STATE LEVEL SSLC PREPARATORY EXAMINATION – 2, 2026
Subject : First Language — ENGLISH
Subject Code : 14-E Date : 27. 01. 2026
Time : 10-00 A.M. to 1-15 P.M. 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. Choose the correct alternative and
write the complete answer along with its letter of alphabet: 6x1=6
1. The soul was like a star, and dwelt apart.
The figure of speech used here is
(A) Simile (B)
Metaphor (C) Personification (D) Alliteration
Ans:
(A) Simile
2. I left ..................... luggage at
..................... railway station.
The appropriate articles to be filled in the
blanks are
(A) the, the (B)
the, a (C) a, the (D) a, a
Ans:
(A) the, the
3. She came early this morning,
......................... .
The appropriate question tag to be added here
is
(A) did she ? (B) does she ? (C)
didn’t she ? (D) doesn’t she ?
Ans:
(C) didn’t she?
4. A faithful friend
......................... us through thick and thin.
The correct form of the phrasal verb to be
filled, is
(A) stands up (B) stands against (C)
stands for (D) stands by
Ans:
(D) stands by
5. She had to travel ......................
air.
The suitable preposition to be filled in the
blank is
(A) by (B)
from (C) in (D) at
Ans:
by
6. She suddenly ...................... that
she was travelling in the wrong direction.
The correct form of the verb to be filled in
the blank is
(A) realize (B)
realized (C) realizes (D) realizing
Ans:
(B) realized
II. Observe the relationship and complete the pair 4x1=4
7. Array : Range :: Paradigm :
...................... .
8. Medicine produces insensibility :
Anaesthetic :: Disease of old age : ............ .
9. Rain : Reign :: Tear :
........................ .
10. Overcome : Succumb :: Sufficient :
................... .
Ans:
7.
Array : Range :: Paradigm : Model
.
8.
Medicine produces insensibility : Anaesthetic :: Disease of old age : Senility .
9.
Rain : Reign :: Tear : Tare .
10.
Overcome : Succumb :: Sufficient : Insufficient
.
III. Rewrite as directed 3x1=3
11. Change the voice of the following
sentence :
The people cheered the king.
Ans:
The king was cheered by the people.
12. Frame a question to get the underlined
word as answer :
Madhavi
received praise and reward.
Ans: Who did receive praise and reward?
13.Change the following Assertive sentence
into Exclamatory sentence:
It is really an excellent opportunity.
Ans: What an
excellent opportunity it is!
IV. Answer in a sentence each 4x1=4
14. Where did Miep find Anne’s diary?
Ans:
Miep found Anne’s diary on the floor of the Secret Annex after the arrest.
15. What are Civil Societies?
Ans:
Civil societies are groups formed by people to work for social welfare and
public good.
16. Who opens the door of the cake when
Pierre knocks on it for the first time?
Ans:
Mr. Gaultier, the owner of the cake shop opens the door when Pierre knocks on
it for the first time.
17.
What does the expression “picked up hands and jaws” suggest?
Ans: It suggests shock and surprise shown by
people through their expressions and actions.
V. Answer in two to three sentences each
18. Why were the three batsmen running for a
run?
Ans:
The three batsmen were running because they wanted to score a run quickly. They
thought they had a chance before the ball reached the wicket.
19. What are the advertisers and marketing
professionals working at?
Ans:
Advertisers and marketing professionals are working at influencing people’s
choices and promoting products through attractive ideas and media.
20. How does the poet contrast the death of
the male and the female cranes?
Ans:
The poet shows that the male crane dies suddenly due to the hunter’s arrow,
while the female crane dies slowly in sorrow and loneliness.
21. What must every individual resign
themselves to?
Ans:
Every individual must resign themselves to the reality of death and the
temporary nature of life.
22. Why does the speaker resent the wall?
What does he want?
Ans:
The speaker resents the wall because it creates separation between neighbours.
He wants friendship and openness instead of barriers.
23. How did Jim come to know about the
treacherous plan?
Ans:
Jim came to know about the treacherous plan by overhearing the conspirators and
understanding their secret intentions.
24. How did Ulysses
introduce himself and his group to the cyclop ?
Ans: Ulysses introduced himself and his group as travelers
who had lost their way and were seeking food and shelter.
