PUC-I YEAR ENGLISH SOLVED MIDTERM EXAMINATION – 2024-2025
Time: 3 Hours Subject:
English (02) Marks: 80
Instructions :
a) Follow the prescribed limit while answering the
questions.
b) Write the question number as it appears on the
question paper.
c) For multiple choice questions, choose the correct
answer and rewrite it.
d) Answer to the question number 25 (a to j) should be in
sequence and at one place.
I. Answer the
following questions by choosing the right option: 10x1=10
1) Who wished to have peace in his kingdom?
a) man b)
lion c) fox d)
elephant
Ans: b) lion
2) The school boy loves to rise early in the
………… morning.
a) spring b) winter c) rainy d) summer
Ans: d) summer
3) According to Mara ‘The Thief’ was ……………….
In ‘Around A Medicinal Creeper’
a) Medicinal Creeper b) Appanna c) White man d) the author
Ans: a) Medicinal Creeper
4) Mara had lost all his teeth on the right
side of his mouth
a) because of his advancing old age
b) because of an accident in the city
c) because of brushing his teeth with a stick
d) because his friend has broken them
Ans: c) because of brushing his teeth with a stick
5) What was the narrator doing for a living
in ‘Oru Manushyan’?
a) Stealing b)
cooking c) Murdering d) teaching
Ans: d) teaching
6) ………….. was highly valued by the people of
the city in the story ‘Oru Manshyan’.
a) food b) money c) mercy d)
sword
Ans: b) Money
7) According to D.H. Lawrence ‘The people are
terrified of ………….
a) Gold b)
Money c) having no money d) collective money madness
Ans: d) Collective money madness
8) Babar Ali runs his school
a) in a huge building b)
under the open sky
c) in a church d)
in a local temple
Ans: b) under the open sky
9) At what age did Babar Ali start his
school?
a) 9 years b) 16 years c) 19 years d)
60 years
Ans: a) 9 years
10) Match the column ‘A’ with column ‘B’
related to the poem ‘If I was A tree’
A B
i) the cow a) wouldn’t turn back
ii) the bird b) would scrape the body
iii) the rain drops c) wouldn’t ask the
caste
a) i-a, ii-b, iii-c b) i-c, ii-a, iii-b c)
i-b, ii-c, iii-a d) i-a, ii-c, iii-b
Ans: c) i-b, ii-c, iii-a
A. Choose the correct
form of the verb that agrees with the subject: 3x1=3
11) Once we ………. (was/were)
erecting a bamboo frame for a shade so, Sanna brought some creepers. One of
them ……… (were/was) a medicinal creeper. Mara eagerly said come ……….
(show/shows) me where it is.
Ans: "Once we were erecting
a bamboo frame for a shade, so Sanna brought some creepers. One of them was
a medicinal creeper. Mara eagerly said, 'Come show me
where it is.'"
B. Fill in the blanks
with suitable form of the verbs given in brackets: 2x1=2
12) The author learns
that if one ………. (squeeze) the juice of the leaves of medicinal creeper into
milk, the milk ……………. (become) hard. The author decides to find out the truth.
Ans: "The
author learns that if one squeezes the juice of the
leaves of the medicinal creeper into milk, the milk becomes
hard. The author decides to find out the truth."
13) Match the expressions under column ‘A’
with their corresponding language functions under ‘B’: 5x1=5
A B
1)
Exactly a) Expressing sympathy
2)
Certainly not b) Introducing
3)
What a pity! c)
Enquiring
4)
Kavita, this is Savita d)
Agreeing
5)
Where is your pen? e)
Disagreeing
Ans:
1) Exactly - d) Agreeing
2) Certainly not - e) Disagreeing
3) What a pity! - a) Expressing sympathy
4) Kavita, this is Savita - b) Introducing
5) Where is your pen? - c)
Enquiring
II. Answer any SIX of the following choosing
atleast two from poetry in a paragraph of 80-100 words each: 6x4=24
14) Why does the boy find school life
uninteresting in ‘The School Boy’?
