Class XII English Revision-Practice Test

Class XII Revision-Practice Test

Literature

1. Deep Water (Flamingo)

“When I first stepped into the river, the current seemed stronger than I expected. My heart raced and my arms flailed. Every attempt to keep afloat failed, and fear gripped me. I felt powerless and realised that unless I learned to swim properly, I would never enjoy the water again. Courage and patience were the only way to conquer this fear.”

Questions:
(i) The author felt fear because:
(a) the water was cold
(b) the river’s current was strong and he could not swim
(c) he did not like swimming
(d) he wanted to leave the river

(ii) The phrase “fear gripped me” means:
(a) he held the river tightly
(b) he felt extremely afraid
(c) he was confident
(d) he relaxed completely

(iii) Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements:

1.                   The author was confident in swimming at first.

2.                   He realised he needed courage and patience to overcome his fear.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) The author learned that:
(1) patience helps
(2) courage is necessary
(3) water is always dangerous
(4) fear cannot be overcome
Choose the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4

(v) Complete the analogy:
river : fear :: life : ___________

(vi) According to the passage, fear can be overcome by ________.

2. The Rattrap (Flamingo)

“The peddler trudged through the snowy village streets, carrying his rattraps and small goods. Though he had seen human greed everywhere, he never lost hope. That evening, a kind shopkeeper offered him food and a warm place to rest. The peddler was touched and realised that not everyone in the world was selfish; some people could be truly kind and generous.”

Questions:
(i) The peddler carried rattraps because:
(a) he wanted to trap animals
(b) he earned his livelihood selling them
(c) he was afraid of people
(d) he wanted to frighten villagers

(ii) The phrase “he never lost hope” means:
(a) he always expected kindness
(b) he gave up easily
(c) he avoided people
(d) he was greedy

(iii) Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements:

1.                   The peddler had experienced human selfishness before.

2.                   The shopkeeper proved that some people are kind.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) The peddler felt touched because:
(1) he was given warmth and food
(2) he realised human goodness exists
(3) he could sell more rattraps
(4) he was afraid of the shopkeeper
Choose the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4

(v) Complete the analogy:
rattrap : trap :: kindness : ___________

(vi) According to the passage, human goodness can be discovered by _______.

3. The Tiger King (Vistas)

“The king ruled with pride and demanded absolute obedience. He delighted in hunting tigers, seeing it as proof of his courage. The villagers whispered warnings about his obsession, but the king ignored them. Even the forests and animals seemed subordinate to his desire for glory. His vanity and recklessness left the people fearful and uneasy.”

Questions:
(i) The king hunted tigers because:
(a) he wanted to protect the forest
(b) he wanted to prove his bravery
(c) he was afraid of animals
(d) he liked nature

(ii) The phrase “left the people fearful and uneasy” means:
(a) the villagers were happy
(b) the king caused anxiety among his people
(c) the people wanted to hunt tigers too
(d) the king was scared

(iii) Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements:

1.                   The king’s obsession made people fearful.

2.                   He was careful about villagers’ safety.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) The king ignored warnings because:
(1) of pride
(2) desire for glory
(3) fear of tigers
(4) love for villagers
Choose the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4

(v) Complete the analogy:
king : pride :: ruler : ___________

(vi) According to the passage, excessive pride can _______.

4. Lost Spring (Flamingo)

“The boy walked past factories where children worked long hours. He glanced at their tired faces, noticing the faint smiles of hope. Their lives were fragile, dominated by labour, yet they dreamed of a better tomorrow. Poverty constrained them, but the human spirit continued to shine through small joys and aspirations.”

Questions:
(i) The children in the factories looked:
(a) happy and relaxed
(b) tired but hopeful
(c) fearless
(d) uninterested

(ii) The phrase “human spirit continued to shine” means:
(a) children enjoyed their work
(b) hope and resilience remained despite hardship
(c) poverty was gone
(d) factories were closed

(iii) Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements:

1.                   Poverty made life difficult for children.

2.                   Their dreams were entirely lost.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) The boy noticed the children’s smiles because:
(1) they were hopeful
(2) they had joy despite hardships
(3) they were rich
(4) they loved factories
Choose the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1 and 4

(v) Complete the analogy:
poverty : hardship :: hope : ___________

(vi) According to the passage, even difficult lives can be filled with _______.

5. Lost Spring (Flamingo)

1. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow. Attempt any ONE: (6x1m=6m)

(a) “The sunlight fell gently on the streets, where children played and vendors shouted their wares. The boy wandered past the factories, noticing the faces of those who worked tirelessly, their eyes reflecting both hope and despair. Life here was fragile, yet full of small dreams waiting to bloom.”