VI. Rewrite as directed 3x2=6
25. Combine the following sentences using :
a) As soon as
b) No sooner .................... than.
We reached the station. The train left away.
Ans:
a) As soon as we reached the station, the train left.
b)
No sooner did we reach the station than the train left.
26. Write the other two degrees of comparison
:
Monalisa is one of the greatest paintings.
Ans:
Positive: Very few paintings are as great as Monalisa
Comparative:
Monalisa is greater than many other paintings.
27. Change the following sentence to reported
speech :
I asked Susan, “Do you have any idea of teaching ?”
Ans: I asked Susan if she had any idea of
teaching.
VII. Answer in five to six sentences each 6x3=18
28. How did German audience respond to the
tragic play of Anne Frank?
Ans: The German
audience was deeply moved by the tragic play of Anne Frank. They listened with
silence and respect. Many people felt guilty remembering the cruelty of the
Nazis. Some even cried while watching the suffering of Anne’s family. The play
helped them understand the pain caused by war and hatred. It created sympathy
and a desire for peace.
29. According to Basavanna, how does a poor
man and rich man express their devotion to God ?
Ans: Basavanna
says a poor man worships God through devotion and sincere prayer because he has
nothing else to offer. A rich man may build temples and make big offerings.
However, Basavanna believes true devotion comes from a pure heart. Honest work
and kindness are more important than wealth. God values sincerity more than
riches.
30. Why did Wordsworth say that moving the
boat is an act of stealth ? Why was he guilty of his act ?
Ans: Wordsworth
called moving the boat an act of stealth because he took it without permission.
He felt he was doing something wrong secretly. Though he only wanted to enjoy
nature, he later felt guilty. The huge mountain frightened him and made him
realise his mistake. The experience taught him respect for nature and
responsibility.
31. Explain why and how Buttoo learnt by
himself ?
Ans: Buttoo
learnt by himself because he was denied formal training. He watched others
carefully and practised regularly. He used determination and hard work to
improve his skills. Even without a teacher, he mastered archery. His
self-learning shows strong dedication and confidence.
32. How and why did Indra approach Karna ?
Ans: Indra
approached Karna disguised as a poor Brahmin. He wanted Karna’s divine armour
and earrings to protect his son Arjuna. Karna was famous for generosity and
never refused anyone. Though he knew the truth, he gave away his protection.
This act showed his bravery and noble character.
33. When Gandhi
quotes Shakespeare, what argument does he want to strengthen ?
Ans: When
Gandhi quotes Shakespeare, he wants to strengthen his belief that mercy and
kindness are powerful. He argues that forgiveness is greater than revenge. He
uses literature to show that moral values are universal. His words encourage
people to choose peace and humanity over violence.
VIII. Explain with reference to the context 5x3=15
34. “Wait a moment ! I shall come with you.”
Ans:
Lesson:
A wrong man in workers’ paradise
Author:
Rabindranath Tagore
Context:
These words were said by the girl of the silent torrent to the idle man when he
was sent out of the workers’ paradise, love the art and hence decided to go
with the idle man.
35. “Please God make him think I am still
pretty.”
Ans:
Lesson:
Gift of Magi
Author:
O Henry
Context:
These words were said by Della to herself. Della loves Jim so much that she
only thinks about what Jim will feel once she sees him without her hair.
36. “You may break ; you may shatter the vase
if you will, but the scent of roses will linger there still ...”
Ans:
Lesson:
Eyes are not here
Author:
Ruskin Bond
Context: These lines
are spoken by the young girl who is travelling in the train. She says this to
express her positive and cheerful nature while talking to the narrator. Even
though she is about to get down at the next station, she leaves behind a sweet
and lasting impression on him. The narrator feels happy and remembers her
pleasant voice and kind words even after she leaves the train. The lines
suggest that physical presence may end, but the beauty of a person’s character
and memories remain for a long time. It also highlights the theme of inner
beauty and emotional connection in the story.
37. “He rode all unarm’d and he rode all
alone.”
