Jon ? Why can’t you leave low flying to the pelicans, the albatross ? Why don’t you eat ? Son, you’re bone and feathers !” “I don’t mind being bone and feathers, mom. I just want to know what I can do in the air and what I can’t, that’s all. I just want to know.” “See here, Jonathan,” said his father, not unkindly. “Winter isn’t far away. Boats will be few, and the surface fish will be swimming deep. If you must study, then study food, and how to get it. This flying business is all very well, but you can’t eat a glide, you know. Don’t you forget that the reason you fly is to eat.”

(3) Jonathan nodded obediently. For the next few days he tried to behave like the other gulls; he really tried, screeching and fighting with the flock around the piers and fishing boats, diving on scraps of fish and bread. But he couldn’t make it work. It wan’t long before Jonathan Gull was off by himself again, far out at sea, hungry, happy, learning. The subject was speed, and in a week’s practice he learned more about speed than the fastest gull alive. Time after time it happened. Careful as he was, working at the very peak of his ability, he lost control at a high speed. The key, he thought at last, dripping wet, must be to hold the wings still at high speeds — to flap up to fifty and then hold the wings still.

(4) From two thousand feet he tried again, rolling into his dive, beak straight down, wings full out and stable from the moment he passed fifty miles per hour. It took tremendous strength, but it worked. In ten seconds he had blurred ninety miles per hour. Jonathan had set a world speed record for seagulls ! But victory was short-lived. The instant he began his pullout, the instant he changed the angle of his wings, he snapped into the same uncontrollable disaster, and at ninety miles per hour it hit him like dynamite. Jonathan Seagull exploded in midair and smashed down into a brick-hard sea. As he sank low in the water, a strange hollow voice sounded within him. There’s no way around it. I am a seagull. I am limited by my nature. If I were meant to learn so much about flying, I’d have charts for brains. If I were meant to fly at speed, I’d have a falcon’s short wings. Short wings. A falcon’s short wings ! That’s the answer ! What a fool I’ve been ! All I need is a tiny little wing, all I need is to fold most of my wings and just fly on the tips along. Short wings !

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : [10×1=10]

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option :
Majority of seagulls fly only short distances as __________

1. they are more interested in food than flight.
2. they don’t have energy.
3. they are not meant to fly low.
4. food is not available at high speed.

(ii) Why were Jonathan Livingston’s parents’ dismayed ?

(iii) Give two reasons for Jonathan’s unconventional behaviour.
(Clue : think about Jonathan’s point of view.)

(iv) Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘glory’ from words used in paragraph 1.

1. disgrace
2. dishonour
3. learning
4. unashamed

(v) The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraph 2, EXCEPT

1. Jonathan could not fly but only glide.
2. Jonathan wanted to be popular with other birds.
3. Jonathan realised that even the albatross flew at high altitudes.
4. The reason seagulls flew was to find food.

(vi) Jonathan was different from other seagulls. Based on your understanding of paragraph 2, list what Jonathan wanted to know.

(vii) What was the mother’s concern about Jonathan ?

(viii) Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference with respect to the following :
Father reminds Jonathan that he ‘can’t eat a glide’ in order to ___________ .

(ix) It wasn’t long before Jonathan Gull was off by himself again, far out at sea. Which trait of Jonathan does this statement reveal ?

1. practical bird
2. persistent learner
3. lonely and sad
4. carefree and irresponsible

(x) Was it fair to fly like a falcon when he was just a seagull ? Why does he say so ?

(1) Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) are products that sell quickly at relatively low cost. FMCG is the fourth-largest sector in the Indian economy. There are three main segments in the sector — food and beverages, which accounts for 19% of the sector; healthcare, which accounts for 31% of the share; and household and personal care, which accounts for the remaining 50% share. The urban segment contributes to about 55% of the revenue share, while the rural segment accounts for 45%. Rise in rural consumption will drive the FMCG market. The Indian processed food market is projected to expand to US$ 470 billion by 2025, up from US$ 263 billion in 2019 – 20.

(2) The Indian FMCG industry grew by 16% in 2021, a 9-year high, despite nationwide lockdowns, supported by consumption-led growth and value expansion from higher product prices, particularly for staples. Real household spending is projected to increase 9·1% after 2021, after a decrease of 9·3% in 2020 due to the economic impact of the pandemic. Price increase across product categories will offset the impact of rising raw material prices, along with volume growth and resurgence of demand for discretionary items.

(3) The FMCG sector has received good investments and support from the Government in the recent past. The sector witnessed healthy FDI inflows from April 2000 – March 2022. Furthermore, as per the Union Budget 2022–23, a substantial amount has been allocated to the Department of Consumer Affairs, an increased amount has been allocated to the Department of Food and Public Distribution. In 2021 – 22, the Government approved Production-Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) with an outlay of a larger amount to help Indian brands of food products in the international markets.

(4) The Government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme gives companies a major opportunity to boost exports. The future outlook of the FMCG rural sector looks on track now. Rural consumption has increased, led by a combination of increasing income and higher aspiration levels. There is an increased demand for branded products in rural India. The growth of organised sector in FMCG is expected to rise with an increased level of brand consciousness, augmented by the growth in modern retail.

[Pie chart of the three FMCG segments: Food and Beverages; Healthcare; Household and Personal care]

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : [10×1=10]

(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in para 1 ?
Food and beverages segment dominates the Global FMCG market and is expected to retain its dominance.
Select from the following :
I. True – If the statement agrees with the information
II. False – If the statement contradicts the information
III. Not Given – If there is no information on this

(ii) What do you think gives opportunities to boost exports ?

(iii) Select the option that displays the most likely reason for FMCG rural sector being on track.

1. FMCG sector has been unable to get investments from the Government.
2. PLI schemes don’t reach the rural sector.
3. Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of the online grocery segment in India is expected to double in the next five years.
4. There is a desire to buy branded products in the villages too.

(iv) Complete the sentence based on the following statement :
The Indian FMCG industry grew by 16% in 2021, a 9-year high, despite nationwide lockdowns because __________.

(v) From the given pie chart, which segment of FMCG accounts for the maximum percentage of the sector ?

(vi) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The combination of increasing income and higher aspiration levels in the rural areas has led to __________.

1. the Government taking a direct interest
2. the demand for branded products
3. price increases across product categories
4. the fall of supply in urban areas

(vii) How is the Government trying to help Indian brands of food products in the international markets ?

(viii) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The concluding paragraph of the passage makes a clear case _________.

1. that the rural people also want branded products
2. that the FMCG industry will not focus on brand consciousness
3. for the role of data analytics in the FMCG industry
4. for the Government’s role by providing incentives

(ix) What will be the impact of increased level of brand consciousness ?

(x) Based on the reading of the passage, correct the following statement :
The urban segment contributes to about 45% of the revenue share, while the rural segment accounts for 55%.

(1) When we think of the game of cricket, we come to the conclusion that it is primarily a game that depends on outstanding physical activities, good hand-eye co-ordination, speed, skill and strength. It provides entertainment and generates strong feelings of excitement. A good match of cricket or of any other game neither adds to the existing stock of human knowledge nor reveals any secret of existence. It does not carry any deep meaning but most people, particularly the lover of sports attach deep emotions and numerous meanings to it. Games are thought of as a metaphor for life. They are supposed to teach many lessons. In fact, more is said and written about a cricket match than about scientific findings or great philosophy.

(2) This is because games, like a morality play, in which settings and rules are made by us, can easily make people test their fair and foul conduct, principles of reward and punishment, and emotions of joy and disappointment. They can make us experience the thrill of war without exposing us to its dangers. A man watching a cricket match on T.V. and munching popcorn is like a surrogate warrior. In fact, games provide us with a safe outlet for our aggressiveness. If games become aggressive, they lose the very purpose of providing entertainment and purging us of our aggressiveness. They can calm our impatience without creating any conflict.

(3) Commentators, journalists, politicians and analysts can do a great favour to the competing teams by keeping the excitement within limits. The teams should play without being dominated by feelings of national honour and shame. Excellent performance of the players of both teams should be enjoyed and appreciated.

Winning or losing in a game should not be taken seriously. A game is fun if it is played with true spirit of sportsmanship.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : [10 × 1 = 10]

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option :
Most people conclude that cricket is primarily a game because __________.

1. it is played as a match
2. it requires two teams
3. it includes physical activity
4. it depends only on skill and strength

(ii) Comment on the writer’s reference to that cricket does not reveal any secret of existence.

(iii) List two responses which watching a game of cricket gives rise to.

(iv) Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘destroy’ from words used in the passage.

1. reveals
2. experience
3. generate
4. purging

(v) The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraph 2, EXCEPT

1. Rules of any game are made by people.
2. Watching a cricket match makes the viewer believe that he is fighting a battle ?
3. It is necessary for a game to be aggressive in order to build excitement.
4. A game can test people’s sense of fair judgement.

(vi) With reference to the passage, a spectator is compared to a ‘surrogate warrior’.
Choose the option that best describes this phrase :

1. a spectator who is paid to watch.
2. a spectator who is in pain while watching the match.
3. a spectator who enjoys the match as an armchair soldier.
4. a spectator who makes judgement about reward and punishment.

(vii) Why does the writer compare games to a morality play ?

(viii) Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference with respect to the following :
The writer says that games can calm our impatience without creating any conflict by __________.

(ix) The writer advises the players that games should not become aggressive because, __________.

(x) Select the most suitable title for the above passage.

1. Excellent Performance by Cricketers
2. The Benefits of Playing Cricket
3. Cricket – The King of Games
4. The True Spirit of Playing Games

Read the following report and answer the questions by choosing the correct/most appropriate option : [10 × 1 = 10]

AIRCRAFT MOVEMENT DOWN, BUT BIRD HITS UP

Source: DGCA/AAI

Airports with most incidents in 2021

(1) How bird hits happen, why they are a concern ?
New Delhi June 20
At least two bird strike incidents happened on Sunday. Both aircrafts returned to their airports of origin and were grounded for maintenance. An ABC aircraft, which took off from Guwahati towards Delhi, suffered damage to its left engine following a bird hit at 1600 feet. The pilots returned to Guwahati. The other strike happened on another flight from Patna to Delhi. The pilots of the aircraft suspected a bird strike during the take-off roll but continued to climb. Following the take off rotation, they were informed by the cabin crew of sparks emanating from the left engine. Subsequently, the pilots were also informed by air traffic control of smoke coming out of one of the engines. The pilots declared an emergency and returned to Patna.

(2) Why are bird strikes a concern ?
Bird strikes are among the most common threats to aircraft safety, and they typically occur during take-off or landing. Dozens of bird-strikes happen each day but some can be more dangerous than others. Typically, when birds collide with an aircraft’s airframe, it is unlikely to cause significant problems for the pilots flying. But there are instances when the aircraft engine ingests the birds. This can lead to a loss of thrust for the engine and cause maneuverability problems for the crew. In these cases, where a jet engine ingests a bird, procedures would generally call for pilots to land the plane at the closest airport. While most airframe bird strikes are not considered critical to air safety, if a collision cracks a window or a wind screen, pilots will look to land as early as possible.

(3) How critical are bird strikes to air safety ?
Smaller planes would generally be more susceptible to the dangers of bird strikes than larger ones.

However, given that bird strikes mostly happen during take-off and landing, these incidents could distract the pilots during what are highly critical phases of flights that demand the complete attention of the crew.

(4) What causes bird-strikes ?
The presence of birds around an aircraft increases the chances of a bird strike. In the monsoon, as water puddles emerge on open grounds attracting insects to breed, the presence of birds increases. In some cases, bird hits also happen at higher altitudes when a plane is cruising. These are more dangerous than the low-altitude hits, given that they can cause rapid depressurization of cabins. Other reasons for bird activity around the air field could be presence of landfills or waste disposal sites that can attract a large number of birds.

(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in paragraph 1.
When an airplane is hit by a bird or is suspected to have been hit, the passengers must be asked to get down at once.
Select from the following :
True : If the statement agrees with the information.
False : If the statement contradicts the information.
Not Given : If there is no information on this.

(ii) Select the option that displays the most likely reason for Bird hits.

1. when the aircraft is overloaded
2. at the time of landing or taking off
3. when the crew become negligent
4. when the passengers become panicky

(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately with one word.
Smaller planes are generally more __________ than the larger ones.

(iv) Complete the sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
When the window or the windscreen of the air plane is cracked due to a bird hit __________.

1. the crew must rush to the cockpit.
2. the pilot must land at the earliest airport.
3. the pilot must inform the maintenance engineer.
4. the pilot must get instructions from the aviation wing what should do in emergency.

(v) Based on the reading of the text, state a point to further the statement.
Dozens of bird hits take place every day __________.

1. but only a few are dangerous.
2. all of them are fatal.
3. but after every bird hit it is imperative to land the aircraft.
4. the pilot should ignore them.

(vi) Complete the sentence based on the following statement :
Complete attention of the crew is demanded during take off and landing.
We can say this because __________.

(vii) Complete the sentence appropriately with one/two words.
In cases where the aircraft engine infests the bird, it leads to the loss of thrust and causes problems in __________.

(viii) Which are the areas more prone to bird hits ?

(ix) Based on the reading of the text, state a point to challenge the given statement :
The area around air fields should be clear of any waste disposal sites.

(x) Look at the graph. It shows that between 2016 and 2021, whereas air flights have come down, the bird-hits have gone up. This implies that the incidence of bird hits has __________.

1. decreased
2. increased
3. remained constant
4. been alarming

(1) As a form of expression, graffiti is famously characterized by outlaw values; the creation and display of graffiti countered societal rules and was considered by some as vandalism. Not only was it symbolic of rebel values but was also linked to destruction of property. These links between graffiti culture and rebellion were age-old and some say, were popularized by hip-hop culture.

(2) Imagine waking up one morning, to see your walls smeared with black paint names, symbols, messages. The most interesting bit is that these wall artists were never caught red-handed. It was all done stealthily. It was almost as though people were marking their territory using painted symbols and slogans. The change was creeping in. Mobile numbers and captivating phrases gradually became marketing tools for free advertising. Catchy phrases tickled the curiosity and calls were made to those numbers.

(3) Over a period of time, there was a shift in perception. Blank walls beckoned invitingly and artists saw whitewashed walls as an opportunity to display their work in free and open settings. The city became one large canvas; the illegal ‘gang activity’ became an art form on display in walking galleries. Graffiti was gradually being replaced and the stigma of illegality was being dropped. There was a move to embrace rather than condemn.

(4) The colours, shapes, and subjects became cultural themes. What was once rebellious expression is artistic talent at its vibrant best, rich in images of plants, animals and unspoiled landscapes. The painted walls encouraged by residents and governments have created their own ecosystem — a reconciliation of nature with man-made forces.

(5) The monotony and uniformity of urban life is today infused with human vitality and beauty. Cities speak proudly about the painted walls and clamour to be the first to preserve culture and history through these. Graphic displays of social awareness issues effectively and economically reach out to the common man. Silent art speaks volumes. Be it hygiene, conservation, education, or rights and duties — the message is conveyed in an animated, colourful manner without being an imposition.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : [10 × 1 = 10]

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option.
Graffiti in the earlier years was

1. considered a valuable legacy.
2. done by prominent artists.
3. an expression of rebellion.
4. supported by society.

(ii) Comment on the writer’s statement, ‘It was all done stealthily’.

(iii) List two reasons why graffiti was not popular among people.

(iv) Select the word from para 2 of the passage that conveys the opposite of ‘boring’.