(i) The boy noticed that the workers’ eyes reflected:
(a) joy and laughter
(b) hope and despair
(c) anger and hatred
(d) greed and selfishness

(ii) The phrase “Life here was fragile” means:
(a) life was delicate and uncertain
(b) people were careless
(c) life was easy and safe
(d) everyone was happy

(iii) Based on the passage, choose the correct statements:

1.                   The streets were lively and full of activity.

2.                   The boy ignored the people working in factories.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) The boy wandered past the factories because:
(1) he wanted to observe life
(2) he was searching for work
(3) he disliked children playing
(4) he wanted to buy from vendors
Choose the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1 and 4
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 3 and 4

(v) Complete the analogy:
Fragile : delicate :: despair : _______

(vi) According to the passage, noticing small dreams teaches us _______.

OR

The Enemy (Vistas)

(b) “A young surgeon walked along the beach at dusk and saw a boat washed ashore with an injured sailor inside. Despite the sailor being from a rival country, the surgeon tended to him, carefully dressing wounds and ensuring he had water. His actions reflected courage, compassion, and professionalism.”

(i) The surgeon helped the sailor because:
(a) he wanted fame
(b) he felt compassion and duty
(c) he feared punishment
(d) he sought reward

(ii) The phrase “reflected courage, compassion, and professionalism” means:
(a) showed bravery, kindness, and skill
(b) ignored danger
(c) acted carelessly
(d) became famous

(iii) Based on the passage, choose the correct statements:

1.                   The surgeon helped despite risk to himself.

2.                   The sailor was the surgeon’s friend.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) The surgeon acted responsibly because:
(1) he valued human life
(2) he followed his professional ethics
(3) he wanted to travel
(4) he loved sailing
Choose the correct option:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1 and 3
(c) 2 and 4
(d) 3 and 4

(v) Complete the analogy:
Surgeon : patient :: teacher : _______

(vi) According to the passage, the story teaches us _______.

Section B: Creative Writing Skills – Revision Test

1. Invitation Letter/ Card (50 words)
a) You are the secretary of the Science Club. The club is organizing a Science Exhibition at your school. Write a formal invitation to the parents of the participants, including occasion, date, time, venue, and a polite closing.

b) Your grandparentsare celebrating their silver wedding anniversary. Draft an invitation on behalf of your family, mentioning the day, date, time, and venue.

2. Acceptance Reply (Informal) – 50 words
You have been invited to your friend’s farewell party at school. Write an informal reply accepting the invitation. Mention your happiness at being invited and confirm the day and date of the event.

3. Regret/Decline Reply (Formal) – 50 words
You received an invitation to the annual alumni meet of your school, but you cannot attend due to prior commitments. Write a formal reply regretting your inability to attend and convey your best wishes for the event.

4. Letter to the Editor (100–120 words)
a) The growing use of single-use plastics in your city is polluting streets and waterways. Write a letter to the editor of a national newspaper expressing your concern and suggesting ways to reduce plastic waste.

b) The local library in your area is poorly equipped and needs urgent improvement to benefit students and residents. Write a letter to the editor highlighting the issue and requesting proper facilities.

ANSWERS:

1. Invitation Letter / Card (50 words)

(a) Formal Invitation – School Event  ( Letter format )

The Science Club
Sunrise Public School, New Delhi
12 October 2025

Dear Parents,

The Science Club is organising a Science Exhibition on Saturday, 18 October 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the School Auditorium. You are cordially invited to encourage our young innovators with your presence.

Warm regards,
Aarav Mehta
Secretary, Science Club 

(b) Formal Invitation – Social Occasion  (card format)

The Sharma Family cordially invites you to join them in celebrating the Silver Wedding Anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Rajesh Sharma on Sunday, 20 October 2025 At 7:00 p.m. at Venue: Himalaya Banquet Hall, Sector 12, Dwarka RSVP                                                                                  With best compliments from:                                                                                              Mr and Mrs Sharma Mr. Sharma 198 Sharma Sadan Swarnbhoomi

Letter format for a single person of formal invitation:

Kamala Nehru School

Cantonment

Bangalore

 

17th August, 2024

Mr. K.J. Singh

District Commissioner of Police

Police Lines

Bangalore

 

Sub: Invitation to the Annual Day Function

Sir,

It gives us immense pleasure to inform you that we are celebrating our school’s Annual Day function on 29 August, 2024 at 5.30 p.m. in the Activity Hall of the school. We shall consider it a great honour if you could grace the occasion and preside over the function as the Chief Guest and give away the prizes.

 

 Yours Truly

 

(Signature)

Name

Principal

 

2. Acceptance Reply (Informal – 50 words)

D-45, Green Park, New Delhi 15 October 2025 Dear Riya, Thank you so much for inviting me to your farewell party on 22 October 2025. I’m truly delighted and excited to be part of this memorable occasion. I’ll definitely be there to celebrate with you all.

Letter to the Editor (100–120 words)

(a) Letter to the Editor – On Plastic Pollution

B-56, Shanti Nagar, Bhopal
12 October 2025

The Editor,
The Times of India,
New Delhi.

Subject: Concern over Increasing Plastic Pollution

Sir/Madam,

Through your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw public attention to the growing problem of plastic pollution in our city. The excessive use of single-use plastics has become a serious environmental issue that demands immediate action.

