KARNATAKA SCHOOL
EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT BOARD
Malleshwaram,
Bengaluru-560003
S.S.L.C. MODEL
QUESTION PAPER-1: 2025-26
SUBJECT: First
Language English
Subject Code: 14E
Time: 3 hours 15 minutes Marks:
100
General Instructions to the Candidates
i.
This question paper contains a total of 45 questions.
ii.
Read and follow
the instructions given after each question carefully.
iii.
The figures
mentioned in the right-hand margin represent the maximum marks allotted
for each question.
iv.
The maximum
time for answering the paper is mentioned at the top of the question paper, which includes 15 minutes of reading time.
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 the alphabet. 6×1
6
1. “The alarm
clock screamed at me.”
The figure of speech used here is:
a. Alliteration b. Metaphor
c. Personification d. Simile
Ans:
c. Personification
2. “…… reviewer wants to know more about ……… book.”
The appropriate articles to fill in the blanks are:
a. The, the b. A, the
c. A, an d. The, a
Ans:
b. A, the
3. “He never wakes up early, ______?”
The appropriate question tag to be added is:
a. do he? b. does
he?
c. don’t he? d.
doesn’t he?
Ans:
b. does he?
4.
My first impression ……………. at the site was one of disillusionment. The correct
form of the phrasal verb to be filled
a.
on arriving b. at
arriving
c.
while arriving d. when
arriving
Ans:
5. “The girl saw the painter standing …………… the torrent.”
The suitable preposition to fill in the blank is:
a. to b. by
c. from d. with
Ans:
b. by
6. “He …….. swum the whole night to reach Ayodhya.”
The correct form of the verb to be filled in the blank is:
a. was b. were
c. had d.
have
Ans:
c. had
II. Analogy / Word Relationship (4×1=4)
Observe the relationship in the first pair of words and
complete the second pair accordingly.
Ans:
7. Oculist : Eye ::
Urologist : Urinary system
8. Meat : Meet ::
Night : Knight
9. Success : Triumph
:: Stature : Height
10. Elegant : Elegance
:: Calm : Calmness
III. Rewrite as Directed (3×1=3)
11. Change the voice of the sentence:
The king gave the commander a reward.
Ans: The commander was given a reward by the
king.
12. Frame a question to get the underlined words as
answer:
I met an old woman in the park last night.
Ans: Whom did you meet in the park last
night.
13. Change the following assertive into an exclamatory
sentence:
You are a great fool.
Ans: What a great fool you are!
IV. Answer the following questions in a
sentence each: 4x1=4
14.
Who was a real problem child?
Answer: Anne Frank was a real problem child.
15.
Why was Pierre pinched?
Answer: Pierre was pinched for begging in the
streets of Paris.
16.
How, according to the author, is a bottle of coke harmful to our human body?
Answer: According to the author, a bottle of coke
has no nutritive value, but harms the body because it contains excessive sugar
and chemicals that damage health.
17.
What does the expression “picked up hands and jaws” suggest?
Answer: The expression suggests that the cruelty,
callousness, and lack of empathy of the hunters who killed the birds.
V.
Answer the following questions in two to three sentences each: 7×2=14
18. How did Mr. Pollack finally catch the last ball?
Ans: When the last ball descended, it first landed on the
wicket keeper’s trousers, and then bounced to about a foot from the ground. At
that moment, Mr. Pollock leapt forward abruptly, caught the ball on the seat of
the wicket-keeper’s trousers, and thus secured the catch.
19. What is the success story of Pepsi and Coca-Cola?
Ans: The success of Pepsi and Coca-Cola lies in their global
reach: bottles of these drinks are sold even in the remotest corners of the
world, giving them maximum distribution and popularity. Their widespread
availability reflects how advertising and distribution networks have made them
household names worldwide.
20. How do hunters disturb the stones on the wall?
Ans: Hunters used to break the stone walls to get
the rabbits from the holes and they can damage the walls badly. Stones get
displaced swelling due to heavy frost and the upper boulders get spilled in the
sun and make wide gaps.