(v) The writer would agree with all of the following EXCEPT :

1. Graffiti art was a paid activity.
2. Wall art was an age-old tradition.
3. Graffiti became popular as a marketing tool.
4. People were curious by what was scribbled on walls.

(vi) Which word from the following most nearly means ‘reconciliation’ with reference to the given context ? (para 4)

1. cease fire
2. resolution
3. combination
4. reunion

(vii) Why does the writer say that the stigma of ‘illegality’ was dropped ?

(viii) Complete the following sentence with reference to the passage :
The city became one large canvas because __________.

(ix) The passage states a shift in attitude. Identify the best option that indicates this shift.

1. rejection to dismissal
2. confusion to clarity
3. imposition to acceptance
4. dislike to acceptance

(x) List two ways in which wall art is beneficial to society.

(1) Educational technology is the combined use of computer hardware, software, educational theory, and practice to facilitate learning. When referred to with its abbreviation EdTech, it points to the industry of companies that create educational technology. With education growing online, India’s EdTech market size is expected to grow 3·7 times in the next five years.

(2) Education in both rural and urban India is expected to be supported by technology in the near future.

(3) As per a 2019 – 2020 report, only 22·3 percent of schools had an internet connection. Moreover, 61 percent of schools in the country didn’t even have computers.

(4) With the internet rate estimated to reach above 55 percent by the end of 2025 in India, digitisation of education will impact the country’s development and become one of the topmost priorities for the government.

(5) Budget 2021 – 22 allocated ₹ 93,224·31 crore to the Ministry of Education. It was an increase of over ₹ 8,100 crore from the revised estimates for the current fiscal year and the Department of Higher Education was allocated ₹ 38,350·65 crore.

(6) The role of technology in education is more critical now than ever in addressing educational disparity. It has already made learning affordable and accessible. In particular, the use of technology in education in rural India is one of the biggest boons of recent times.

(7) With help from apps and software, teachers can enhance their teaching ability and provide information about the most recent developments. Students can enjoy an interactive learning experience. Teachers can employ animation, powerpoint slides and graphs to catch the interest of their pupils. Gamification lends interest in the subject.

(8) The online education system is a sector in which growth and development will work for the betterment of many sectors which include educating learners and increasing job opportunities for educators and technical teams.

Use of Technology in Education (bar graph; vertical axis: Percentage, 10 to 80; bars for Grade 3 – 5, Grade 6 – 8 and Grade 9 – 12 under each of the items: Use e-textbooks, Virtual Experiments, Educational Games, Create Presentation)

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : [10 × 1 = 10]

(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in para 1 ?
Education technology is the practice of introducing information and communication technology tools into the classroom.
Select from the following :

• True – If the statement agrees with the information
• False – If the statement contradicts the information
• Not Given – If there is no information on this

(ii) What are the two essentials for digitisation of education ?

(iii) Select the option which displays that use of technology in education in rural India is one of the biggest boons of recent times.

1. Frees up the teacher to be able to concentrate on farming.
2. Teachers can enhance their teaching ability and provide more value to the students.
3. It understands what is needed and technology is subsequently developed effectively.
4. Simplifies assignment management with user-friendly methods.

(iv) Complete the sentence based on the following statement :
The role of EdTech is more critical now __________.

(v) The word ‘critical’ in para 6 most nearly means

1. difficult
2. crucial
3. complementary
4. causative

(vi) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
Technology in education works for the betterment of many sectors such as __________.

1. farmers, educators and businessmen
2. educating learners, job opportunities for educators and technical teams
3. doctors, engineers and technocrats
4. banking, construction workers and software technicians

(vii) Digital education will become a top priority for the government because __________.

(viii) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The concluding sentence of the passage makes a clear case that __________.

1. the growth of educational technology and online education will take some time
2. nobody imagined a growth as exponential as in the last two years
3. development of EdTech will work for the betterment of many other sectors as well
4. the private sector has to play a decisive role

(ix) Based on the graph, state the items which have the highest percentage of technology used by students of grades 9 – 12 and by students of grades 3 – 5.

(x) Based on the reading of the passage, state a point to challenge the given statement :
India’s EdTech market size is expected to double in the next five years.

(1) World Conservation Day is celebrated internationally to increase awareness about the best practices needed to protect our natural resources. The Earth is supplied with a limited amount of resources that we all rely upon, like water, air, soil and trees. The World Nature Conservation Movement is a great opportunity to celebrate the progress we’ve made and determine to take action, wherever needed. It is time to remind ourselves that we need to give back to nature instead of just using resources without thinking about conservation. There is a need to replenish and recycle the resources we consume from nature.

(2) Our forests, rivers, oceans and soils provide us with the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we irrigate our crops with. We also rely on them for numerous other goods and services. We depend on them for our health, happiness and prosperity. We have a cycle of biodiversity which needs proper conservation.

(3) The population explosion remains one of the major reasons why natural resources are getting depleted at a very fast rate. Technological advancement and luxurious lifestyles have led to several environmental problems like global warming, ozone layer depletion, river water pollution and deforestation, which threaten the planet’s future.

(4) Humans, animals, marine creatures and the environment, all need to be protected and conserved for the planet’s future well-being. There are many examples of conservation. One is a programme to try to preserve wetlands, or a programme to try and save old buildings. Another example is of an attempt to minimise the amount of electricity used by turning off lights when leaving a room, or an attempt to turn off the running tap to avoid wastage of water. There are lots of examples like these which need implementation.

(5) Following these small steps in our daily lives we can help to maintain the balance of nature, thereby saving humankind from the kinds of natural disasters we may face in the near future.

(6) Nature also has a profound impact on our minds and our behaviour, helping reduce anxiety, brooding, and stress and increase our attention, capacity, creativity and ability to connect with other people. So there is a need to save nature if we want to save life as the two are interconnected and need each other. If we hurt or destroy the environment, surely we will be ruined. We must create awareness among family members, and try and practise a sustainable lifestyle to protect and conserve nature.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : 10×1=10

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing the appropriate option.
There is an urgent need to conserve our natural resources because [1]

1. we are aimlessly using the natural resources and not replenishing them.
2. they will be replaced by man-made resources.
3. serious efforts are needed to cut down the consumption of these resources.
4. we must become alert before it is too late.

(ii) In the opinion of the writer, which are the primary natural resources without which our life is not possible ? [1]

(iii) In paragraph 1, the writer talks about ‘celebrating the progress’. Explain in context. [1]

(iv) The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraph 6, EXCEPT [1]

1. Stress can be relieved by working overtime.
2. Nature can affect man’s emotional well-being.
3. Lifestyle cannot be changed permanently.
4. Destruction of the environment is a temporary measure undertaken by man.

(v) In the context of the given passage, what is the synonym of ‘replenish’ (para 1) ? Choose the correct option. [1]

1. scarcity
2. restore
3. reconcile
4. minimize

(vi) List two ways in which forests and rivers help mankind. [1]

(vii) How can the solutions suggested in paragraph 4 be best described ? [1]

1. unrealistic
2. short term
3. practical
4. challenging

(viii) Why is it fair to say that population explosion remains one of the major reasons why natural resources are getting depleted rapidly ? [1]

(ix) Complete the given sentence with an appropriate reference with respect to the following :
The writer quotes the example of family awareness in order to __________ (Paragraph 6). [1]

(x) Select the most suitable title for the above passage [1]

1. Ways to Save the Environment
2. Save Nature Save Life
3. Nature - A Pharmacy
4. Nature - A Food Factory

(1) Nowadays companies demand an outstanding job performance by every single employee to be better than that of their competitors because there is competition among enterprises. The employers make efforts to motivate the employees and optimise performance.

(2) There are numerous factors affecting job performance. These can be divided into external and internal factors. The internal factors are team spirit, competent boss, respect from colleagues and job satisfaction. The external factors are chance for personal development, job security, promotion prospects and monetary incentives. The decisive determinant is that the employees remain highly motivated. One possible method to increase motivation is the salary. Employees are willing to stay longer hours in the office and perform better, when they have the chance to get financial rewards, for instance, a higher salary or bonuses.

(3) The bar graph (given below) shows the result of a survey conducted among workers in a company to analyse their work performance across ten different factors that contribute to make their work environment pleasant. The workers are grouped into two categories - those between the ages of 18 - 30 and those between 45 - 60. Interestingly, in six out of the ten factors surveyed, the 18 - 30 age group is shown to be more affected than the 45 - 60 age group. Factors, besides the salary, which affect the work performance of the two different age groups are interesting. These factors are the chance for personal development, relaxed working environment, promotion prospects, job satisfaction and monetary incentives. Furthermore, two out of the remaining four factors namely, team spirit and work environment have been equally influential among the two groups. The 45 - 60 years workers are impacted a lot by ‘respect from colleagues’ whereas the prospect of a promotion is an important reason that drives younger employees to work better.

(4) Job performance of happy employees is 31% more productive and they show three times more creativity than their unhappy counterparts. They are more resilient and more likely to stay in the same company for a longer period. Consequently they drive the company towards long-term goals by being more productive and efficient.

Factors affecting work performance (bar graph; values read approximately from the printed graph, scale 0–100)

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : 10×1=10

(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in para 1 ?
When the company has a lot of competitors, it tries to invent the most efficient technology to stay ahead.
Select from the following : [1]

• True – If the statement agrees with the information
• False – If the statement contradicts the information
• Not Given – If there is no information on this

(ii) Why do you think the companies demand exemplary performance from their employees ? Support your answer with reference to the passage. [1]

(iii) Select the option that displays the most likely reason for employees to perform better. [1]

1. companies demand an outstanding performance
2. if the company grows, their growth is assured
3. when there are chances to get financial gratification
4. to drive the company towards long-term goals

(iv) Select two factors that display that work performance of both the categories of workers remains the same. [1]

(v) Based on the bar graph, complete the following statement :
The 18 - 30 age group is shown to be more affected than the 45 - 60 age group in most factors.
We can say this because ____________ . [1]

(vi) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
Loyalty as an attribute is there in employees who are [1]

1. senior
2. healthy
3. motivated
4. happy

(vii) The 45 - 60 age group workers are motivated by _________ . [1]

(viii) Based on the reading of the passage, state a point to challenge the given statement.
Increase in salary is the only motivation for better job performance. [1]

(ix) Complete the sentence.
The internal factors affecting work performance are _________ . [1]

(x) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The concluding sentence of the passage makes a clear case for __________ by listing it as a core component of steering the company towards long-term goals. [1]

1. collaboration
2. flexibility
3. happiness
4. adaptability

(1) I know many friends of mine who drink coffee regularly but do not know that coffee exists in different forms other than instant coffee. There are many who swear by Flora café classic or Coco gold, which they consider premium coffee. I may sound offensive but instant coffee is not the only way; in fact it’s a very bad way of making coffee ! Instant coffee cannot match up to brewed coffee’s flavour nor does it have Arabica beans. It uses Robusta beans that are lower in flavour. Don’t know the difference ? ! Read on ...

(2) That plant might be a genius ! It created a chemical that would keep pests away. Fortunately for us and unfortunately for the plant – that plan did not work the way it was intended to. The chemical might have averted a few pest attacks, but attracted a far greater threat – human beings. The plant I am talking about is coffee and the chemical is caffeine.

(3) To begin from the beginning – coffee is from a more mature part of the tree – the seed – unlike other stimulants. The ripe berry is picked and de-pulped leaving us with a seed called ‘green bean’ or ‘green coffee’. Green bean is uncharacteristically bland with a taste nowhere close to that of coffee, but it is valued for its higher antioxidant levels.

(4) It’s an interesting phenomenon to see how this bland green bean turns to a flavourful coffee bean. Coffee bean is a seed and like any other seed is rich in proteins, fats and all necessary ingredients for giving birth to a new plant. When exposed to heat, the fats and carbohydrates in the bean turn into essential oils, which give the characteristic taste and aroma to the coffee bean. The degree of roasting depends on the need or purpose of use.

(5) These beans are ground so that the surface area of the bean is increased, which makes extraction easier. The bean can be ground or crushed but making the particles uniform will ensure equal extraction, or else the smaller particle will get over extracted and the larger one under extracted. Hence, the burr grinder is used to ensure that the coffee bean gets ground in a uniform way in which all particles are of similar sizes.

(6) Does under extraction give a lighter coffee and over extraction a stronger one ? No. For a lighter or stronger coffee less or more coffee powder has to be used. Why ? Under extraction will not get all the flavours of the coffee as the water runs too quickly. It will not get what you want – it will taste sour. Over-extraction will bring out all unnecessary flavours rendering the taste bitter.

On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, answer the questions given below : 10 × 1 = 10

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option.
The author complained that his friends __________.

1. consumed only Flora classics.
2. were not aware of different forms of coffee.
3. were severely addicted to drinking coffee.
4. considered Coco gold as premium coffee.

(ii) Comment on the writer’s reference to the unique feature of coffee plant. (paragraph 2)

(iii) List the reason why the author refers to humans as ‘great threat to coffee’ plants.

(iv) Select an option that conveys the same meaning as ‘energiser’ from words used in paragraph 3.

1. bland
2. mature
3. antioxidant
4. stimulants

(v) Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference with respect to the following :
Fats and carbohydrates turn into essential oils leading to _____.

(vi) Comment on the writer’s reference to the interesting phenomenon in paragraph 4.

(vii) Over extraction does not give a stronger coffee. Based on your understanding of paragraph 6, list one method to get stronger coffee.

(viii) The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraph five EXCEPT

1. The burr grinder grinds coffee beans uniformly.
2. Less surface area makes extraction easier.
3. Grinding gives stronger aroma.
4. Good coffee is a mix of smaller and bigger particles.

(ix) Why is it fair to say that the right degree of extraction of coffee is important ?

(x) Select the most suitable title of the above passage.

1. The Art of Coffee Making
2. Benefits of Consuming Coffee
3. Green Coffee – The perfect antioxidant
4. The Coffee Addict

(1) News – If you can’t remember the last time, you saw a teenager reading a book, newspaper or magazine, you’re not alone. In recent years, less than 20 percent of teens report reading a book, magazine or newspaper daily for pleasure. More than 80 percent say they use social media every day, according to research published by the World Psychological Association.

(2) “Compared with previous generations, teens in the 2010s spent more time online and less time with traditional media, such as books, magazines and television,” said lead author of the book yGen and professor of psychology at ABC University. “Time on digital media has displaced time once spent enjoying a book or watching TV.”

(3) Swaner and her colleagues analysed data concluded from an ongoing study of a nationally representative sample of approximately 50,000 eighth, tenth and twelfth grade students annually. They looked at survey results from 1976 to 2016, representing more than 1 million teenagers. While the study started with only twelfth-graders in the 1970s, eighth- and tenth-graders were added in 1991.

(4) Use of digital media increased substantially from 2006 to 2016. Among twelfth-graders, internet use during leisure time doubled from one to two hours per day during that period. It also increased 75 percent for tenth-graders and 68 percent for eighth-graders.

(5) “In the mid-2010s, the average twelfth-grader reported spending approximately two hours a day texting, just over two hours a day on the internet – which included gaming – and just under two hours a day on social media,” said Swaner. That’s a total of about six hours per day on just three digital media activities during their leisure time.”

(6) In comparison, tenth-graders reported a total of five hours per day and eighth-graders reported four hours per day on those three digital activities. Consequently the spent time in the digital world is seriously degrading the time they spend on more traditional media such as print book and newspapers.

