KARNATAKA SCHOOL EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT BOARD
Malleshwaram, Bengaluru – 560 003
S.S.L.C. MODEL QUESTION PAPER-1 – 2025-26
Subject: Second Language — ENGLISH
Subject Code: 31-E
Time: 3 Hours Max.
Marks : 80
General
Instructions to the Candidate:
1. This
question paper consists of 38 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. 4×1=4
1. Choose the appropriate question tag and
fill in the blank:
The smart phones create a lot of health
problems, ………. ?
(A) didn’t they (B) don’t they
(C) do they (D)
did they
Ans:
(B) don’t they
2. Read the given conversation and choose the
language function for the underlined sentence:
Baleshwar: I’m new to Mumbai, but I’ve
noticed that people here are afraid.
Roma: Yes, you’re right. They fear of getting
involved.
(A) Expressing agreement. (B) Giving information
(C) Accepting invitation (D) Expressing gratitude
Ans:
(A) Expressing agreement
3. Fill in the blank choosing the appropriate
‘if’ clause:
Surender : Hi, how do you feel now, Satish?
Satish : It’s been pretty bad since the last
operation on my leg.
Surender : What actually happened there in
Kashmir?
Satish : I met with an accident. I fell off a
rickety bridge over some rapids.
Surender : Very sad. If you had been a little
careful, it ……………. happened.
(A) would have (B) shall have
(C) would not have (D) will have.
Ans:
(C) would not have
4. Read the given conversation and choose the
correct infinitive:
Dhanvi : I am going to the library. I need some more
books for my studies.
Naina : That’s good. I too join with you. I have to
refer to some books.
(A) am (B)
going
(C) to refer
(D) join
Ans: (C)
to refer
II Do as directed: 12×1=12
5. Which word has two syllables?
Returning, safer, desperately, speak
Ans:
Safer
6. Fill in the blank with the appropriate
article:
Dev is working in …………. European country.
Ans:
Dev is working in a European
country.
7. Fill in the blank with the appropriate
tense form of the verbs given in brackets:
Satish
…………… (be+draw) when his father observed him.
Ans: Satish was drawing when his father observed him.
8. Change the following sentence into
positive degree:
Swami was the cleverest boy in the class.
Ans:
No other boy in the class was a clever as Swami.
9. Fill in the blank using the suitable
linker:
Raju ……… his friend were playing chess.
Ans:
Raju and his friend were
playing chess.
10. Combine the following sentences using
‘so……..that’:
The
players are very tired. They cannot play more.
11. Change the following sentence into
passive voice:
Swami caught the burglar.
Ans:
The burglar was caught by Swami.
12. Fill in the blank with the appropriate
preposition:
Don’t laugh ……. me.
Ans:
Don’t laugh at me.
13. Fill in the blank with the appropriate
form of the word given in the brackets:
They should be given good ________ (educate).
Ans:
They should be given good education.
14. Identify the parts of speech of the
underlined word:
Ravi won two gold medals this year.
Ans:
Adjectives
15. Read the following conversation and
change the underlined sentence into reported speech:
Neha: Hello Neeti, Will you send me
today’s homework?
Neeti: Yes, I will. But why were you absent
to school today?
Neha: I was a little not well, so I could
not.
Neeti: Ok, take care of yourself.
Neha asked Neeti ……………………………………………..
Ans:
Neha asked Neeti if she would send her that day’s homework.
16. Use the word ‘walk’ as a verb in your own
sentence.
Ans:
I walk to school every day.
III The following sentence has two errors. Edit the
sentence and rewrite it in the answer booklet: The clues are given below. 1×2=2
17. Swami hurried got up and spread his bed
under the bench, but crouched there.
a) Adverbial mistake to be corrected.
b) Conjunction to be corrected.
Ans:
Swami hurriedly got up and
spread his bed under the bench, and
crouched there.
IV Answer the following questions in 2 – 3 sentences
each: 7×2=14
18. Don Anselmo was passionate for his land and the
children of his village. Justify.
Ans: Don Anselmo loved his land deeply and refused to
sell more than what he owned. He also loved the village children very much and
gifted them, trees saying the land belonged to the children too.