Ans:
Poem:
Lochinvar
Poet:
Sir Walter Scott
Context: These lines
describe the brave and confident hero, Lochinvar. He rides alone and without
any armour to the castle of Netherby to win back his beloved Ellen, who is
being forced to marry another man. His action shows his courage, determination,
and fearless nature. Even though he knows there may be danger, he does not
hesitate to face it. The lines highlight Lochinvar’s bold character and
introduce him as a true romantic hero who relies on his bravery rather than
weapons or support from others.
38.
“If we should meet,
She would pass by me in the street,
Ans:
Poem:
CLM
Poet:
John Masefield
Context:
The poet is talking about his mother who is dead and reveals that he longs to
see her alive. The poet brings out the sadness of the situation when he says
the above lines. If his mother would happen to meet him as a passerby, she, his
own mother would be unable to recognize him because he has now grown into an
adult.
IX. Quote from memory : 1 × 4 = 4
39. I was
...............................................
........................................................
........................................................
..........................................
did grow.
Ans:
I was
angry with my friend,
I told my wrath, my wrath did end;
I was angry with my foe,
I told it not, my wrath did grow.
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 to eight
sentences each : 3 × 4 = 12
40. What does Abraham Lincoln want his son to
be taught, to make him a positive and optimistic person ?
Ans: Abraham
Lincoln wants his son to learn honesty, courage and kindness. He wants him to
know that not all people are good but there are heroes too. He should learn to
work hard and believe in himself. Lincoln advises him to be gentle with gentle
people and tough with tough ones. He should not follow the crowd blindly. He
must learn to enjoy books and nature. Lincoln also wants him to be optimistic
and confident. These values help him grow into a positive person.
41. The rain fed tanks are cheering sights.
Explain.
Ans: Rain-fed tanks
collect and store rainwater and support agriculture. They help farmers during
dry seasons. They maintain groundwater levels and protect the environment.
Birds and animals depend on them. They improve village life and provide water
for daily needs. They are examples of traditional wisdom. Hence they are called
cheering sights.
OR
Why does Gandhi say that a moral act should
be done without compulsion ?
Ans:
Gandhi says a moral act must come
from one’s own conscience. If people are forced, it loses its value. True
goodness comes from inner belief. Compulsion creates fear, not honesty.
Voluntary action shows real character. Moral acts should be done with love and
understanding. Only then can society become truly ethical.
42. “All the research which he did in his
laboratories was meant to help his fellow human beings.” Elucidate.
Ans:
The scientist worked in laboratories
to serve humanity. His inventions aimed to reduce suffering and improve living
conditions. He believed science must help common people. His research solved
practical problems. He did not seek fame but wanted social benefit. His work
inspired others to use knowledge responsibly. Thus, his research was dedicated
to human welfare.
OR
Write a short note on the views expressed by
the writer on the tragic comedy of development. Why does he call it tragic
comedy?
Ans:
The writer calls development a
tragic comedy because progress often harms nature and people. Big projects
promise growth but cause displacement. Forests and villages disappear.
Technology improves life but increases inequality. People celebrate development
yet suffer its effects. This contradiction makes it tragic and comic at the
same time. The writer warns about careless modernisation.
X. Answer in seven to eight sentences each 3x4=12
43. On Thursday the 12th of January my class had the
great fortune to visit the famous Parle Glucose Biscuit factory of Ville Parle.
The glorious aroma of the factory was absolutely captivating and most
appetising to say the least. We arrived at the factory as scheduled at 9.00
a.m. and we were warmly welcomed by the Manager, Mr. Desai. His assistant led
us to guided tour of the factory. The sweet scent within the factory made our
mouths full of water which became more so when we saw thousands of baked
biscuits heading our way on a conveyer belt coming out of the oven. A team of
white clad staff members wearing gloves was busy tending to the newly baked
biscuits. When we had finished our round of the factory, Mr. Desai treated us
to a nice little party with freshly baked warm biscuits and drinks. He
presented us with a box of biscuits for our Principal. We bade him a very
grateful good-bye and returned to school.
Questions :
a) What made their mouths full of water ?
Ans:
Their mouths watered because of the sweet smell and sight of freshly baked
biscuits moving on the conveyor belt.
b) How did Mr. Desai treat them ?
Ans:
Mr. Desai treated them warmly. He
welcomed them and arranged a guided tour. After the visit, he gave them a small
party with biscuits and drinks. He spoke kindly and answered questions. He also
presented a box of biscuits for their Principal. The students felt happy and
honoured. They thanked him before leaving.