(7) The decline in reading print media was especially steep. In the early 1990s, 33 percent of tenth-graders said they read a newspaper almost every day. By 2016, that number was only 2 percent. In the late 1970s, 60 percent of twelfth-graders said they read a book or a magazine almost every day; by 2016, only 16 percent did. Twelfth-graders also reported reading fewer books each year in 2016 compared to how much they read in 1976, and approximately one-third did not read a book (including e-books) for pleasure in the year prior to the 2016 survey.

(8) There’s no lack of intelligence among young people. However due to over dependence on digital media they find it difficult to focus for long periods of time and to read long-form text. Subsequently they find it challenging to understand complex issues and develop critical thinking skills.

Social Media Usage by Age (Fig. 1) – adults who use at least one social media site (%)

Age	18-29	30-49	50-64	65 +
% using social media	84%	81%	73%	45%

On the basis of your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : 10 × 1 = 10

(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in paragraph 1 ?
The writer believes that very few teens indulge in reading as a pleasurable activity.
Select from the following :
True : if the statement agrees with the information.
False : if the statement contradicts the information.
Not given : if there is no information on this.

(ii) Select the option that displays the most likely reason for this research.
In order to find out ……

1. reading choices of teenagers.
2. digital competency of teenagers.
3. speed of reading text.
4. the decline of time spent on traditional media.

(iii) Complete the statement based on the following statement :
Traditional media has been replaced by digital media, we can say this because ________.

(iv) Do you think that the researchers of study added tenth and eighth graders to the survey deliberately ?
Support your answer with reference to the text.

(v) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The concluding sentence of the text makes a clear case for _____ by listing it as a core competency for analysis and application.

1. following social media
2. reading long texts
3. building focus and concentration
4. developing constructive habits

(vi) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The digital activities that the twelfth-graders indulge in are – ______.

1. texting, gaming, television
2. texting, gaming, social media
3. newspaper, books, magazine
4. television, books, gaming

(vii) Complete the sentence appropriately with one/two words :
Teens today hardly read print media for ______.

(viii) Based on the reading of the text, state a point to challenge the given statement :
“Time on digital media has displaced time once spent enjoying a book or watching T.V.”

(ix) What does the author mean by ‘degrading the time’ in para 6 ?

1. spending less time
2. waste of time
3. consuming more time
4. saving time

(x) As per Fig. 1, the percentage of people above 50 yrs is _____ the percentage of teenagers using social media.

1. greater than
2. less than
3. equal to
4. negligible to

Read the passage given below :

(1) The art of conversation, like any art, is a skill of elegance, nuance and creative execution. I happen to believe that there is an art to everything we do, and why not ? Without flair and panache most things become a drudgery. Why settle for drudgery when you can have art ?

(2) When it comes to the art of conversation, we’ve all met people who seem to have the knack for it. They can talk to anybody about anything and they seem to do it with complete ease. And while it’s true that there are those who are born with the gift of the gab, luckily for the rest of us, conversation skills can be developed and mastered.

(3) Conversation is a form of communication; however, it is usually more spontaneous and less formal. We enter into conversations for purposes of pleasant engagement in order to meet new people, to find out information and to enjoy social interactions. As far as types of conversation, they vary anywhere from intellectual conversations and information exchanges to friendly debates and witty banter.

(4) While there is more to having good conversation skills than being a comedian, a dramatic actor, or a great story teller, it is not necessary to become more gregarious, animated, or outgoing.

(5) Instead, you can develop the ability to listen attentively, ask fitting questions, and pay attention to the answers – all qualities essential to the art of conversation. With diligent practice and several good pointers, anyone can improve his or her conversation skills.

(6) People who are genuinely interested in others are usually interesting themselves. Why ? Because they are more open to learning about and understanding new things. Showing interest also encourages the other person to be relaxed and share information more freely. Display attentiveness by keeping good eye contact and listening actively.

(7) If you happen to be shy and need time to warm up before you share your own views, you can ask open-ended questions or encourage the other person to elaborate on their insights. This kick-starts the conversation and before you know it you are engaged in a good conversational flow.

(8) To start a conversation, go up to someone and introduce yourself. It is both polite and necessary to start off things smoothly.

(9) When the occasion calls for it, you can offer a handshake and then smile and make eye contact. Being friendly puts the other person at ease and opens the door for him or her to introduce themselves.

(10) The art of conversation, like any skill, takes practice. Period. Do not expect to be adept after your first few attempts. It will take practice as well as exposure to many different social situations.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below. [10 × 1 = 10]

(i) Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option :
The art of conversation is a skill of __________.

1. uniformity and compatibility
2. friendliness and consensus
3. assertion and ease
4. sophistication and creativity

(ii) Comment on the writer’s reference to conversation skills as something you are ‘born’ with.

(iii) List two reasons why people enter into conversation.

(iv) Select the option that conveys the opposite of ‘witty’, as used in paragraph 3.

1. educated
2. creative
3. ignorant
4. boring

(v) The writer would not agree with the given statements based on paragraphs 3 to 5, except

1. Conversations are meant only for purposes of research.
2. It is important to be outgoing to be a good conversationist.
3. Conversational skills can be improved with regular practice.
4. Attentive listening is important only while debating.

(vi) According to the author, showing interest in others leads to interesting conversation.
Based on your understanding of paragraphs 5 and 6, list one way how a good listener can make the other person speak more freely.

(vii) How can one warm up before one shares one’s views ?

(viii) Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference, with respect to the following :
The writer gives an example of going up to someone and introducing oneself in order to __________.

(ix) How can the ways to start a conversation, as suggested in the passage, be best described ?

1. challenging
2. practical
3. exhausting
4. humbling

(x) Select the most suitable title for the above passage.

1. Conversation – A Challenging Pursuit
2. Conversation vs Communication
3. Effective Listening
4. Mastering the Art of Conversation

Read the passage given below :

(1) Travel today, whether for purposes of business or leisure, takes up 25 – 30% of the annual budget of a family, according to a survey conducted in 2021.

(2) Today, it is trending to spend money on experiences rather than consumables. Travel is no longer looked at as just visiting a new place. It underlines an ethos, a culture, a pandora’s box full of surprises. People who love to travel enjoy relaxation, new cultures, foreign food or incredible landscapes different from their normal surroundings. Some people enjoy the motion of travelling, being on a boat, plane, train or bus. The list is endless and the reasons range from simple to complex. The study further revealed changing trends in travel tourism. While some are serious travellers who fall under the category of medical tourism, a large percentage are splurging on pleasure travel. When questioned on why, what are the benefits or purpose, the responses can be categorized under a few common headings.

(3) Those who do it for fun, for a sense of adventure, to take on risks and challenges are the 18 – 30 year-olds. While the 30 – 40 years bracket couple fun with education, a thirst for knowledge and experience — to see beautiful places, explore cultures and cuisines. They believe that an ever-changing environment is stimulating, refreshing and brings endless learning opportunities. Those between the 40 – 50 years travelled to expand their minds and challenge perspectives. They want a break from their soul-destroying lifestyles. The 60 years and above were the NOW travellers — they feel they might drop dead the day before they retire or be too old and unfit to travel, or take on, physical challenges. The in-between 50 – 60 years adopt the best of both worlds.

(4) The survey concluded that travel has become an integral part of people’s lives, and it provides us our greatest stories, our most cherished moments and countless learnings that broaden our horizons and above all teach us about ourselves and others.

Based on your understanding of the passage, answer the questions given below : [10 × 1 = 10]

(i) Does the following statement agree with the information given in paragraph 1 ?
25 – 30% of people have adopted a long term travel lifestyle and have accordingly prioritised their budgets.
Select from the following :
I. True – If the statement agrees with the information.
II. False – If the statement contradicts the information.
III. Not Given – If there is no information on this.

(ii) Do you think the researchers of the survey aimed to popularise a particular type of tourism? Support your answer with reference to the text.

(iii) Select the option that displays the most likely reason for people to make travel budgets.

1. In order to gain relief from work pressure.
2. Learn about new people and their language.
3. Buy the latest designs in the market.
4. Undertake journeys that give relaxation, adventure, or knowledge.

(iv) Complete the sentence based on the following statement :
Travel today, underlines an ethos, a culture, a Pandora’s box full of surprises. We can say this because __________.

(v) Select the option from the table that displays the most popular reason for travelling for the 30 – 50 year-olds.

(vi) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The 2021 survey aims to identify

1. the most popular tourist travel destination.
2. the age group that travels the most.
3. the different reasons why people travel.
4. the challenges of the travel tourism industry.

(vii) The reasons why people travel led to individual responses. List one way in which 18 – 30 year-olds satisfy their yearning for adventure.

(viii) Complete the given sentence by selecting the most appropriate option :
The concluding sentence of the text makes a clear case for __________ by listing it as the underlying feature of all forms of travel.

1. competency
2. universality
3. expenditure
4. acceptability

(ix) Complete the sentence appropriately with one/two words :
In the context of ‘Education’ in the given table, the __________ year-olds are least interested in it.

(x) Based on the reading of the text, state a point to challenge the given statement.
People feel they can travel whenever they want, at any time in their lives.

(1) A recent study on the growth of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) provides an insightful glimpse into how everyday financial habits are changing across the country. The first study tracks the volume of transactions over four Octobers.

(2) In October 2021, UPI processed 4.21 billion payments—a number that already reflected a growing preference for digital transactions. By October 2022, this figure rose to 7.30 billion, suggesting that more people were discovering the convenience of transferring money with just a tap on their phones. The momentum continued into October 2023, when volumes touched 11.40 billion, and by October 2024, the platform reached an impressive 16.58 billion transactions.

(3) The second study traces the value of these transactions, revealing a similar pattern of rising confidence. In October 2021, UPI transactions were worth ₹7.71 lakh crore. A year later, the value climbed to ₹12.11 lakh crore, indicating that users were comfortable using the platform for higher-value payments as well. This trust deepened in October 2023, with the value rising to ₹17.15 lakh crore, and peaked in October 2024, reaching ₹23.49 lakh crore.

(4) Together, the two studies tell a human story—one of a country steadily shifting from cash to digital payments. The rising numbers suggest that UPI is no longer limited to tech-savvy users; it has reached shops, homes, workplaces, and even small roadside vendors. With QR codes becoming familiar sights and smartphones becoming more accessible, people now pay for groceries, services, transport, and bills through quick digital transfers.

(5) The studies also hint at a broader change in mindset. As digital payments become routine, users appear more confident that these systems are secure, reliable, and easier to manage than handling cash. This transition has supported small businesses, reduced the need for physical currency, and encouraged more people to participate in formal financial systems.

(6) Overall, the four-year data captures a simple yet powerful trend: UPI has grown from being a convenient payment option to becoming an essential part of daily financial life for millions of Indians.

Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2079544&reg=3&lang=2 [333 words]

Answer the following questions based on the given passage.

(i) What was the purpose of tracking the four-year growth of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI)? (paragraph 1) [1]

1. To analyse the technical infrastructure supporting digital banking systems
2. To understand changes in payment behaviour among different user groups
3. To determine the number of vendors using smartphone-based payments
4. To compare patterns of digital transactions with traditional cash practices

(ii) Analyse whether the percentage growth in the total value of UPI transactions is greater than, less than, or roughly the same as the percentage growth in the number of transactions. State your choice and briefly justify your answer with reference to paragraph 2. [1]

(iii) Which of the following statements best describes the overall pattern with reference to paragraph 3? [1]

1. Both the number of transactions and the total value of transactions increase steadily over the four years.
2. The number of transactions increases, but the total value of transactions decreases year after year.
3. The total value of transactions increases, but the number of transactions stays almost unchanged.
4. Both the number of transactions and the total value of transactions decrease after an initial increase.

(iv) Paragraph 4 mentions that UPI is used in ‘shops, homes, workplaces, and even small roadside vendors’.
What does this suggest about the nature of UPI adoption? [1]

1. Dependence on organised commercial establishments
2. Widespread adoption across formal and informal settings
3. Usage limited to digitally advanced urban spaces
4. Usage restricted to specific consumer groups

(v) Evaluate the impact of UPI’s expansion into formal financial systems on small business owners, with reference to the paragraph 5. (Answer in about 40 words) [2]

(vi) Which of the following aspects is NOT directly discussed in the passage? [1]

1. The growth pattern of UPI transactions over time
2. The changing public attitude towards digital payments
3. The policy framework governing digital payment systems
4. The effect of UPI adoption on small businesses

(vii) Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in brackets.
UPI’s usage by small roadside vendors primarily suggests that digital payment systems in India have become __________. (inclusive / exclusive / marginal) [1]

(viii) Rohan prefers to carry almost no cash and pays for groceries and transport using his phone. Using information from Paragraph 3 and the charts, explain giving two reasons why UPI is a more suitable option for him in 2024 than it might have been in 2021. (Answer in about 40 words). [2]

(1) A recent survey was conducted among 2,000 college students and young professionals to analyse preferences for different types of jobs, including corporate roles, personal start-ups or family businesses, and service professions (example - defense, nursing, police). The study aimed to identify trends in career aspirations, the factors influencing these preferences, and their implications for workforce planning and education systems. Participants were asked to rank their preferences on a five-point scale.

(2) The study covered respondents across urban and semi-urban areas, representing diverse educational, economic, and cultural backgrounds. Researchers ensured diversity in gender, socioeconomic status, and career stages to make the findings representative of a broad spectrum of opinions. Data collection involved online questionnaires and in-person interviews, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of job preferences. The data was displayed as a bar graph given below.

Student Preferences for Type of Job (bar graph: horizontal axis “Percentage of respondents” 0–100; vertical axis “Preference Scale”; bars for Start up / Family Bus., Corporate and Services). Approximate values read from the graph:

Preference scale	Start up / Family Bus.	Corporate	Services
Not preferred	about 84	about 22	about 64
Less preferred	about 97	about 56	about 61
Neutral	about 60	about 36	about 70
Preferred	about 40	about 88	about 50
Highly preferred	about 40	about 48	about 86

(3) Corporate jobs were commonly associated with financial stability, growth opportunities, and access to structured career paths. Start-ups and family businesses, on the other hand, appealed to those valuing autonomy, creativity, and the chance to work in more flexible environments. Service professions were perceived as fulfilling and prestigious, especially among individuals motivated by a sense of duty.

(4) The survey also highlighted several challenges. Geographic variations were significant, with urban respondents gravitating more toward corporate roles, while semi-urban participants showed a stronger inclination for service professions and family businesses. Respondents indicated limited mentorship opportunities and a lack of clarity about the long-term prospects of non-corporate careers as barriers influencing their decisions.

(5) The findings provide a foundation for further research into how cultural, regional, and generational influences shape career choices. Future studies could explore factors such as gender-based preferences, emerging industries, mentorship availability, and the role of technological advancements in shaping job markets. Additionally, longitudinal research could track how these preferences evolve as respondents advance in their careers. This could help educational institutions and employers develop tailored strategies to better align with the aspirations and values of young job seekers. Moreover, policies encouraging skill development and mentorship programmes may bridge the gaps identified in this survey, ensuring more informed career decisions among youth.