19. Ambedkar was described as the ‘symbol of revolt’.
What made Nehru to describe so?
Ans: Nehru called Ambedkar the “symbol of revolt” because
he fought strongly against social injustice, caste discrimination, and
inequality throughout his life.
20. Smitha was successful in fulfilling her brother’s
wish. Elaborate.
Ans: Smitha fulfilled her brother
Anant’s wish by meeting Pandit Ravi Shankar and requesting him to perform a
private concert in their home so Anant could listen to his favourite musician.
21. How, according to Borok, is survival of civilization
threatened?
Ans: According to Borok, the survival of civilization is
threatened because people disrespect nature, destroy forests, pollute the
Earth, and ignore the need for harmony with the environment.
22. “You cannot put a fence around the planet Earth” Is
this tone of weakness or self-assertion? Give reason for your answer.
Ans: The tone is self-assertion because it shows that the speaker strongly
believes that Earth belongs to all and no single person has the right to
restrict natural resources.
23. Why were Babu and Manju a bit disappointed with the
way the students were marching?
Ans: Babu and Manju were disappointed because the
students were not marching in proper discipline. Their dresses, lines, and
movements were untidy and uncoordinated.
OR
Taking up mountaineering was not a difficult decision for
Dicky Dolma. Justify.
Ans: Dicky
Dolma chose mountaineering easily because she grew up among snow-covered
mountains and was mentally and physically strong.
24. In what way did the absence of mother make Hanif and
his brothers responsible?
Ans: Without their mother, Hanif and his brothers became
more responsible. They helped each other, managed their studies, and supported
their father in daily activities.
OR
How did the Bird of Happiness bring happiness to the
Tibetan villagers?
Ans: The Bird
of Happiness brought joy to villagers by granting wishes, removing their
suffering, and spreading hope and peace in the valley.
V Answer the following questions in 5 – 6 sentences each:
2×3=6
25. Write in your own words how Swami became a hero
overnight.
Ans: Swami
caught the burglar accidentally while sleeping in the hall. His loud cry woke
up his father and others, who thought Swami bravely, caught the thief.
Newspapers praised him as a courageous boy, and he became a hero overnight.
26. The physical appearance of the Jazz player does not
match when he plays on his saxophone. Explain.
Ans: The Jazz player looks tired, weak, and old, but when he plays the
saxophone, he becomes energetic and powerful. His music transforms him
completely and shows his passion and inner strength.
VI Read the following extracts and answer the questions
that follow: 4×3=12
27. “I think it’s astonishing that a stranger
would jump off a train and risk his life for me.”
a) Who does ‘I’
refer to?
Ans: ‘I’ refers to Roma
b) Who was a stranger?
Ans:
The stranger is Baleshwar.
c) How did the stranger help the speaker?
Ans:
He jumped off a running train and saved her life.
28. “Why should one man have the lives of
fifty in his hands?”
(a) Who is the speaker here?
Ans:
The speaker is the prisoner.
(b) Who does ‘one man’ refer to?
Ans:
‘One man’ refers to the king.
(c) What does the speaker mean by this
statement?
Ans:
He means no single man should control the lives of many.
29. "It is no career for a bright
boy."
a) Who made this statement?
Ans:
Louis Pasteur’s father
b) What does 'It' refer to?
Ans:
‘It’ refers to Pasteur’s hobby of painting
c) What made the speaker think so?
Ans:
He thought it was not a suitable career for a bright boy.
30. “In solitary confinement as complete as
any goal.”
(a) Who is the speaker of the above words?
Ans:
The speaker is the narrator’s grandfather.
(b) What is referred to as ‘solitary
confinement’?
Ans:
The Grandmother’s room is referred to as solitary confinement.
(c) Why does the speaker say so?
Ans:
Because she stayed alone, silent, and away from others.
