Class 12 English Sample Paper

 SECTION A – READING SKILLS (22 Marks)

I. Read the passage given below:

(1) Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity in the 21st century. Rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, and extreme weather events are no longer distant threats but present realities affecting millions of lives across the globe. Scientists warn that without immediate and collective action, the consequences could be catastrophic and irreversible.

(2) The primary driver of climate change is the emission of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, resulting from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These gases trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to what is commonly known as the greenhouse effect. While this effect is natural and necessary for life on Earth, human activities have intensified it to dangerous levels.

(3) The impacts of climate change are far-reaching and multifaceted. Agricultural productivity is declining in many regions due to unpredictable rainfall patterns and prolonged droughts. Coastal communities face the threat of rising sea levels, which could displace millions of people. Biodiversity is under severe threat as species struggle to adapt to rapidly changing ecosystems. Health crises are emerging as warmer temperatures facilitate the spread of diseases previously confined to tropical regions.

(4) Despite the grim scenario, there is reason for hope. Renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind power have become increasingly affordable and efficient. Many countries are committing to carbon neutrality targets, and international cooperation through agreements like the Paris Climate Accord demonstrates a collective will to address the crisis. Individual actions, though seemingly small, collectively make a significant difference—from reducing energy consumption to adopting sustainable lifestyles.

(5) Education and awareness are crucial in combating climate change. Young people around the world are leading movements demanding accountability from governments and corporations. The transition to a sustainable future requires not just technological innovation but also a fundamental shift in how we perceive our relationship with the planet. Every individual has a role to play in this critical moment of human history.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:                                          (10 Marks)

i. What are the primary causes of climate change mentioned in paragraph 2? (1)

ii. Complete the following with the correct option: (1)
The phrase "carbon neutrality" in paragraph 4 most likely means:

• (a) Eliminating all carbon emissions completely
• (b) Balancing carbon emissions with carbon removal
• (c) Reducing carbon usage in neutral zones
• (d) Creating carbon-free environments

iii. Justify the following statement with TWO reasons from paragraph 3: (2)
"Climate change poses multiple threats to human civilization."

iv. Select the option that correctly identifies the tone of the passage: (1)

• (a) Pessimistic and hopeless
• (b) Informative and balanced
• (c) Critical and sarcastic
• (d) Casual and indifferent

v. Based on the reading of the passage, examine in about 40 words how renewable energy offers hope in combating climate change. (2)

vi. Why does the writer emphasize the role of young people in paragraph 5? (1)

vii. State TRUE or FALSE: (1)
Individual actions have no significant impact on addressing climate change.

viii. Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 3: (1)
prosperity : decline :: stability : __________

II. Read the passage given below:

(1) The Indian railway system, one of the world's largest networks, is more than just a mode of transportation—it is the lifeline of the nation. Every day, millions of passengers traverse the length and breadth of the country, connecting cities, towns, and villages. The railways have played a pivotal role in India's economic development, facilitating trade, commerce, and cultural exchange for over 160 years.

(2) Beyond its economic significance, the Indian Railways represents a unique social space where people from diverse backgrounds converge. A train journey in India offers a microcosm of the country's rich diversity—different languages, cuisines, traditions, and stories intertwine in the shared space of a railway compartment. This democratic nature of train travel has made it an integral part of India's cultural identity.

(3) However, the railway system faces numerous challenges in the modern era. Aging infrastructure, safety concerns, and the need for technological upgradation require massive investments. Overcrowding remains a persistent problem, especially on popular routes, affecting passenger comfort and safety. Delays and cancellations frustrate travelers and impact the reliability of the service.

(4) The Indian Railways has embarked on an ambitious modernization program to address these issues. The introduction of high-speed trains like Vande Bharat Express, station redevelopment projects, and the implementation of advanced safety systems demonstrate a commitment to transformation. Electrification of routes is being prioritized to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact.