Created for academic usage / 348 words

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(I) What was the main purpose of the survey conducted among 2,000 college students and young professionals? [1]

1. To determine the popularity of specific jobs in rural areas versus urban areas
2. To explore patterns in career aspirations and the factors influencing them
3. To analyse the success rate of startups and family businesses
4. To assess the salary expectations of young professionals opting for jobs

(II) Fill in the blank with the correct option from those given in brackets.
The study ensured diversity in gender, socioeconomic status, and career stages to make the findings ________ (accurate / representative / specific). [1]

(III) Fill in the blank with reference to the given bar graph chart.
The profession preference for which policymakers primarily need to provide encouraging incentives is ____. [1]

(IV) Based on the bar graph, which of the following statements best reflects the correct trend in job preferences? [1]

1. Corporate jobs are more in the ‘Least preferred’ category than service professions.
2. Service professions are less preferred than corporate jobs on the ‘Neutral’ scale.
3. Service professions have a higher percentage of respondents marking them as ‘Highly Preferred’ compared to corporate jobs.
4. Corporate jobs and service professions have an equal percentage of respondents marking them as ‘Preferred.’

(V) Riya wishes to have a regular salary and defined growth in her career. Why is a corporate job better suited for her compared to joining a start-up or family business? (Ref: Paragraphs 3 & 4) [2]

(VI) When the researcher says ‘Respondents indicated limited mentorship opportunities,’ what does s/he mean by ‘limited mentorship opportunities’? (Ref: Paragraph 4) [1]

1. Lack of financial resources to hire mentors for jobs
2. Absence of training programmes in semi-urban areas
3. Reluctance of respondents to seek career advice from unknown people
4. Difficulty in finding experienced professionals to guide career paths

(VII) How might further studies in the understanding of emerging industries and technological advancements empower youth to make well-informed career decisions? (Ref: Paragraph 5) [2]

(VIII) Select the option that is NOT addressed in this study. [1]

1. The purpose of the survey
2. The impact of gender on career preferences
3. Regional and demographic variations in preferences
4. Challenges faced by respondents
5. The methodology used for data collection

(1) Jonathan Seagull discovered that boredom, fear and anger are the reasons a gull’s life is so short and with those gone from his thought, he lived a long, fine life indeed.

(2) They laughed at him. The other gulls scorned him. ‘Such nonsense’, they would squawk, as he practised flying, not for food but for the joy of flight itself. But Jonathan, undeterred, flew higher and faster than any gull before him. He learned that the secret to flight was not merely flapping wings, but in knowing the purpose of flying.

(3) ‘Break the chain of your thought’, he told himself, ‘And you break the chains of your body.’
In solitude, he mastered loops, dives and rolls. He flew at speeds that blurred the ocean below. The flock cast him out for defying tradition, he discovered that exile was not the end but a beginning. Alone, he found peace. Alone, he found the sky.

(4) One morning, soaring silently above the clouds, Jonathan was joined by two radiant gulls. Their wings shone with light and their presence was calm and sure. ‘We’ve been watching you’, they said. ‘You’re ready to come with us.’
‘Where ?’ Jonathan asked blinking in the sunlight.
‘To a higher level of being,’ they answered.
‘You have learned much but there is more – more to flying, more to being a gull.’

(5) He followed them into a realm where flight was pure thought and time had no meaning. There, gulls didn’t fight over scraps of bread or squawk at one another in fear. They flew to understand themselves to explore the limitless. There Jonathan met Chiang, the wisest gull, who told him : ‘The only true law is that which leads to freedom – there is no other.’

(6) Jonathan began to teach others what he had learned, sharing not just flight techniques but freedom of thought. ‘You can go as far as you wish,’ he would say. ‘Because you have the right to learn. You have the right to be free.’
No longer bound by rules, written in sand, Jonathan soared not just through the skies but through understanding. And as he flew, he knew that greatness is not measured in a wingspan but in the courage to break free. (365 words)

Source : Jonathan Livingstone Seagull by Richard Bach.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to Jonathan, what was the secret of living a long life ? (para-1) [1]

(ii) How did Jonathan’s unconventional passion for flying lead to his exclusion from the flock ? (para-2) [2]

(iii) Read and complete the following sentence suitably :
‘Break the chains of your thought and you break the chains of your body’, suggests : (para-3)
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence : [1]

1. freedom is achieved through physical strength.
2. mental liberation is the key to true freedom.

(iv) Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage with reference to paragraph 3.
It was ironical that Jonathan Seagull’s exile did not mean isolation but __________. [1]

(v) What do the two radiant gulls who approached Jonathan, most likely represent ? (para-4) [1]

1. rivals sent to watch his skills.
2. a hallucination formed out of his loneliness.
3. fellow gulls returning from his original flock.
4. spiritual guides leading him to a higher plane.

(vi) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph 4 to prove the following :
You are ready to come with us. [1]

(vii) In Chiang’s statement, “the only true law is that which leads to freedom – there is no other”, what does the phrase ‘the only true law’ refer to ? (para-5) [1]

(viii) Select the option that best explains Jonathan’s transformation after meeting Chiang. [1]

1. becomes more aggressive and fearless
2. forgets that past and returns to his flock.
3. learns to use his skills to dominate the other gulls.
4. internalises freedom and shares his wisdom with others.

(ix) Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 6 :
free : bound
dropped : __________ [1]

1. soared
2. learned
3. measured
4. break

(x) In what way did Jonathan’s journey challenge traditional beliefs ? Give an example. [2]

Chronobiology : The Science of Time is within Us.

(1) Beneath the conscious rhythm of our waking lives lies a subtler, deeply embedded tempo of our body’s internal clock, orchestrated by the field of chronobiology. This clock doesn’t tick with mechanical precision but rather responds to cues from nature: the rising sun, the fading light, or the temperature of the wind. Governed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the brain, this circadian rhythm aligns our sleep, metabolism, hormone release, and even mood with the 24-hour cycle.

(2) Scientists have discovered that disrupting this internal clock whether through jet lag, night shifts, or excessive exposure to screens can lead to a biological desynchronization that affects everything from digestion to memory. A study from the University of Colorado found that just one week of camping away from artificial light, resets participants’ circadian rhythm entirely. The body, it seems, remembers the sun even when the mind forgets.

(3) What’s striking is the clock’s inflexible loyalty to nature. Artificial attempts to override it such as caffeine-induced wakefulness or screen-induced sleeplessness may work temporarily but often has a hidden cost : chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalance, and weakened immunity. Its not just sleep we lose, it’s the invisible equilibrium that our biology depends on.

(4) Modern life, with its blurring of day and night, has birthed what experts call ‘social jet lag’ a state where our societal obligations pull us in one temporal direction, while our biology tugs us in another. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable, as their natural clocks shift later during puberty, clashing with early school timings. The result ? A generation persistently deprived of meaningful rest.

(5) What is the way forward – we need to understand that sleep deficiency and chronic fatigue are considered major risk factors for diseases, depression, and accidents. People must take care of sleep hygiene at regular time, avoid screen time before bed time, and ensure comfortable conditions. Taking short breaks for stretching, breathing, or a few hours of exercise reduces tension. When body demands rest, it should not be ignored. One must respond to it rather than ignoring it.

(6) Chronobiologists argue that respecting internal time could transform public health. Adjusting school hours, designing light-conscious architecture or aligning work shifts with biological peaks could reduce stress and enhance productivity. As we continue racing against time, perhaps the most radical act is to slow down and listen to the timekeepers within us quiet, persistent and wise.

Answer the following questions based on the above passage :

(i) According to paragraph 1, what role does the suprachiasmatic nucleus play in our daily lives ? [1]

(ii) How does the author use the metaphor ‘the body remembers the sun even when the mind forgets’ in paragraph 1 ? [1]

(iii) Read and complete the following sentence suitably (Para 2).
The phrase biological desynchronization refers to the state in which the :
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence. [1]

1. body’s natural rhythms no longer align with external time cues.
2. brain stops producing hormones due to stress.

(iv) Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage with reference to Para 2.
Designating specific hours/days for screen free activity can help __________. [1]

(v) Why does the writer refer to the circadian clock’s loyalty to nature as inflexible ? (Para 3) [1]

1. operates independently of external environments.
2. resists manipulation through artificial means.
3. helps regulate heart rate very quickly.
4. is governed generally by only genetics.

(vi) Provide ONE textual evidence to support ‘The body pays a hidden price for tampering with its natural rhythms’. (Para 3) [1]

(vii) In the line ‘… societal obligations pull us in one temporal direction, while our biology tugs us in another’, what does this contrast reveal about modern life ? (Para 4) [1]

(viii) Scientists use the term ‘social jet lag’ in paragraph 4 to describe the modern sleep crisis to __________. [1]

1. compare how schedules disrupt our internal clock, similar to time zone travel confusion.
2. show that digital tools help improve sleep and daily performance in modern life.
3. suggest that regular travel is needed to maintain focus and healthy body rhythms.
4. points out that teenagers stay awake late at night without valid biological reasons.

(ix) Explain why adolescents may be at risk of internal time disruption. (Para 4-5) [2]

(x) Based on paragraph 6, identify possible obstacles to applying chronobiological principles in everyday life. [2]

(1) Science fiction, often abbreviated as sci-fi, is a genre of literature and film that explores imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced technology, space exploration, time travel, and extra-terrestrial life. While sci-fi has long captivated audiences in western countries, its growth in India has been comparatively slower. However, the genre is gradually gaining popularity among Indian readers and writers.

(2) One of the major advantages of science fiction is its ability to stimulate imagination and curiosity. It encourages readers to think beyond the present and explore possibilities that lie in the future. For students and young readers, sci-fi can act as a bridge between literature and science, making learning more engaging. Books like Isaac Asimov’s Foundation or Indian writer Samit Basu’s Turbulence have introduced scientific ideas in exciting narratives.

(3) Science fiction also reflects social and ethical concerns. In a rapidly changing world, sci-fi allows authors to speculate on how technology might shape society, for better or worse. In India, where issues like climate change, overpopulation, and digital surveillance are becoming more relevant, science fiction provides a creative lens through which these problems can be examined.

(4) Despite its potential, science fiction remains a niche genre in India. One of the key disadvantages is the lack of access to quality sci-fi literature in Indian languages. Most of the well-known works are written in English, which limits their reach. Moreover, there is a lack of mainstream platforms that promote Indian sci-fi writers. Many readers are unaware of homegrown authors contributing meaningfully to the genre.

(5) To enhance the science fiction reading experience in India, several steps can be taken. Schools and colleges can include sci-fi stories in their curriculum to expose students to the genre early on. Indian authors should be encouraged to write in regional languages to broaden the audience base. Libraries and online platforms can host reading clubs and discussions to make science fiction more interactive and engaging.

(6) In conclusion, science fiction has immense potential to grow in India. With the right support and exposure, it can become a powerful tool to inspire imagination, promote scientific thinking, and spark conversations about the future.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to paragraph 1, how did the western countries react to science fiction ? [1]

(ii) Complete the following suitably.
In paragraph 1, the author uses the word ‘comparatively’ to highlight __________ . [1]

(iii) Identify one advantage of science fiction with reference to paragraph 2. [1]

(iv) Why does the writer refer to science fiction as a ‘bridge’ ? (Paragraph 2)
Because : [1]

1. it connects youth to adults.
2. it makes learning more interactive.
3. it supports introduction to reading among early readers.
4. it helps build better engineers and doctors.

(v) ‘...science fiction provides a creative lens through which these problems can be examined.’ (Paragraph 3)
In the given line, what does the phrase ‘creative lens’ refer to ? [2]

(vi) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 4.
possibility : potential :: unique : ________ [1]

1. mainstream
2. access
3. homegrown
4. niche

(vii) Why is science fiction still not very popular in India ? (Paragraph 4) [1]

(viii) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph 4 to prove that there is a lack of mainstream platforms. [1]

(ix) In what context does the author use the phrase ‘broaden the audience base’ in paragraph 5 ? [1]

(x) Assess the feasibility of steps suggested to promote science fiction in India. (Paragraph 5) [2]

(1) Looking at his pile of unpaid bills always makes Ramesh feel uneasy. More often than not, Ramesh leaves his paperwork undone and sweeps the floor or watches TV instead, waiting until the last moment to write the monthly cheques. Sometimes he incurs late fees because of his habit of putting things off, but in many ways the emotional toll is worse. “The longer the bills go unpaid,” says Ramesh, 58, “the more my anxiety soars.”

(2) Everyone procrastinates. “It’s part of the human condition,” says Suresh Kumar, a psychology professor at Universal University. “One of the ways we cope is avoidance, and that’s what procrastination comes down to. We want to feel good at that moment. The way to do that is avoid the task.”

(3) You can procrastinate on nearly anything, even enjoyable tasks such as planning a vacation. “Some people procrastinate cleaning. Some people procrastinate by cleaning,” says Dr. B.V. Rao, a management professor. Research has shown that the top tasks people delay are cleaning, advancing their careers, taking care of their health, and planning their finances.

(4) One big factor for them is fear of failure, of not living up to expectations. Arti Singh, a 57-year-old functional health coach, procrastinated about looking for a new job for years. That inability to take action only confirmed her belief that she would never do any better. Some people embrace procrastination, believing that they thrive under pressure. But researchers have debunked that notion. “I did an experiment several years ago, putting procrastinators under restriction of time,” says John Brown, a psychology professor. “They did worse than non-procrastinators, but they thought they did better. They made more errors. They took longer.”

(5) “Procrastinators experience higher levels of stress, both from leaving things to the last minute and from their own negative and self-critical feelings about their procrastination,” says Farah Ahmed, a psychology lecturer. “Some of the research has shown that this stress increases their vulnerability for catching colds and experiencing digestion issues, insomnia, migraines, and muscle tension.”

(6) Bedtime procrastination can lead to sleep deprivation, which in turn can bring about obesity, heart disease and many other health issues. There’s one bit of good news: People tend to procrastinate less as they age.

(7) For those of us in need of motivation, the best advice might be to think small. Next, try sending yourself signals to prompt action. For instance, you might put your lights on a timed dimmer switch to encourage a consistent bedtime. Finally, reward yourself for each step you take towards your goal. After you’ve gone to the gym, take a relaxing bath. After you’ve paid the bills, watch your favourite TV show.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) How, according to paragraph 1, is Ramesh penalised for his habit of procrastinating ? [1]

(ii) Explain with two suitable reasons, man’s tendency to procrastinate. [2]

(iii) In paragraph 3, what does “Some people procrastinate cleaning. Some people procrastinate by cleaning.” convey ? [1]

(iv) How does John Brown, the professor of psychology, prove the claim of procrastinators wrong ? (Paragraph 4) [1]

(v) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 4 :
incompetency : inability : : discredit : __________ [1]

1. failure
2. debunk
3. embrace
4. confirm

(vi) What lesson do you learn from Arti Singh’s experience ? (Paragraph 4) [1]

1. Procrastination offers job security.
2. People work better under pressure.
3. Procrastination saves one from failure.
4. Procrastination leads one to underestimate his or her own ability.

(vii) Give textual evidence to bring out the adverse impact of bedtime procrastination. (Paragraph 6) [2]

(viii) ‘There’s one bit of good news.’ (Paragraph 6)
‘good news’ here, refers to : [1]

1. procrastination safeguards one’s comfort.
2. nothing to feel bad about procrastination as everyone does it.
3. tendency to procrastinate reduces with age.
4. procrastinators experience less stress.

(ix) What inference do you get from the expression ‘to think small’ in paragraph 7 ? [1]

1. narrow thinking
2. breaking down larger tasks
3. to avoid bigger tasks
4. taking small breaks

(x) How can rewarding oneself help procrastinators ? (Paragraph 7) [1]

(1) Robotics is transforming the healthcare landscape by revolutionizing the way medical procedures are executed, patients are managed and hospital operations are streamlined. The seamless integration of artificial intelligence (AI), engineering and automation has catalysed the emergence of cutting-edge robotic technologies that are making healthcare more precise, efficient and accessible than ever before. From surgical theatres to outpatient clinics, robotics is enhancing workflow efficiency and significantly improving clinical outcomes.

