Me n Mine English Core Xii First Term Solution

- 2 -

CONTENTSSECTION A—READING

Unseen Passages (1 to 31) .......................................................................................................... 03

SECTION B—ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS

Short Composition (Advertisements) ....................................................................................... 21Short Composition (Notices) ...................................................................................................... 22Short Composition (Posters) ...................................................................................................... 26Short Composition (Invitations) ................................................................................................ 29Short Composition (Replies to Invitations) ............................................................................ 31Report or Factual Description (Events or Experiences) ................................................... 32Report or Factual Description (Processes) ........................................................................... 34Report or Factual Description (Reports for School Magazines) ...................................... 34Report or Factual Description (Reports for Newspapers) ................................................ 36Letter Writing (Business/Official Letters) .............................................................................. 39Letter Writing (Informal Letters) ............................................................................................. 40Letter Writing (Letters to Editors) .......................................................................................... 41Letter Writing (Applications for a Job) .................................................................................. 44Letter Writing (Letters to School Authorities) ...................................................................... 47Long Composition (Articles for School Magazines) ............................................................. 49Long Composition (Speeches) ................................................................................................... 51Long Composition (Speech/Article) .......................................................................................... 54Long Composition (Debate) ........................................................................................................ 56

SECTION C—LITERATURE TEXTBOOKS & LONG READING TEXTS

FLAMINGO (ENGLISH READER)My Mother at Sixty-Six .................................................................................................................. 59An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum ............................................................................ 60Keeping Quiet ................................................................................................................................. 61A Thing of Beauty ........................................................................................................................... 61Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers .................................................................................................................. 62The Last Lesson ............................................................................................................................. 63Lost Spring ...................................................................................................................................... 65Deep Water ...................................................................................................................................... 69The Rattrap ..................................................................................................................................... 71Indigo ................................................................................................................................................ 77Going Places .................................................................................................................................... 79

VISTAS (SUPPLEMATARY READER)The Tiger King ................................................................................................................................ 82The Enemy ...................................................................................................................................... 85Should Wizard Hit Mommy? ........................................................................................................ 90On the Face of It ............................................................................................................................. 93Evans Tries an O-Level ................................................................................................................. 94Memories of Childhood ................................................................................................................. 97

NOVELSLord of the Flies/The Hound of the Baskervilles ..................................................................... 99

•••••PRACTICE PAPERS (1 to 5) .................................................................................................... 105

3GNIDAER SLLIKS

UNSEEN PASSAGES

WORKSHEET–1

1.1 (a) Rising prices have burnt holes in the pockets of the common man. There is noimmediate hope of relief as inflation shows no sign of decreasing or coming down.

(b) Rising prices would make the task of containing inflation a more difficult exercise. Itwill hurt economic growth and reform process.

(c) The suggestion was to impose control on food products and essential commodities torein in the increasing rates. The Prime Minister ruled it out. He also did not favourdepressing agriculture’s terms of trade as it would hurt farmer’s welfare as well asthe long term growth of economy.

(d) The price rise may deal another blow to the Indo-US nuclear deal. The risinginflation with its political fall out could sap the Manmohan Singh government’s willto push the contentious deal. It is already on the backburner and could slip furtheroff the agenda as the price rise threatens to spoil the good opinion people had of thebudget.

(e) The price-rise is hurting Congress and its allies in UPA and the Left. The coalitionmay pull on. Opposition NDA may derive some traction whereas regional partiesmay grow at the expense of the Congress party in several states.

1.2 (a) Leverage (b) Adventurism

WORKSHEET–2

1.1 Title: Various Uses of KitesNotes:

1. Strange Reasons for flying Kites(a) Chinese—to keep away evil spirits(b) Tibetan—to bring rain

2. Use of Kites in modern times(a) met. invest’s(b) sc’fic expt.—Benjamin Franklin: lightning caused by elec.(c) Sending up inst’s on kites to measure(i) air pressure

(ii) temp(iii) speed(iv) direction(v) humidity

3. Use of Kites by armed forces(a) as line across a stream—form’g bridge(b) to help distressed ships at sea in rough weather

READING SKILLSREADING SKILLSREADING SKILLSREADING SKILLSREADING SKILLSAAAAA

4 RO EE N G L S CI –H XII

(c) as gunnery targets(i) easy to make

(ii) cheap to use(iii) stand a lot of punishment

(d) flying flags for aerial photography(e) during night fighting(f) raising transmitting & receiving aerials(g) kite flare—survival equip’t for airmen at sea(h) not useful in jungle warfare

1.2 Summary: Kites are used in modern times for meteorological investigations. Instrumentson kites measure air pressure, temperature, speed, direction and humidity. The armedforces use kites for various purposes, e.g. carrying a line across the stream to form abridge or at sea to help distressed ship; as gunnery targets or for flying flags for aerialphotography. Kites are helpful during night fighting for carrying men over enemy linesand dragging torpedoes. They help in obtaining improved wireless reception by raisingtransmitting and receiving signals. ‘Kite flare’ was used as survival equipment for airmenforced down at sea.

WORKSHEET–3

1.1 (a) R.K. Pachauri, an environmental expert, is known for his efforts to spread awarenessabout global warming and its effects on earth’s ecosystems and various species. He is theChairman of IPCC and has won Nobel Prize for Peace in 2007.

(b) Planet Earth is warming up steadily because of human activities. Emission of gases likecarbon dioxide by burning fossil fuels leads to heat being trapped by the atmosphere.This heat will cause heat waves, droughts, floods, glaciers melting rapidly, serious waterstresses and extinction of many species.

(c) (i) Our low-lying areas could get submerged. Sea-level rise is a threat to Sunderbans.(ii) There may be heavy downpours frequently and more intensely.

(iii) Rapid melting of glaciers may affect flow of water in the rivers in the northernparts of India.

(d) Global warming can be reversed by bringing down the emissions of gases to belowzero and finding ways to absorb existing carbon dioxide. It requires a political willand public awareness.

(e) Some countries do so because they sell fossil fuels.

1.2 (a) conspiracy (b) vested interests

WORKSHEET–4

1.1 Title: Self-MedicationNotes:

1. Introduction(a) Self-med.—part of normal living(b) advance in diag tech.—last 100 yrs.(c) medic’l expert rqd. for diag. & treat. of disease acc. to symptoms/cause

2. Advancement in Medi’ Sc.(a) deve. of drug therapy(b) impvt. in pub. health org’s & nutri’l standards

5GNIDAER SLLIKS

3. Counter Trends(a) Advertising by pharma’l companies

(i) lures the patients for overuse of drugs(ii) induces faith in chronic patients

(iii) encourages self-medi’n in minor illnesses like cough/cold, etc.e.g. many prep’tn like laxatives, tonic, painkillers found in quantity inhouseholds

(b) Emergence of sedentary society(i) faulty lifestyle

(ii) lack of exercise, overeating, insuff ’t sleep etc.(iii) stress, unhappy rela’ps etc.

4. Dangers of Self-medi’n(a) prep’n contain unsuitable ingre(b) taker becomes dependent(c) taker consumes medi. in excess(d) prep’ns may cause poison’g(e) real cause of illness gets suppressed or untreated

1.2 Summary: Self-medication is part of normal living. Medicinal experts are required fordiagnosis and treatment of disease according to symptoms and cause. The development ofdrug therapy and improvement in public health organisations and nutritional standardshave helped progress in medicinal science. Excessive advertising by pharmaceuticalcompanies and emergence of the sedantary society are two counter trends. Self-medicationis dangerous as the preparation may be toxic or contain unsuitable ingredients, the userbecomes dependent and consumes medicine in excess. Self-diagnosis is worse thanself-medication.

WORKSHEET–5

1.1 (a) Air is essential for our life. We have to breathe in over 10,000 litres of air in a day tokeep alive.

(b) Most of us spend ninety per cent of our time indoors—in homes or offices. The air webreathe indoors may also be polluted and cause ill health. So we should pay attention tothe quality of air we breathe indoors.

(c) The important sources of indoor air pollution are:(i) Tobacco smoke

(ii) Animal dusts(iii) Air conditioners(iv) Moulds, bacteria(v) House dust mites

(vi) Cooking and heating(vii) Toxic chemicals

(viii) Asbestos(d) ETS stands for Environmental Tobacco Smoke or “passive smoking”. It causes all the

harms of tobacco smoking to non-smokers for example, the children of smoking parentssuffer from respiratory problems. There is an increased risk of lung cancer among womenexposed to passive smoking.