21. What must every individual resign themselves to?
Ans: In the context of the relevant lesson on consumerism (or
general moral action), every individual must resign themselves to the idea that
many advertised commodities are non-essential, and that unthinking consumption
may damage health or lead to wasteful living. They should accept responsibility
for resisting impulsive buying and for making thoughtful, healthy lifestyle
choices.
22. Give any two examples of Jim’s acts of bravery.
Ans: In the story The Gift of the Magi, Jim shows bravery (or
selfless courage) by selling his most treasured possession his grandfather’s
gold watch in order to buy a worthy gift for his wife. Also, despite their
poverty and the shame associated, both Jim and Della make painful sacrifices
for each other, showing emotional strength and self-less love.
23. How did Ulysses help his men escape from the cave?
Ans: In the supplementary chapter Ulysses and the Cyclops,
Ulysses tricked the giant Cyclops by telling him his name was “No-man.” Then,
after blinding the Cyclops, when the giant shouted for help, he said “No-man
has hurt me,” so the other giants assumed no one had attacked him. This cunning
deception helped Ulysses and his men to escape safely.
24. Why did the female Sarus Crane sit on the blood-stained
feathers?
Ans: According to the poem To a Pair of Sarus Cranes, after
her mate was shot by hunters, the female crane sat on his blood-stained
feathers, perhaps in a desperate, grief-stricken attempt to “hatch” them — as
if to bring him back to life. This act shows her intense sorrow and inability
to accept his death, highlighting the depth of the bond the two cranes shared.
VI.
Rewrite as directed: 3×2=6
25.
Combine the following sentences using:
a) As soon as
b) No sooner ……. than
The
driver saw the green signal. He started his car.
Ans: a) As soon as the driver saw the green
signal, he started his car.
b) No sooner did the driver see the green
signal than he started his car.
VI.
Rewrite as directed: 3×2=6
26. Change the following sentence to the other two degrees of comparison:
Rhodium is the costliest metal.
Ans: Positive: No other metal is as costly as
rhodium.
Comparative: Rhodium is costlier than any other
metal.
27. Change into reported
speech:
Mother said to me, “Have you eaten
your lunch?”
Ans: Mother asked me if I had eaten my lunch.
VII.
Answer the following questions in five to six sentences each: 6×3=18
28. What justification did Drona give for his unfair demand?
Ans: Drona asked Ekalavya for his right thumb as guru
dakshina, even though he had never truly taught him. He justified this by
saying that Ekalavya had learned archery by keeping Drona’s idol as his
teacher. According to Drona, this made Ekalavya his student in spirit and
therefore obliged to offer guru dakshina. Drona also claimed that he wanted to
protect Arjuna’s position as the greatest archer. He believed that Ekalavya’s
extraordinary skill would overshadow Arjuna. Thus, he used this justification
to hide his partiality and protect his favourite student.
29. What was the impact on Germans after Anne Frank’s diary
was published?
Ans: Frank’s diary made the Germans deeply reflect on the
horrors of Nazism. Many Germans were shocked and ashamed after reading the
experiences of a young girl who suffered because of Hitler’s policies. The
diary stirred feelings of guilt and regret among the German people. It also
awakened a sense of responsibility so that such atrocities should never happen
again. Her innocent voice became a symbol of the cruelty of racial hatred. The
diary changed the way the world understood the pain of Jews during the
Holocaust.
30. “Basavanna consoles himself regarding his helplessness
as a poor man.” Illustrate.
Ans: In the poem, Basavanna expresses that he does not possess
wealth like rich people to offer material gifts to God. He consoles himself by
saying that God, who owns the whole universe, does not expect worldly offerings
from him. Instead, Basavanna offers his body, mind, and soul as a
symbol of devotion. He believes that true devotion lies in purity of heart and
sincerity rather than in material wealth. Basavanna finds peace in the idea
that God values honest living over grand rituals. This helps him accept his
poverty without feeling inferior.