(2) Among its most notable applications is robot-assisted surgery. Advanced systems such as the ‘Da Vinci Surgical Robot’ empower surgeons with superior visualization, refined control and pinpoint accuracy. These minimally invasive techniques reduce surgical trauma, minimize complications and shorten recovery periods. Robotic surgery has proven especially transformative in intricate disciplines like cardiothoracic, gynaecological and neurosurgical procedures where precision is paramount.

(3) In the realm of rehabilitation therapy, robotics play a crucial role in helping patients regain motor functions following strokes, spinal cord injuries or orthopaedic surgeries. Devices like robotic exoskeletons and motion-guided therapy systems provide consistent, repetitive movements that are vital for neuro-muscular recovery — often surpassing the capabilities of manual therapy. These systems also enable real-time monitoring and adaptive treatment planning, offering a more individualized and effective rehabilitation process.

(4) Hospital automation is another rapidly expanding frontier. Robots are increasingly being deployed to perform routine yet essential functions such as medicine delivery, room disinfection and food distribution. During the COVID-19 pandemic, their use in contactless service delivery proved invaluable in reducing exposure risks and maintaining stringent hygiene protocols. The advent of diagnostic robotics further underscores the transformative power of AI in medicine. These intelligent systems analyse medical data and imagery with exceptional accuracy, facilitating early detection of conditions such as cancer, cardio-vascular disease and diabetes. By enhancing diagnostic speed and reliability, they significantly contribute to timely and effective intervention.

(5) In the field of geriatric care, assistive robots are being developed to support elderly individuals with medication reminders, vital sign monitoring and social engagement. These robots offer not only physical assistance but also emotional support, helping combat loneliness and cognitive decline — especially for those living alone or with limited human interaction.

(6) While the integration of robotics into healthcare does pose challenges — such as substantial implementation costs, the need for specialized training and concerns about diminished human connection — the long-term advantages far outweigh these limitations.

(7) As healthcare systems worldwide strive for greater accuracy, efficiency and inclusivity, robotics stands out as a catalyst for innovation. Its expanding role — from surgical precision to hospital automation and personalized patient care — heralds a future where technology and empathy coalesce to create a more advanced and humane healthcare ecosystem. (427 words)

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to paragraph 1, what impact has robotics had on healthcare operations ? Mention any two. [1]

(ii) What does the use of the phrase ‘from surgical theatres to outpatient clinics’ convey about the scope of robotics in healthcare ? (Paragraph 1). [1]

(iii) The phrase ‘superior visualization, refined control and pinpoint accuracy’ emphasizes the advanced capabilities of robotic systems in surgery. (Paragraph 2)
Choose the correct response from the two options (A) or (B) to complete the following sentence.
This highlights that robotic-assisted surgery primarily enhances __________. [1]

1. the mechanical speed of operations with minimal supervision.
2. the precision and safety of complex surgical procedures.

(iv) How does the writer emphasize the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery ? (Paragraph 2) [1]

1. highlights how robotics can replace surgeons in all types of procedures
2. shows how advanced systems improve accuracy and reduce patient trauma
3. suggests robotic surgeries are faster but less reliable than traditional ones
4. claims that robotics will eliminate the need for doctors in the future

(v) Complete the following suitably with one reason, with reference to paragraph 3.
Today, rehabilitation therapy is a more individualized and effective process because __________. [1]

(vi) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 4.
necessary : essential : : emergence : __________ [1]

1. advent
2. automation
3. detection
4. intervention

(vii) Support with evidence from paragraph 4, how robotics are being deployed to help maintain strict sanitation protocol. [2]

(viii) Why is there a need to develop assistive robots ? (Paragraph 5) [2]

(ix) The integration of robotics into healthcare according to the given text is ironic because ___________. [1]

1. very few patients register for robotics-assisted therapy
2. the country is not equipped to provide robots in villages
3. it has resulted in an increase in human isolation
4. human interaction has been enhanced with the use of AI

(x) Which of the following best explains why robotics is considered a catalyst for innovation in healthcare despite its challenges ? (Para 7) [1]

1. Robotics merges technological precision with patient-centred care, improving both efficiency and empathy in healthcare delivery.
2. It eliminates human involvement in healthcare, making systems fully automated and cost-effective.
3. Although robotics comprises emotional connection, it is not favoured in spite of being faster than traditional care.
4. The high cost and complexity of robotics are outweighed by its ability to make healthcare impersonal but scalable.

(1) Almost everyone engages with social media in some form. Whether it is updating a status, sharing photos of a family gathering, or scrolling through friends’ vacation highlights, it is inevitable that most individuals use online social platforms.

(2) People tend to view social media as synonymous with shallow interactions, digital obsession, or the carefully curated presentation of an idealised life. But researchers often define it as “an extension of human social connection”, says a professor of digital anthropology. “It is something that fulfils the fundamental human need for belonging” as it is an integral part of modern communication, relationship maintenance and even identity formation.

(3) “It is not inherently harmful”, adds a social psychologist. “It can be positive or neutral.” Some researchers argue that social media helped us adapt to an increasingly mobile world. Digital sociologists pioneered this perspective, comparing social media usage to the community gatherings our ancestors valued as a means of maintaining social bonds.

(4) People are usually resistant to thinking about social media as anything but problematic. It is true that there are some types of engagement that should be avoided, such as social media use that fosters unhealthy comparisons or contributes to a poor self-image. In such scenarios, no one benefits. Social media engagement can also be both active and passive. Active engagement refers to directly creating and sharing content, commenting on others’ posts or initiating online conversations. An active user contributes original material and drives discussions. Passive consumption, on the other hand, involves more observational behaviour like scrolling without interacting, watching without commenting or reading updates without acknowledging them, while still allowing content algorithms to shape one’s feed through these subtle interactions.

(5) It is interesting to note that social media usage also reveals something about the relationships people have with themselves and others. The type of content someone shares often reflects their values and self-perception, which are key aspects of personal identity.

(6) Research has found that mindful social media use can enhance connection, while other studies have found it can serve as a platform for self-expression and creativity. So, approach your feed thoughtfully, remembering that some benefit can come from it when used with the right intentions.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Why does the author say that social media usage is a reflection of relationships ? [1]

(ii) Mention any two benefits of ‘social media’. [2]

(iii) Complete the following sentence suitably with one difference between the author’s opinion and that of people about social media.
Generally, people do not readily accept __________. [1]

(iv) There is also a behavioural distinction to be drawn between active and passive engagement in social media. (Paragraph 4)
Based on the above statement, classify the following sentences as active or passive engagement.
Sentence 1 : Meera posted photos of her art exhibition and responded to every comment.
Sentence 2 : Aditya spent two hours scrolling through his feed without liking or commenting on anything. [1]

(v) Choose the correct option :
...... mindful social media use can ‘enhance connection’ (Paragraph 6)
The above statement is true because : [1]

1. We can maintain relationships despite physical distance.
2. We always enjoy seeing what others are doing.
3. We believe everything that we see posted online.
4. To connect, one needs to follow many accounts.

(vi) Complete the following suitably :
The author puts forth the fact that people can never __________ (avoid/appreciate) social media. [1]

(vii) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 2.
genuine : authentic : : __________ : fabricated [1]

1. idealised
2. curated
3. shallow
4. extension

(viii) In the line ‘People tend to view social media as synonymous with shallow interactions, digital obsession ..........’ (Paragraph 2)
By the phrase ‘digital obsession’, the writer means _________. [1]

(ix) What type of social media usage does the author disapprove of and why ? [2]

(x) The phrase – ‘It is something that fulfils the fundamental human need for belonging’ suggests that social media should not merely be associated with shallow interactions.
Choose the correct response (A) or (B) which confirms that the concern this phrase points towards is about : [1]

1. Some types of social media engagement should be avoided.
2. Social media can be viewed as part of our need for social connection.

(1) Marketing is all about creativity and expression, so it must be an art, right? Not necessarily. While marketers once relied purely on instinct, they now rely on data-driven insights. On top of that, cutting-edge technologies and analytics have shifted the focus of marketing farther toward the science side of the spectrum. Armed with so much data, marketers can now track the impact of money spent on their bottom line.

(2) In today’s world, the best approach to marketing combines both disciplines. And there’s a distinct balance to the craft – a strategic mix of interpersonal empathy and tactical analysis. Neither side of the mix can be isolated or ignored, or the results will not be encouraging. Psychologists believe the brain is separated into two distinct functions : the left-brain and the right-brain. The right side of the brain is responsible for creative thinking and artistic intuition.

(3) As an art, marketing is all about understanding the nuances of human behaviour and determining how to make an emotional connection with the customer. More importantly, some level of art is needed to create brand standards for your company, including the logo, messaging, and overall visual identity for a brand.

(4) Right-brained marketers focus on the creative – the copy, graphics and emotions tied to the message. The science side of marketing tells us to let the data guide what strategies will be most effective. Marketers are now reporting the need for digital-first expertise including digital proficiency, data analysis, and data science. With science, marketers adopt an outcome-centric mindset that helps them curate smarter campaigns. Over the past few years, there has been an evolving prioritization on data-savvy talent. In 2020 and beyond, brands will need to focus on recruiting talent that can understand the complexities of AI and machine technologies.

(5) But when we reflect on earlier times, marketing was defined as the predominance of traditional advertising, like television, newspaper, and direct mail. Today, it ropes in digital channels, social media, mobile devices, and integrated, complex campaigns. And just as consumers today are more tech-savvy, employees should be able to match – and exceed – their expertise. It’s important that brands continue to prioritize creative, engaging campaign messages while also focusing on key insights and performance metrics for optimal results.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above :

(i) According to paragraph 1, how does the author describe the evolution of marketing ? [2]

(ii) Choose ONE of the following statements that aptly reflects the point of view of the writer. [1]

1. In the field of marketing, there is a conflict between Art and Science.
2. Art and Science should work in tandem to do effective marketing.

(iii) Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 3 to support that marketing is an art. [1]

(iv) Based on the passage, assess the way data and digital platforms have transformed the field of marketing and employment. [2]

(v) __________ cutting-edge technologies and analytics have shifted the focus of marketing. (Para 1)
By ‘cutting-edge technologies’, the writer refers to __________. [1]

(vi) Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 2 :
included : incorporated : __________ : secluded [1]

1. approach
2. empathy
3. isolated
4. intuition

(vii) ‘Marketing is all about understanding the nuances of human behaviour.’ (Para 3)
The writer uses the word ‘nuances’ to denote [1]

1. man’s appreciation for art.
2. man’s preference for branded clothes.
3. the complexities of human character.
4. human inclination for analytical approach.

(viii) Complete the following based on your understanding of the above passage :
According to the writer, modern marketing is built on both __________ and __________. [1]

(ix) ‘__________ exceed their expertise.’ (Para 5)
With reference to paragraph 5, what skills do you think the employees should possess to match the demand of the consumers ? [1]

(x) What fascinating fact about the human brain is revealed by the writer in the above passage. [1]

(1) Having a sense of humour might mean having the ability to entertain other people by making them laugh, but it can also mean having a quick wit that is frequently employed to criticize other people with snide comments. Some might define the sense of humour as the ability to see humour in everyday life or as appreciating the cleverness of puns and other wordplay, and may think it entirely possible to possess a good sense of humour without ever having those around them become aware of it.

(2) In any case, a sense of humour is a socially valued trait that almost all of us would prefer to have more, rather than less, of – akin to the way that we think about intelligence or good looks. A person with an undeveloped sense of humour lacks a social skill that puts him or her at a severe disadvantage in the hurly-burly of everyday social life.

(3) Freud thought of humour as an outlet for forbidden impulses, and philosophers ranging from Aristotle to Descartes believed that we are amused by something when it makes us feel superior to other people.

(4) Evolutionary psychologists believe that humour, along with other creative abilities, such as art and music, evolved as an honest signal of intelligence and genetic quality. The value of such a skill in defusing tense, aggressive situations and in managing alliances and friendships should not be underestimated either.

(5) Schmoozing with a bunch of new people at a cocktail party is an opportunity to engage in light hearted banter, and other people are grateful when someone is skillful enough to turn a stiff and awkward situation into fun. Cracking jokes, making witty remarks, and engaging in tongue-in-cheek observations about the social world can be like fishing for other minds that connect naturally with one’s own. In other words, humour can be a device for connecting people who are operating on the same wavelength.

(6) Observing the performance of other people in such situations tips you off as to who you might like to get to know better – and who might be best left behind, wallowing in indignation and blank stares. In short, a sense of humour is the Swiss Army Knife of social skills. Perhaps it is indeed a single instrument, but it contains an arsenal of tools – each exquisitely designed for a unique social purpose.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage above:

(i) How does the author prove in paragraph 1 that sense of humour is a double edged sword ? [1]

(ii) Cite evidences from the passage to prove that sense of humour is a valuable tool to make someone’s life better. [2]

(iii) Complete the following sentence suitably with reference to paragraph 3.
One significant advantage of humour is that it helps one __________. [1]

(iv) Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 5, how a good sense of humour can be a great ice breaker. [1]

(v) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank :
According to evolutionary psychologists, people with a sense of humour can __________ (trigger / lighten) tense situation. [1]

(vi) Choose the correct option :
“....humour can be a device for connecting people who are operating on the same wavelength.”
By the phrase ‘same wavelength’ the author refers to [1]

1. people of age group
2. people who belong to same line of profession.
3. people having similar interests and attitudes.
4. people who are working in the same organisation.

(vii) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph 6 :
advantage : benefit : __________ : anger [1]

1. situation
2. stare
3. indignation
4. arsenal

(viii) In the line perhaps ‘it is indeed a single instrument, but it contains an arsenal of tools......’ What does the phrase ‘arsenal of tools’ refer to ? [2]

(ix) Provide ONE textual evidence from the text which states lack of sense of humour may prove to be a handicap in one’s life. [1]

(x) An undeveloped sense of humour shows lack of a social skill that puts him or her at a disadvantage.
Choose the correct option (A) or (B) which reaffirms the idea conveyed in the above extract. [1]

1. Sense of humour elevates the status of a person in the social circle.
2. People with sense of humour are not taken seriously in the society.

(1) Gossip. All humans partake in some form, despite the age-old adage, “If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Whether it’s workplace chatter, the sharing of family news or group texts between friends, it’s inevitable that anyone who participates in the above, talks about other people.

(2) People tend to think of gossip as synonymous with malicious rumours, put-downs, or the breathless propagation of a tabloid scoop. But researchers often define it more broadly as “talking about people who aren’t present,” says an assistant professor of psychology. “It’s something that comes very naturally to us” — an integral part of conversation, information sharing, and even community building.

(3) “It’s not necessarily negative,” adds a professor of psychology. “It can be positive or neutral.” Some researchers argue that gossip helped our ancestors survive. Evolutionary psychologists first pioneered this idea, comparing gossip to the grooming primates engage in as a means of bonding.

(4) People are usually resistant to thinking about gossip as anything but bad. It is true that there are some types of gossip that should be avoided, such as gossip that is purely harmful and serves no purpose like mean comments on someone’s way of dressing. In such a scenario no one benefits. Gossip can also be both active and passive. Active gossiping refers to directly sharing negative information about someone else. An active gossiper initiates the conversation and actively spreads it. Passive gossiping on the other hand involves more subtle behaviour like hinting, dropping suggestive comments or participating in gossip by listening without actively contributing, but still allowing the gossip to spread through their presence.