Plastic bags, bottles, and wrappers are seen littering streets, choking drains, and polluting water bodies. Stray animals often ingest plastic waste, which leads to severe health hazards. This non-biodegradable material remains in the environment for years, damaging soil fertility and disturbing the ecological balance.

It is essential that strict laws are enforced to limit plastic usage. Awareness drives, recycling programmes, and the promotion of eco-friendly alternatives can help reduce plastic waste. I request you to publish this letter in your newspaper to spread awareness and urge citizens to act responsibly.

Yours truly,
Aarav Mehta

(b) Letter to the Editor – On Poor Library Facilities

C-19, Rose Avenue, Pune
12 October 2025

The Editor,
The Hindu,
Pune.

Subject: Poor Condition of the Local Library

Sir/Madam,

Through the columns of your newspaper, I wish to bring to light the neglected condition of the local library in Rose Avenue. Once a hub of learning, it is now in urgent need of repair and upgradation.

The library has insufficient books, broken furniture, and inadequate lighting. The reading area is poorly maintained, making it uncomfortable for students. Moreover, the lack of internet access and digital resources makes it unsuitable for modern learners. As a result, very few residents visit the library, and the culture of reading is gradually fading away.

The concerned authorities should take immediate steps to renovate the library, add updated books and e-resources, and ensure a clean, peaceful study environment. Kindly publish this issue in your newspaper to draw public attention and prompt necessary action.

Yours sincerely,
Riya Singh

 

DO THESE AT HOME:

Analogy practice

1. Dog : Bark :: Cat : ?
2. Sun : Day :: Moon : ?
3. Pencil : Write :: Knife : ?
4. Finger : Hand :: Toe : ?

6. Fish : Water :: Bird : ?
7. Teacher : School :: Doctor : ?
8. Book : Read :: Song : ?
9. Eye : See :: Ear : ?
10. King : Throne :: President : ?
11. Salt : Taste :: Sugar : ?

Part C – Challenging (3 marks each)

11. Feather : Bird :: Scale : ?
12. Wheel : Bicycle :: Engine : ?
13. Lightning : Thunder :: Cause : ?
14. Question : Answer :: Problem : ?
15. Microscope : Small :: Telescope : ?

Answers:

11. Feather : Bird :: Scale : Fish
12. Wheel : Bicycle :: Engine : Car
13. Lightning : Thunder :: Action : Reaction
14. Question : Answer :: Problem : Solution

15. Microscope : Small :: Telescope : ?

Literature – Short Answer and Long Answer Revision Questions (To be practiced at home)

A. Short Answer Type Questions (30–40 words)
How did the narrator’s experience in deep water change his perspective on fear?

1.                   What lesson does ‘Lost Spring’ teach about child labour and poverty?

2.                   How did the crofter’s kindness affect the peddler in The Rattrap?

3.                   Describe one way in which Gandhiji helped the indigo farmers in Champaran.

4.                   How did Subbu contribute to the success of the film at Gemini Studios?

5.                   How does the poem Keeping Quiet encourage people to reflect on life and the world?

a.                   How did Dr.Sadao balance his duty as a doctor with the risks of helping an enemy soldier?

b.                   What was the reaction of the villagers to the tiger king’s hunting expeditions?

c.                    How did the teacher in Poets and Pancakes inspire creativity in the students?

6.                   Describe the living conditions of children working in the glass-blowing factories of Firozabad.

7.                   How does silence and reflection help us understand ourselves and the world around us, according to Keeping Quiet?

8.                   What lesson does the author learn about courage and fear in Deep Water?

9.                   How did the peddler feel when he encountered kindness in the crofter’s house, and why was it significant?

10.                Explain the impact of British indigo planters on the farmers in Champaran.

11.                Why did Subbu leave Gemini Studios, and how did it reflect his personal growth?

12.                How did the tiger king’s obsession with hunting affect the forest ecosystem and the villagers’ lives?

13.                How did Dr.Sadao balance his professional duty and personal risk when treating the wounded soldier?

C. Long Answer Type Questions (120–150 words)

1. Explain how the narrator overcame his fear of water and the role determination played in it.
2. Describe how Lost Spring highlights the harsh realities of children working in factories and farms and how society can help them.

3. How does The Tiger King show the negative consequences of pride and arrogance on rulers and society?

4. Discuss how the story Lost Spring shows the contrast between the dreams of children and the harsh realities of their lives.
5. How does Keeping Quiet convey the importance of introspection, patience, and humility in our lives?

6. Describe how Douglas overcame his fear of water in Deep Water and what it teaches about persistence and self-confidence.
7. Show how human kindness transforms the peddler’s perception of life in The Rattrap.

8. Explain how the exploitation of indigo farmers in Indigo highlights the need for social justice and empathy.
9. Discuss the significance of Poets and Pancakes in reflecting the struggles and experiences of young artists in the film industry.

10. How does the tiger king’s pride and obsession with hunting illustrate the dangers of arrogance and disregard for others?
11. Explain how Dr.Sadao’s actions in The Enemy reflect true humanity and ethical courage.

