ANSWERS (ENGLISH MOCK TEST I)

Ans I.

i) Ans. (a) discussing the relationship between the size of mammals and the nature of vegetation in
their habitats

ii) Ans. (c) incorrect assumptions on the part of geologists

iii) Ans. (d) suggest the size of antelope herds

iv) Ans. (c) prove a hypothesis

v) Ans. (d) all of these

vi) Ans. The prejudice that vitiated the reasoning of geologists is their belief that dense jungles
were the only habitat for large animals.

vii) Ans. Dr. Smith calls Africa a sterile country because a large part of it lacks any significant
vegetation.

viii) Ans: Carnage refers to the large number of killing of wild animals in the African continent on a
regular basis.

ix) Ans: Darwin’s remark indicates that he is quite sure that if there were adequate data, his
hypothesis would be easily proved.

x) Ans. The partial explanation suggested by Darwin suggests that the underwood vegetation
probably is very nutritious and re-grow quickly. He indicates that these may be adequate to feed
the large herbivores.

Ans II.

i) Its revived and reformed form.

ii) (d) 1 and 3

iii) (c) collection

iv) It means dance gurus

v) (b) The Pillai brothers served the kingdom of Maratha King in the early 12th century.

vi) (b) Proscenium stage refers to the frontage part of the stage.

vii) Here, it means that the dance movements were brought out and enlivened as Bharatnatyam.

viii) (b) the rich and vibrant tradition

ix) It was established by Natya Shastra.

x) (d) progress

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 SECTION B- CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS

1.

Jain Vidyashram, Cuddalore

NOTICE

28 December 2024

Inauguration of the Literary Association

All the students are informed that the school has formed a Literary Association which will organise
literary debates, discussions, talks, lectures and other such literary activities. The inauguration of
the Literary Association activities will take place on the 30th of this month in the school hall, at
12.30 p.m. Requesting maximum attendance.

ABC
(Secretary)
School Literary Association

OR

Springfield School, Pune

NOTICE

28 December 2024

LOST! LOST! LOST!

This is to bring to your notice that I have lost my wristwatch yesterday during lunch break at the
school ground. It has brown faux leather strap, analogue dial and of Fastrack brand. If anyone finds
it, please return it to the undersigned.

Arundhati
Class XII-B

2.

Zenith Public School

Noida

28 December 2024

Ms. Manjul Bajaj

Noida

Subject: Invitation to Conduct a Creative Writing Workshop

2
Ms. Bajaj

As the President of the Literary Society of Sunshine International School, I am honoured to invite
you to conduct a workshop on creative writing for our students. Your expertise would greatly
inspire budding writers. Kindly confirm your availability.

Yours sincerely
Romi/Rohit
(President-Literary Society)
OR

Abhishek Khanna
Noida

28 December 2024

Mr. Suresh
1231, Chattarpur
Delhi

Subject: Acceptance of Invitation

Dear Suresh

Thank you for inviting me to your daughter’s birthday celebrations. It is my pleasure to confirm my
attendance on the joyous occasion. I look forward to being part of the celebration and sharing the
happiness with your family.

Warm regards
Abhishek Khanna

3.

21, Cherry Road

Madurai

28 December 2024

The Principal
Vision Senior Secondary School
Calicut

Subject: Application for the Post of Librarian

Sir

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Librarian at your esteemed institution. With a
Master’s degree in Library Science and over three years of experience managing school libraries, I
possess the skills and knowledge required to foster a love for reading among students while
maintaining an organized, resource-rich library environment.

I have a proven record of implementing efficient cataloguing systems, conducting literary events,
and assisting students and staff in locating academic resources. I am confident that my passion for

3
education and dedication to cultivating a learning-friendly atmosphere will contribute positively to
your school’s mission.

Please find my bio-data attached for your consideration. I would be grateful for the opportunity to
discuss how I can contribute to your institution.

Thank you for considering my application.

Yours sincerely,
Radhika/Rajeev

BIO DATA : WRITE IT ON YOUR OWN.

OR

24, Hennus Road

Bangalore

28 December 2024

The Editor
Deccan Times
Bangalore

Subject: Inadequate Parking Facilities in Commercial Street, M.G. Road

Sir

I wish to bring to your attention the pressing issue of inadequate parking facilities on Commercial
Street, M.G. Road. The area is a major commercial hub, attracting a large number of shoppers and
commuters daily. However, the lack of organized parking spaces leads to chaotic traffic congestion,
illegal parking, and significant inconvenience for residents and visitors.

To address this, I suggest establishing multi-level parking lots at strategic locations, introducing
metered parking systems to regulate space usage and encouraging the use of public transportation
by improving its connectivity. These initiatives would alleviate the parking woes, improve traffic
flow, and enhance the overall shopping experience. I hope the authorities will take immediate
action to resolve this matter.

I hope I have been able to put my concerns and views across in this letter and that required actions
will be taken by the concerned authorities at the earliest.

Thank you

Yours sincerely,
Ritu

4.