(5) It’s interesting to note that gossiping also says something about relationships people have with one another. The act of gossiping often implies a level of trust and closeness with someone, which are key aspects of a good friendship.

(6) Research has found that gossip can stave off loneliness, while other studies have found it can facilitate bonding and closeness and serve as a form of entertainment. So, keep on talking. And when your conversation turns to gossip, as it inevitably will, remember that some good can come of it — with the right intentions, of course.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Complete the following suitably.
….. think of gossip as synonymous with malicious rumours, put-downs …… in paragraph (2).
By the phrase ‘put-downs’ the writer means __________. [1]

(ii) Despite the bad reputation of ‘gossip’, mention any two benefits that it offers. [2]

(iii) Read and complete the following suitably :
The phrase – ‘It’s something that comes very naturally to us’ suggests that gossip should not merely be associated with malicious rumours.
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.
The concern this phrase points towards is about [1]

1. that some types of gossip should be avoided.
2. that gossip can be viewed as part of our daily interaction and bonding.

(iv) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (2).
Praise : Commend : : __________ : Malevolent [1]

1. Scoop
2. Propagation
3. Malicious
4. Conversation

(v) What type of gossip does the author disapprove of and why ? [2]

(vi) Complete the following suitably with one difference between the author’s opinion and that of people about gossip.
Generally, people do not readily accept __________. [1]

(vii) “There’s also a physiological distinction to be drawn between active and passive participation in gossip.” (paragraph (4))
Based on the above statement, classify the following sentences as active and passive participation.
Sentence 1 : Ranjan told Raman and Shah the sensational facts he had heard about his friend Vineet from others.
Sentence 2 : Kumar stayed silent while his friends criticized his close friend Vijay in his absence. [1]

(viii) Why does the author say that gossip is a reflection of relationships ? [1]

(ix) Choose the correct option :
….. gossip can ‘stave off loneliness’. (paragraph (6))
The above statement is true as : [1]

1. we always enjoy talking ill of others.
2. we believe what we read about people in the print media.
3. we are free to talk loosely in the absence of the person.
4. in order to gossip, you need to feel close to people.

(x) Complete the following suitably :
The author puts forth the fact that man can never ______ gossiping. [1]

(1) In recent years, air pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental and public health issues in India. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru often record Air Quality Indices (AQI) that fall into the ‘hazardous’ category, posing several health risks to their inhabitants. The thick blanket of smog that shrouds these urban areas is composed of harmful pollutants such as particulate material (PM 2·5 and PM 10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and sulphur dioxide (SO₂). These pollutants originate from various sources including vehicular emissions, industrial activities and construction dust.

(2) The constant emission of pollutants from vehicles, industrial activities and construction works exacerbate the problem. Residents of these cities are often seen wearing masks and using air purifiers in a desperate attempt to mitigate the effects of polluted air. The ‘urban haze’ not only affects physical health but also impacts mental well-being. Studies indicate that prolonged exposure to high pollution levels can lead to respiratory issues, such as cardiovascular diseases and even cognitive decline.

(3) Furthermore, children and the elderly are the most vulnerable groups. Children, with their developing respiratory systems, and the elderly, often with pre-existing health conditions face the brunt of this environmental crisis. Schools frequently shut down during peak pollution periods, disrupting education and daily life. The economic cost of air pollution is staggering, with increased healthcare expenses and lost labour productivity. Businesses also suffer as employees’ health issues lead to increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency.

(4) Government initiatives, such as the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aim at reducing air pollution levels across the country. However, these measures require robust implementation and public cooperation to be effective. Simple actions like reducing vehicle use, promoting public transportation and adopting cleaner technologies can significantly alleviate the situation. Additionally, the enforcement of stricter emission norms for industries and vehicles is crucial. Public awareness campaigns can play a pivotal role in encouraging others to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

(5) The role of technology in combating air pollution is also noteworthy. Innovative solutions such as air quality monitoring systems, green buildings and electric vehicles are gaining attraction. These technologies not only help in reducing pollution but also promote sustainable development. Urban planning that incorporates green spaces can also mitigate the effects of pollution by improving air quality and providing residents with a healthier living environment.

(6) As we navigate this challenge, it is imperative to remember that the solution lies not just in policy changes but also in the behavioural shifts of individuals. Embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes environmental health will pave the way for a cleaner, healthier India. Collective efforts and sustained commitments are crucial for ensuring breathable air for future generations. It is a shared responsibility that requires action from every segment of society from policy makers to ordinary citizens.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to paragraph (1), what components make up the ‘urban haze’ that envelops Indian cities ? [1]

(ii) The writer refers to air pollution as a ‘public health issue’ in paragraph (1) because : [1]

1. it is a threat to the physical well-being of the people.
2. it disrupts the daily activities of urban inhabitants.
3. it leads to the closure of schools during peak pollution periods.
4. it disrupts industrial activities and construction works.

(iii) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (2).
blanket : cover : : extended : __________ [1]

1. composed
2. attempted
3. declined
4. prolonged

(iv) Complete the following sentence suitably (Paragraph (2)) :
“The prolonged exposure to high pollution levels leads to cognitive decline” indicates that it impacts [1]

1. mental health
2. economic development
3. respiratory functions
4. mobility

(v) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph (3), to prove the following :
“Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable groups affected by air pollution.” [1]

(vi) Complete the following suitably with one advantage with reference to paragraph (4) :
Implementing stricter emission norms for vehicles can help to __________. [1]

(vii) Assess the potential challenges and benefits of promoting public transportation as a solution to air pollution, as outlined in paragraph (4). [2]

(viii) What is the significance of urban planning in mitigating air pollution according to paragraph (5) ? [1]

(ix) How does technology help in resolving the problem of air pollution ? [1]

(x) Why does the author say that just the policy change is not the solution ? [2]

(1) In recent years, the rise of digital education has revolutionized the way students in India learn. With the advent of high speed internet and widespread smartphone use, online learning platforms have become increasingly popular. These platforms offer a wide range of courses, from academic subjects to vocational skills, enabling students to learn at their own pace and convenience. The flexibility of digital education is beneficial where traditional classroom learning cannot take place. Many students and educators have now embraced this new mode of learning, recognizing its potential.

(2) However, this shift to digital learning is not without its challenges. One major issue is the digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to the internet and those who do not. In rural areas and among economically disadvantaged communities, many students lack the necessary devices or reliable internet connections to participate in online classes. This has led to concerns about unequal access to education and the potential for widening educational disparities. For instance, a study by the National Sample Survey Office revealed that only 24% of Indian households have internet access, highlighting the extent of the digital divide.

(3) Another significant challenge is the effectiveness of digital learning. While some students thrive in an online environment, others struggle with the lack of face-to-face interaction and the self-discipline required to stay on track. Teachers also face difficulties in both engaging students as well as providing personalized feedback in a virtual setting. The absence of a structured classroom environment can lead to distractions and reduced motivation among students. Furthermore, the lack of direct social interaction impacts social skills and emotional development.

(4) To address these issues, various initiatives have been launched. Government programmes aim to provide digital devices and improve internet connectivity in far-off areas. Educational platforms are developing more interactive and engaging content to enhance the online learning experience. Blended learning models, which combine online and offline methods, are being explored to offer a more balanced approach. The government’s Digital India campaign has also made strides in promoting digital literacy and bridging the technological gap.

(5) The potential of digital education extends beyond formal schooling. Online platforms provide opportunities for lifelong learning, allowing individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge throughout their lives. This is particularly relevant in a rapidly changing job market, where continuous upskilling and reskilling are essential. Digital education empowers individuals to take control of this learning journey, breaking down traditional barriers to education. Moreover, it offers flexibility for working professionals and homemakers, who can access educational resources without disrupting their daily schedules.

(6) As we navigate this digital revolution in education, it is crucial to ensure that no one is left behind. Bridging the digital divide, supporting teachers and students, and fostering an inclusive and effective online learning environment are essential to realizing the full potential of digital education in India. Policy-makers, educators, and the private sector must collaborate to create sustainable solutions that address the diverse needs of the population. Only then can we harness the power of digital education.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to paragraph (1), what advantages do online learning platforms offer to students ? [1]

(ii) How does the author describe the ‘digital divide’ in the context of education ? [1]

(iii) Read the following sentence. [1]
‘In rural areas and among economically disadvantaged communities, many students lack the necessary devices or reliable internet connections.’
The concern the above statement points towards is ________.
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.

1. an increasing gap between those living in cities and those living in villages
2. a growing divide in the educational opportunities for children

(iv) How does the lack of social interaction in digital learning affect students’ overall development ? [1]

(v) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph (3), to prove the following : [1]
The absence of a structured classroom environment can lead to distractions among students.

(vi) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (4) : [1]
flexibility : adaptability : : integrated : _________.

1. paced
2. blended
3. balanced
4. created

(vii) Give one benefit of continuous upskilling and reskilling. [1]

(viii) Assess the potential challenges or benefits of lifelong learning through digital platforms, as outlined in paragraph (5). [2]

(ix) To realize the full potential of digital India, it is important to ___________ an environment that provides education for all. [2]

1. refrain
2. replicate
3. nurture
4. commemorate

(x) We can harness the power of digital education if [1]

1. educators and policy-makers help create sustainable solutions.
2. we shift back to traditional classrooms.
3. we further extend the digital divide.
4. we control the internet connections.

(1) In the heart of a bustling city, amidst the cacophony of traffic and the incessant buzz of urban life, there lies a sanctuary of tranquility — a sprawling public park that offers a respite from the daily grind. This park, with its verdant lawns and serene water features, attracts visitors from all walks of life, seeking solace and rejuvenation.

(2) A public park is an area of open space owned and maintained by the local government, providing recreational opportunities for citizens. Public parks are places of leisure integrated into the community and are generally considered safe places. They provide essential environmental, aesthetic, and recreational benefits to our cities.

(3) As the sun rises, joggers and fitness enthusiasts can be seen navigating the winding paths, their faces set with determination. Meanwhile, yoga practitioners find their own quiet corners, their movements graceful and meditative. The air is filled with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves, creating a natural symphony that soothes the soul.

(4) By midday, the park transforms into a lively gathering spot. Families spread out picnic blankets, sharing meals and laughter, while children chase each other across the grass, their joyous shouts echoing through the trees. Elderly couples sit on benches, reminiscing about days gone by as they watch the world go by.

(5) As dusk approaches, the park takes on a magical quality. The setting sun casts a golden hue over the landscape, and the water features glisten in the fading light. Street performers and musicians add to the enchantment, drawing crowds with their captivating acts. The park, now aglow with lanterns, becomes a haven for stargazers and dreamers alike.

(6) In this urban oasis, people find a connection with nature and one another, a reminder that amidst the chaos of modern life, moments of peace and tranquility are still within reach. Especially in cities, parks encourage native flora and fauna to thrive.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Why does the writer refer to the park as a ‘sanctuary of tranquility’ in paragraph (1) ? [1]

(ii) Why is it important for governments to set up public parks ? [1]

(iii) According to the passage, what activities can be observed in the park during the early morning hours ? [1]

(iv) Describe the transformation of the park by midday. [1]

(v) Complete the following suitably.
The park at dusk is described as taking on a magical quality because of __________. [1]

1. the setting sun casting a golden hue and water features glistening
2. the bustling activities of joggers and fitness enthusiasts
3. the lively gathering of families and children playing
4. the quiet solitude and meditation of yoga practitioners

(vi) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph (4) to prove the following :
Elderly couples feel a sense of nostalgia. [1]

(vii) In the line “The park, now aglow with lanterns, becomes a haven for stargazers and dreamers alike,” what does the phrase ‘haven for stargazers and dreamers’ refer to ? (Paragraph 5) [2]

(viii) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (6).
urban life : chaos : : park : _______ [1]

1. connection
2. reminder
3. tranquility
4. oasis

(ix) Why is it fair to say that the statement “In this urban oasis, people find a connection with nature and one another” from paragraph (6) is significant ? [1]

1. It highlights the park’s role in promoting physical activities.
2. It emphasizes the park’s importance as a social and natural retreat.
3. It mocks the idea of nature within a bustling city.
4. It underplays the park’s significance in modern life.

(x) Assess the potential benefits of an urban park. [2]

(1) Travel, they say, broadens the mind, but who exactly are ‘they’ ? These mysterious sages seem to know a thing or two about the transformative power of packing a suitcase and jetting off to distant lands. As Mark Twain wisely put it, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” Indeed, leaving behind your familiar surroundings and completely involving yourself in a new culture is like enrolling in a crash course in the School of Life.

(2) Take, for instance, the confusing world of foreign languages. You might think you know how to navigate a city because you can book a hotel and call a taxi, but try finding your way through a maze of winding streets in an old European town. Suddenly, “Where is the train station ?” seems sadly not enough. It’s a humbling experience, much like realising that ‘piazza’ is Italian for ‘square’ and not a type of pizza. But therein lies the beauty: each navigational blunder is a lesson, each wrong turn a new entry in your personal map of life.

(3) Then there are the historical landmarks. Visiting the Colosseum isn’t just a chance to take an Instagram-worthy selfie; it’s a real-life history lesson that textbooks can only dream of. As you stand in the shadow of this ancient arena, you might find yourself daydreaming about gladiators and emperors, only to be jolted back to reality by a selfie stick to the face. Travel has a way of making history real, even if it sometimes includes the odd bruise.

(4) Moreover, travel teaches resilience and adaptability. Missed flights, lost luggage, and questionable hotel rooms can turn even the most meticulously planned vacation into a comedy of errors. Yet, these are the moments that foster growth and creativity. Who knew you could fashion a comb out of a hotel toothbrush and a bit of resourcefulness.

(5) Travel is a passport to a world of knowledge, where every stamp tells a story and every journey is a chapter in the grand, unfinished novel of your life. So, next time you find yourself lost in a foreign city, remember: you’re not just a tourist; you’re a student of the world, and the curriculum is as vast as your curiosity.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to Mark Twain, how does travel influence people ? [1]

(ii) How does the author use the metaphor of ‘crash course in the School of Life’ to interpret the value of travel ? [1]

(iii) The comparison of ‘navigational blunder’ to a ‘lesson’, in the context of travel, primarily highlights : [1]

1. the inevitability of getting lost while travelling.
2. the educational value of travel experiences.
3. the frustration of not knowing a foreign language.
4. the importance of planning every detail of a trip.

(iv) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph (4) to prove that travel promotes creativity. [1]

(v) The significance of historical landmarks in the context of travel, according to the passage, is __________. [1]

(vi) Give two instances of the author’s resilience and adaptability during his travels. [2]

(vii) Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (4) :
fragility : weakness : : __________ : strength [1]

1. adaptability
2. ingenuity
3. resilience
4. creativity

(viii) How does the following statement define a traveller ? (paragraph (5))
‘You’re not just a tourist; you’re a student of the world, and the curriculum is as vast as your curiosity.’ [1]

(ix) Reflect on the author’s perspective on travel as an educational journey. How does this viewpoint of the author challenge conventional forms of education ? [2]

(x) Complete the sentence suitably :
The author refers to travel as a passport to the world of knowledge because __________. [1]

(1) The term Artificial Intelligence spells a future in which this emerging technology will impact every aspect of human existence. In fact, little do we know, it has already crept into our lives, slowly, but surely. Look around you education, health care, industry, innovation, robots, robotic surgeries, transportation, home service - it’s already there. It will change the lifestyle of everyone from the technology industry to normal people.