Ans: In
the poem "The School Boy," the boy finds school life uninteresting
for several reasons. First, he feels limited and restricted by the formal
setting of the classroom. Instead of enjoying his childhood, he is forced to
sit motionless and focus on his studies, which he finds dull and boring. The
boy longs for the freedom of nature, where he can play and explore without
limits.
He differences the
joy of a carefree day spent in the sunshine with the rigid structure of school.
The pressures of learning and expectations from teachers make him feel unhappy.
Additionally, he feels that school does not provide to his natural interest and
desire for fun. Instead of encouraging creativity, it enforces rules that suffocate
his spirit. Ultimately, the boy’s longing for joy and freedom highlights how
school can sometimes overshadow the joys of childhood, making it a challenging
experience for him.
15) Bring
out the significance of the three seasons mentioned in the poem, ‘The School
Boy’.
Ans: In
"The School Boy," the three seasons are spring, summer, and winter represent
different phases of the boy's life and emotions. Spring symbolizes joy and
renewal, reflecting the boy's carefree nature when he can enjoy the outdoors.
Summer represents growth and the peak of happiness, where he flourishes in the
warmth and freedom of nature. In contrast, winter symbolizes coldness and imprisonment,
paralleling the boy's feelings of being trapped in the classroom. The different
imagery of these seasons highlights the tension between the joy of childhood
and the cruel structure of formal education. Ultimately, the seasons highlight
the importance of nurturing a child's spirit and the need for a balanced life
that allows for both learning and play.
16)
Comment on the collective money madness as described in the poem, ‘Money
Madness’.
Ans: In
the poem "Money Madness," the concept of collective money madness
refers to society’s passion with wealth and materialism. This passion leads
people to arrange money over relationships, values, and even their well-being.
The poem analyses how people become consumed by the quest of wealth, often at
the expense of their humanity. It proves how this madness creates a sense of
competition, stress, and anxiety, where people are driven to gather more and
more, forgetting the simple joys of life. This determined chase for money can
lead to social divisions and a loss of moral values. Ultimately, the poem
serves as a warning about the costs of placing financial gain above all else.
17) How does the poem, “If I was A tree’
bring out the social discrimination in society?
Ans: In
the poem "If I Was A Tree," social discrimination is highlighted
through the tree's observations of human behavior. The tree wishes to be a
refuge for all, regardless of caste, class, or background. However, it
recognizes that humans often divide themselves based on these social orders,
leading to exclusion and inequality. The tree's desire for acceptance and unity
reflects a desire for a world free from discrimination. By conflicting its
natural existence with human social constructs, the poem highlights the need
for inclusivity and equality. The tree symbolizes a place of shelter and
acceptance, urging society to embrace diversity rather than enforce divisions.
18) Why was the commission of Enquiry
appointed in ‘The Gentlemen of the Jungle’?
Ans: The
Commission of Enquiry was appointed in "The Gentlemen of the Jungle"
to investigate the incident involving the elephant who took over the man's hut.
The man, representing the common individual, seeks justice after his rights are
dishonored. The commission, composed of various animals, is supposed to ensure
fairness and judge the situation. However, the inquiry reveals the biases and
power dynamics at play, as the more powerful animals manipulate the situation
to serve their interests. This satirical representation highlights the failure
of justice systems when influenced by power imbalances, ultimately showcasing
the theme of exploitation and the struggle for the underdog in society.
19) Why
was the white-man ready to give his entire plantation to Mara in ‘Around
Medicinal Creeper’?
Ans: The
white man was ready to give his entire plantation to Mara in "Around
Medicinal Creeper" because he recognized the value of the medicinal
creeper that Mara had discovered. The creeper had properties that could
potentially lead to great wealth and benefit, making the plantation
significantly more valuable. The white man, driven by greed and the desire for
profit, sought to capitalize on this discovery. He saw Mara to acquire
something valuable and was willing to offer everything he had in exchange for
access to the creeper. This reflects themes of exploitation and the clash
between indigenous knowledge and colonial greed.