(5) Technology is revolutionizing the passenger experience. Online booking systems, real-time tracking of trains, and digital payment options have made rail travel more convenient. The railways are also exploring artificial intelligence and data analytics to improve operational efficiency and predictive maintenance.

 

(6) As India progresses toward becoming a developed nation, the railways must evolve to meet growing expectations. Balancing affordability with quality service, ensuring sustainability, and maintaining the inclusive character that defines Indian train travel will be key challenges. The future of Indian Railways lies in successfully navigating this transformation while preserving its soul as the people's railway.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:                                          (12 Marks)

i. Why is the Indian Railways described as "the lifeline of the nation"? (2)

ii. What inference (conclusion) can be drawn about the social impact of train travel in India from paragraph 2? (1)

iii. Complete the sentence appropriately: (1)
The phrase "microcosm of the country's rich diversity" in paragraph 2 suggests that train compartments __________.

iv. The passage includes some words that are synonyms of each other. From the sets (a)-(e) below, identify ONE set of synonyms: (1)

(a) transformation and modernization

(b) economic and cultural

(c) aging and advanced

(d) challenges and solutions

(e) reliability and frustration

 

v. Read the following: (1)
"Technology is revolutionizing the passenger experience."

Which of the following best describes what "revolutionizing" means in this context?

(a) Slightly improving

(b) Gradually changing

(c) Completely transforming

(d) Temporarily modifying

vi. Explain in about 40 words TWO major challenges faced by Indian Railways today. (2)

vii. State TWO ways in which technology has improved rail travel in India. (Paragraph 5) (2)

viii. What does the phrase "balancing affordability with quality service" in paragraph 6 suggest about the challenge faced by Indian Railways? (1)

ix. Complete the sentence with an appropriate word from paragraph 4: (1)
The Indian Railways is focusing on __________ of routes to reduce environmental impact.

SECTION B – CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS (18 Marks)

III. Attempt ANY ONE from (a) and (b) given below in about 50 words: (1×5m=5 Marks)

a. You are Priya/Pranav, the Secretary of the Literary Club of your school. The club is organizing a Book Fair for students of Classes IX-XII. Write a formal invitationcard to be sent to the parents of the students, inviting them to the event. Include all necessary details such as the occasion, date, time, venue, and a polite closing.

OR

b.Ritu is planning to invite her friends and relatives for the housewarming ceremony of her new home. Draft an invitation letter in about 50 words on her behalf. Mention day, date, time and venue.

IV. Acceptance Reply:                                                                                              (1×4m=4 Marks)

You have received an invitation to your friend's sister's wedding. Write a reply in about 50 words accepting the invitation. Mention your pleasure at being invited and confirm the day and date of the event.

V. Regret/Decline Reply:                                                                                          (1×4m=4 Marks)

You have been invited to your cousin's engagement ceremony but are unable to attend due to your school's Annual Sports Day. Write a reply in about 50 words regretting your inability to attend and convey your best wishes.

VI. Attempt ANY ONE from (a) and (b) given below in about 120-150 words: (1×5m=5 Marks)

a. You are Sanvi/Sameer, a resident of Green Valley Society, Delhi. You have noticed that the street lights in your locality have been non-functional for several weeks, causing inconvenience and safety concerns for residents, especially women and elderly people. Write a letter to the editor of a national newspaper highlighting the issue and urging the authorities to take immediate action.

OR

b. The public library in your area, which was once a valuable resource for students and readers, has fallen into a state of neglect with outdated books and poor maintenance. Write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper drawing attention to the deteriorating condition of the library and suggesting measures for its improvement.

SECTION C – LITERATURE (40 Marks)

VII. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow. Attempt ANY ONE:                                                                                                                                       (1×6m=6 Marks)

A."'I want to drive a car,' he answers, looking straight into my eyes. His dream looms like a mirage amidst the dust of streets that fill his town Firozabad, famous for its bangles. Every other family in Firozabad is engaged in making bangles. It is the centre of India's glass-blowing industry where families have spent generations working around furnaces."