(2) The past fifteen years have seen considerable AI advances in education. You enter school and AI takes your attendance using face recognition. Various applications are in wide use by educators and learners today. AI technologies assist teachers in the classroom. Learning at home is likely to expand significantly, along with learning based on virtual reality applications. Though quality education will always require active engagement by human teachers, AI promises to enhance education at all levels, especially by providing personalization at scale.

(3) The evolution of new technologies, mobile, and the Internet are changing lifestyles. Artificial intelligence is playing an important role in every sector such as banking, driving, education, e-commerce, electronics, robotics. Systems of artificial intelligence are aiming to stimulate execution and decision-making that is human-like. In targeted applications, substantial increases in the future uses of AI technologies, including more driverless cars, healthcare diagnostics and targeted treatments, and physical assistance for elder care can be expected. AI and robotics will also be applied across the globe in industries struggling such as agriculture, food processing and factories. They will facilitate delivery of online purchases through flying drones, self-driving trucks or robots.

(4) AI-based applications could improve health outcomes and quality of life for millions of people in the coming years - prime applications include clinical decision support, patient monitoring and coaching, automated devices to assist in surgery or patient care, and management of healthcare systems. Recent successes, such as mining social media to infer possible health risks, machine learning to predict patients at risk, and robotics to support surgery have expanded a sense of possibility for AI in healthcare.

(5) People’s future relationships with machines will become ever more personalized as AI systems learn to adapt to individual personalities, ambitions and goals. These AI applications will help monitor people’s well-being, alert them to the impending risks, and deliver services when needed or wanted.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Select the word that most appropriately defines Artificial Intelligence today. [1]

1. rewarding
2. universal
3. luxurious
4. temporary

(ii) What is the connection between ‘face recognition’ in school education and AI ? [1]

(iii) Which one of the following do you infer from para 2 ? [1]

1. School education will become a virtual engagement.
2. The teacher will be replaced by AI.
3. Human teachers will play a passive role in the classroom.
4. Human teachers are irreplaceable.

(iv) Share evidence from the text, in about 40 words, about how AI can support the field of education. [2]

(v) The phrase ‘stimulate execution’ in para 3 nearly means : [1]

1. imitate creations
2. strategise destructions
3. shake inventions
4. motivate implementation

(vi) With evidence from the text, explain in about 40 words, two ways in which AI will help in the healthcare sector. [2]

(vii) According to the passage, why does the author conclude that people’s relationships with machines will become more personalised ? [2]

(viii) Complete the following statement :
AI will make the commercial supply chain smoother by __________. [1]

(ix) Read the five headlines given below (I - V) : [1]

I. AI WILL IMPACT EVERY ASPECT OF OUR LIVES
II. AI WILL BE A BOON TO THE MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS
III. SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS WILL BE CONTROLLED BY AI
IV. AI IS A MAJOR REASON FOR RISING UNEMPLOYMENT TODAY
V. FACTORY OWNERS WILL NOT USE AI FOR FEAR OF ITS UNPREDICTABILITY

Identify the option that displays the headline/s that does/do not correspond with occurrences in the passage.

1. only V
2. II and III
3. IV and V
4. III, IV and V

(1) As a young adult, life can be stressful and overwhelming at times. Juggling among school, work, social life, and other responsibilities, it can be easy to feel alone and disconnected from the world around us. Dogs are the ultimate companions for anyone looking to alleviate stress and loneliness. We’ll explore many reasons why dogs make the best companions for young adults.

(2) Unconditional love : Dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their owners, no matter what. They don’t judge us, criticize us, or hold grudges against us. No matter how flawed or imperfect we may be, our dogs will always love us unconditionally. This kind of unwavering support and affection can be incredibly comforting for young adults struggling to find their place in the world.

(3) Social connection : Dogs are great ice-breakers and conversation starters. Whether you’re walking them in the park, taking them to the dog beach, or simply hanging out at home, dogs have a way of bringing people together. For young adults who may feel isolated or disconnected from their peers, having a dog by their side can be a great way to connect with others and form new friendships.

(4) Increase physical activity : Dogs require regular exercise in order to stay healthy and happy. This means that young adults who own dogs are more likely to engage in physical activity themselves. Whether its going for a run, playing frisbee, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, getting out with your dog can be a great way to boost your mood and energy levels.

(5) Emotional support : Dogs are also great emotional support animals for those struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Their presence alone can provide a sense of calm and comfort, and their ability to sense their owner’s emotions can be incredibly comforting. For young adults dealing with mental health challenges, having a dog as a companion can be a life-changing experience.

(6) Improve responsibility and self-care : Owning a dog also comes with a great deal of responsibility and self-care. Dogs require regular feeding, grooming, exercise, and attention, which can be a great way for young adults to develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline. Additionally, having a dog as a companion can encourage young adults to take better care of themselves, such as making sure they get enough sleep, eat healthy, and engage in regular exercise.

(7) For all these reasons and more, dogs make fantastic companions for young adults. Whether you’re looking for emotional support, social connection, increased physical activity, or simply someone to love and be loved by, a dog can provide all these things and more. So the next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider finding a furry friend to take on the world with you.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) What is the significance of owning a dog for a young adult who is striving for acceptance in society? [1]

1. It means increased physical activity.
2. It builds a sense of responsibility.
3. It helps young adults get more sleep.
4. It is a source of unconditional love.

(ii) A dog can encourage its owner to lead a healthier life by __________.
Complete the above sentence appropriately, in about 40 words, with a characteristic or description. [2]

(iii) Share evidence from the text, in approximately 40 words, to support the view that dogs provide a sense of calm and comfort to those struggling with mental health issues. [2]

(iv) Explain in about 40 words the statement that ‘dogs are great ice-breakers’. [2]

(v) Which of the following activities help(s) young adults, owning a dog, build their sense of responsibility and self-discipline? [1]

1. walking the dog daily
2. feeding it regularly
3. engaging the services of a dog trainer
4. Both (A) and (B)

(vi) What does this article aim to do? [1]

1. Explain the benefits of owning a dog.
2. Provide advice on how to get a dog.
3. Discuss how to take proper care of a dog.
4. Describe the experiences of dog owners.

(vii) Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase ‘take on the world’. [1]

1. travel the world
2. accept a responsibility
3. to be pessimistic
4. have a global outlook

(viii) What does the underlined part in the sentence “consider finding a furry friend to take on the world with you” refer to? [1]

(ix) What is the tone of the article? [1]

1. critical but supportive
2. indifferent and bored
3. positive and informative
4. humorous and casual

(1) As a young adult, life can be stressful and overwhelming at times. Juggling among school, work, social life, and other responsibilities, it can be easy to feel alone and disconnected from the world around us. Dogs are the ultimate companions for anyone looking to alleviate stress and loneliness. We’ll explore many reasons why dogs make the best companions for young adults.

(2) Unconditional love : Dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their owners, no matter what. They don’t judge us, criticize us, or hold grudges against us. No matter how flawed or imperfect we may be, our dogs will always love us unconditionally. This kind of unwavering support and affection can be incredibly comforting for young adults struggling to find their place in the world.

(3) Social connection : Dogs are great ice-breakers and conversation starters. Whether you’re walking them in the park, taking them to the dog beach, or simply hanging out at home, dogs have a way of bringing people together. For young adults who may feel isolated or disconnected from their peers, having a dog by their side can be a great way to connect with others and form new friendships.

(4) Increase physical activity : Dogs require regular exercise in order to stay healthy and happy. This means that young adults who own dogs are more likely to engage in physical activity themselves. Whether its going for a run, playing frisbee, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, getting out with your dog can be a great way to boost your mood and energy levels.

(5) Emotional support : Dogs are also great emotional support animals for those struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Their presence alone can provide a sense of calm and comfort, and their ability to sense their owner’s emotions can be incredibly comforting. For young adults dealing with mental health challenges, having a dog as a companion can be a life-changing experience.

(6) Improve responsibility and self-care : Owning a dog also comes with a great deal of responsibility and self-care. Dogs require regular feeding, grooming, exercise, and attention, which can be a great way for young adults to develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline. Additionally, having a dog as a companion can encourage young adults to take better care of themselves, such as making sure they get enough sleep, eat healthy, and engage in regular exercise.

(7) For all these reasons and more, dogs make fantastic companions for young adults. Whether you’re looking for emotional support, social connection, increased physical activity, or simply someone to love and be loved by, a dog can provide all these things and more. So the next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider finding a furry friend to take on the world with you.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) What is the significance of owning a dog for a young adult who is striving for acceptance in society ? [1]

1. It means increased physical activity.
2. It builds a sense of responsibility.
3. It helps young adults get more sleep.
4. It is a source of unconditional love.

(ii) A dog can encourage its owner to lead a healthier life by __________.
Complete the above sentence appropriately, in about 40 words, with a characteristic or description. [2]

(iii) Share evidence from the text, in approximately 40 words, to support the view that dogs provide a sense of calm and comfort to those struggling with mental health issues. [2]

(iv) Explain in about 40 words the statement that ‘dogs are great ice-breakers’. [2]

(v) Which of the following activities help(s) young adults, owning a dog, build their sense of responsibility and self-discipline ? [1]

1. walking the dog daily
2. feeding it regularly
3. engaging the services of a dog trainer
4. Both (A) and (B)

(vi) What does this article aim to do ? [1]

1. Explain the benefits of owning a dog.
2. Provide advice on how to get a dog.
3. Discuss how to take proper care of a dog.
4. Describe the experiences of dog owners.

(vii) Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase ‘take on the world’. [1]

1. travel the world
2. accept a responsibility
3. to be pessimistic
4. have a global outlook

(viii) What does the underlined part in the sentence “consider finding a furry friend to take on the world with you” refer to ? [1]

(ix) What is the tone of the article ? [1]

1. critical but supportive
2. indifferent and bored
3. positive and informative
4. humorous and casual

(1) What do we typically do when we find our children doing something we don’t approve of ? We become reactive parents. Often, we pepper our reactions with lectures. When it doesn’t work and predictably so; we end up screaming and dole out a punishment. And our children react with anger, resentment or ‘can’t-be-bothered’ attitude.

(2) Buddhist Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh put it beautifully when he described how each child has both negative seeds- of anger, despair, hatred, fear and violence- and wholesome seeds- of love, happiness, compassion and forgiveness. According to him, what will blossom depends on the seeds we nurture.

(3) A parenting and educational approach that’s gaining a large following internationally, called the Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) by Howard Glasser, is very much in keeping with this Zen approach. The three main aspects of this approach are :

• Refuse to energize negativity.
• Relentlessly energize their positives.
• Reset : Do not react negatively and stay calm when the child does something wrong.

Parents following this approach commit to not saying or doing anything that may fuel negativity in the child. But the parent has to make sure she/he does this very calmly, without any anger or resentment.

(4) While on a mission to cut the negative, the parent looks for every opportunity to energize the positive in the child. This is done through persistently appreciating the goodness in the child in the smallest of ways : You were really generous about sharing your pizza with your sister; I appreciate the hard work you have put in your project; It takes courage to stand up to a bully. If you observe, the appreciation is not about saying “excellent”, “amazing” or “good”, which is really an empty praise and does not speak much to the child. Qualifying a praise, on the other hand, gives the child direction and she/he begins to understand what qualities, values and strengths are appreciated. These are also necessary ingredients of life skills and success.

(5) This approach is not merely about noticing when the child is being good, it is about recognizing the child’s worth at every step. It’s about aligning his energy in believing that he has great qualities, which are being identified and validated by the parents at every step. He realizes that there is no point choosing negativity, as there are no pay-offs in it. So, start building your child’s inner wealth – there is nothing to lose.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) Complete the following sentence with an appropriate word :
“ – we end up screaming and dole out punishment.”
In the above sentence, the author criticizes the __________ approach of the parents. [1]

(ii) Explain in about 40 words, when and how do parents become reactive. [2]

(iii) In the line ‘what will bloom will depend on the seeds we nurture’ – what seeds does the author refer to ? [1]

1. Seasonal seeds
2. Societal news
3. Parental attitude
4. Values and emotions

(iv) Explain in about 40 words why does NHA focus on reforming parents to reform children. [2]

(v) Share evidence from the text, in about 40 words, to support the view that parents appreciate the goodness of the child at every opportunity. [2]

(vi) In paragraph 5, in what way does ‘This approach’ differ from the earlier approach ? [1]

(vii) Select the option that can be classified as qualifying a praise as explained in the passage : [1]

1. You can be more helpful.
2. You demonstrated patience while teaching your junior.
3. Use your skill to be an excellent sportsman.
4. You have to be amazing in your work.

(viii) The phrase ‘to cut the negative’ in para 4 most nearly means : [1]

1. to reduce wasteful expenditure
2. to stop criticizing
3. to eliminate challenges
4. to humiliate someone

(ix) Read the five headlines (a) – (e) given below : [1]

• (a) New Age Parenting
• (b) Children – A Rebellious Generation
• (c) Channelizing Energy
• (d) Teacher – A Nation Builder
• (e) Skill Development – Careers Ahead

Identify the option that displays the headline/s that Does/Do not correspond with the occurrences in the text

1. (a) and (e)
2. (c) and (e)
3. (b) only
4. (a) and (c)

(1) Five enterprises received approval and grants for prototype development of sustainable educational toys.

(2) The government authorities, educational institutions and EdTech start-ups are planning to introduce state-of-the-art, made-in-India educational toys that not only throw light on Indian values and civilisations, but also help in developing children’s critical thinking, and decision-making skills.

(3) “One such enterprise is working on different types of projects that can teach children how electromagnets and magnetic fields work. These projects can resolve a lot of issues in many schools in tier two and three cities that don’t have proper infrastructure. Another is working on an excavation site to teach children about ancient Indian civilizations. It has implanted a few artifacts at the site, which the children will have to find so that they are able to learn how to preserve and label artifacts. Another start up has proposed to create miniaturized labs for schools in tier 2 and 3 cities where children can learn concepts of Physics. “We will ensure that these prototypes are developed within a year and then the production can be scaled up,” says the senior manager of the project talking about the importance of indigenously-built educational toys.

(4) Playtime is vital for the cognitive development of children and toys are an essential component that helps enhance specific cognitive abilities and skill sets. “Well-designed toys ignite students’ curiosity, increase focus and can be very beneficial in helping them master a skill and enhance understanding. These can be in the form of visuals, auditory aids, kinesthetic, or a mixture of all three.” says HOD, Early Childhood Education.

(5) Toys offer an engaging avenue to teach mathematical, verbal, problem-solving skills. “Toys that engage students in experiential learning enhance their special awareness and fine motor skills. Those designed for two or more players help students develop better social skills as they learn to negotiate, settle differences, etc, with their peers.”

(6) Experiential gadgets and toys enable students to learn faster and retain lessons longer. “A child’s interest is piqued when he is taught in a contextual framework as opposed to rote learning. The Indian education system has been witnessing several innovations with the development of toys and gadgets that can be used and felt in person or through VR platforms across subjects, be it Science, Technology, Math or Engineering.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage given above :

(i) By tier 2 and tier 3 cities, the author refers to [1]

1. Metro cities
2. Cities with huge population
3. Underdeveloped cities
4. Cities with less population

(ii) Complete the sentence with evidence from the text.
The made-in-India educational toys serves dual purpose of __________. [1]

(iii) The author’s point of view that can be inferred from the above passage is that __________. [1]

1. educational toys are the booming business.
2. educational toys are meant to entertain children.
3. educational toys will replace teachers.
4. educational toys will make education more pragmatic.