(e) We must first identify the allergen and then prevent exposure to them. Use ofvacuum cleaners, exposure to sun, washing linen in warm water and cleaningcoolers, air-conditioners etc. are some of the important steps to minimise allergies.

1.2 (a) contaminate (b) unequivocally (c) humidifiers

WORKSHEET–6

1.1 Title: Advantages of WorkOr

Work—a Source of HappinessNotes:1. Work: source of unhappiness

1.1 irksome work1.2 excess of w’k: painful

2. Work: source of happiness2.1 w’k less painful than idleness2.2 delights of work:

2.2.1 relief of tedium to deep delight2.2.2 nature of w’k2.2.3 ability of worker

3. Advantages of work3.1 fills leisure intelligently

3.1.1 saves from troublesome ex. of choice3.1.2 prevents boredom3.1.3 uninteresting work as boring as no work

3.2 holidays more delicious3.3 gives chances of success

3.3.1 success measured in terms of money3.4 opportunities for ambition

3.4.1 dull w’k—bearable if it builds reputation3.5 continuity of purpose—comes through w’k.

1.2 Summary: Much work which is irksome or excess of work is painful. But work is less painfulthan idleness. The delights of work varying from relief of tedium to deep delight depend onnature of work and ability of worker. Work in itself may not be interesting but it offers manyadvantages such as filling leisure intelligently, preventing boredom and saving from thetroublesome exercise of choice. Work makes holidays more delicious, provides chances ofsuccess and opportunities for ambition. Continuity of purpose, essential for happiness, comesthrough work.

WORKSHEET–7

1.1 (a) Stress is a reaction of the body to any demands or changes in its internal andexternal environment. Factors such as imbalance between demands and resourceschange in temperature, pollutants, humidity and working conditions lead to stress.

(b) No, stress has a different meaning depending on the stage of life. For a child arebuke or loss of a toy causes stress. An adolescent may feel tense after failing in theexamination. For an adult loss of job or a dear one causes stress.

7GNIDAER SLLIKS

(c) (i) Change in the attitude and behaviour(ii) muscle tension

(iii) palpitation, high blood pressure, indigestion and hyperacidity(iv) depression, lethargy, weakness for work.

(d) (i) heart diseases (iv) hypertension(ii) neurological depression (v) insomnia

(iii) ulcers (vi) injuries due to accidents(e) (i) Self-inner control—faith in oneself, usefulness of job and in super power.

(ii) Use of stress modifiers or stress busters

1.2 (a) wreck (b) injuries due to accidents lethargy (c) threshold

WORKSHEET–8

1.1 Title: Headache

Notes: HEADACHE

↓ DEFN

Orig. nerves Pain base of skull

↓behind eyes

TYPES OF HEADACHE

↓ ↓

TENSION H. ACHE MIGRAINE H. ACHE

SYMPTOMS band of pain – pain head one side –head, neck, shoulder nausea, irritability

CAUSES drivg certain foodstypg smokgsit’g Gen.

DURATION short 8-24 hrs.possible hangover

GENERAL CAUSES RELIEF ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓Harmonal Envtl. Stress Spinal Short Term Long Term

Imbalances misalignment

Poor posture in sitting/ Visit doc.sleeping ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓

ice dark fluid painpack glasses intake killers

1.2 Abstraction/Summary: Headache originates in the nerves and pain signals are sent to thebrain. There are different kinds of headache. Tension headache is usually felt like a band inthe head radiating to the nape of the neck and shoulders. It may be due to long hours of


sitting at a desk, typing or driving. It is usually short. Migraine headache is characterizedby pain on one side of the head and other symptoms like nausea, irritability etc. Causescould be varied ranging from hormonal imbalance to stress. Short term relief can beacquired through painkillers, ice-packs, fluid intake and use of dark glasses. However, adoctor should be consulted.

WORKSHEET–9

1.1 (a) It has revealed that Ozone has declined in the stratosphere. The losses range aroundten per cent in winter and spring and around five per cent during summer andautumn. The affected areas are as widespread as Europe, Australia and NorthAmerica.

(b) Ozone absorbs damaging ultraviolet rays and checks the flow of harmful radiation toearth. The accumulation of pollutant gases in the upper atmosphere alters the passage ofsun’s heat energy and rays to and from the earth.

(c) The stratospheric Ozone above Antarctica disappears during September. The hole whichlasts for two months only measures about 9 million miles—nearly the size of NorthAmerica.

(d) The ultraviolet radiation causes skin cancer, eye-injury, harm to immune system andupsets the balance of entire eco-system.

(e) Trapping/absorbing of sun’s heat and reflecting it back to earth results in green-houseeffect, leading to global warming. The earth may warm up by four degrees celcius overthe next five decades.

1.2 (a) incidences (b) potential (c) proliferate

WORKSHEET–10

1.1 Title: Charity Hospital for BirdsNotes:1. Place & Origin

1.1 Locn. : Corner of Ch. Chowk1.2 Founder : Lala Lachumal Jain (1929)1.3 Growth : 1929—1 room struc.

1957—pres. bldg.1.4 Facilities : upto 1968—ayurvedic treatment

: from 1968—allopathy introduced: from 1992—path lab tests & surgery

2. Procedure of treatment:People bring injured birds

↓entry in register

↓Name of person, kind of bird, date

↓Ailing bird adm. first-aid

↓Kept in iso. cage

9GNIDAER SLLIKS

↓Moved to comm. sec.

↓Allowed to fly away

3. Resources Charity

bus. men visitors tourists

4. Uniqueness4.1 charitable—no govt. funds4.2 free of cost trtmt—4000 to 5000 birds/day4.3 expenditure: ` 6-7 lakhs annually

5. Drawbacks5.1 carnivorous & pets excluded5.2 locn. inaccessible5.3 no research wk.

1.2 Abstraction/Summary: A charitable hospital for birds was begun in 1929 in a one roomstructure. It caters to hurt and injured birds excluding carnivorous birds and pets. Funds areprovided by rich businessmen, visitors and tourists. After making entry in a register the birdis treated and kept in an isolated cage. Later it is transferred to the common pool and thenallowed to fly away. Though allopathic treatment is available, there are still certain drawbacks.The place is inaccessible and no research facilities are available.

WORKSHEET–11

1.1 (a) Dioxin, an organochlorine, belonging to the family of Persistent Organic Pollutants(POPs) is produced. It causes cancer.

(b) Converting garbage into energy to produce 25 megawatts of power and swallow 1,000tonnes of garbage everyday. Incineration simply changes risky waste from solidform to air, water and ash.

(c) (i) Hydrochloric acid attacks respiratory system, skin and eyes and results incoughing, vomiting and nausea.

(ii) Polyethylene produces volatile carcinogens like formal-dehyde and acetaldehydewhich cause cancer.

(iii) Breathing styrene from polystyrene can cause leukaemia.(iv) Polyurethane is linked with asthma.(v) Dioxin disrupts hormones, causes birth defects and reproductive problems.

(d) (i) Exorbitantly expensive to operate.(ii) release of dioxin is highest from incinerators.

(e) Nearly 80% of Indian garbage is recyclable or compostable.

1.2 (a) garbage (b) gobble (c) conventional.

WORKSHEET–12

1.1 Title: Machines and CivilizationNotes:

1. Third great defect of our civiliz.(i) lack of knowl.

(a) to use mach. (b) to manage mach.


2. Mach. more like rulers/masters(i) sh. be kept at rt. temp. (ii) sh. be fed/kept properly

(a) or ref to work/blow up3. More time & energy avail.

(a) used up to make better mach. (b) time & energy sh. be used to bec. bettercivilised

4. Mach. as aids to civiliz.(i) exploring universe (ii) making civiliz. everlasting

(iii) Civiliz. is(a) making beaut. things (b) living rightly (c) maint. justice equally

1.2 Summary: The great defect in present civilization is that it does not make proper use ofknowledge given by science. Machines were made by man to serve him as servants but theyare now becoming masters and man has become dependent upon them. The time and energysaved by machines can be used to make our civilization great and everlasting. We can explorethe universe and remove the causes of quarrels between nations. Machines can help ineradicating poverty.

WORKSHEET–13

1.1 (a) The only way to contain SARS till now is by quarantining the affected person. By keepingthe SARS infected person away from others, the disease is prevented from spreading.

(b) The SARS virus has evaded all attempts to identify it. The incubation period of virusbeing 10 days, passengers are requested to report if they develop symptoms within 12days of arrival. Screening of all passengers is impossible because of the large numberand time consuming diagnostic tests.