RTC Practice at home:

1. Lost Spring

Extract:
"Saheb, who sells flowers at traffic signals, wakes up every morning before sunrise. His hands are calloused, his eyes weary, yet he dreams of education and a life beyond the streets. Yet, the hardships of poverty often trap him in the same cycle, and the glimmer of hope seems fragile."

Questions:
(i) Saheb’s hands are calloused because:
(a) he likes gardening
(b) of his hard work
(c) he plays games
(d) he writes in books

(ii) The phrase “glimmer of hope seems fragile” means:
(a) hope is bright and certain
(b) hope is weak and uncertain
(c) hope is unnecessary
(d) hope is very strong

(iii) Based on the extract:

1.                   Poverty can trap children in a cycle of hardship.

2.                   Saheb has given up dreaming.
(a) Only statement 1 is true
(b) Only statement 2 is true
(c) Both statements are true
(d) Neither statement is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Child labour : Lost Spring :: ______ : Indigo

(v) According to the extract, education is important because ______.

2. Deep Water

Extract:
"The first experience of nearly drowning taught me to respect water. Every ripple reminded me of my vulnerability, and every wave seemed to mock my confidence. Gradually, I learned to control fear and value patience."

Questions:
(i) The author learned to respect water because:
(a) he liked swimming
(b) he nearly drowned
(c) he practiced daily
(d) he feared fish

(ii) “Every ripple reminded me of my vulnerability” implies:
(a) the author felt strong
(b) the author felt weak and cautious
(c) the author was careless
(d) the author ignored the water

(iii) Choose the correct statement:

1.                   Fear can teach valuable life lessons.

2.                   The author immediately became a skilled swimmer.
(a) Only 1 is true
(b) Only 2 is true
(c) Both are true
(d) Neither is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Fear : caution :: water : ______

(v) How did patience help the author overcome fear?

3. The Rattrap

Extract:
"The peddler knocked at a wealthy farmer’s door and was offered a meal. He realized that even in a world full of greed, simple acts of kindness existed. The rattrap was more than a trap; it became a lesson in human goodness."

Questions:
(i) The peddler’s life is compared to a rattrap because:
(a) life is full of traps
(b) life is easy
(c) life is predictable
(d) life is carefree

(ii) “Simple acts of kindness existed” implies:
(a) everyone is greedy
(b) some people are generous
(c) kindness is weak
(d) greed is rewarded

(iii) Statements:

1.                   The peddler always trusted everyone he met.

2.                   He learned that human goodness exists.
(a) Only 1 is true
(b) Only 2 is true
(c) Both are true
(d) Neither is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Rattrap : greed :: crofter : ______

(v) What lesson did the peddler learn from the crofter’s kindness?

4. Indigo

Extract:
"Farmers struggled to pay rent and were forced to cultivate indigo instead of food crops. The British planters exploited them mercilessly, ignoring their suffering. Gandhiji intervened, showing that justice and courage can bring change."

Questions:
(i) The farmers were forced to cultivate indigo because:
(a) it was profitable for them
(b) they were exploited by planters
(c) it required less labour
(d) it was a hobby

(ii) “Exploited mercilessly” means:
(a) treated fairly
(b) treated cruelly
(c) helped generously
(d) ignored mildly

(iii) Choose correct statements:

1.                   Gandhiji helped the farmers gain justice.

2.                   Farmers were content with the planters’ demands.
(a) Only 1 is true
(b) Only 2 is true
(c) Both are true
(d) Neither is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Indigo : Farmers :: slavery : ______

(v) How did Gandhiji’s intervention impact the farmers?

5. Poets and Pancakes

Extract:
"Subbu worked at Gemini Studios, assisting in film production. He encouraged creativity and brought enthusiasm to the studio. His small efforts contributed to the grand success of the films, making him a valued member of the team."

Questions:
(i) Subbu is remembered for:
(a) discouraging actors
(b) helping films succeed
(c) avoiding work
(d) ignoring responsibilities

(ii) “Brought enthusiasm” means:
(a) worked reluctantly
(b) inspired energy and positivity
(c) caused trouble
(d) avoided tasks

(iii) Choose correct statements:

1.                   Subbu contributed to the success of the studio.

2.                   Subbu was careless and lazy.
(a) Only 1 is true
(b) Only 2 is true
(c) Both are true
(d) Neither is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Subbu : Gemini Studios :: ______ : Poets and Pancakes

(v) Why is Subbu’s role considered important in the studio?

6. The Tiger King

"The king’s obsession with hunting tigers grew daily. He ignored the suffering of villagers and the dangers around him. Pride and arrogance blinded him, leading to distrust and fear among his people."

Questions:
(i) The king ignored villagers because:
(a) he feared them
(b) he was proud and obsessed
(c) he loved animals
(d) he was weak

(ii) “Pride and arrogance blinded him” means:
(a) he could not see
(b) he ignored responsibilities
(c) he was humble
(d) he was intelligent

(iii) Statements:

1.                   The king’s pride caused suffering.

2.                   He cared deeply about his subjects.
(a) Only 1 is true
(b) Only 2 is true
(c) Both are true
(d) Neither is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Tiger : forest :: king : ______

(v) What lesson can be learned from the king’s behaviour?