Answer the following questions based on your understanding of the extract:

i. Who is 'he' in the extract? (1)

(a) Saheb

(b) Mukesh

(c) The narrator

(d) A bangle maker

 

ii. The phrase "his dream looms like a mirage" means: (1)

(a) his dream is very clear

(b) his dream seems impossible to achieve

(c) he wants to travel far

(d) he has many dreams

 

iii. Based on the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements below: (1)

Mukesh wants to break free from his family's traditional occupation.

Firozabad is known for its automobile industry.

(a) Only statement 1 is true

(b) Only statement 2 is true

(c) Both statements are true

(d) Neither statement is true

 

iv. Firozabad is famous for: (1) (1) car manufacturing (2) bangle making (3) glass-blowing industry (4) agricultural products

Choose the correct option:

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 4

v. Complete the analogy: (1)
furnaces : heat :: dreams : _____________

vi. According to the extract, the families in Firozabad have been _______. (1)

OR

B."Now we will count to twelve and we will all keep still. For once on the face of the Earth, let's not speak in any language; let's stop for one second, and not move our arms so much. It would be an exotic moment without rush, without engines; we would all be together in a sudden strangeness."

Answer the following questions based on your understanding of the poem:

i. According to the poet, keeping quiet for a moment helps us to: (1)

(a) sleep peacefully

(b) experience unity and stillness

(c) forget our problems

(d) become lazy

ii. The phrase "without rush, without engines" suggests: (1)

(a) a life without vehicles

(b) a moment free from hurry and mechanical noise

(c) stopping all work permanently

(d) avoiding technology forever

 

iii. Based on the extract, choose the correct option for the two statements below: (1)

The poet wants people to stop speaking to create silence.

The poet suggests permanent inactivity.

(a) Only statement 1 is true

(b) Only statement 2 is true

(c) Both statements are true

(d) Neither statement is true

 

iv. The poet suggests that we should: (1) (1) count to twelve (2) keep still (3) speak loudly (4) move constantly

Choose the correct option:

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 4

v. Complete the analogy: (1)
stillness : peace :: rush : _____________

vi. According to the poet, this moment of silence would be _______. (1)

VIII. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow. Attempt ANY ONE:                                                                                                                                      (1×4m=4 Marks)

A."I went to the pool when no one else was there. The place was quiet. The water was still, and I was alone. I began to swim. A faint trace of the old terror returned, but I was now able to command the terror. I swam across the pool and back. Again and again, I went. When I got out, I felt victorious."

Answer the following questions based on your understanding of the extract:

i. The narrator went to the pool when it was empty because: (1)

(a) he wanted to practice alone

(b) he was afraid of people

(c) the pool was closed

(d) he enjoyed swimming alone

 

ii. The phrase "command the terror" means: (1)

(a) he forgot his fear

(b) he controlled his fear

(c) he increased his fear

(d) he avoided the water

 

iii. Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements: (1)

The narrator completely overcame his fear of water.

He felt defeated after swimming.

(a) Only statement 1 is true

(b) Only statement 2 is true

(c) Both statements are true

(d) Neither statement is true

 

iv. The narrator swam repeatedly across the pool because: (1) (1) he wanted to build confidence (2) he was competing with others (3) he wanted to overcome his fear (4) he had nothing else to do

Choose the correct option:

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 1 and 3

(c) 2 and 4

(d) 3 and 4

OR

B."The rattrap seller walked along the road, thinking about the world as a big rattrap. He thought that people were lured by riches and joys, but ultimately they got caught in the trap. He believed that the world offered nothing but baits to trap people. However, that night, as he found shelter in the crofter's cottage, he experienced unexpected kindness."