(c) The major cause of SARS infection is through close contact. It is transmitted by inhalingcough droplets, or through an object contaminated with body fluids from an infectedperson. It may be transmitted through air as well, because the coronavirus can survive inthe environment for upto 24 hours.

(d) Good infection control can contain the outbreak of SARS. Simple precautions such asusing masks, gloves, gowns and goggles, in order to avoid direct physical contact with theSARS infected person, can be quite effective.

(e) At present, there is no cure available for SARS virus. The use of combination of anti-viraltreatments and antibiotics have met with only partial success. A drug with anti-viralproperties developed from the green mussel is found effective against many respiratoryviruses and is being tested against coronavirus now. The development of proper drug andits test on cell cultures may take time.

1.2 (a) surveillance (b) mutate (c) virulent

WORKSHEET–14

1.1 Notes:1. Second Chance Edn.

(a) Motives:(i) Serious: love for lrg.,

(ii) Ordinary:1. Promotions 2. Better job/marriage

2. Scope of Dis. Edn.(a) No replacem’t of formal Edn.

11GNIDAER SLLIKS

(b) Parameters widen’g(i) lesson packets (ii) interactions—p.c.p.—responses: 2-way process

(iii) audio/video tapes: electronic media3. Diff. in Attitudes

(a) Formal Edn.—obl’g parents/appeas’g trs. (b) Dis. Edn.—disciplin’d & motivat’d4. Society & Dist. Edn.

(a) social purpose—safety valve(b) jobs & degrees

(i) formal edn—more unemp’d (ii) dist. edn.—more empl’d5. Quality of Edn. & Institutes

(a) check diln. of stand’s (b) no comm’n

1.2 Title: Role & Scope of Distance EducationSummary: Distance education is second chance education. The serious minded have lovefor learning while promotion in jobs or better prospects in job/marriage market drives theordinary pursuers. It is not a replacement of formal education. Its parameters are widening.From sending lesson packets it has come to audio and video tapes. Responses andinteractions in personal contact programmes make it a two-way process. Disciplined andmotivated students earn, learn and serve society. Commercialisation and dilution ofstandards should be effectively checked.

WORKSHEET–15

1.1 (a) Allergy is a disease. Allergy is caused by hypersensitivity to certain substances(antigens or allergens). Allergies are triggered off by what one breathes, eats ortouches.

(b) Antibodies combine with specific foreign materials to neutralise them. Antibodies aredefensive in nature against bacteria and viruses.

(c) Allergy may be inherited from parents. If both the parents are allergic, the children willbecome allergic in the ratio of 3 : 1. In case only one parent comes from an allergic family,the chances for allergy in the children will be reduced to 2 : 1.

(d) The two common allergies of the respiratory system are hayfever and asthma.(e) Digestive system allergies are triggered off by drugs and foods.

1.2 (a) neutralise (b) symptoms (c) sensitivity

WORKSHEET–16

1.1 Notes:1. Physical Envt.

(a) conducive to focus thought(i) identify distract’g factors (ii) no concentrat’n in envt. full of distract’n

(b) Focus–attn. & retn. powers at optm. levels(i) soft music—blocks outside noise

(ii) study table—away from window—visual distract’n.2. Fixing Goals & Targets

(a) Estg. goals for self—no gen’l targets(b) focused system—thoughts & goals in line(c) schedules of study/recn.

(i) mix’g subjs.—like/dislike (ii) ret’g enj’le subjs to last pn


3. Timing(a) 40 mts at a stretch(b) short break:

(i) bld. concentrat’n (ii) refresh mind(c) longer relaxation—undesired effects

4. Concentration(a) disciplining the mind:

(i) practice (ii) patience(b) +ve thkg.—no disheartening

1.2 Title: Enhancing ConcentrationSummary: For enhancing concentration, the physical environment should be conduciveto focus thought. One should first identify the distracting factors as there can be noconcentration in an environment full of distraction. For focussing thought, attention andretention powers must work at optimum levels. Soft music blocks outside noise. Studytable away from window checks visual distraction. Fixing goals helps to achieve focusedsystem. Schedule of study and recreation also helps. Have a short break after concentratingfor 40 minutes. Concentration disciplines the mind through practice and patience. Havepositive thoughts and avoid being disheartened.

WORKSHEET–17

1.1 (a) Modern woman is a self-directed and dignity conscious person who is rational inapproach and careful in handling.

(b) Women’s empowerment and participation is necessary for finding durable solutionto society’s most threatening social, economic and political problems.

(c) The two benefits from education of girls are:1. narrowing down the prevailing inequality.2. accelerating the process of economic and political change in the status of

women.(d) The factors which have affected the education of girls adversely are:

1. prevailing cultural norms of gender behaviour and the perceived domestic andreproductive roles of women.

2. negative attitudes towards sending girls to schools, restrictions on mobilityspecially after puberty, early marriage, poverty and illiteracy of parents.

(e) Women empowerment can help the community by providing sustainable development.1.2 (a) domain (b) luxury (c) inculcate

WORKSHEET–18

1.1 Title: Innovation for GrowthNotes:

1. India lag’g behind in innovat’n: reasons(a) lack of thinkers/innovators(b) too late to realize/acknowledge their achvt.

2. Position of India(a) Storehouse of int’l capital

(i) NASA (ii) Microsoft (iii) IBM

13GNIDAER SLLIKS

(b) Know’ge not used properly(i) identify’g & promot’g talent

(ii) pr’dg proper opportunities, atmosphere & technology3. Innovation & Role of Industry

(a) Innovat’n—lifeline to exist in business(b) thrust on R & D(c) R & D—neglected sphere:

(i) minimum expenditure (ii) long term gains4. Human Contribution Factor

(a) India—abundant natural resources(b) comb’g resources with tech’gy & innovat’n—better economy(c) human zeal & contribut’n(d) India—infn. rich country—know’ge tested—put to use(e) goals ach’d through creativity & innovat’n

1.2 Summary: India is lagging behind in innovation not because there is a lack of thinkersor innovators but because they are too late to realize and acknowledge their achievement.India is a storehouse of intellectual capital but knowledge is not used properly. Talentshould be identified and promoted by providing proper opportunities and atmosphere.Innovation is lifeline of industry. Research and development must get proper thrust.Minimum expenditure here will get long term gains. Human zeal has contributed tocombining resources with technology and innovation. Information-rich India should ensurethat knowledge is tested and put to use for achieving goals.

WORKSHEET–19

1.1 (a) Scientists have discovered how women’s minds work while shopping. Different typesof brain-waves are generated to prompt buying or rejecting the item. The scientistshave identified these signals.

(b) The research will help the manufacturers to create products, shops and advertisementsand subconsciously stimulate similar brainwave patterns. Thus, they will encourage peopleto buy their products without realising.

(c) This approach has been criticised on ethical grounds as it is a sinister method which seeksto brainwash the shoppers.

(d) Heightened pleasure produces blood flows to the left prefrontal cortex and to the visualcortex. This activates the buy zones and women are likely to buy that article.

(e) The reject zones are linked to the “flight or fight” reaction. There is a rapid surge of bloodto the right prefrontal cortex. It is an area linked with negative reactions.

(f) Academicians and manufacturers have reacted favourably to the scientific study. They arequite impressed as the research will help manufacturers save spending money in marketingsomething that is unlikely to attract customers.

1.2 (a) generated (b) stimulate (c) sceptical

WORKSHEET–20

1.1 Notes:1. Gold—indispensable in the past

(a) ornl. value(b) hedge against inflat’n(c) banks—gold reserves(d) Indians—sentimental value(e) easy liquidity


2. Chang’g Worth of Gold(a) decline in gold prices(b) IMF & Foreign central banks—gold, a dead investt.(c) Dev’g countries mob’g resources other than gold

3. Solutions for Indian Investors(a) Investt. in comm’s mutual fund(b) safe and high returns

4. Change in Govt. Policy(a) hgr. for’n exchange reserves(b) stable currency(c) gold import—weaken’g currency

1.2 Title: Gold—A Dead InvestmentSummary: Gold has been indispensable in the past. Apart from ornamental value it hasbeen used as hedge against inflation. Banks kept gold reserves. Gold has a sentimentalvalue. Moreover, gold has easy liquidity. Of late there has been decline in gold prices andit is considered a dead investment. Developing countries are mobilising other resources.The Indian investors can have safe and high returns by investing in commodities mutualfund. The government has to change its policy by maintaining stable currency, higherforeign exchange reserves and curbing gold import which weakens currency.