31. Why did Wordsworth say that his moving the boat is an
act of stealth? Why was he guilty of his act?
Ans: Wordsworth calls moving the boat an “act of stealth”
because he took it secretly without the owner’s permission. He knew it was
wrong, so he did it quietly like a thief. After rowing for some time, he saw a
huge black mountain rising before him. The sight of the mountain made him feel
frightened and ashamed. He realized that nature was warning him about his
wrongdoing. This guilt stayed in his mind for many days, making him reflect on
the moral lesson he learned.
32. How did Duryodhana restore Karna’s honour?
Ans: When Karna entered the arena to challenge Arjuna, the
Pandavas insulted him because he was believed to be a charioteer’s son. Feeling
humiliated, Karna stood silently. Duryodhana immediately recognized his bravery
and potential. To restore his honour, Duryodhana crowned Karna as the King of
Anga. This royal title made Karna equal to the Pandavas in status. Through this
act, Duryodhana earned Karna’s lifelong loyalty and deep friendship.
33. Explain the difference between a mechanical act and an
intentional act with an example.
Ans: A mechanical act is something done automatically without
conscious thinking, like a habit or reflex action. For example, blinking the
eyes or tapping fingers unknowingly. An intentional act, on the other hand, is
done with full awareness and purpose behind it. For instance, helping a friend
in need is an intentional act because it involves thought, decision, and
intention. The difference lies in awareness—mechanical acts happen
unconsciously, while intentional acts reflect deliberate choice.
OR
“Every research that Pasteur did was meant for the benefit of human beings.”
Explain.
Ans: Pasteur dedicated his entire life to scientific research
that helped humanity. He discovered the principles of vaccination, which saved
millions of lives from deadly diseases. His research on pasteurization made
food and milk safe for consumption. Pasteur also proved that microbes cause
diseases, which revolutionized medical science. His findings helped doctors
develop antiseptic methods and prevent infections. Every experiment he
conducted aimed at reducing human suffering and improving public health.
VIII. Explain with reference to the context: 5×3=15
34. “Only some more work from your hands.”
Ans: Lesson: A Wrong Man in Workers’ Paradise
Author: Rabindranath Tagore
Context: These words said by idler to the busy girl of
the silent torrent. The girl had pity on the idler and offered him some work.
The man repeatedly asked her, only some work from her hands. He wanted her to
give him a clay pitcher so that he could paint on it or make a ribbon.
35. “Please God, make
him think I am still pretty.”
Ans: Lesson: The Gift of the Magi
Author: O Henry
Context: These words said by Della to the God. Della had
cut her long, beautiful hair and sold it to get money to buy a nice Christmas
gift (a platinum fob-chain) for her husband Jim. She was afraid that when Jim
would see her with short hair, he might think she was no longer pretty. So, she
whispered these words.
36. “She was an interesting girl.”
Ans: Lesson: The Eyes are not here
Author: Ruskin Bond
Context: The narrator said these words to the blind girl
(co-passenger) in the train, referring to the blind girl who earlier traveled
with him. He says that to hide his blindness and to flatter her.
37. “There are maidens in Scotland more lovely by far.”
Ans: Poem: Lochinvar
Poet: Sir Walter Scott
Context: These words were spoken by the hero, Lochinvar,
when he entered the hall to challenge a forced wedding; he claimed there were
many other fair maidens in Scotland more lovely, upholding his honour and
claiming, he need not beg the bride-father’s favour.
38. “O grave, keep shut lest I be shamed!”
Ans: Poem: CLM
Poet: John Masefield
Context: These words said by the poet, a son addressing
the grave of his dead mother. The poem reflects on how his mother suffered,
sacrificed and gave him life, yet she died. The poet felt deeply guilty and
ashamed not only had he not done enough to repay her, but he saw that women in
general were still being mistreated, disrespected, denied rights, exploited by
men.
XI. Quote from memory: 1×4=4
39. And
it grew ………………………………………….
………………………………………..
………………………………………..
……………………………………….. it was mine.
Ans: And it grew both day and night
Till it bore an apple bright.