7. The Enemy

"Dr.Sadao found an enemy soldier injured on the shore. Despite risking his life, he treated him with care. His wife, Hana, supported him, showing that humanity surpasses national and cultural barriers."

Questions:
(i) Dr.Sadao helped the soldier because:
(a) he wanted fame
(b) he valued humanity
(c) he feared the army
(d) he hated the soldier

(ii) “Surpasses national and cultural barriers” means:
(a) ignores humanity
(b) helps only friends
(c) puts humanity above divisions
(d) follows orders blindly

(iii) Statements:

1.                   Dr.Sadao risked his safety to help.

2.                   Hana opposed his decision.
(a) Only 1 is true
(b) Only 2 is true
(c) Both are true
(d) Neither is true

(iv) Complete the analogy:
Doctor : patient :: enemy : ______

(v) What does this story teach about true humanity?

READING PRACTICE

I.                   Readthefollowingpassagecarefullyandanswerthequestionsthatfollow:(12MARKS)

 

1.        Nostudentofaforeignlanguageneedstobetoldthatgrammariscomplex.Bychangingwordsequences and by adding a range of auxiliary verbs and suffixes, we are able to communicate tiny variations in meaning. Wecan turn a statement into a question, state whether an action has taken place or is soon to take place, and perform many other word tricks to convey subtle differences in meaning. Nor is this complexity inherent to the English language. All languages, even those of so-called ‘primitive’ tribes have clever grammatical components. The Cherokee pronoun system, for example, can distinguish between ‘you and I’, ‘several other people and I’ and ‘you, another person and I’. In English, all these meaningsaresummedupintheone,crudepronoun‘We’.Grammarisuniversalandplaysapartinevery language, no matter how widespread it is. So, the question which has baffled many linguists is—who created grammar?

 

2.        Atfirst,itwouldappearthatthisquestionisimpossibletoanswer.Tofindouthowgrammariscreated, someone needs to be present at the time of a language’s creation, documenting its emergence. Many historicallinguists are able to trace modern complex languages back to earlier languages, but inorder toanswerthequestionofhowcomplexlanguages areactuallyformed,theresearcherneedstoobserve how languages started from scratch. Amazingly, however, this is possible.

Some of the most recent languages evolved due to the Atlanticslave trade. Atthat time, slaves from a numberofdifferentethnicitieswereforcedtoworktogetherundercolonizer’srule.Since,theyhad no opportunity to learn each other’s languages, they developed a make-shift language called a pidgin. Pidginsarestrings ofwordscopied fromthe languageof thelandowner.Theyhave little inthewayof grammar, and in many cases, it is difficult for a listener to deduce when an event happened, and who did what to whom. Speakers need to use circumlocution in order to make their meaning understood. Interestingly,however,allittakesforapidgintobecomeacomplexlanguageisforagroupofchildren tobeexposedtoitatthetimewhentheylearntheirmothertongue.Slavechildrendidnotsimplycopy the strings of words uttered by their elders, they adapted their words to create a new, expressive language.Complexgrammarsystemswhichemergefrompidginsaretermedcreolesandtheyare   invented bychildren.

3.        Further evidence of this can be seen in studying sign languages for the deaf. Sign languages are not simply a series of gestures; they utilise the same grammatical machinery that is found in spoken languages. Moreover, there are many different languages used worldwide. The creation of one such language was documented quite recently in Nicaragua. Previously, all deaf people were isolated from each other, but in 1979 a new government introduced schools for the deaf. Although children were taught speech and lip readingin theclassroom, in theplaygrounds theybegan to invent theirownsign system, using the gestures that theyused at home. It was basically a pidgin. Each child used the signs differently,andtherewasnoconsistentgrammar.However,childrenwhojoinedtheschoollater,when this inventive sign system was already around, developed a quite different sign language. Although it was based on the signs of the older children, the younger children’s language was more fluid and compact, and it utilised a large range of grammatical devices to clarifymeaning. What is more, all the children used the signs in the same way? A new creole wasborn.

 

4.        Some linguists believe that many of the world’s most established languages were creoles at first. The Englishpasttense–edendingmayhaveevolvedfromtheverb‘do’.‘It ended’mayoncehavebeen‘It end-did’. Therefore, it would appear that even the most widespread languages were partly created by children. Children appear to have innate grammatical machinery in their brains, which springs to life when they are first trying to make sense of the world around them. Their minds can serve to create logical, complex structures, even when there is no grammar present for them tocopy.

 

1.1.            Onthebasisofyourunderstandingofthepassage,answerthefollowingquestions:

(a)  Complexityin languageis inherentto......                                                                            (1)

(i)allthelanguages                                                               (ii)English

(iii)    triballanguages                                            (iv)primitivelanguages

 

(b) TheCherokeepronounsystemcandistinguish between......                                                  (1)

(i)youand I                                                                         (ii)severalotherpeople andI

(iii)     you,anotherpersonandI                               (iv)all ofthese

 

(c)  Basedon yourunderstandingofthepassage,choosetheoptionthatliststhecorrectsequenceof the sentences associated with the formation/ creation of grammar.                                                        (1)

1.     Inordertoanswerthequestionofhowcomplexlanguagesareactuallyformed,theresearcher needs to observe how languages started from scratch.

