KARNATAKA SCHOOL
EXAMINATION
AND ASSESSMENT BOARD
Malleshwaram, Bengaluru – 560 003
S.S.L.C. MODEL QUESTION PAPER-1 – 2024-25
Subject: First Language —
ENGLISH
Subject Code: 14-E
Time: 3 Hours 15 Minutes Max. Marks: 100
General Instructions to the Candidate:
1.
This question
paper consists of 45 questions.
2.
Follow the instructions given against the questions.
3.
Figures in the right-hand
margin indicate maximum
marks for the questions.
4.
The maximum
time to answer
the paper is given at the top of the
question paper. It includes 15 minutes for reading the question paper.
I.
Four alternatives are given for each of the following questions / incomplete statements. Only one of them is correct or most appropriate. Choose the correct alternative and write the complete answer along with its letter of alphabet: 6 x 1 = 6
1.
There is ....................... fly in.... coffee.
The appropriate articles to be filled in the blanks are
(A)
an, the (B) a, the
(C) an, a (D) the, the
Ans: (B) a, the
2.
All should follow the traffic rules strictly, ....................
The suitable question
tag to be added here is
(A)
should they? (B) don’t they?
(C) do they? (D) shouldn’t they?
Ans: (D) shouldn’t they?
3.
The word that takes ‘ir’ as a negative
prefix is
(A)
possible (B) imagine
(C) responsible (D) logical
Ans: (C) irresponsible
4.
We............ an improvement in our son’s performance this year.
The correct phrase to be filled in here is
(A)
look for (B) look out for
(C) look at (D) look into
Ans:
(D) look into
5.
Give the noun form of the word ‘reduce’
(A)
reducing (B) reduced
(C) reducingly (D) reduction
Ans: (D) reduction
6.
Love ebbs like the tide.
The figure of speech used here is
(A)
Simile (B) Metaphor
(C) Alliteration (D) Personification
Ans: (A) Simile
II.
Observe the
relationship in the first pair of words and complete
the second pair accordingly in the following: 4 x 1 = 4
7.
Kidneys: Urologist:: Eye: .....................
8.
Foe: Enemy:: Anger: ...........................
9.
Break: Brake:: Cease: ...........................
10. Gallant: Brave:: Indictment: ......................
Ans:
7. Kidneys:
Urologist :: Eye : Ophthalmologist
8. Foe : Enemy :: Anger : Rage
9. Break : Brake :: Cease : Seize
10. Gallant :
Brave :: Indictment : Accusation
III.
Rewrite as directed : 3 x 1 = 3
11. Change the voice of the sentence :
They opened the theatre only last month.
Ans: The theatre was opened by them
only last month.
12. Change into reported
speech :
“Are you going all the way to Dehra ?” said the traveller to the girl.
Ans: The traveller asked the girl if
she was going all the way to Dehra.
13. Frame a question
to get the underlined words
as answer : The lion wanted peace and tranquility in his kingdom.
Ans: What did the lion want in his kingdom?
IV.
Answer the following questions in a sentence each : 4 x 1 = 4
14. What revelation does the blind man get at the end of the story?
Ans: The blind man
realizes that true sight comes from understanding and awareness rather than
just physical vision.
15. What was Napoleon’s dictum ?
Ans: Napoleon laid
a dictum that it was impossible to have too many men upon a battlefield but
used to do everything in his power to call up everyone.
16. How was Marion going to identify Gaultier’s messenger ?
Ans: If the person
kisses her hand, that means he was sent by Gaultier. Marion was going to
identify Gaultier’s messenger by his actions.
17. Where was the boat moored ?
Ans: The boat was
moored to a willow tree within a rocky cave.
V.
Answer the following questions in two to three sentences each
: 7 x 2 = 14
18.
Mention the useless works done by the idle man on earth ?
Ans: The idle man
engages in creating art and sculptures, which are considered useless in the useful
world of the Worker’s Paradise.