And my foe beheld it shine,
And he knew that it was mine.
OR
My legs
………………………………………..
………………………………………..
………………………………………..
……………………………………….. stay.
Ans: My legs are pillars, The body the shrine,
The head a cupola of gold.
Listen, O lord of
the meeting rivers,
Things standing
shall fall,
But the moving
ever shall stay.
X. Answer the following questions in seven–eight
sentences each. 3×4=12
40. Point out all the values which the poet-father wants the
teacher to teach his son.
Ans:
i.
The poet-father (Lincoln) wants his son to be
taught truthfulness, honesty, and good moral character.
ii.
He emphasizes the importance of self-respect,
integrity, and respect for others.
iii.
He wants the teacher to develop discipline,
courage, and perseverance in the child.
iv.
The father stresses learning to think
independently and critically.
v.
He values empathy, kindness, and
consideration for the weak.
vi.
He believes education should not only be
about knowledge but also about forming a good human being.
vii.
The teacher should encourage the child to be humble
yet confident, and to act rightly even when no one is watching.
41. a) What does C. V. Raman say about the beauty of
countryside and the rain-fed tanks?
Ans: C. V. Raman praises the beauty and charm of
the countryside in India. He describes the lush green fields,
serene landscapes, and the freshness of nature after the rain. He
particularly admires the rain-fed tanks, which store water for
irrigation and help sustain crops and life in the villages. These tanks not
only serve a practical purpose but also enhance the scenic
beauty of the region. Raman’s reflections show his love for nature
and his scientific curiosity, as he observes how natural
resources like water maintain harmony between man and the environment.
OR
b) Why does Gandhi say that moral acts
should be done without compulsion?
Ans: Gandhi says that moral acts should be done without
compulsion because their true value lies in willingness and
sincerity. If a person is forced to act morally, the act loses its ethical
significance and becomes mechanical or hypocritical. True morality
comes from inner conviction and self-discipline, not from fear
of punishment or desire for reward. Gandhi emphasizes that moral actions should
be guided by personal conscience, love, and respect for truth.
By acting voluntarily, a person develops genuine righteousness
and strengthens character, making morality a part of life rather than an
imposed rule.
42. a) How did Pasteur develop the idea of immunity?
Ans: Louis Pasteur developed the idea of immunity through
careful observation and experimentation. He studied how
diseases spread and noticed that exposure to a weakened or dead germ could protect
the body from future infection. He experimented with cows and
anthrax, showing that weakened germs could make them immune. Pasteur
later developed vaccines for serious diseases like rabies,
proving that immunity could be artificially created. His work combined scientific
curiosity, logical reasoning, and practical experiments. Pasteur’s
discoveries not only revolutionized medicine but also saved
countless lives, highlighting his dedication to human welfare.
OR
b) “Man today is an unstoppable buying
machine.” Elucidate with examples.
Ans: The poet says, “Man today is an unstoppable buying
machine” to highlight human obsession with money and material goods.
People work tirelessly to earn and spend, often without thinking about real
needs. Advertisements, peer pressure, and social competition encourage constant
buying. For example, people rush to buy the latest gadgets, branded
clothes, or luxury cars, even if unnecessary. This obsession makes
humans greedy, restless, and dissatisfied. The poet warns that
excessive consumerism can lead to moral decay and stress,
urging people to value life, relationships, and simple joys
over endless material accumulation.
XI. Read the following passage carefully and answer the
questions given below (2 + 2)
Mr. Arvind’s family was not rich. They just managed to
make both ends meet. They economised on everything. They bought food at
subsidised rates, and their meals had no variety. His sisters made their
dresses at home, and he used to go through terrible scenes on account of lost
buttons and torn trousers. Uncle Jules, his father’s brother, was the only hope
of the family.
Questions:
(a) How was Mr.
Arvind’s family?
Ans: Mr. Arvind’s family was not rich. They stuggled
financially and had to economise on everything. Their life was simple, and they
could barely manage to make both ends meet.