WORKSHEET–21

1.1 (a) India is likely to cross the one-billion mark in terms of population. It would thenbecome the second nation in the world having a billion-plus population.

(b) The two likely drawbacks are:1. It is a drain on the nation’s limited resources.2. It spells ecological disaster.

(c) India’s urban population is likely to rise to 326 million in 2005, from the current 286million. It is expected to further increase to 419 millions in about 15 years from now. Thenumber of urban dwellers will outnumber the rural population in 21st century.

(d) Increasing population will have an adverse effect on environment. Water pollution and airpollution are likely to increase.

(e) Feeding the ever-increasing millions will become the most critical problem as availableland is limited and demand for food grains is likely to increase by 1.8 per cent annually.For example, the requirement of foodgrains is expected to go up to 284 million metrictonnes by 2020 from the 180 million metric tonnes for 2000.

1.2 (a) drain (b) megapolis (c) syndrome.

WORKSHEET–22

1.1 Notes:1. Mineral water—defn.2. Classification of Mineral Waters

(a) LMW—500 mgs TDS/litre(b) MMW—500 to 1500 mg TDS/litre(c) HMW—over 1500 mg TDS/litre

15GNIDAER SLLIKS

3. Position in Indiaprocessed H2O as mineral H2O

4. Importance of minerals in H2O(a) adjuncts to good health(b) contribute to well being(c) help body to absorb minerals in sols.

5. Taste(a) HMW—strong pronounced taste(b) LMW—subtle in flavour(c) WMW—no taste

6. Water—essential for human body(a) biochemical processes(b) thirst not accurate indicator(c) 3.5 litres/day(d) for intense activity: more H2O + mineral + energy source(e) keep body well hydrated & active(f) if no mineral H2O—simple, plain water.

1.2 Title: Mineral WaterSummary: Mineral water is defined as water that is bottled at the source without anytreatment. Mineral waters are classified as lightly, moderately or highly mineralised water asper varying quantity of total dissolved salts per litre varying from 500 mg to 1500 mg andabove. In India processed water is sold as mineral water. The minerals in water are adjunctsto good health and contribute to its well being by helping the body to absorb minerals. Highlymineralised water has strong pronounced taste, lightly mineralised is subtle in flavour. Plainwater has no taste. Water is essential for human body to maintain biochemical process. Onemust drink 3.5 litres of water per day to stay healthy, hydrated and active.

WORKSHEET–23

1.1 (a) The author’s father emigrated because everything around him was full of the presence ofhis wife, who had died and it continually reopened his wounds.

(b) The author did not feel the absence of his mother after her death because he was very wellbrought up by his father, who was both father and mother for him.

(c) The author's father wanted to go back to his old village because he wanted to see the oldfolks again and visit his wife’s grave.

(d) The author had come back to the land of his birth because he had promised his father thathe would go on his own.

(e) The author’s father had described over and over again what they would see at everymilestone, after leaving the nearest town. The author was sure that he would recognise itas familiar territory. Hence he thought that he would not need a map for the last part ofhis journey.

(f) The author could not locate his old village because he could not see any valley, farms,cottages and church spire as told by his father but only a lake, which was not marked onthe map. Moreover, the village had been submerged in the lake.

1.2 (a) nightmare (b) submerge (c) speedometer.


WORKSHEET–24

1.1 Notes:1. Ess. of mor.

(a) compassion—real mor.(b) meaning of mor. depends on good and bad concept(c) inflicting no harm or injury to others

2. Basically mor. means(a) abi. to understand(b) abi. to sympathise(c) feeling of kindness and sorrow for others

3. Killers of mor.(a) taunting or insulting others through words or actions(b) selfishness(c) verbal or acts of torture contradict mor.

4. Soc. mor.(a) essen. to stop degeneration of values(b) otherwise sufferings and chaos.

5. degeneration in soc. mor.(a) lack of sympathy and kindness b/w fellow-beings(b) comp. getting eroded in the mechanical lifestyle(c) today’s man busy in personal gains(d) no more humanity left.

Abbreviations used: Ess. essence essen. essential mor. moralitysoc. social abi. ability b/w between

1.2 Title: Essence of Real MoralitySummary: Compassion is the essence of real morality. The meaning of morality depends ongood and bad concepts and, inflicting no harm or injury to others. Basically, morality meansability to understand, sympathise and feelings of kindness and sorrow for others. Taunts, insult,selfishness and acts of torture are killers of morality. Social morality is essential to stopdegeneration of values. Today man has become selfish and has forgotten humanity in mechanicallifestyle.

WORKSHEET–25

1.1 (a) The author wants that educationists should build up a habit of resistance to suggestion inthe minds of their students.

(b) Resistance to suggestion can be built up by teaching the children:(i) to rely upon their own internal spiritual resources and

(ii) not to depend on incessant stimulation from without.(c) Purposeless reading, listening to radios or looking at films are also addictions. These are

psychological equivalents of alcoholism and morphinism. People suffer real distress if theyare deprived of newspapers, radio, music of film even for a few hours because they feelpainfully subnormal and incomplete without them. These psychological additions provideincessant stimulation from without.

(d) Children can be helped from becoming reading, hearing or seeing addicts by providingthem the education of the hand and the intellect as well as by training them to use criticalanalysis to judge propaganda.

(e) Critical analysis helps us to react to forceful suggestions in the right way at the right time.1.2 (a) incessant (b) conceal (c) coherent

17GNIDAER SLLIKS

WORKSHEET–26

1.1 Title: Impact of TelevisionNotes:

1. Advantages(a) helpful to people with selective view’g (b) incr. knowl. of diffr. fields(c) benefits old people/patients-confined to home/hosp(d) helps non-native speakers for infor’l language practice, voca. and listen’g

2. Disadvantages(a) long view’g hrs. averag’g 6 hrs a day

(i) child glued to TV w/out study’g/sleep’g (ii) powerful, often neg. influence(b) recent studies

(i) ‘relaxes’ brain to ‘before sleep state’ in < 30 sec(ii) reduces concentra’n time to 15-20 min

3. Negative Influ.(a) dissatis’n with personal life

(i) reel life more attractive than real life(b) exposure to excessive violence

(i) child. grow more aggre. and violent(c) causes addiction to itself

(i) powerf ’l need to watch TV even if not req’d1.2 Summary: Television has a strong impact on people’s lives. It has many positive features

as good programmes telecast can increase our knowledge about various fields like science,art and medicine, etc. It is an ideal companion for old people or patients who can’t leavehome. Also, it promotes one’s communication skills, especially, if one is a non-nativespeaker. On the other hand, TV viewing has a strong negative influence as well. In manycountries, long TV viewing hours, averaging six hours a day become detrimental to thegrowth, concentration and study-habits of children. Since reel life is more exciting than reallife, people develop dissatisfaction with personal lives. Over exposure to violence and fightsmakes children more aggressive. TV viewing, finally, becomes an addiction which forcespeople to sit glued to it without deriving any pleasure from it.

WORKSHEET–27

1.1 (a) Primitive man lived by hunting. Each man hunted for himself and his family ortribe. Strangers were then avoided or driven away. So money and even trade wereunnecessary. Hence primitive man did not feel the necessity of money as a meansof exchange.

(b) The various stages in the development of human society are:1. Primitive man who lived by hunting;2. Nomads who constantly wandered around, and drove his flocks and herds to new

pastures.3. When communities began to settle down and cultivate the land.

(Any two acceptable)(c) In the pastoral stage of human history, a cattle was an acceptable commodity as a

means of exchange. The Latin word ‘pecus’ means ‘cattle’. It gave birth to anotherLatin word ‘pecunia’ which means ‘money’. In modern English the adjective ‘pecuniary’means ‘concerned with money’. This is how the word pecuniary originated.


(d) Exchange or barter system would be done only with few certain things. It couldnot happen between a shoe-maker and a farmer. A shoe-maker who needssupplies of corn for his family from time to time, may not always find that thefarmer willing to take shoes in exchange. It would have been more convenient, ifthere were some other objects that would always be useful to both the shoe-maker and the farmer, and this object is money.