19.
Why did Jean lie to Pierre
and send him to fetch the tart ?
Ans: Jean deceived
Pierre by sending him to fetch a tart, Jean resented the beating he had got at
M. Gaultier’s hands, and wanted Pierre to experience the same.
20.
How is the end of the female crane suggested in the poem ?
Ans: The female
bird forgot to eat or drink and thus, becoming very weak, met her end,
symbolizing the profound loss experienced by her mate.
21.
Describe the graceful movement of the boat according to
William
Wordsworth.
Ans: The
boat’s movement is described as graceful and smooth, gliding effortlessly over
the water, reflecting the poet’s surprise and the serene beauty of nature.
22.
How does the neighbour
carrying a stone in each hand appear to the poet ?
Ans: The neighbour
carrying a stone in each hand appears to the poet as an old stone savage
weapon, moving in darkness, suggesting a rude.
23.
What surprise
awaited Jim when he returned
to the stockade?
Ans: Jim was
surprised to find stockade occupied by pirates instead of his comrades,
indicating a significant and unexpected change in control.
24.
Mention the reasons that led Ulysses and his men to enter
the habitation of Cyclops.
Ans: In
“Ulysses and the Cyclops,” curiosity and the hope of finding provisions led
Ulyesses and his men to explore the Cyclops’ cave, seeking adventure and
resources.
VI.
Rewrite as directed : 3 x 2 = 6
25.
Change the following
sentence to the other two degrees of comparison : This book is one of the most
interesting books I have ever read.
Ans:
Positive Degree:
Very few books I have ever read are as interesting as this book.
Comparative
Degree: This book is more interesting than most other books I have ever read.
26.
Change the following sentence
into Compound and Complex sentences : He was given a medal for saving the life of a girl.
Ans:
Compound Sentence: He saved the life
of a girl, so he was given a medal.
Complex Sentence: As he saved the life
of a girl, he was given a medal.
27.
Combine the following sentences
using :
a)
too...... to
b)
so ..... that .....
This coffee is very hot. I cannot drink it.
Ans:
a)
This coffee is too hot to drink.
b)
This coffee is so hot that I cannot drink
it.
VII.
Answer
the following questions in five to six sentences each
:6x3=18
28.
What is the vision that the enthusiast of ‘free market economy’ has for
India ?
Ans: Enthusiasts
of the free market economy envision an India where market forces drive economic
growth, leading to increased efficiency, innovation, and prosperity. They
believe that reducing government intervention and promoting private enterprise
will result in better resource allocation and improved standards of living for
the population.
29.
Explain the imagery of the twilight
hour mentioned in the poem “That Time of Year ’.
Ans: In
William Shakespeare's sonnet "That Time of Year," the twilight hour
symbolizes the final stage of life, just before death. The poet compares
himself to the late evening, suggesting that he is in the declining years of
his life. This imagery evokes a sense of fading light and the approach of
darkness, highlighting themes of aging and mortality.
30.
How does William Blake use the image of the tree to bring out the destructive
effect of suppressed anger ?
Ans: In
his poem "A Poison Tree," William Blake uses the metaphor of a tree
to illustrate how suppressed anger can grow and become destructive. He
describes nurturing his wrath in secrecy, allowing it to develop into a
poisonous fruit. This culminates in the death of his foe who consumes the
fruit, demonstrating that unexpressed anger can lead to harmful consequences.
31.
According to John
Masefield, what are his mother’s feelings towards him in the darkness of the
grave ?
Ans: In
John Masefield's poem, the poet reflects on his mother's enduring love for him,
even in death. He imagines that, from the grave, she continues to care for and
watch over him, her affection undiminished by her passing. This suggests a
belief in the eternal nature of a mother's love.
32.
What instances
does Karna give to Bhishma
to prove his loyalty to Duryodhana ?