(b) How did they lead their life?
Ans: They led frugal and disciplined life, saving
wherever possible. Meals had no variety, and food was bought at subsidized
rates. His sisters made their dresses at home and he faced trouble due to lost
buttons or torn trousers.
XII. Write an essay of about 18–20 sentences on any one
of the following topics 1×5=5
44. a. Growth of science and technology in India
Ans: Science and
technology have grown rapidly in India over the years. India has made
remarkable progress in space research. The Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) has launched many satellites for communication, weather forecasting, and
navigation. India successfully sent missions to the Moon and Mars. Scientific
research in medicine has helped fight diseases like polio, smallpox, and
COVID-19. Information technology has transformed education, banking, and
communication. Mobile phones and the internet have made life easier.
Agriculture has benefited through modern tools and techniques. Renewable energy
like solar and wind power is being developed. Railways and transportation
systems have improved. Scientific inventions have increased industrial growth.
Research in nuclear energy has strengthened India’s security. Scientific
education is becoming popular among students. Technology has made work faster
and more accurate. Robotics and artificial intelligence are changing many
industries. India is now a global hub for software and IT services. Science
helps solve social and environmental problems. Technology has created new job
opportunities. India’s scientific growth has made the nation proud. The
government supports research and innovation. Science and technology continue to
improve the quality of life in India.
b. The harmful effects of overusing the cell
phone
Ans: Cell phones have become a part of our daily life.
They are useful for communication, education, and entertainment. But overusing
cell phones can be harmful. Long hours on the phone can cause eye strain and
headaches. Many people develop neck and back pain from using phones too much.
Excessive use affects sleep and causes tiredness. Students may lose
concentration in studies. Social relationships may weaken because people spend
more time on phones than with family. Cell phones can be addictive, leading to
stress and anxiety. Overuse may cause poor posture and even physical health
problems. Children and teenagers are especially vulnerable. Phone radiation may
have negative effects on the body. People may become less active physically.
Time spent on social media may affect mental health. Overusing phones reduces
face-to-face communication skills. Important tasks may be ignored due to phone
addiction. People may lose track of time while scrolling or playing games.
Using phones during driving is dangerous. It can also lead to accidents and
injuries. Responsible use of cell phones is necessary. Limiting screen time
improves health and productivity.
XIII. Letter Writing 1×5=5
45. a. Imagine you are
Keerthan / Keerthana studying in Government High School, Vijayapura. Write a
letter to the local Electricity Board requesting them to reduce power-cuts
during the evening, giving suitable reasons.
Ans:
Keerthan / Keerthana
Government High School
Vijayapura
Date: 9th December, 2025
To
The Manager
Local Electricity Board
Vijayapura
Subject:
Request to Reduce Power-Cuts During Evening
Respected Sir / Madam,
I am a student of Government High School, Vijayapura. I
wish to bring to your kind notice that frequent power-cuts during the evening
cause many problems for students. We face difficulties in studying
after school, doing homework, and preparing for exams. Families also
face inconvenience as cooking and household work are affected. I kindly request
you to reduce the power-cuts during evening hours so that
students and residents can manage their work efficiently. Your immediate action
will be highly appreciated.
Thanking you,
Yours faithfully,
Keerthan / Keerthana
OR
b. Imagine you are
Bharat / Bhagya studying in Government High School, Hassan. Write a letter to
your elder brother / sister thanking him / her for preparing you for the
inter-state debate competition in which you won the first prize.
Ans:
Bharat / Bhagya
Government High School
Hassan
Date: 9th December, 2025
Dear Brother / Sister,
I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for
helping me prepare for the inter-state debate competition. Your guidance and
support greatly improved my confidence and speaking skills. Because of your
constant encouragement and valuable tips, I was able to win the first
prize. I am extremely thankful for the time and effort you invested in
me. I hope to make you proud in future competitions as well. Your help has
inspired me to work harder and achieve more.
With love and thanks,
Yours affectionately,
Bharat / Bhagya
0 Comments
Please do not enter any spam link in comment box