(e) ‘Tael’ was the standard money of China which is not a coin but a weight of silver.(f) To make coins of standard shape, weight and fineness, it is necessary for the

government to mint coins.1.2 (a) Primitive (b) Business transaction (c) Fineness

WORKSHEET–28

1.1 Title: Power of Intelligent Computers/Electronic Brain/Artificial IntelligenceNotes:

1. Earlier terms(a) ‘Electronic brain’

(i) first massive compu. capable of rapid computation(b) ‘High Speed Idiot’

(i) to protect vanity (ii) human idiot still among most intelli. forms on earth(c) neither describes artifi’l intelli. of comp. appro’ly

2. New discovery regarding thought processes(a) greater understanding about human brain(b) higher animals cap’ble of basic thought, e.g., dog, cat, etc.(c) Insect, other lower forms–no thought(d) higher mammals–more complex brain activity

3. Artif ’l Intelli. Research(a) machines like compu/robots–superior mental ability to many life forms

(i) play chess/back gammon unlike plants/lower animals(b) World’s best players–computers

1.2 Summary: The first massive computers which could make rapid computation werecalled ‘electronic brain’. Later on these were dubbed ‘high-speed idiots’ to protecthuman vanity. Even the human idiot is still among the most intelligent life forms onearth. Neither label describes artificial intelligence of computer appropriately. Newdiscovery regarding thought processes have led to great understanding about humanbrain. While higher animals e.g. dog, cat etc. are capable of basic thought, insects andother lower forms are thoughtless. Higher mammals show more complex brain activity.Artificial Intelligence Research reveals that machines like computers/robots have superiormental ability to many life forms. They can play chess/back gammon unlike plants/lower animals. Some of the world’s best players are now computers.

WORKSHEET–29

1.1 (a) The employed woman has to work in an office or factory. She has to do thehousehold work also. Husbands and children barely increase their contribution tohousework and child care when the employed woman is in the labour force. As aresult, the employed woman gives up most of her leisure to carry out theresponsibilities of family life. So she is deprived of the joys of leisure.

19GNIDAER SLLIKS

(b) Home making is not considered at par with paid work because it is not clear whatconstitutes housework. Housework standards vary greatly. It would be difficult toknow how to reward it. Again pay for housework might place homemakers in thedifficult position of having their work assessed by their husbands, while in the case ofsingle home-makers, it is not clear who would do the assessing.

(c) Unless women and men are paid equally in the labour force and there is no divisionof labour based on sex, women’s work in the home will have no value.

(d) In spite of time-saving gadgets and appliances, U.S. women are more busy todaythan ever before. It is because family members demand more frequent changes ofclothing than in earlier generations. As a result, women today spends more timedoing laundry.Today’s women devote inordinate amount of time and money to waxing floors,creating rooms free of ‘odour-causing’ germs and seeking to meet other extraordinarystandards of cleanliness. Again, husband and children expect more varied meals.Furthermore, the increasing concern with good nutrition means that many home-makers are now spending more time preparing foods that are not available in themarket-place.

(e) Women working at home may not be considered equal to those working in office orbusiness centres. Some single women with family responsibilities work because they arethe family bread winners. Again, the housework standards vary greatly. It would be verydifficult to know how to reward it.

1.2 (a) assorted (b) reinforce (c) inordinate

WORKSHEET–30

1.1 Title: Civilised CommunitiesNotes:

1. Composition of Civilised Communities(a) small cl. of corrupted rulers(b) large cl. of sub’s

2. Social order(a) Desirable sl. order–delivers one from avoidable evils(b) Bad sl. order–leads people into temptations

3. The Modern World: prevalent position(a) War–great obstacle to desirable change(b) Foreign policy of nations–militaristic principles(c) Source of Reform

(i) Pvt. individuals (ii) Not thro’ those in power(d) Method of Reform: persuasion

(i) Policy of pacifism preferable to militarism

1.2 Summary: The civilised communities of the modern world are made up of a small classof rulers, and of a large class of subjects. A desirable social order is one that deliverspeople from avoidable evils. Bad social order leads us into temptation. In the modernworld the great obstacle to all desirable change is war. All the nations conduct their foreignpolicy on militaristic principles. It is the business of private individuals to persuademajority of people that policy of pacifism is preferable to that of militarism.


WORKSHEET–31

1.1 (a) Practice fixes in us the virtues, vices and dispositions of character. We become braveby despising terrible things as a force of habit and by resisting them with full force.When we become brave we can stand firmly against them.

(b) Being afraid is an appropriate emotion when we face quite fearful things.(c) (i) A brave person is different from a reckless person since a rash or reckless

person is never afraid. He cannot be educated. Being afraid of really fearfulthings is a trait of a brave person.

(ii) The coward lacks confidence. He is disposed to be overly fearful, yet examples ofencouragement may help him. A brave person has confidence and does notexpress fear against everything.

(d) The striking courage displayed by Gandhiji or Horatius had an infectious nature. Itinspired others.

(e) The mere inclination to do the right is not enough. We have to know what is theright thing to do. For this we need wisdom to give our courage determinate form andintelligent direction. We also need the will, the motivating power that inspiringleaders help us discover within ourselves.

(f) The older children can cultivate their own dispositions by behaving bravely beforetheir younger brothers or sisters. It provides excellent practice. There is nothing tobe afraid of. The elders can stand by the children in challenging circumstances. Theylearn how to handle their own confidence and fear, to figure out the right thing to doand to muster the will to do it.

1.2 (a) inspire (b) right/appropriate (c) safe

21NAVDA EC ITIRWD GN SLLIKS

Short Composition (Advertisements)

ADVANCED WRITING SKILLSADVANCED WRITING SKILLSADVANCED WRITING SKILLSADVANCED WRITING SKILLSADVANCED WRITING SKILLSBBBBB

WORKSHEET–32

1. PROPERTY FOR SALEFor sale the first floor of a newly constructed house in Greater Kailash comprising twobed rooms, one large drawing-cum-dining room, a large kitchen and bathrooms withlatest amenities. Prices negotiable. Please contact Ranjit/Rekha, 751 GK between 10am to 5 pm on Sunday or ring 25467329.

2. PROPERTYFor immediate sale, the rear portion of a bungalow, 115, Rajpur Road, Delhi. Two bed-rooms, attached baths, drawing-cum-dining. Price around ` 20 lakh but negotiable.Contact Rohit, 115 Rajpur Road or ring 23295665.

3. SITUATIONS WANTEDA computer engineer well versed in hardware and software techniques seeks a parttime job in or around Delhi in the evening hours. Presently working in a MNC atNOIDA. Salary negotiable. Contact Munish Mehta, 37-B, Kirti Nagar, New Delhi orPhone 26423457.

4. Subscribe to SPORTSLINE for a yeara fortnightly sports & features magazine

and get a FREEPRESTIGE ALARM CLOCK

READ & SAVEH Annual subscription (105 issues) ` 1050.

H Special inaugural discount ` 210.H Despatch a demand draft of ` 840

and get Sportsline for a yearHurry

offer closes 31 August 20XX

WORKSHEET–33

1. LOST AND FOUNDLost my brown VIP leather briefcase while travelling from Punjabi Bagh to MaharaniBagh in greenline bus on Friday between 10 a.m. and 11 am. It contains my identitycard and some valuable documents. Please contact Rahul/Rashmi of 215-C, PunjabiBagh, New Delhi, or ring 25425368.


2. FOR SALEAvailable for sale a brand new Santro car and other household goods such as fridge,television, air-conditioner, micro-wave processor etc. The owner is leaving for Canadasoon. Prices negotiable. Contact Sunil/Simi, 243-B Kalkaji, New Delhi or ring 24629876.

3. APPEALA promising young lad with kidney beyond repair and the other damaged in a caraccident is on dialysis in Apollo Hospital. Donors are invited to offer one of theirkidneys to save this sole bread earner of a family of five. Please contact immediatelyMedical Superintendent, Apollo Hospital, New Delhi.

4. YOGA CENTREThe creative centre for complete Health has started a Yoga Centre at 15/25 TilakNagar, New Delhi. The centre will be open from 10th April, 20XX. It will functionbetween 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. and is open to all children between 5-18 years. Forregistration and further details, contact Aman at 9811196543.

Short Composition (Notices)

WORKSHEET–34

1. ABN SR. SEC. SCHOOL, JODHPUR25 July, 20XX NOTICE

CAREER GUIDANCEWe are pleased to inform that Miss Renu Nigam, the eminent counsellor, CARING,has kindly consented to give a talk on the various career options available to thestudents of the humanities stream.Date : 30th July, 20XXTime : 11 a.m.Venue : School AuditoriumClasses : XI and XII

For queries, kindly contact the undersignedAmitaHead Girl

2. DAV PUBLIC SCHOOL KAROL BAGH, NEW DELHI17 October, 20XX NOTICE

ZONAL VOLLEYBALL FINAL

It is a rare honour that our school is playing against CPM School, Meerut in a ZonalVolleyball Final tomorrow

Date : 18 Oct., 20XXTime : 3 p.m. sharpVenue : Our School Ground

All the students are cordially invited to watch the tournament and cheer up theschool team.