(iv) Complete the following sentence appropriately :
Educational toys enhance the personality of children by __________. [1]

(v) Read the five headlines (a) – (e), given below :

• (a) Sustainable Educational Toys are Developmentally Appropriate.
• (b) Sustainable Educational Toys Promote Free play.
• (c) Sustainable Educational Toys – Free and Widespread.
• (d) Sustainable Educational Toys – Experiential Learning.
• (e) Sustainable Educational Toys – Hinder Interaction with people.

Identify the option that displays the headline that DOES/DO NOT correspond with what the passage highlights. [1]

1. only (e)
2. (a) and (b)
3. (c) and (e)
4. only (d)

(vi) What evidences do you gather from the passage to state that educational system is revolutionized by educational toys ? Answer in about 40 words. [2]

(vii) Explain in about 40 words, how education at grassroot level is benefitted by these projects. [2]

(viii) As opposed to learning by heart, experiential toys [1]

1. ignite interest
2. challenge the teachers
3. replace textbooks
4. confuse learners

(ix) Playing is usually considered a distraction. Is it justified on the part of the narrator to assert that playing is an important aspect of education ? Write your answer in about 40 words. [2]

(1) Often, people are getting their news online as the convenience and accessibility of online news is difficult to compete with.

(2) Physical newspapers are typically large, need to be folded and aren’t always free, making them an overall hassle. With virtual media outlets being available to nearly everybody at the click of a button, it comes as no surprise that it’s grown to be a dominant form of news consumption. However, it’s important for readers to consider exactly what they’re consuming when getting their news through an app versus a paper, namely the influence of an algorithm.

(3) A search algorithm is a set of rules made to put forward content the reader is more likely to engage with and filter out what they will ignore. Based on one’s viewing history, an app or service determines what kind of content the user enjoys, then recommends similar content from that point onwards. Algorithms give the viewer what they want, that’s undeniable, but it’s also the problem.

(4) Digital media experts warn readers to be cautious of how an algorithm processes content. These systems show a reader more of what they want, but in the process, they block out any pieces that aren’t in sync with their observed beliefs for the sake of customer service. The result is a person who is always given the same type of content, rarely venturing outside of their own viewpoints.

(5) There is, fortunately, a way for readers to still get their news without risking the entrapment of an algorithm: classic print newspapers which are not limited by any ruleset constantly tailoring the words offered to the reader. News in print needs to satisfy every type of reader with only one copy, allowing it to offer a wide scope of topics. Printed news offers its viewership more freedom over what they choose to read.

(6) While an algorithm purposely chooses and narrows potential news, a physical paper’s diversity grants its news a more exploratory nature. Taking the time to engage with every part of a physical paper puts a variety of subjects, views and information on display for readers.

(7) It’d be naive to believe that print newspapers are completely free from bias or a certain degree of filtering. Still, a physical newspaper will almost never be as narrow in scope as the suggestions of a digital media outlet will be.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) Online news is becoming popular because it’s [1]

1. economically affordable.
2. readily accessible.
3. less cumbersome.
4. more interesting.

(ii) The phrase ‘venturing outside of their own viewpoints’ in para 4 most nearly means [1]

1. stepping into someone’s shoes.
2. challenging others’ opinions.
3. combining traditional beliefs with modern ideology.
4. moving away from one’s personal opinions.

(iii) Complete the sentence with evidence from the text.
Online readers are unaware that the news they read on a digital platform is ...... [1]

(iv) Share evidence from the text in about 40 words to support the view that though algorithms give the reader what they want to read, they are also the problem. [2]

(v) Why according to the writer is reading news online becoming increasingly popular ? [2]

(vi) State two reasons in support of why a newspaper is a better source of news than online apps. [2]

(vii) From the passage we understand that the writer concedes that newspapers too are ... [1]

(viii) The passage suggests that the reader while reading news online must be [1]

1. focused
2. discerning
3. indifferent
4. attentive

(ix) Read the headlines A – E given below : [1]

1. NEWSPAPERS – FREEDOM OF SPEECH
2. INTERNET – THE NEWS ENTERTAINER
3. ONLINE NEWS – A LIMITED PERCEPTION
4. NEWSPAPER VS ONLINE NEWS APPS
5. NEWS – A BIASED PERSPECTIVE

Identify the option that displays the headline that does not correspond with occurrences in the passage.

(1) Every December, the Geminids meteor shower occurs as the Earth passes through a stream of cosmic debris associated with a near-Earth asteroid. It is classified as one of the most active annual meteor showers based on recorded meteor counts and the regularity of its appearance. The Geminids are expected to reach peak activity on the night of 13–14 December, during which observers across India may record a high frequency of visible meteors. Under favourable atmospheric conditions, observation rates can exceed 100 meteors per hour, making the Geminids one of the most productive meteor showers observable from Earth.

(2) Meteor showers occur when fragments of dust and rock enter the Earth’s atmosphere at extremely high speeds and disintegrate due to friction, producing brief streaks of light. The Geminids are distinctive because they originate from a rocky asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon, rather than from a comet, which is the usual source of meteor showers. When Phaethon approaches the Sun during its orbit, it releases material that spreads along its orbital path. Each year in mid-December, the Earth intersects this debris stream, leading to increased meteor activity.

(3) The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Gemini, located in the northern sky. This apparent point of origin, known as the radiant, is used to identify the shower, although the meteors themselves may be seen across different regions of the sky. The most suitable time for observation is from midnight to the early morning hours, when the radiant rises higher above the horizon, improving the chances of sightings.

(4) Observation of the Geminids does not require telescopes or binoculars, as such equipment limits the field of view. The unaided eye is considered the most effective method for observing meteor showers. Observers are advised to allow adequate time for their eyes to adjust to darkness. Viewing conditions are influenced by cloud cover, atmospheric clarity, moonlight, and light pollution. Locations away from urban lighting generally provide better visibility.

(5) Historical records indicate that the Geminids were first documented in the mid-nineteenth century. Since then, their activity has increased steadily, making them one of the most reliable and frequently studied meteor showers. The meteors travel at a relatively moderate speed compared to those of other showers, which often results in brighter and longer-lasting streaks.

(6) For students, educators, and amateur astronomers, the Geminids offer a valuable opportunity to observe a recurring astronomical phenomenon and understand Earth’s interaction with near-Earth objects. The event supports scientific learning by demonstrating how celestial debris produces visible effects in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Source: https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/geminids-meteor-shower-in-mid-december-offers-over-100-meteors-per-hour-for-indian-observers-2835534-2025-12-13 [417 words]

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage.

(i) Which evidence from paragraph 1 tells us that the Geminids are exceptionally active? [1]

(ii) Complete the following with a suitable reason. (paragraph 2)
The writer refers to 3200 Phaethon as a ‘rocky asteroid’ rather than a ‘comet’ in order to tell the reader that __________. [1]

(iii) Based on the passage, how does friction help in making the Geminids visible to observers on Earth? (paragraph 2) [1]

(iv) Which of the following statements best captures the functional role of the ‘radiant’ as described in the passage? (paragraph 3) [1]

1. It is the physical location where cosmic debris is created.
2. It serves as visual guide for observers to locate the shower.
3. It determines the speed fragments enter the atmosphere.
4. It represents the exact area where all meteors disappear

(v) How can we say that the Geminids are more ‘observer-friendly’ than other showers? (Any one reason) (Paragraph 5) [1]

(vi) Which of the following best explains why the Geminids are frequently studied by scientists? [1]

1. Their activity has shown a steady increase over time.
2. Their meteors travel at extremely high speeds.
3. Their observation requires specialised equipment.
4. Their radiant shifts position across the sky.

(vii) How does the mention of the ‘mid-nineteenth century’ documentation contribute to the authority of the claims made about the shower? (Answer in about 40 words) [2]

(viii) The writer’s tone throughout the passage can best be described as __________. [1]

1. persuasive and promotional, encouraging mass participation
2. explanatory and informative, aimed at scientific understanding
3. speculative and argumentative, questioning existing theories
4. celebratory and emotional, highlighting wonder over facts

(ix) What does the moderate speed of the Geminids and the resulting ‘longer-lasting streaks’ suggest about the quality of the viewing experience? (Answer in about 40 words) [2]

(x) Complete the following with the most suitable option.
The main idea of the passage is the __________. [1]

1. technical process of how asteroids shed cosmic debris
2. impact of light pollution on modern scientific learning
3. historical evolution of astronomy since the nineteenth century
4. scientific explanation and practical observation of Geminids

Ours was the marsh country, down by the river, within twenty miles of the sea. My first most vivid and broad impression of the identity of things seems to me to have been gained on a memorable raw afternoon towards evening. The low leaden line beyond was the river; and that the distant savage lair from which the wind was rushing was the sea; and that the small bundle of shivers growing afraid of it all and beginning to cry, was Pip.

“Hold your noise!” cried a terrible voice, as a man started up from among the graves at the side of the bushes. “Keep still, or I’ll make you pay!”

A fearful man, all in coarse grey, with a great iron on his leg. A man with no hat, and with broken shoes, and with an old rag tied round his head. A man who had been soaked in water, and smothered in mud, limped, and shivered, and glared, and growled; and whose teeth chattered in his head as he seized me.

“Tell us your name!” said the man. “Quick! Give it mouth!”

“Pip. Pip, sir.”

“Show us where you live,” said the man. “Point out the place!”

The man, after looking at me for a moment, emptied my pockets. There was nothing in them but a piece of bread which he ate ravenously.

“Now lookee here!” said the man. “Where’s your mother?”

“There, sir!” said I.

He started, made a short run, and stopped and looked over his shoulder.

“Oh!” said he, coming back. Who’s that?” he asked, pointing.

“My sister, sir, —Mrs. Joe Gargery, —wife of Joe Gargery, the blacksmith, sir.”

“Blacksmith, eh?” said he. And looked down at his leg.

After darkly looking at his leg, he came close to me, took me by both arms, and tilted me back as far as he could hold me; so that his eyes looked most powerfully down into mine, and mine looked most helplessly up into his.

“Now lookee here,” he said, “You know what a file and wittles is?”

“Yes, sir.”

After each question he tilted me over a little more, so as to give me a greater sense of helplessness and danger.

“You get me a file.” He tilted me again. “And wittles.” He tilted me again. “You bring ’em both to me.”

I was dreadfully frightened, and so giddy that I clung to him with both hands, and said, “If you would kindly please to let me keep upright, sir, perhaps I shouldn’t be sick, and perhaps I could attend more.”

He did. Then, he held me by the arms, in an upright position, and went on with his terms.

Source: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens / 448 words

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

(I) Which textual evidence tells us that Pip was trembling? [1]

(II) Complete the following with a suitable reason.
The writer refers to the sea as a ‘savage lair’ in order to tell the reader that __________. [1]

(III) The writer emphasises Pip’s vulnerability in all of the following ways EXCEPT — [1]

1. through the description of the harsh landscape
2. via the behaviour of the frightening man
3. through Pip’s helplessness and fear
4. via Pip’s knowledge of the surrounding area

(IV) What type of statement is made in the phrase “Keep still, or I’ll make you pay!”? [1]

1. caution
2. threat
3. prediction
4. announcement

(V) Based on his initial appearance, how can we say that the ‘fearful man’ was in a state of discomfort? (Any one reason) [1]

(VI) Which one of the following statements best explains the phrase “Give it mouth!”? [1]

1. Speak loudly
2. Open your mouth wide
3. Answer the question

(VII) The man ate the bread ‘ravenously’. What does this suggest about his condition? [1]

(VIII) What does the man’s question, “Where’s your mother?” and his reaction when Pip points to her suggest about his intentions? (Answer in about 40 words) [2]

(IX) How does the man’s action of forcing Pip to look up at him contribute to the tension in the scene? (Answer in about 40 words) [2]

(X) Complete the following with the most suitable option.
The main idea of the text is __________. [1]

1. Pip’s encounter with a frightening man who demands information
2. the harshness of Pip’s environment and the fear it creates
3. Pip’s struggle to understand the man’s intentions and stay calm
4. the importance of family relationships in Pip’s life

You are Avantika, residing in Jamshedpur. Your friend, from the same city is hosting her parents’ 50^th marriage anniversary and has extended an invite to you. Draft a letter of reply of acceptance in not more than 50 words mentioning date, venue and time.

M/s Aggarwal and Sons are opening a new general store ‘Super Saver Mart’, in Geeta Enclave, ABC Nagar, Delhi. The inauguration ceremony is fixed for Sunday, the 19th June, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. The store will be inaugurated by Mr. Roshan Seth, councillor of the area. Draft an invitation card for the residents in not more than 50 words. Mention day, date, time and other details.

You are a student of Chandrayan Public School, Mirzapur. The school is holding its Annual Function on September 8^th, 2022. The Education Minister of State Mr. Chetak Singh has consented to be the Chief Guest. Design an invitation card to be sent to parents and other invitees. Mention necessary details of date, time & venue. Do not exceed 50 words. [3]

You are Rajneesh/Rajee Mehta, an eminent educationist. You have been invited to Nav Nirmaan School, Sucheta Vihar, Kolkata to attend and speak at a workshop on the topic ‘The Importance of Time Management’ on June 5, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. Draft a letter of acceptance to the Cultural In-Charge, Piyush, in about 50 words.

St. Joseph School, Dehradun is celebrating ‘World Disability Day’ on December 3^rd, 2022. The Minister of Social Welfare, Dr. Sudha Menon has consented to be the Chief Guest. Draft an invitation for the event to be sent to parents and other guests in about 50 words.

You are Dr. B.L. Kapoor from Pratibha Kapoor Hospital, Patiala. You have been invited to speak on Health - a dietary journey, for Senior Secondary School students. Draft a reply accepting the invitation in not more than 50 words. Request for the time, date and venue where the meeting has been organised.

Your school is organising a career counselling session for students of classes XI and XII to help them make informed decisions about their future career choices. As the Head Girl / Head Boy of M.L.C. School, draft a notice informing them about the session. Include all necessary details. You are Riya/Rohan. Put the notice in a box.

You are Kavya/Karan Chief Editor of ‘Parakh’ the school magazine. Draft a notice inviting contributions in the form of articles, stories, poems, artwork etc. for the special annual edition. All contributions are to be submitted to the Chief Editor. Include necessary details. Put your notice in a box.

Draft an invitation to invite the M.L.A. of your Constituency, to be the Chief Guest at a felicitation function to honour eminent residents who have contributed to the upliftment of the colony. Mention one compelling highlight of the programme. You are Satupa/Satish, President of the Surya Vikas, RWA.

You are Dr. Vora, a certified art therapist from Manipur. You have been invited by Green Valley Public School, Jammu to conduct a seminar on ‘Art Therapy, the Way Forward’ for the students. Draft a reply accepting the invitation.

Your school is organizing a workshop on – ‘Building Financial Literacy in Teenagers’, to help students understand the basics of budgeting, saving, and digital banking. You are Jyoti / Jawahar, the Head girl / boy of Mystic Falls High School. Draft a notice inviting the students of Std. XI and XII to attend the event. Include all relevant details. Put the notice in a box.

Your school is preparing for the Annual Day function and needs enthusiastic volunteers to assist in various organizational committees, such as decoration, stage compering, and backstage management. As the Cultural Head, draft a notice inviting students of X to XII to register their names for the same. You are Ananya / Arnav. Put the notice in a box.