20) What
kind of people lived in the city where the narrator started his living in ‘Oru
Manushyan’?
Ans: In
"Oru Manushyan," the narrator describes the people living in the city
as diverse yet disconnected. They are often preoccupied with their own lives,
focusing on material quests and social status. The city dwellers exhibit a
sense of individualism, which leads to a lack of community spirit. Many are
struggling with their daily lives, trying to make ends meet, while others are occupied
in their ambitions and desires. This creates a competitive atmosphere where
compassion and connection are often overlooked. The narrator’s experience
highlights the complexities of urban life, where the hustle and bustle can
overshadow human relationships and empathy.
21)
Describe the embarrassing experience of the narrator in ‘Oru Manyshayn’.
Ans: One day, the narrator
went to a restaurant with fourteen rupees in his wallet. He enjoyed a full meal
of chapatis and meat curry and even had some tea. When the bill came, it was
eleven annas. But when he reached into his pocket to pay, he was shocked to
find that his wallet was missing. He realized that someone must have stolen it.
When he told the restaurant owner about his situation, the owner was
very harsh and unsympathetic. Instead of listening, the owner grabbed him by
the collar and accused him of trying to eat without paying. Without allowing
the narrator a chance to explain, the owner demanded that he strip off his
clothes as proof that he wasn’t hiding any money. The narrator protested, but
the owner insisted he remove his clothes in front of everyone. It was
humiliating, and the narrator felt deeply embarrassed.
The situation grew worse when the owner ordered him to take off his
trousers, even though the narrator tried to tell him he wasn’t wearing anything
underneath. Just as he was about to remove his trousers, a kind stranger
stepped forward and offered to pay the bill. Thanks to this stranger, the
narrator was spared from further humiliation in front of everyone in the
restaurant.
22) How does Babar Ali’s school differ from
other formal schools?
Ans: Babar
Ali’s school differs significantly from other formal schools in several ways.
Firstly, it operates under the open sky, reflecting a more informal and
flexible learning environment. Unlike traditional schools, which have strict
rules and a rigid curriculum, Babar Ali’s school arranges accessibility and
inclusivity, allowing children from various backgrounds to attend. The focus is
not solely on academic success but also on nurturing creativity and character.
Moreover, Babar Ali encourages peer teaching, where older students help younger
ones, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. This approach creates a
supportive atmosphere where learning is not confined to textbooks but is
enriched by real-life experiences.
23) What
was the role of various people in the development of Babar Ali’s school?
Ans: Babar
Ali's school flourished due to the support and involvement of various
individuals and the community. Babar himself, starting the school at a young
age, was driven by his passion for education and the desire to help
underprivileged children. His family played a crucial role, offering
encouragement and helping him gather resources. Local villagers contributed by
donating materials and providing a space for learning. Additionally, older
students took on teaching roles, fostering a sense of responsibility and
collaboration. The community's collective effort highlights the importance of
unity in promoting education. This grassroots initiative not only empowers
children but also inspires others to recognize the value of education, proving
that change can start from a single person's dream.
III. Answer any one of the following in about
200 words: 1x6=6
24)
“Peace is costly but it is worth the experience “Bring out the ironical
significance of the statement in the context of the story ‘The Gentlemen of the
Jungle’.
Ans: The
statement "Peace is costly but it is worth the experience" carries
deep irony in the context of the story "The Gentlemen of the Jungle."
The narrative revolves around a man who seeks peace in his life and is
initially cooperative with the animals in the jungle. However, his desire for
harmony leads to his exploitation by the more powerful animals, particularly
the elephant, who gradually takes over his hut and claims it as his own.