A. GaneshDirector, Physical Education


WORKSHEET–35

1. SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEENATIONAL SCHOOL, BARODA

4 March, 20XX NOTICE

PROPOSED CALENDAR 2013-2014The School Development Committee proposes to develop calendar of activities for thenext year. All suggestions on following topics may be directed to the undersigned bythe 9th March: Excursions Trekking Venues Inter-house Competitions Inter-School Contests

Debates Quiz Science Exhibitions

Welfare Activities School Fete Blood Donation Camp Afforestation Campaign

Manav/ManasiStudents’ RepresentativeSDC

2. S.R. PUBLIC SCHOOL, AGRA7 August, 20XX NOTICE

DONATE BLOOD: SAVE LIFEThe Red Cross Society of India is organising a one-day blood-donation camp as perdetails given below:Date : 15 Aug., 2013Time : 9.30 a.m. – 4 p.m.Venue : Activity RoomAge Limit : Above 16 years

All the members of the staff and the students are requested to come forward anddonate blood generously for the noble cause.

Arun SenSecretarySchool Red Cross Committee


WORKSHEET–36

1. DAYANAND MODEL SCHOOL, AJMERNOTICE 25 July, 20XX

OPPORTUNITY FOR BUDDING ARTISTSStudents are invited to participate in the Inter School Poster Making Competition tobe held on 9 August, 20XX in the school ground from 10 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.

Junior Category (Classes IV to VII)Topic : Save Water

Senior Category (Classes IX to XII)Topic : Eco-friendly Diwali

For details contact:PriyaSecretary, Cultural Society

2. A B PUBLIC SCHOOL, PATIALANOTICE 1 Feb., 20XX

INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR

The Eleventh International Book Fair is being organised as per details given below:

Venue : Pragati Maidan, DelhiDates : 7 Feb. to 14 Feb., 20XXTimings : 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. (weekdays)

9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sundays)

Those interested in books may give their names to the undersigned by 3 Feb., 20XX.Gian SinghLibrarian

WORKSHEET–37

1. ABT SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL, XYZ CITYNOTICE 1 August, 20XX

Career Counselling SessionA career counselling session with Ms. Usha Grewal, noted counsellor will be held inour school.

Date : 10 August 20XXTime : 11 a.m.Venue : School AuditoriumClasses : XI and XII

Please be seated by 8.45 a.m. and do not carry eatables and bags inside the auditorium.For further details contact:Rahul Khanna(Head Boy)


2. Queen Victoria Senior Secondary School, Nagpur

NOTICE 17 July, 20XX

INAUGURATION OF LITERARY ASSOCIATION

The School Literary Association will be inaugurated by noted educationist. Prof. B.Rajan on 19 July at 11.30 a.m. in the school auditorium. He will also deliver a talk on‘How to improve spoken English’. It will be followed by an interactive session.

All members are requested to attend.

ABC

Secretary

WORKSHEET–38

1. ABT SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL, HYDERABAD

NOTICE

25 October, 20XX

School Magazine

The School Magazine ‘REFLECTIONS’ will be brought out in the last week of January.Students interested in contributing articles, poems, riddles, tit-bits, cartoons, sketches,etc., may send them to the undersigned lasted by 15th November 20XX. Contributionshould be typed or neatly written on one side of paper.

XYZ

Editor

School Magazine

2. ZENITH PUBLIC SCHOOL

NOTICE

BRITANNIA QUIZ CONTEST

15 Nov. 20XX

The preliminary round of Britannia Quiz Contest for North Zone will be held at ourschool on 25 Nov, 20XX. All the students who desire to participate in it may submittheir names to the undersigned by the 20th Nov 20XX.

Amrita

Head Girl


Short Composition (Posters)

WORKSHEET–39

1. COMMUNAL HARMONYthe

NEED OF THE HOUR

Avoid Distinctions of Caste, Creed & SexCurb

Communal Speeches/Writing

RESPECT EACH OTHER’S RELIGION

NO RELIGION TEACHES HATRED

LOVE & LIVE TOGETHER

AS

BRETHREN

Issued in Public Interest by Friends of India Society

2. SAY ‘NO’ TO PLASTICS Non-Biodegradable Dumping Pollutes Environment

Burning Air Pollution Toxic Elements

Lung Cancer

DISCARD PLASTIC BAGS—INSTEAD USE Paper Bags Jute Bags Cloth Bags

PROTECT THE PROTECT THE PROTECT THE PROTECT THE PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENTENVIRONMENTENVIRONMENTENVIRONMENTENVIRONMENTSTAY HEALTHYSTAY HEALTHYSTAY HEALTHYSTAY HEALTHYSTAY HEALTHY

Issued by:SecretaryEnvironment ClubABC School, Vayu Vihar, Delhi.

LIVEIN

AMITY &PEACE

INDIAA

SECULARSTATE


WORKSHEET–40

1. BLINDNESSH A great handicap H Hinders DevelopmentH Makes one dependent on others H Checks Potential

H Object of pity & Sympathy

HELP THE BLINDGIVE THEM LIGHT

not money or petty jobsDONATE EYES

LIVE AFTER DEATHLIVE AFTER DEATHLIVE AFTER DEATHLIVE AFTER DEATHLIVE AFTER DEATHCONTACT: Eye Bank of Your City

SecretaryEYE BANK, CIVIL HOSPITAL, MADURAI

2. DRAMATIC CLUBSALWAN PUBLIC SCHOOL, GURGAON

proudly presents

THE NEVER-NEVER NESTa hilarious comedy

byCEDRIC MOUNT

for the benefit of Spastic Society of Indiaon SATURDAY, 28th OCTOBER 20XXEntry: Donor Tickets of `̀̀̀̀ 100 each

COME, ENJOY & HELP A NOBLE CAUSE

Cultural SecretaryDramatic ClubSPSG

WORKSHEET–41

1. Red Cross Society, Chandigarh

cordially invites you toparticipate in

HEALTH MELAon

Saturday, the 20th December 20XXat

GOVT. COLLEGE GROUNDS (SECTOR-14)

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS


• Yoga • Live Demonstrations • Discourses• Panel Discussions • Doctors’ Suggestions • Experts’ Opinions

Get

10 Special Prizesfor

Sound Health & Physical FitnessContact:

Sports SecretaryG.C.C.

Courtesy:Fast Foods (India)

2. PLANT TREES&

LIVE LONGERJoin

TREE PLANTATION CAMPAIGNON

SUNDAY, 5 OCTOBER 20XXat 9 a.m.

ADARSH SR. SEC. SCHOOL, JODHPURRemember the Benefits of Trees

• Release oxygen • Suck carbon dioxide• Bring rain • Check soil erosion• Provide fruit, shade & greenery

Trees live for us. Let us protect our friends.

WORKSHEET–42

1. LIONS CLUB AND LEO CLUB, CHENNAIwill conjointly organise

DIWALI MELAat

NEHRU STADIUMfrom

3 to 6 October, 20XX6 p.m. onwards each day

Entry Fee : Adults : ` 20/- Kids : ` 5/-


ATTRACTIONS

✫ FUN GAMES FOR KIDS ✫ TAMBOLA ✫ MERRY GO-ROUNDS

✫ EATABLES FOR ALL TASTES ✫ ATTRACTIVE PRIZES

R. MurlitharanPresident Leo Club,Temple Town

2. Take

REGULAR EXERCISEAND

★ Become Active! ★ Get Fit For Life! ★ Enjoy Mental Alertness! Remember

A Healthy Body Shelters a Healthy MindExercising can be fun—choose any one:

• Swimming • Jogging

• Aerobics • Dancing

• Workout at the Gym

Issued bySports Authority of India

Short Composition (Invitations)

WORKSHEET–43

1. The Principal, Staff and Students

ofWonderland Public School

cordially invite you to the

ANNUAL DAY CELEBRATION

at

Hawk Auditorium

Run andhave fun

LiveLonger

Sport aHealthy heart

Give your hearta healthy resort


on 5th April 20XXat 6.00 p.m.

Mr. S.P. Tailang, noted Environmentalist has kindly consentedto be the Guest of Honour.

RSVPPrincipal, Wonderland Public School Kindly be seated by 5.45 p.m.Phone: 22342034 Mobile phones and cameras areMobile: 9891002034 not allowed please.