2.     Slavesdevelopedamake-shiftlanguagecalleda pidgin.

3.     Somelinguistsbelievethatmanyoftheworld’smostestablishedlanguageswerecreolesat first.

4.     Tofindouthowgrammariscreated,someoneneedstobepresentatthetimeofalanguage’s creation.

(i)1, 2,3, 4                                                          (ii) 3, 4, 1,2

(iii)4, 1,2, 3                                                         (iv)2, 1, 3,4

(d) Allthefollowingsentences aboutNicaraguansignlanguagearetrueexcept:                            (1)

(i)              thelanguagehasbeen createdsince 1979

(ii)                thelanguageisbasedonspeechandlipreading

(iii)              thelanguageincorporatessignswhich childrenusedathome

(iv)              thelanguagewasperfectedbyyoungerchildren

(e)  Someofthemostrecentlanguagesevolvedduetothe......                                                        (1)

(f)  Whatis common to alllanguages?                                                                                       (1)

(g)  Accordingtothepassagewhatcanbeattributedas aconsequenceofthe Atlanticslavetrade?(2)

(h) Creolesisa………………………?                                                                                                (2)

(i)  Whichwordinthepassagemeansoppositeto‘easy’?(para 1)                                                     (1)

 

(j)  Picktheoptionthatcorrectlytellshowtheyoungerchildren’smindworkintheabsenceof grammatical knowledge.                                                                                                                            (1)

1.     Theycreatelogicalstructures.

2.     Theyimitateothers.

3.       Theyhaveinnategrammatical machineryin theirbrains.

4.       Theylearn other languages.

(i)2and 3                                                                             (ii)1 and3

(iii)2and 4                                                                          (iv)3 and4

 

 Answers:

 

(a) (i) all the languages

(b) (iv) all of these – Cherokee pronoun system distinguishes: ‘you and I’, ‘several other people and I’, and ‘you, another person and I’.

(c) (iii) 4, 1, 2, 3 – Sequence:
4 → 1 → 2 → 3 (Finding who created grammar → Need to observe languages → Pidgin/Creoles → Linguists believe many languages started as creoles)

(d) (ii) the language is based on speech and lip reading – This is incorrect. Nicaraguan sign language was not based on speech; it evolved from gestures.

(e) Atlantic slave trade

(f) Grammar is common to all languages

(g) A consequence of the Atlantic slave trade: Slaves of different ethnicities created a pidgin language due to the need to communicate, which later evolved into creoles when children adapted it.

(h) Creoles are complex languages created from pidgins by children

(i) complex (para 1) – opposite of easy

(j) (ii) 1 and 3 – The younger children create logical structures and have innate grammatical machinery in their brains.

 

CBSE SAMPLE PASSAGE

2. Read the following text

ChatGPT has been gaining attention for how closely it mimics human-like responses.

Created by OpenAI in 2022, it is a chatbot that has been trained to have knowledge of

worldly events and phenomena up till September 2021 and to interpret the context of

texts to produce meaningful responses. The tool can provide answers on many topics,

and often states disclaimers if it cannot answer a prompt accurately. Unlike a search

engine, it cannot browse the internet for information. It also does not collect any personal

information of users.

A survey was administered to understand the uses of ChatGPT in the fields of education,

healthcare and research. There were 420 participants in the study of which 59

respondents were from the medical field, 118 respondents were students and faculty from

the research field, 70 respondents identified as administrative staff, and 173 people

marked 'other' as their occupation. Of the 420 respondents, only 40% had used ChatGPT

before. More medical trainees and students as well as research students had used

ChatGPT as compared to medical staff and research faculty.

The survey asked about the viability of ChatGPT for its use within the fields of education, research, and healthcare. The following table summarises the responses.

Based on the responses, there was a greater uncertainty around its use in healthcare and

education, compared to using it in research. Regarding the use of ChatGPT in healthcare,

a significant portion of respondents (42%) approved of using it for administrative

purposes (for example, preparing patient profiles or reports) and a smaller population of

respondents (12.2%) felt it could be used for any purpose.

The current application of ChatGPT and its future potential needs to be examined. It can

help students understand texts and write more effectively, simplify medical information

for patients and automate administrative tasks, and prepare a summary of information

which otherwise would require hours of reading through various resources. However, its

negative impact must also be considered before institutions approve its use.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

i Complete the given sentence in ONE word.

Based on the summary table, the __________ number of respondents think that ChatGPTshould not be used.

 

ii The following was a prompt posted by a user in ChatGPT as their first question:

'What's my name?'

Based on information from the passage, which of these is most likely to be ChatGPT's response?