The irony lies in the
man's pursuit of peace. He believes that by accommodating the animals and
allowing them to invade his space, he can avoid conflict and maintain a
peaceful existence. Instead of achieving peace, he finds himself increasingly
marginalized and disrespected. The elephant's gradual encroachment symbolizes
how power dynamics can undermine individual rights and freedoms. The man’s
initial hope for a peaceful resolution only leads to his suffering and loss.
Furthermore, when the
Commission of Enquiry is called to address the situation, it highlights the
futility of seeking justice in a system dominated by the strong. The man's
experience shows that while peace may seem desirable, it often comes at the
cost of one's dignity and autonomy. Ultimately, the story critiques the idea
that peace can be bought or maintained through submission. Instead, it
underscores the importance of standing up for one’s rights and the harsh
reality that true peace requires courage and assertiveness, not complacency.
The man's costly pursuit of peace becomes a cautionary tale about the dangers
of allowing power to go unchecked.
OR
“Nature doesn’t discriminate but man does”
How is this idea reflected in “If I was A tree”?
Ans: In the poem If I was
a Tree, the poet brightly explores the contrast between the natural world’s completeness
and human society’s discrimination. The speaker imagines themselves as a tree,
a part of nature that embraces all living beings without bias. Trees, the
speaker suggests, do not judge or exclude; they provide shade, shelter, and
sustenance to all—regardless of social standing, caste, or any human-made
hierarchy. Nature, as represented by the tree, embodies acceptance and
equality.
This contrasts sharply with human society, which often enforces
divisions based on caste, class, or appearance. The poet expresses a longing to
be free from these prejudices by becoming something as unbiased as a tree. In
imagining themselves as a tree, they visualize a life where they can offer
their presence and resources to all—birds, animals, and people alike—without
facing judgment or exclusion. This vision becomes a metaphor for a world where
people, like nature, would live harmoniously and extend care equally.
The poem highlights how humans impose limitations and judgments on each
other, reinforcing discriminatory practices. Nature, however, stands as an
ideal where acceptance is instinctual, without conditions or prejudice. Through
this poetic reflection, the poet critiques societal norms and suggests that if
humans could embody the openness and acceptance found in nature, society would
be more compassionate and inclusive. Thus, If I was a Tree becomes a powerful
appeal for equality, drawing inspiration from nature's innate impartiality.
IV. Read the following passage and answer the
questions set on it. 10x1=10
The
cassowary is the most dangerous bird in the world. It’s inner one has a long
dagger like claw that acts as a weapon. The Cassowary is found in New Guinea
and Northern Australia, it is a secretive forest dweller and is seldom seen. It
can’t fly but runs at a great speed on its powerful legs. On each foot, it has
three toes. The inner one having a long straight claw. It can often be seen
giving furious kicks at the trunk of trees without any apparent reason. In
dense forests it can even speed 50 km an hour. It can grow a height of 6 feet
and weigh as much as 180 pounds. When it gets annoyed if jumps in the air and
delivers a vicious kick.
It is
bony headed bird. It naked blue head is protected by an ebony helmet it’s body
is covered with coarse hair like feathers. It is the only member of the family
casuaridae. Unlike other birds the male incubates eggs. The eggs are green in
colour. The adult provides parental care for the young ones. The like to be
near water. It has adapted itself to make the most efficient use of it’s
environment. Emu, Kiwi, Weka and Takahe are also flightless birds in Australia.
25) Answer the following questions in a word,
a phrase or a sentence each:
a) Which is the most dangerous bird in the world?
Ans: Cassowary
b) Where is Cassowary found?
Ans: New Guinea and Northern Australia
c) How many toes does cassowary have on each
foot?
Ans: Three toes
d) What is the height of cassowary?
Ans: 6 feet
e) What does Cassowary do when it gets
annoyed?
Ans: It jumps in the air and delivers a vicious kick.
f) Which family does cassowary belong to?
Ans: family Casuaridae
g) Who provides parental care for the young
ones?