2. The Principal, Staff and Students of

M.J. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, DELHIcordially invite you to their

ANNUAL DAY FUNCTIONat

The School Auditoriumon 15 November, 20XX

at 5 p.m.The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi has kindly consented to be

the Chief Guest.RSVPPh.: 26165423, 26193467

Please occupy your seats by 4.45 p.m.Valid for two persons only

WORKSHEET–44

1. Value Education ClubVivekananda Sr. Sec. SchoolRoop Nagar, New Delhi

27 August, 20XX

Mr K.B. Vaid18 Defence ColonyNew DelhiSirSubject: Invitation to deliver a talkThe Value Education Club of our school will feel obliged if you could kindly sparesome time to speak on ‘The Importance of Devotion, Dedication and Discipline’ onany Friday afternoon.Kindly intimate the date and time convenient to you.With regardsYours faithfullyRohit KhannaSecretary


2. C-38 Hope ApartmentsGurgaon–14

15 July, 20XX

Dear DiptiYou will be glad to know that I have secured admission in I.I.F.T. and in the courseI was mad to go in for. It is an occasion for celebrations and merry making. I wantto share a few happy moments of my life in the company of my old friends at adinner at the Vimpy's South City Gurgaon, at 8.30 p.m. on 25th July, 20XX.Please do come. I hope you won't disappoint me.Yours sincerely

Aditi

WORKSHEET–45

Short Composition (Replies to Invitations)

1. 25, Rani Jhansi RoadNew Delhi

5 March, 20XX

The SecretaryLions Club, KarnalSirSub: Acceptance of invitationThanks for your invitation for a seminar on ‘Fundamental Rights of Children’, andyour concern for the children. I would like to utilise this opportunity to share myexperiences with other like-minded enthusiasts and experts.I hereby confirm my participation in the seminar.Yours sincerelyAkshya/Aakriti

2. 158–MIG FlatsDilshad Garden, New Delhi

7 March, 20XX

The SecretaryYouth Club, Vivek ViharNew Delhi

SirSub: Inability to accept invitationI whole heartedly express my thanks to you and your club for inviting me to act asa judge in the inter-school group song competition on Monday, 13 March 20XX.I regret my inability to accept the invitation because of a prior engagement.I wish the function all success.Please do keep in touch.

Yours sincerelyRahul/Neha


WORKSHEET–46

1. ABC SchoolNew Delhi

7 March 20XX

The Professor InchargeNCERTNew Delhi

MadamSub: Education for AllI would like to thank you for inviting our school for the proposed seminar on‘Education for All’ being organised by your Institute.Kindly send me a copy of the working paper prepared for the seminar so that I canprepare myself properly and make a meaningful contribution in the deliberations atthe seminar.Looking forward to an early response.Yours sincerelySachin/Shama

2. 138–MIG FlatsMoti Bagh, New Delhi7 March 20XXThe PresidentThe Lions Club, Vasant ViharNew DelhiSirSub: Inability to accept invitationI whole-heartedly express my thanks to you and your club for inviting me to act asone of the judges for the Children’s Day fancy dress competition on Monday, March15, 20XX.I regret my inability to accept the invitation because of a prior engagement. I wishthe function all success.Please do keep in touch.Yours sincerelyMohan/Molly

Report or Factual Description (Events or Experiences)

WORKSHEET–47

1. OUR SCHOOL LIBRARYOur school library is housed in a separate block. It has a big hall and four rooms.Books are kept in almirahs in the hall. These almirahs have glass fronts. Theassistant librarian and restorer sit at the counter. The librarian sits in anotherroom. It has reference books, computer and photostat machine. Newspaper andmagazines are kept in the reading room. Students and teachers go there when they


are free. The library has fans and it is well ventilated. It lacks airconditioning andfacility of internet. The display board showing the covers of new arrivals should beplaced in the porch. With these improvements our library would become the prideof the town.

2. THE PARK IN OUR LOCALITYOur locality is quite lucky in having a central park, adjacent to the communitycentre. Parks are called the lungs of a city. Our park fulfils all the functions of agreen space in the jungle of concrete. It is spread in four acres with a road skirtingits boundary wall. There are shady trees along the boundary wall. Grassy lawns,beds of flowers and fountains sprinkling water add to its beauty and charm. Thepark caters to the needs of citizens of all age groups. There is arrangement for yogaclasses in the morning. Men and women, boys and girls take active part in these.Some like to stroll on the paved paths while children enjoy rolling on the grass.During hot summer, we enjoy boating in the lake of the park. It provides welcomerelief from the heat of the blazing sun.

WORKSHEET–48

1. WHEN I DONATED BLOODThe Red Cross Society had organised a blood donation camp at our school. Bannersproclaimed the importance of blood donation. One such banner read ‘Blood donationcan save a precious life’. Our science teacher also motivated us. Blood cells areformed after every three months. I thought it would be the real service to humanity.The doctors first checked my Blood Group which was B+. I was asked to lie down ona bed. Then they put the needle of a syringe and collected my blood in a bottle. I wasthen given a glass of milk, an egg and an apple. Everyone congratulated me. I feltthat my noble act was a step in the right direction It was a silent service to thesuffering humanity. I resolved to donate blood whenever I got a call.

2. SAY NO TO POLYTHENE BAGSRajan, Delhi 5th May 20XXConcerned members of Greenwood Society organised a campaign against theindiscriminate use of polythene bags. A silent walk with banners and posters wasundertaken from the Parliament House to India Gate. The primary objective was tocreate awareness among the common masses regarding the hazards of using non-biodegradable material. The apathy of the government in this regard is also a matterof concern. Polythene bags must be banned to ensure cleaner and better livingconditions. Public opinion generated through the campaign is sure to affect policydecisions, and stringent measures to overcome this hazardous products will be awelcome outcome. The walk was greatly appreciated and people of all age groupsparticipated in it.

WORKSHEET–49

1. NO TOBACCO DAYNew Delhi: 5 June 20XX4th June 20XX was celebrated as ‘No Tobacco Day’ by our school. An interesting andeducative programme was organised to highlight the evil effects of tobacco on humanbody. The programme was inagurated by the Director of Education. Students hadexhibited pictures, posters and cartoons depicting the harms of smoking. A skit was


presented to highlight the miserable state of tobacco-addicts. The messages ‘no smoking’and ‘smoking is injurious to health’ were preached overtly and covertly. Then the schooldoctor gave an illuminating discourse on the harms caused by tobacco. He used slides,graphs and pictures to illuminate his talk. A short film was also screened to drive homethe menace caused by tobacco smoking or chewing. The plight of the patients of cancer,caused by tobacco, made us shudder. We resolved not to smoke or chew tobacco.

WORKSHEET–50

2. COMPUTER WING INAUGURATED(A Report by Sunderesh/Savi)

Allahabad: 15 July 20XXThe computer wing of Rajeev Gandhi Memorial Senior Secondary School, Allahabad wasinaugurated yesterday by Mrs Sonia Gandhi. It is a wonderful addition to our school andwas possible with the generous grants offered by Rajeev Gandhi Foundation. Theaddition of computer wing to the school is a step towards complete and perfecteducation. The Chairperson, Mrs Gandhi exhorted the students to learn computerscience, electronics and basic ideas of science. She advised them to realise the importanceof computer in the modern age and to offer encouraging results in the modern scientificage. The use of advanced technology, computers and robots will lead India to the path ofglory in the new millennium. The Students’ Council, which had organised this function,assured the donors that proper use will be made of their generous gift.

Reports or Factual Description (Processes)

1. OPENING A SAVING BANK ACCOUNTThese days people prefer to keep money in a bank. It is safe as well as profitable. Theprocess of opening a saving bank account is quite simple. Go to a bank and obtain theprescribed printed form for opening an account. These days photographs are essential. Pastetwo passport size photographs on the space provided for this purpose. Fill in the otherparticulars on the form and appended card. You have to put your signature at certain places.The signatures on the card are termed specimen signatures and referred to for comparisoneverytime you withdraw money from the bank. You need an account holder of the bank tointroduce you. Then you go to the deposit counter and deposit the money mentioning ‘NewAccount’. Then you will be issued a pass-book and cheque book. You can deposit money inyour account now or withdraw it by filling a withdrawal form or cheque.