Ans: In
the Mahabharata, Karna demonstrates his loyalty to Duryodhana through various
actions. He consistently supports Duryodhana in his endeavors, participates in
battles on his behalf, and remains steadfast even when faced with personal
dilemmas. Karna's unwavering commitment, despite knowing his true lineage and
the moral complexities involved, underscores his dedication to Duryodhana.
33.
How does E. H. Carter describe
Pasteur’s appearance in his old age ?
Ans:
In E. H. Carter's account, Louis Pasteur in his old age is depicted as a
dignified figure with a serene manner. He is described as having a thoughtful
expression, indicative of his lifelong dedication to scientific inquiry and
discovery. His appearance reflects the wisdom and experience accumulated over
years of diligent work.
OR
Narrate any 3 humorous situations that took place in the Village Cricket Match.
Ans: In A.
G. Macdonell's "The Village Cricket Match," several humorous
incidents occur:
·
The confusion
over the umpire's signals leads to comedic misunderstandings among the players.
·
A fielder's
overenthusiastic attempt to catch the ball results in him tumbling into a
nearby pond, eliciting laughter from the spectators.
·
The rivalry
between local characters leads to playful banter and exaggerated displays of
sportsmanship, adding to the light-hearted atmosphere of the match.
VIII. Explain with reference to
the context : 5 x 3 = 15
34.
“Take yer hat off and let’s have a sight at the looks of it.”
Ans:
Chapter: "The Pie and the Tart"
Author: Hugh Chesterman
Context: In this humorous play, the character Jean, a cunning
tramp, says this line to his friend, Pierre. Jean wants Pierre to remove his
hat so they can assess its condition, possibly to use it as part of their
scheme to obtain food.
35.
“Thank goodness
it’s a short journey.”
Ans:
Chapter: "The Eyes Are Not Here"
Author: Ruskin Bond
Context: In this short story, a blind man reflects on his
conversation with a fellow passenger, a girl, during a train journey. He thinks
to himself, "Thank goodness it's a short journey," possibly because
he finds it challenging to maintain the deception of being sighted.
36.
“She had to die because others had decided to destroy her race.”
Ans:
Chapter: The Diary of a Young Girl
Author: Anne Frank
Context: In this diary entry, Anne Frank reflects on the fate
of the Jewish people during the Holocaust. The line expresses the tragic
reality that innocent lives, including her own and her family, were taken
because of the genocidal decisions made by the Nazis to eradicate the Jewish
race. Anne's poignant words highlight the devastating impact of hatred and
intolerance.
37.
“It is far honourable to fail than to cheat.”
Ans:
Letter: A Letter to His Son's Teacher
Author: Abraham Lincoln
Context: In this famous letter, Abraham Lincoln advises the
teacher of his son to teach him the values of honesty, integrity, and hard
work. The quote emphasizes that it is better to fail with honor than to succeed
through dishonest means. Lincoln believed that true character is built on
ethical behavior and facing challenges with integrity.
38.
“To lead but one measure, drink one cup of wine.”
Ans:
Poem: "Lochinvar"
Poet: Sir Walter Scott
Context: In this poem, the line is spoken by Lochinvar, who,
after performing a dance (leading a measure) and drinking a cup of wine, shows
his carefree and confident nature. The line highlights his boldness and
readiness to act decisively, even in challenging or dramatic situations, like
rescuing his beloved.
IX.
Quote from memory : 1 x 4 = 4
39. The rich ..........................................
........................................................
........................................................
of gold.
Ans: The rich will make temples for
Shiva.
What shall I, a poor man do,
My legs are pillars, the body
the shrine,
The head a cupola of gold.
OR
And
I ..............................................
........................................................
........................................................
............................................ wiles.
Ans: And I watered
it in fears,
Night and morning with my tears;
And I sunned it with smiles,
And with soft deceitful wiles.
X.
Answer
the following questions in seven to eight sentences each :3 x 4 = 12
40.