Answer the following questions based on your understanding of the extract:

i. The peddler compared the world to a rattrap because: (1)

(a) he sold rattraps

(b) he believed people get trapped by worldly desires

(c) he liked traps

(d) he was caught in a trap

 

ii. The peddler believed that the world offers: (1)

(a) genuine happiness

(b) only baits and traps

(c) opportunities for success

(d) friendship and love

 

iii. Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements: (1)

The peddler had a cynical view of the world.

The crofter's kindness changed his perspective.

(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 experienced unexpected kindness when: (1) (1) he sold rattraps (2) he found shelter at the crofter's cottage (3) he walked along the road (4) he thought about the world

Choose the correct option:

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 4

IX. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:                 (1×6m=6 Marks)

"Dr.Sadao knew he was in grave danger. Helping an enemy soldier during wartime was considered treason, punishable by death. Yet, as a doctor, he had taken an oath to save lives, regardless of nationality. The wounded American soldier lay unconscious on his operating table. Sadao's servants had already left in protest, fearing association with the enemy. His wife Hana stood by him, though visibly troubled. The decision was entirely his—to save a life or to protect his own safety and honour his country."

Answer the following questions based on your understanding of the extract:

i.Dr.Sadao was in danger because: (1)

(a) he was treating a wounded soldier

(b) he was helping an enemy during wartime

(c) his servants had left him

(d) he was afraid of his wife

ii. The phrase "taken an oath to save lives" means: (1)

(a) he made a promise as a doctor

(b) he was forced to help

(c) he wanted to betray his country

(d) he enjoyed treating soldiers

iii. Based on the passage, choose the correct option for the two statements: (1)

1. Dr.Sadao faced a conflict between his duty as a doctor and his loyalty to his country.
2. His servants supported his decision completely.

(a) Only statement 1 is true

(b) Only statement 2 is true

(c) Both statements are true

(d) Neither statement is true

iv.Dr.Sadao's servants left because: (1)

(1) they were afraid

(2) they didn't want to be associated with the enemy

(3) they supported the doctor's decision

(4) they were called for military duty

Choose the correct option:

(a) 1 and 2                   (b) 1 and 3                   (c) 2 and 4                   (d) 3 and 4

v. Complete the analogy: (1)
doctor : healing :: soldier : _____________

vi. According to the passage, Dr.Sadao had to choose between _______. (1)

IX. Answer ANY FOUR of the following questions in about 40-50 words each: (4×3m=12m)

i. How does the poet Pablo Neruda use the symbolism of 'silence' in 'Keeping Quiet' to convey his message about introspection and peace?

ii. What role did the Y.M.C.A. pool play in Douglas's life, both in creating his fear and later in helping him overcome it?

iii. Why did the ironmaster initially mistake the peddler for his old comrade? What was his reaction when he discovered the truth?

iv. How did Gandhi's methods in Champaran demonstrate his leadership qualities and commitment to the cause of justice?

v. Describe the incident that led to the Tiger King's death. What is the irony in his death?

vi. What was Subbu's contribution to Gemini Studios as described in 'Poets and Pancakes'? Why was he considered a many-sided genius?

X. Answer ANY TWO of the following questions in about 40-50 words each: (2×3m=6 Marks)

i. How does the story 'The Enemy' explore the conflict between personal ethics and national loyalty?

ii. What prophecy was made at the Tiger King's birth? How did he react to it?

iii. Why did Dr.Sadao's servants leave the house? What does this reveal about social attitudes during wartime?

XI. Answer ANY ONE of the following questions in about 120-150 words: (1×6m=6 Marks)

A. 'Poets and Pancakes' offers a satirical yet affectionate look at the world of Gemini Studios. Discuss how Asokamitran presents the contrast between the glamorous façade of the film industry and the mundane realities behind it. Support your answer with specific references to the chapter.

OR

B. Both 'The Rattrap' and 'The Enemy' deal with the theme of human compassion transcending social barriers. Compare how the two stories present acts of kindness that challenge societal norms and expectations, with specific examples from each text.