Teacher’s Day with the Honourable PM

On this year’s Teacher’s Day, our school organized a special session for students to view the
Honourable Prime Minister’s interactive talk with students across the country through a satellite
link. The telecast was inspiring and deeply engaging, focusing on the pivotal role of teachers in
shaping young minds and the importance of value-based education.

4
The PM shared anecdotes from his student life, emphasizing the lifelong impact of a dedicated
teacher. He encouraged students to remain curious, work hard, and never hesitate to ask
questions. The PM also highlighted the value of discipline and time management in achieving
success.

This session left a profound impact on all of us. It rekindled our respect for our teachers and
motivated us to strive for excellence. The event truly made Teacher’s Day memorable, reminding
us of the significant bond between students and educators.

OR

Youth Organisation Stages Protest Rally

By Mridula
New Delhi, 28 December 2024: A spirited protest rally was organized yesterday by the Youth
Empowerment Organization, demanding immediate action on unemployment and better job
opportunities for the youth. The rally commenced at Jantar Mantar and proceeded through
Connaught Place, culminating at India Gate.

The participants, primarily young professionals and students, carried banners and chanted slogans
like “Jobs for All” and “Empower the Youth.” The peaceful demonstration aimed to draw the
government’s attention to the rising unemployment crisis and the need for policy reforms.

The public reaction was largely supportive, with bystanders cheering and some even joining the
rally. However, traffic disruptions in the central business district caused inconvenience to
commuters. The organizers emphasized that their movement was non-political and focused solely
on addressing youth grievances.

The rally concluded with a plea to policymakers to prioritize youth employment in their agendas.

SECTION C- LITERATURE

1. A.

i) The word ‘thunderclap’ refers to a sudden and shocking realization or piece of news that had a
dramatic and overwhelming impact on the narrator.

ii) The narrator mumbled, “Oh the wretches,” because after the announcement he finds himself (b)
unfortunate.

iii) Metaphor

iv) 1, 3, and 6 (Shocked, Guilty, Disapproval)

v) The given extract is from "The Last Lesson."

vi) The author of the given extract is Alphonse Daudet.

OR

i) (a) Young and innocent.

ii) (b) trying to help the old woman.

iii) (c) simile

iv) (c) Auspiciousness and purity.

5
v. The word “soldering” means joining or fusing pieces of metal or glass together using heat.

vi. simile

2 A.

i) (d) A pleasant wish that makes one forget the present

ii) The 'third level' signifies an escape from the harsh realities of the modern world. It represents a
place where the narrator can retreat from the insecurities, fears, and worries of daily life.

iii) (b) 1 and 2 (Disappointed and Escapism).

iv) (b) the narrator is not at all satisfied with his life.

OR

i) Derry likely entered the garden thinking it was empty because he was seeking solitude or hoping
for a quiet place to reflect or escape. He might have assumed the garden would provide a peaceful
space away from others.

ii) (d) the truth that the house is indeed empty as he’s not inside it

iii) The sentence "In the meantime, I’m out here and likely to stop" means that Mr. Lamb is likely
to remain in the garden for the moment, as it’s a beautiful day, and he doesn't plan to go back
inside immediately. He is content to be outdoors for now.

iv) (c) A is true but R is false.

3 A.

i) The phrase ‘Trees sprinting’ refers to the trees appearing to move quickly as the poet looks out
at them while in motion, possibly during a fast-moving journey. This phrase gives a sense of speed
and vivid imagery.

ii) (c) sadness and guilt

iii) The mother’s pale face is compared to a late winter’s moon. This comparison emphasizes the
mother’s pallor, evoking an image of a cold, dim, and distant moon, symbolizing her frailty.

iv) (c) simile

v) After the security check, the poet looked again at her mother and noticed her wan, pale
appearance, feeling a familiar ache, possibly reflecting on the fragility or aging of her mother.

vi) (d) Looking at the sprinting trees, the poet desires for the long life of her mother.

OR

i) The tigers are called ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’ because they are created by Aunt Jennifer, likely as a
work of art, and symbolize her thoughts, imagination, or desires.

ii) (a) (i)-c, (ii)-d, (iii)-a, (iv)-b

iii) (d) Because they are the product of her imagination.

iv) The name of the poem is "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers", and the poet is Adrienne Rich.

6
v) (b) (i)-c, (ii)-a, (iii)-b, (iv)-d

vi) The meaning of the word ‘denizens’ is inhabitants or residents of a particular place, often used
to refer to creatures or beings that live in a specific environment. In this context, it refers to the
tigers being inhabitants of the world of green.

V.

i) The bangle industry of Firozabad is a curse for the bangle makers because they live in poverty,
working in hazardous conditions. They are exploited by the rich, and their lives are controlled by
the shackles of tradition. Despite their skill, they are trapped in a cycle of poverty and oppression,
unable to break free.

ii) The gift of the rattrap in the story symbolizes the recognition of human kindness and the value
of compassion. It reflects the idea that even the smallest act of generosity, like the one the peddler
receives, can lead to change and transformation in a person's life, guiding them toward
redemption.

iii) In the poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers," two symbols are:

• Tigers: They symbolize freedom, strength, and power, contrasting with Aunt Jennifer’s own
fragile existence.