XII. Write an essay of about 18-20 sentences on any one
of the following topics :1 × 5
= 5
44. a) Advantages of technology in India.
Ans: Technology
has changed life in India in many positive ways. It has improved communication
through mobile phones and the internet. Students can learn online and access
digital libraries. Farmers use technology for better irrigation and weather
updates. Hospitals use modern machines to treat patients effectively. Online
banking makes financial work easy and fast. Businesses grow through digital
marketing and e-commerce. Government services are now available online, saving
time. Technology creates many new jobs for youth. Transport systems have become
faster and safer. People can connect with others across the world. Information
spreads quickly through social media. Smart classrooms help teachers explain
lessons clearly. Technology also supports scientific research and innovation.
It improves entertainment through movies and games. However, people must use it
wisely and avoid overdependence. Digital education reduces inequality in rural
areas. Technology helps India grow economically and socially. Thus, it plays a
major role in modern development.
b)
The high cost of global warming.
Ans: Global warming is one of the biggest
problems faced by the world today. It is mainly caused by pollution,
deforestation, and the burning of fossil fuels. The temperature of the Earth is
increasing year by year. This rise in temperature leads to melting glaciers and
rising sea levels. Many coastal areas are in danger of flooding because of this
change. Farmers also suffer because irregular rainfall destroys crops. Animals
lose their natural habitats and some species become endangered. Global warming
causes extreme weather like floods, droughts, and cyclones. These disasters
result in huge financial losses for countries. People also lose their homes and
sometimes even their lives. Health problems such as heat strokes and
respiratory diseases are increasing. Poor countries suffer more because they
have fewer resources to recover. Governments spend large amounts of money on
disaster relief and rebuilding. Industries and businesses are also affected due
to climate changes. Tourism decreases in places damaged by natural disasters. Global
warming also leads to shortage of food and clean water. Future generations may
face serious environmental challenges. Therefore, it is important to reduce
pollution and plant more trees. People must use renewable energy and save
natural resources. If everyone works together, we can reduce the high cost of
global warming and protect our planet.
XIII. 45. Imagine
you are Veena / Venugopal of Government High School, Mysore. 1 × 5 = 5
Write
a letter to the Commissioner of Mysore, highlighting the need of a Public Park in
your locality.
Ans:
From :
Veena / Venugopal
Government High School
Mysore
Date : 12 February 2026
To :
The Commissioner
Mysore City Corporation
Mysore
Subject : Need for a Public Park in Our Locality
Respected Sir/Madam,
I
am a student of Government High School, Mysore, and a resident of my locality.
I am writing this letter to bring to your kind notice the need for a public
park in our area. Our locality has many children and elderly people, but there
is no safe and clean place for recreation or exercise. Children are forced to
play on busy roads, which is dangerous. Senior citizens also find it difficult
to go far for a morning walk. A public park will provide a healthy environment
and encourage people to stay active. It will also help in improving the beauty
and cleanliness of our area. Trees and plants in the park will reduce pollution
and give fresh air to residents. Therefore, I kindly request you to take necessary
steps to establish a public park in our locality at the earliest.
Thank you.
Yours
faithfully,
Veena / Venugopal
Government High School, Mysore
OR
Imagine you are Raksha / Rakshitha, studying in
Government High School,
Karwar.
Write
a letter to your friend describing the various club activities conducted in
your
school.
Ans:
Raksha / Rakshitha
Government High School
Karwar
12 February 2026
Dear Friend,
I hope you are fine and doing well in your studies.
I am very happy to share with you the various club activities conducted in our
school. We have an Eco Club that teaches us to protect nature and plant trees.
The Literary Club helps us improve our reading, writing, and speaking skills
through debates and essay competitions. Our Science Club conducts simple
experiments and encourages us to think creatively. The Sports Club trains
students in games like volleyball, kho-kho, and athletics to keep us healthy
and active. We also have a Cultural Club where we practice dance, music, and
drama for school programmes. These clubs help us learn new skills and build
confidence. I enjoy participating in many activities and learning new things
with my friends.
Please write back and tell
me about the activities in your school.
Yours lovingly,
Sd/-
Raksha / Rakshitha
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