VII Given below is a profile. Write a
paragraph using the clues given below: 1×3=3
31. Name :
Mr. Raghavendra
Education :
B.Sc M.Ed
Profession :
Education Officer
Age :
55 years
Height and weight: 5- 4’, 55 Kgs
Family : One son, Engineer and one daughter,
Studying MBBS
Reason for popularity : helpful, best
gardener
Hobbies : gardening, bee-keeping, coin
collection
Ans: Mr.
Raghavendra is a well-known Education Officer. He has completed his B.Sc and
M.Ed degrees. He is 55 years old and his height and weight are 5'4" and 55
kgs. He has a small and loving family. His son is an engineer and his daughter
is studying MBBS. He is very popular in his area because he is helpful and also
the best gardener. His hobbies include gardening, bee-keeping, and coin
collection. He lives a simple and disciplined life.
VIII. Develop
the story using the clues given below: 1×3=3
32. Tortoise and hare—argument—race—settle
the argument—race started—hare ran fast—slept—tortoise –slowly reached—won the
race.
Ans: Once a
tortoise and a hare argued about who could run faster. To settle the argument,
they decided to have a race. The race began and the hare ran very fast. He was
far ahead and decided to sleep. Meanwhile, the tortoise moved slowly but
steadily and did not stop. While the hare was sleeping, the tortoise crossed
him and reached the finish line. The tortoise won the race, proving that slow
and steady wins the race.
IX Study the picture given below: 1×3=3
33. Write a description or an account of what
the picture suggests to you in a paragraph.
Ans: The picture shows a busy farmer ploughing his land. The sun
is shining brightly, and the farmer is working hard under the open sky. The
field looks large and ready for cultivation. This picture reminds us of the
importance of farmers in our daily lives. They work tirelessly to grow food for
everyone. The scene shows dedication, hard work, and the beauty of rural life.
X Quote from memory : 1×4=4
34. The quality
..............................................
.......................................................................
......................................................................
................................................
that takes.
OR
You talk ........................................................
........................................................................
.........................................................................
.....................................................
or night?
Ans: The quality of mercy is not strained.
Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest;
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
It blesseth him that gives and him that
takes.
OR
You talk of wondrous things you see,
I feel him warm, but how can he that takes.
You say the sun shines bright;
Or make it day or night?
XI Read the following passage and answer the questions
that follow: 1×4=4 (2 × 2)
35. Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation
of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that
typically require human intelligence. AI encompasses various technologies like
machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics. AI systems can
analyze vast amounts of data, learn from it, and make predictions or decisions,
often exceeding human capabilities in specific tasks. AI is used in numerous
applications, including healthcare, finance, entertainment, and transportation,
with self-driving cars being a prominent example. AI can automate repetitive
tasks, improve decision-making, and enhance efficiency in various industries.
One of the main concerns about AI is the potential for job displacement due to
automation. Ethical considerations surrounding AI, such as data privacy and
bias, are also important areas of focus. The future of AI holds significant
potential for both positive transformation and challenges, requiring careful
consideration of its societal impact.
a) How is AI useful for us?
Ans:
AI is useful because it analyzes data, automates tasks, improves decision
making, and increases efficiency.
b) What is one of the main concerns about AI?
Ans:
One main concern is job displacement due to automation.
XII Answer the following question in about 8 – 10 sentences:
1×4=4
36. The behaviour of Ruskin Bond’s
grandmother is unusual. Explain.
Ans:
Ruskin Bond’s grandmother’s behaviour is unusual because she faces death with
great courage and calmness. She knows that her end is near, but she does not
show fear or sadness. Instead of lying down, she sits peacefully in prayer. She
spends her last hours telling the beads of her rosary and talking to God. She does
not complain or trouble anyone. Even when she stops talking, she continues
praying silently. She accepts death as a natural part of life. Her courage,
faith, and peaceful acceptance make her behaviour unusual and admirable.
OR
Write the summary of the poem ‘The Song of
India’.
Ans: ‘The Song of India’ is a patriotic poem
written by V.K. Gokak. In this poem, the poet praises the greatness and unity
of India. He describes India as a land of different cultures, languages, and
traditions living together peacefully. The poet remembers India’s glorious past
and rich heritage. He highlights the sacrifices of great leaders and freedom
fighters. The poem calls upon the people of India to awaken and work for the
nation’s progress. It inspires unity, love for the motherland, and a sense of
national pride.