Ans: the adult provides parental care for young ones / the male
h) which are the other flightless birds mentioned in the passage?
Ans: Emu, Kiwi, Weka, and Takahe
i) Add prefix to the word ‘efficient’ to make
it an antonym.
Ans: inefficient
j) An ebony helmet is a …………. (protect) to
it’s head. (Add suffix to the word in the bracket)
Ans: Protection
V. A. Fill in the blanks with appropriate
articles given in brackets: 2x1=2
26) A man was living in ……………. Hut in the
outskirt of the city ………….. elephant made friendship with him. (the, a, an)
Ans: A man was living in a hut
in the outskirts of the city. An elephant made
friendship with him.
B. Fill in the blanks with appropriate
prepositions given in the brackets: 2x1=2
Krishna who was working ……… the author’s
farm, had developed piles. The only allopathic treatment……….. piles was
surgery. (to, for, in)
Ans: Krishna,
who was working on the author’s farm, had developed
piles. The only allopathic treatment for piles was
surgery.
27) Rewrite as directed: 3x1=3
i) Mara tied the creeper to a nearby
tree………..? (Add a question tag)
Ans: Mara tied the creeper to a nearby tree, didn’t he?
ii) The author taught them to write the
address in English.
(Change into a question beginning with the
right form of ‘do’)
Ans: Did the author teach them to write the address in
English?
iii) The narrator began to sweat profusely in
the restaurant.
(Frame a question to get the underlined word
as answer)
Ans: Where did the narrator begin to sweat profusely?
28) Complete the dialogue: 4x1=4
Student: …………madam
Madam: Yes, come in …………..?
Student: Madam, I want to have a
clarification.
Madam: Welcome, ……………………….
Student: …………………….. ‘May’ and ‘might’?
Madam: the meaning is same, but difference is
only of degree.
Ans:
Student: May I come in madam?
Madam: Yes, come in please, what do you want?
Student: Madam, I want to have a clarification.
Madam: Welcome, what is your clarification?
Student: What is the difference between ‘May’ and ‘might’?
Madam: The meaning is the same, but the difference is only of degree.
VI. Refer to the following table and answer
the questions set on it a sentence each: 4x1=4
|
Indian Premier
League |
|||||
|
|
Played |
Won |
Lost |
Points |
Net-run rate |
|
Mumbai Indians |
4 |
3 |
1 |
6 |
+1.150 |
|
Royal Challengers |
5 |
3 |
2 |
6 |
+0.439 |
|
Rajasthan Royals |
4 |
3 |
1 |
6 |
+0.230 |
|
Sunrises Hyderabad |
5 |
3 |
2 |
6 |
-0.380 |
29) a) Which team has the highest run-rate?
Ans: Mumbai Indians has the highest run rate.
b) How many matches has Royal Challengers
played?
Ans: Royal Challengers has played 5 matches.
c) How many matches has Rajasthan Royals
lost?
Ans: Rajasthan Royals has lost 1 match.
d) Name the team that has lowest run-rate.
Ans: Sunrisers Hyderabad has the lowest run rate.
30) Write a letter to the principal of your
college requesting him/ her to sanction leave. 1x5=5
Note- use the following points:
1)
3 days leave
2)
For sister’s marriage
3)
The principal and staff
Ans:
XXXX
YYYY
28th October, 2024
The Principal
K.V. College,
Gadag
Respected Sir/ Madam,
Subject: Application for three days leave
I hope
this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to request leave for three
days from 02nd November, 2024 to 5th November, 2024 due
to my sister's marriage. This is a significant family occasion, and my presence
is essential to support her and help with the preparations. I would like to
invite you and complete staff on this occasion, and hope you all be the part of
this ceremony grace us.
I assure you that I will make up for any missed classes
and assignments during my absence. I kindly ask for your understanding and
support in granting me this leave.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to
your positive response.
Yours faithfully,
Sd/-
XXXX