“Drona sought
Buttoo’s right hand thumb.” Explain how it was fulfilled.
Ans: Drona
was a great teacher of archery. He had a student named Arjuna, whom he wanted
to be the best archer. But Buttoo, a tribal boy, also learned archery on his
own and became very skilled. When Drona saw this, he became worried that Buttoo
might become better than Arjuna. So, he asked Buttoo for his right-hand thumb
as a "guru dakshina" (teacher’s fee). Buttoo, being devoted and
respectful, immediately cut off his thumb and offered it to Drona. This act
fulfilled Drona’s request and ensured that Arjuna remained the best archer.
41.
C. V. Raman says that water gives beauty to
the countryside. Justify the
statement.
Ans: C.
V. Raman believed that water makes the countryside beautiful in many ways. He
said that the presence of water in rivers, lakes, and ponds adds charm to
nature. Water reflects the blue sky and creates wonderful sights. The greenery
of trees and crops depends on water, making the land look fresh and lively.
Without water, the land would be dry and lifeless. Water also helps in farming,
which brings prosperity to people. Thus, water not only supports life but also
makes nature beautiful.
OR
Explain on what basis Louis Pasteur developed
the idea of immunity.
Ans: Louis
Pasteur developed the idea of immunity by studying diseases and their
prevention. He discovered that when a weak form of a disease was introduced
into the body, it helped the body fight against stronger infections. This idea
led to the creation of vaccines. He tested his theory on animals and later on
humans. His work saved many lives and helped control deadly diseases like
rabies. Today, vaccines protect people from many illnesses, thanks to Pasteur’s
discoveries.
42.
Write on Mahatma
Gandhi’s views on action prompted by motives of happiness in another world.
Ans: Mahatma
Gandhi believed that actions should not be done for rewards in another world.
He thought that people should act with honesty and kindness in this life
itself. He said that true service to others should come from the heart, not
from selfish desires. According to him, the goal of life should be to do good
for others without expecting anything in return. He followed this principle
throughout his life by fighting for India’s freedom and helping the poor.
Gandhi taught that good actions bring happiness in this world itself.
OR
How was the Diary of Anne
Frank an eye opener to the viciousness of racial
persecution ?
Ans: The Diary of Anne Frank is an important book that reveals the cruelty of
racial persecution. Anne Frank, a Jewish girl, wrote about her life while
hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Her diary describes how Jews were
treated unfairly and forced into hiding. It shows the fear, suffering, and
discrimination faced by innocent people. Through her words, the world came to
know about the horrors of the Holocaust. Her diary is a reminder of the need
for equality and peace. It teaches us to stand against hatred and
discrimination.
XI.
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given below :1 x 4 = 4 (2 x 2)
43.
Although religion does
not inhibit the acquisition of wealth, although it does not hold up large fortunes as evil, the tenor of its teaching
by and large, is to induce
an attitude of indifference to worldly things, things which gratify one’s lower
self and keep one engrossed in money-making. The student should be made to realize that the real goods of life are
spiritual, love of the things of the spirit and service of one’s fellowmen, joy
of an ordered disciplined life. These are blessings
money cannot buy. What is wealth
before such things of the spirit ? Real bliss consists not in riches nor in
anything else which the world regarded as prosperity or felicity, but in the joy
and happiness derived
from being at peace with one’s fellowmen through perfect love and
fellowship and selfless service and sacrifice.
Questions :
a)
What are the blessings money cannot buy ?
Ans: The
blessings that money cannot buy are love for spiritual things, service to
fellowmen, joy of a disciplined life, and peace with others through selfless
service and sacrifice.
b)
Where does real bliss exist ?
Ans: Real bliss
exists in the joy and happiness that come from love, fellowship, selfless
service, and being at peace with one’s fellowmen.
XII.
Write an essay of about 18-20 sentences on any one of the following topics :1 x 5 = 5
44.
a) A Clean and Healthy Environment in Nature — the Need of the Hour
Ans:A clean and healthy environment is very important for all living beings.