• The Wedding Ring: It symbolizes the burden of marriage and tradition that weighs Aunt
Jennifer down, while the tigers represent her unfulfilled desires and escape.

iv) The poet uses images such as “wan, pale as a late winter’s moon” and “aching old familiar
ache” to convey the idea of her mother’s old age. These images reflect the mother’s frailty, illness,
and the poet’s deep emotional concern, showing the passing of time and the inevitability of aging.

v) Franz was tempted to stay away from school because he was afraid of being punished for not
preparing his lesson on participles. The news about the closing of school due to the "German
language issue" added to his excitement, and he thought he could enjoy a day off from school.

vi) Gandhiji felt that taking the Champaran case to court was useless because the system was
biased in favour of the British planters. The Indian peasants' grievances were being ignored, and
the legal system would likely favour the oppressors. Gandhiji realized that a more direct approach
involving nonviolent protest was needed.

VI

i) The reward Sadao received was the sight of the American soldier, Tom, washed ashore. Despite
the turmoil and moral dilemma, Sadao’s search in the twilight sea led him to the injured man. This
discovery eventually becomes the turning point, as he decides to help the soldier, reflecting his
humanity.

ii) 'The World' helped Charley confirm his doubts about the existence of the third level by
providing him with a dated newspaper from 1894, which he found at a small shop in Grand Central
Station. This evidence made Charley believe that the third level, a portal to a different time, was
real.

iii) The Tiger King was influenced by the desire to maintain his image and to ensure his royal
lineage. He felt the need to marry in order to have an heir who would continue his reign,
particularly in a situation where his kingdom’s fate was closely tied to his ability to produce a son.

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VII.

i) The bond between old Mr. Lamb and Derry, the boy, is rooted in understanding, acceptance, and
kindness. Both of them have experienced a sense of alienation and isolation—Mr. Lamb due to his
physical disability (having a metal leg) and Derry due to his facial disfigurement from a burn.
Despite their differences, they connect through their shared experiences of being judged or
misunderstood by society.

Mr. Lamb inspires Derry by encouraging him to look beyond his physical appearance and not be
defined by it. He teaches Derry to embrace life and its possibilities, emphasizing that everyone has
their own challenges and beauty. Mr. Lamb’s optimistic outlook on life and his ability to find joy in
simple things—like the beauty of nature and the sound of the wind—help Derry realize that he is
more than his scars. The old man’s words inspire Derry to gain confidence and self-acceptance,
showing him the importance of inner strength and resilience.

OR

'We Too Are Human Beings' highlights the discrimination faced by low-caste people in society. The
protagonist, Bama, is humiliated when she witnesses the cruel treatment of a low-caste man by a
high-caste person, who refers to him as "a scavenger." This reflects the deep-rooted social stigma
and prejudice that low-caste individuals endure, often facing derogatory labels, exclusion, and
unjust treatment from the higher castes.

Bama’s brother advises her to rise above this injustice by educating herself and focusing on her
studies. He encourages her not to internalize the insult and to remain proud of her identity. He
advises her to work towards overcoming the barriers imposed by the caste system, thus
empowering her to break free from the cycle of discrimination. The advice given is a call for self-
respect and perseverance in the face of social inequalities.

VIII.

i) Gandhiji considered the Champaran episode a turning point in his life because it marked the
beginning of his active involvement in the Indian freedom struggle and his commitment to the
cause of social justice. When Gandhiji visited Champaran in 1917, the indigo farmers were being
exploited by British planters, who forced them to grow indigo on their land, often at the cost of
their livelihoods. The farmers had been subjected to unfair treatment and inhumane conditions.

Gandhiji, after taking up the case, used nonviolent methods to bring attention to their plight. His
efforts led to an inquiry and eventually a significant reduction in the exploitation of farmers. This
movement also marked the first time Gandhiji used his principles of satyagraha (nonviolent
resistance) on a large scale in India. His success in Champaran not only gave him confidence but
also cemented his belief in the power of nonviolent protest, inspiring future movements for India’s
independence. Thus, it was a turning point that shaped his leadership and his methods of
resistance.

OR

ii) The story "The Rattrap" by Selma Lagerlöf is both entertaining and philosophical. On the
surface, it is an engaging tale about a peddler who leads a life of deception and trickery, selling his
rattraps to earn a living. The plot revolves around the rattrap itself, which symbolizes the traps of
life that people often fall into, where they are lured by materialism or temptation, only to become
ensnared.

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Philosophically, the story explores themes of human kindness, redemption, and the power of
compassion. The turning point comes when the peddler, after being treated with kindness by the
old man and his family, experiences a change of heart. The old man's generosity helps him realize
the value of compassion, and he chooses to redeem himself. The story teaches that acts of
kindness can lead to transformation and that, despite the traps life sets, there is always a way out
through love and generosity.

Thus, while entertaining in its plot, the story delivers a profound message about the potential for
personal growth and the importance of empathy in overcoming life's challenges.