OR
“The spirit of the little maiden saved the
life of the sailors.” Justify
Ans: The statement is true because the little
maiden showed great courage and presence of mind. During the storm at sea, the
sailors lost hope and were terrified. The maiden did not panic and encouraged
them to remain brave. She believed that God would protect them if they did not
lose faith. Her calm words gave strength and confidence to the sailors.
Inspired by her spirit, the sailors continued their efforts to control the
ship. Finally, they survived the danger. Thus, the brave spirit of the little
maiden saved the lives of the sailors.
XIII Write an essay on any one of the followings: 1×4=4
37. a) Air Pollution
Ans: Air pollution is one of the biggest
problems in the modern world. It occurs when harmful gases, smoke, and dust mix
with the air. Vehicles, factories, and burning of fossil fuels are the main
causes of air pollution. Cutting down trees also increases this problem. Air
pollution causes many diseases like asthma, cough, and lung problems. It also
affects animals and plants. The ozone layer is damaged because of polluted air.
Global warming and climate change are the results of air pollution. We should
use public transport to reduce pollution. Factories must install filters in
chimneys. Planting more trees can purify the air. We should avoid burning
plastic and waste. Clean energy sources like solar and wind power should be
used. The government and citizens must work together. Only then can we breathe
clean and fresh air.
b) Mobile Phones
Ans: Mobile phones have become an important
part of our daily life. They help us communicate easily with people anywhere in
the world. Mobile phones are useful for students in online learning. They
provide access to information through the internet. We can send messages, make
calls, and attend classes using mobile phones. However, overuse of mobile
phones is harmful. It causes eye strain, headache, and addiction. Students may
lose concentration in studies. Mobile phones also reduce face-to-face
communication. Accidents may happen due to careless use while driving. Parents
should guide children in proper use. We should use mobile phones wisely and
only when necessary. A balanced use of mobile phones is very important.
c) Social Media
Ans: Social media plays an important role in
modern society. It helps people stay connected with friends and family.
Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram are widely used. Social media
spreads information quickly. It is useful for education, business, and
entertainment. Students can learn new things through online videos and posts.
However, social media has some disadvantages. It can waste time and reduce
productivity. Fake news spreads easily through social media. Excessive use
affects mental health. Cyberbullying is also a serious issue. We must be
careful while sharing personal information. Social media should be used
responsibly. Proper use of social media can be beneficial for everyone.
XIV Write a letter using the information given below : 1×5=5
38. Imagine you are Suhas/ Saritha studying in 10th std,
Government High School, Narayanapura. Write a letter to your cousin Janaki
inviting her to attend your brother’s birthday.
Ans:
From,
Suhas / Saritha
10th Standard
Government High School
Narayanapura
18th
December 2025
Dear
Janaki,
I hope you are in good
health and spirits. I am writing this letter to invite you to attend my
brother’s birthday celebration. His birthday falls on 25th December 2025. We
have planned a small function at our house in the evening. All our relatives
and friends will be present. Your presence will make the occasion more joyful
and memorable. Please come a day earlier so that we can spend some time
together. Convey my regards to uncle and aunt. Waiting eagerly for your
arrival.
Yours
lovingly,
Sd/-
Suhas / Saritha
OR
Write a
letter to the municipal officer to provide drinking water facility in your
locality
Ans:
From,
Suhas / Saritha
10th Standard
Government High School
Narayanapura
18th December 2025
To,
The Municipal Officer
Municipal Office
Narayanapura
Respected Sir,
I
wish to draw your kind attention to the serious problem of drinking water
shortage in our locality. The residents of Narayanapura are facing great
difficulty due to irregular water supply. People have to depend on private
water tankers. Students and elderly people are the worst affected. Lack of
clean drinking water may lead to health problems. Hence, I kindly request you
to take immediate steps to provide a proper drinking water facility in our
area. I hope you will consider our problem seriously and take necessary action
at the earliest.
Thanking you.
Yours faithfully,
Sd/-
Suhas / Saritha
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