A. 'Error 404: page not found.'

B. 'Your name is user 1000004.'

C. 'Sorry, can you repeat the question?'

D. 'Sorry, I don't have access to your data.'

 

iii Imagine that you have to write a news report on a major landslide that occurred in Manipur on 30 June, 2022. Would using only ChatGPT be useful for your project? State why or why not in 40 words.

 

iv The following are the profiles of some respondents from the survey. Based on the passage, which of these profiles is MOST LIKELY to be a part of the 40% who have used ChatGPT before?

A. a manager in a hospital who has done 5 years of administrative work

B. a professor of Psychology who has 30 years of teaching experience

C. a college graduate who is studying in a 2-year Master's course

D. a 25-year-old teacher who is working in a public school

 

v Which of these is true about the respondents of the survey?

A. It had 118 respondents who were employed in the field of education.

B. It had 70 respondents who had administrative roles in educational institutions.

C. It had 173 respondents who were working in the field of research including students.

D. It had 59 respondents who were from the medical field including those who study medicine.

 

vi Why do you think some respondents feel that ChatGPT should be banned in education? State a reason in 40 words.

 

vii Locate a detail from the passage that shows that we still do not know enough about ChatGPT. Answer in one sentence.

 

viii State TRUE or FALSE.

More than half of the respondents think it is ok to use ChatGPT in research if one clearly states its contribution.

 

ANSWERS:

i.least
Based on the summary table, the least number of respondents think that ChatGPT should not be used.

ii.D – 'Sorry, I don't have access to your data.'
ChatGPT does not collect personal information, so it cannot tell the user’s name.

iii.
Using only ChatGPT would not be sufficient because it cannot access events that occurred after September 2021. You would need verified sources to get accurate and up-to-date information about the Manipur landslide.

iv.C – a college graduate who is studying in a 2-year Master's course
The passage mentions that more students and trainees had used ChatGPT compared to experienced staff or faculty.

v.D – It had 59 respondents who were from the medical field including those who study medicine.
This matches the figures in the passage.

vi.Some respondents may feel ChatGPTshould be banned in education because students could misuse it to complete assignments without understanding the material, which could negatively affect learning and critical thinking skills.

vii.“The current application of ChatGPT and its future potential needs to be examined.”
This shows we still do not know enough about its capabilities and limitations.

viii.TRUE
The passage mentions that there was greater uncertainty around its use in education and healthcare, but ChatGPT was seen as more viable in research, implying more than half were comfortable using it in research with proper attribution.

ANSWERS:

1. Deep Water (Flamingo)

(i) (b) the river’s current was strong and he could not swim
(ii) (b) he felt extremely afraid
(iii) (b) Only statement 2 is true
(iv) (a) 1 and 2 – patience and courage help overcome fear
(v) river : fear :: life : challenges
(vi) According to the passage, fear can be overcome by courage and patience

2. The Rattrap (Flamingo)

(i) (b) he earned his livelihood selling them
(ii) (a) he always expected kindness
(iii) (c) Both statements are true
(iv) (a) 1 and 2 – warmth, food, and human goodness
(v) rattrap : trap :: kindness : generosity
(vi) Human goodness can be discovered by observing kind acts

3. The Tiger King (Vistas)

(i) (b) he wanted to prove his bravery
(ii) (b) the king caused anxiety among his people
(iii) (a) Only statement 1 is true
(iv) (a) 1 and 2 – pride and desire for glory
(v) king : pride :: ruler : arrogance
(vi) According to the passage, excessive pride can cause fear and suffering among people

4. Lost Spring (Flamingo)

(i) (b) tired but hopeful
(ii) (b) hope and resilience remained despite hardship
(iii) (a) Only statement 1 is true
(iv) (a) 1 and 2 – hope and joy despite hardships
(v) poverty : hardship :: hope : optimism
(vi) Even difficult lives can be filled with hope and dreams

5. Lost Spring Extract

(i) (b) hope and despair
(ii) (a) life was delicate and uncertain
(iii) (a) Only statement 1 is true
(iv) (a) 1 and 2 – observe life and notice hope
(v) Fragile : delicate :: despair : hopelessness
(vi) Noticing small dreams teaches us resilience and optimism

The Enemy (Vistas)

(i) (b) he felt compassion and duty
(ii) (a) showed bravery, kindness, and skill
(iii) (a) Only statement 1 is true
(iv) (a) 1 and 2 – value life, follow ethics
(v) Surgeon : patient :: teacher : student
(vi) The story teaches us true humanity transcends borders and enmity

RTC Practice – Extract Answers

1. Lost Spring – Saheb
(i) (b) of his hard work
(ii) (b) hope is weak and uncertain
(iii) (a) Only statement 1 is true
(iv) Child labour : Lost Spring :: exploitation : Indigo
(v) Education is important because it offers hope for a better future

2. Deep Water
(i) (b) he nearly drowned
(ii) (b) the author felt weak and cautious
(iii) (a) Only 1 is true
(iv) Fear : caution :: water : respect
(v) Patience helped the author gradually face his fear and gain confidence