Nature provides us with fresh air, water, and food, but human activities are
polluting the environment. Factories release harmful gases, cutting down trees
reduces oxygen, and plastic waste is destroying rivers and oceans. If we do not
take care of nature, we will face serious problems like climate change,
diseases, and natural disasters.
To protect our environment, we must take small but important steps.
Planting more trees will make the air cleaner and reduce global warming. People
should avoid using plastic and instead use eco-friendly products. Waste should
be properly disposed of and recycled whenever possible. Clean water sources
must be protected from pollution. Industries must follow strict rules to reduce
harmful emissions.
Students and young people can play a big role in spreading awareness
about environmental protection. Schools should teach children about the
importance of cleanliness and nature conservation. Governments should take
strict actions against pollution and deforestation. If everyone works together,
we can create a cleaner and healthier world for future generations. Nature
gives us everything, and it is our duty to protect it.
b) Role of students
in promoting Unity in Diversity
in India.
Ans: India is a land of different
cultures, languages, and religions. People follow different traditions, but
they live together as one nation. This is called "Unity in
Diversity." Students have a very important role in maintaining this unity.
First, students should respect all cultures and religions. They should
learn about different festivals, languages, and traditions to understand and
appreciate diversity. Schools can celebrate festivals from different
communities to promote unity. Students should also stop discrimination and
treat everyone equally.
Second, students can spread messages of peace and brotherhood through
social media, plays, and awareness programs. They can participate in activities
like cultural exchanges and inter-school competitions to bring people together.
Helping people in need, regardless of their background, is another way to
strengthen unity.
Finally, students should always remember that India is strong because of
its diversity. They should work to remove social barriers and promote harmony
among all. If young people learn to live with love and respect, India will
always remain united and strong. Students are the future of the nation, and
their efforts can make India a symbol of peace and unity in the world.
XIII. 45. Assume yourself to be Varun / Varuni of Government High School, Raichur.
Write a letter of complaint
to the Commissioner of Police about the street
dog nuisance at night in your locality.1 x 5 = 5
Ans: Varun
Government High School,
Raichur
06th February 2025
To
The Commissioner of Police,
Raichur
Subject: Complaint about street dog nuisance at night
Respected Sir/Madam,
I
am writing to bring to your attention the increasing problem of stray dogs in
our locality. During the night, these dogs bark continuously, disturbing the
sleep of residents. They often chase pedestrians, making it unsafe to walk on
the streets. Many people, especially children and the elderly, are scared to
step outside due to the fear of dog bites.
This
issue has been going on for a long time, but no action has been taken yet. I
kindly request you to take immediate steps to control the street dog problem.
Sending a team to catch and relocate aggressive dogs to animal shelters would
be very helpful. Ensuring proper vaccination of these dogs will also prevent
the spread of diseases like rabies.
I
hope you will take necessary action at the earliest to ensure the safety and
peace of our locality.
Thank you.
Yours sincerely,
Sd/-
Varun
OR
Assume yourself to be Arun / Aruna of Government High School, Bidar. Write a letter to your brother
informing him about the career you wish to
choose for your future.
Ans: Arun
Government High School,
Bidar
6th February, 2025
Dear Brother,
I hope you are
doing well. I am writing to share something important with you about my future
career plans. After thinking a lot, I have decided to become a doctor. I have
always wanted to help people, and I believe being a doctor will allow me to
serve society in the best way possible.
I am studying
hard, especially in science subjects, to achieve my goal. I plan to take up
Biology in my higher studies and prepare for medical entrance exams. I know it
will take a lot of dedication and hard work, but I am determined to succeed.
Your guidance and support mean a lot to me.
Please let me know
your thoughts and any advice you have for me. I would love to hear from you
soon.
Take care and write back soon.
Yours lovingly,
Sd/-
Arun