3. The Rattrap
(i) (a) life is full of traps
(ii) (b) some people are generous
(iii) (b) Only 2 is true
(iv) Rattrap : greed :: crofter : kindness
(v) The peddler learned that simple acts of kindness exist and restore faith in humanity

4. Indigo
(i) (b) they were exploited by planters
(ii) (b) treated cruelly
(iii) (a) Only 1 is true
(iv) Indigo : Farmers :: slavery : people
(v) Gandhiji’s intervention helped farmers gain justice and alleviate exploitation

5. Poets and Pancakes
(i) (b) helping films succeed
(ii) (b) inspired energy and positivity
(iii) (a) Only 1 is true
(iv) Subbu : Gemini Studios :: mentor : Poets and Pancakes
(v) Subbu’s role was important because he encouraged creativity and contributed to the success of the studio

6. The Tiger King
(i) (b) he was proud and obsessed
(ii) (b) he ignored responsibilities
(iii) (a) Only 1 is true
(iv) Tiger : forest :: king : arrogance
(v) The lesson: excessive pride and obsession lead to fear, distrust, and suffering

7. The Enemy
(i) (b) he valued humanity
(ii) (c) puts humanity above divisions
(iii) (a) Only 1 is true
(iv) Doctor : patient :: enemy : human
(v) The story teaches that true humanity surpasses enmity and cultural barriers

1. Deep Water (Flamingo)

Passage Questions

(i) The author felt fear because:
Answer: (b) the river’s current was strong and he could not swim

(ii) The phrase “fear gripped me” means:
Answer: (b) he felt extremely afraid

(iii) Statements:

1.      The author was confident in swimming at first. ❌

2.      He realised he needed courage and patience to overcome his fear. ✅
Answer: (b) Only statement 2 is true

(iv) The author learned that:
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 – patience helps & courage is necessary

(v) Complete the analogy:
river : fear :: life : challenges

(vi) According to the passage, fear can be overcome by:
Answer: courage and patience

2. The Rattrap (Flamingo)

(i) The peddler carried rattraps because:
Answer: (b) he earned his livelihood selling them

(ii) The phrase “he never lost hope” means:
Answer: (a) he always expected kindness

(iii) Statements:

1.      The peddler had experienced human selfishness before. ✅

2.      The shopkeeper proved that some people are kind. ✅
Answer: (c) Both statements are true

(iv) The peddler felt touched because:
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 – he was given warmth & food and realised human goodness exists

(v) Complete the analogy:
rattrap : trap :: kindness : generosity

(vi) According to the passage, human goodness can be discovered by:
Answer: observing kind acts and generosity

3. The Tiger King (Vistas)

(i) The king hunted tigers because:
Answer: (b) he wanted to prove his bravery

(ii) The phrase “left the people fearful and uneasy” means:
Answer: (b) the king caused anxiety among his people

(iii) Statements:

1.      The king’s obsession made people fearful.

2.      He was careful about villagers’ safety.
Answer: (a) Only statement 1 is true

(iv) The king ignored warnings because:
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 – pride and desire for glory

(v) Complete the analogy:
king : pride :: ruler : arrogance

(vi) According to the passage, excessive pride can:
Answer: make rulers blind to others’ needs and cause fear among people

4. Lost Spring (Flamingo)

(i) The children in the factories looked:
Answer: (b) tired but hopeful

(ii) The phrase “human spirit continued to shine” means:
Answer: (b) hope and resilience remained despite hardship

(iii) Statements:

1.      Poverty made life difficult for children. ✅

2.      Their dreams were entirely lost. ❌
Answer: (a) Only statement 1 is true

(iv) The boy noticed the children’s smiles because:
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 – hopeful & joy despite hardships

(v) Complete the analogy:
poverty : hardship :: hope : resilience

(vi) According to the passage, even difficult lives can be filled with:
Answer: small joys and aspirations

5. Lost Spring Extract Questions

(i) The boy noticed that the workers’ eyes reflected:
Answer: (b) hope and despair

(ii) The phrase “Life here was fragile” means:
Answer: (a) life was delicate and uncertain

(iii) Statements:

1.      The streets were lively and full of activity. ✅

2.      The boy ignored the people working in factories. ❌
Answer: (a) Only statement 1 is true

(iv) The boy wandered past the factories because:
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 – to observe life

(v) Complete the analogy:
Fragile : delicate :: despair : hopelessness

(vi) According to the passage, noticing small dreams teaches us:
Answer: empathy and understanding for people’s struggles

6. The Enemy (Vistas)

(i) The surgeon helped the sailor because:
Answer: (b) he felt compassion and duty

(ii) The phrase “reflected courage, compassion, and professionalism” means:
Answer: (a) showed bravery, kindness, and skill

(iii) Statements:

1.      The surgeon helped despite risk to himself.

2.      The sailor was the surgeon’s friend.
Answer: (a) Only statement 1 is true

(iv) The surgeon acted responsibly because:
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 – valued life & followed professional ethics

(v) Complete the analogy:
Surgeon : patient :: teacher : student

(vi) According to the passage, the story teaches us:
Answer: true humanity transcends differences and requires courage and compassion