2. Try yourself.

Reports or Factual Description (Reports for School Magazines)

WORKSHEET–51

1. SCIENCE EXHIBITION(A report by Rama)

Kolkata: 25 November 20XXThe previous day i.e. 24th November, I, along with my classmates, visited the scienceexhibition, organised jointly by the city schools at Central School, Kolkata. As manyas twenty five schools participated. The Science Exhibition was inaugurated by theState Minister for Education. There were about 150 exhibits on display. Some modelswere operated by electricity. Some of them exhibited India’s progress in the field ofcommunications and missiles technology. The bio-diesel prototypes attracted a lot of


visitors. Students tried to answer their queries as best as they could. All the visitorsfelt impressed by the intelligence, organization and dedication of the budding scientists.

2. VISIT TO THE LOCAL MUSEUM(A report by Ram/Rohini)

Pune: 15 NovemberSun Public School, Pune, organised a visit to the local museum on Children’s Day. TheState Museum was housed in a big building. It has collections from all parts of thecountry. The antique articles are well arranged. They represent every branch of science,art and culture. We saw specimens of rocks, ores, and finished metals. Old paintings,dresses and war- weapons belonging to different periods were on display. These throwlight on the history, art and culture of that era. A special feature of the museum was theShivaji section. The dresses, ornaments and weapon of the celebrated Maratha warriorimpressed everyone. Books, magazines, newspapers and pictures dealing with Shivaji’slife and contribution to Hindu Nation revised the struggles he faced and the ultimateglory he achieved. In short, the visit was entertaining as well as rewarding.

WORKSHEET–52

1. INTER-HOUSE DRAMA COMPETITION(A report by Sunil/Sunita)

Allahabad: 25 OctoberDuring the cultural week an Inter-House Drama Competition for the students ofthe four houses of our school was organised. Each house tried to present the bestpossible plays dealing with current socio-political-economic questions. The titles ofthe plays—‘Post Graduate’, ‘The New Horizon’, ‘The Hungry Babe’ and ‘Whirlpool’—give a glimpse of the concern of the students and teachers about the prevailingsituations and the future of the nation. The themes deal with burning problems likeunemployment, opportunities in careers, hunger and famine and the vortex ofproblems in life. They began with man’s helplessness against the forces of natureand the prevailing circumstances, but ended on an optimistic note. Shonit of Tagorehouse was adjudged the best actor.

2. WORLD HERITAGE DAY(A report by Ram/Rama)

Agra: 19 AprilLike the previous years, Sun Public School, Agra celebrated the World HeritageDay yesterday i.e. the 18th April. Inter-house Poster-making, Placard and Banner-writing contests were orgainsed. A film show depicting our famous monuments,history and culture of the bygone era was screened. Our Principal exhorted us totry our level best to preserve our monuments because they are our heritage. Hepointed out that some of these relics of the past were crumbling to ruins. Itdevolved on the younger generation, the students to take a timely step and checkany further deterioration in our cultural heritage. Those who deface, disfigure orspoil the ancient artefacts must be brought to book.

WORKSHEET–53

1. WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY(A report by Bharat/Bharati)

Lucknow: 6th JuneSun Public School took a leading step in celebrating the ‘World Environment Day’ on


5th June this year. On this hot summer morning children belonging to at least 20 localschools participated in an On-the-spot Painting Competition. The theme of the paintingswere: ‘Dangers to Environment’; ‘Ozone hole and Global Warming’; ‘PreservingEnvironmental Purity’ and ‘Measures to check Environmental Pollution’. An exhibitionof these paintings sensitised the visitors about the need to preserve environment. Thiswas followed by a seminar on world environment day in which more than 25 studentsparticipated in the discussion. The participants presented in written papers suggestingways and means to control pollution. All agreed that our environment is underpollution through various agents like water, soil, air and noise and we are on the brinkof extinction. Even population explosion is causing a great threat to our environment.Our every nook and corner is being polluted by different objects and they have posteda big challenge to our survival. During the discussion it was resolved that we shouldplant trees and saplings on all the open spaces. Our vehicles too use noise resistanthorns and play them by using C.N.G. Social organisations should participate to educatethe masses on the harms of pollution. Exhibitions and seminars need to be organisedfor the public so that we get rid of deadly pollution.

2. MUSICAL NIGHT(A report by Aseem)

Delhi: 18 MayThe Amnesty Public School organised a musical night for the parents and generalpublic of Lucknow. Well known celebrities and singers graced the occasion. Theevening was a huge sellout due to the intensive marketing done by the staff andstudents of the school. The presence of singers such as Sunidhi Chauhan and KumarSanu also drew the audience. The tickets were highly priced but they were all sold out.Most of the parents who came for the show also contributed generously by buying allthe eatables prepared by the students. The huge amount of money was generated tohelp the victims of Aids being taken care of by the orphanage CARING HOME. Theentire community seemed to come together to help the noble cause. The people whocame for the show really appreciated the song, music and dance blended together. Theevening ended on a positive note when the Guest of Honour, Shri B.L. Srivastavaapplauded the effort of the school in mobilising resources to help a charitable cause.

Report or factual Description (Reports for Newspapers)

WORKSHEET–54

1. LIFE AFTER TRAUMATIC TSUNAMI(Rajan/Ranjita, Special Correspondent, ‘The Times of India’)

Nellore: 10 Dec, 20XXChaos, death, destruction and horror are the common expressions one finds whilevisiting the Tsunami hit coastal areas. Gathering the remains after the devastatingcalamity, people are trying hard to come to terms with their lives, although theirhearts are full of grief at losing their loved ones. The fisherman of those coastalareas have lost almost everything to the gigantic waves. Most of them are languishingin temporary shelters erected by NGOs and government agencies, waiting for theirturn to get some relief and help to begin their lives anew. Miseries and sorrows arewrit large on their faces. Some of them who were in the mid sea returned safely,only to find their families snatched by the deadly waves. They are hoping againsthope to be reunited as the dead bodies of the lost ones have not been traced so far.


NGO like Times Group, Saksham, Hope, Siemens Foundation have adopted coastalvillages for their rehabilitation and counselling. Disaster Management teams areworking round the clock to clear off the debris and prevent the break out ofepidemics. Fresh drinking water, food and clothes are being distributed. Everyeffort is being made to restart life.

2. BRIGHTEN THE EVENING OF THEIR LIVES(Nandan/Nalini, member Disha, an NGO)

Kolkata: 25 September, 20XXUnfortunate are those who are rendered homeless in the evening of their lives.Sometimes even their ultimate shelter becomes helpless to provide them solace intheir old age. A visit to ‘Sandhya’ an old age home, revealed this bitter truth. Thishome for the aged is mired in financial crisis. Lack of funds and infrastructure haveproved a great hindrance in meeting even the basic necessities of the inmates,whose number has swelled to 200, i.e. double the capacity of ‘home’.The efforts of our organisation ‘Disha’ to mobilize funds and awaken the conscienceof the society have proved quite successful. We took the initiative to arrange anouting for these senior citizens to give them respite from dull and monotonous. Thevisit of students of Spring-field school brought cheer and inspiration to the aged toenjoy life. With the flow of cash in the form of contributions, hobby classes werestarted. These experienced senior citizens shared their skills like painting, stitching,sewing etc. with local residents. Their active involvement in routine life has madethem feel confident and worthy.

WORKSHEET–55

1. NUTRITIOUS FOOD AND SNACKS COMPETITION(Archana/Anjum, reporter ‘The Young India’)

Delhi: 5 October, 20XXTo promote healthy eating habits among school children, Vaibav Public School,Hastinapur organised a Nutritious Food and Snacks Competition on Oct. 5, 2005 inthe school premises. The competition was open to both the students as well as theirparents. The famous nutrition consultant, Dr. Shikha Sharma, was the ChiefGuest. A diet questionnaire was first distributed among the contestants to setvarious dietary goals. A variety of mouth-watering, easy-to-make, sandwiches,soups, low fat beverage’s and salads etc. were aesthetically displayed withcomplementing cutlery and serviette. The spread was a real feast for the eyes anda gourmet’s delight. Bobby Sareen of Class IX won the first prize for a tasty sproutpreparation which was low in fat and high in fibre content. Dr. Sharma, finally,stressed on the need for healthy eating habits by strongly condemning the growingcraze for fast food and cola drinks among the teenagers. The competition wasenjoyed by one and all.

2. RAY OF HOPE FOR THE UNFORTUNATES(Nandan/Nalini, member Disha, an NGO)

Delhi: 2nd May, 20XXOrphans are not born orphans, but made orphans by circumstances, untimelydeath of parents or quirks of fate. Unfortunate are those who are renderedhomeless and deprived of parental affection and care in their tender age. Theorphanages, they take shelter in, sometimes fail to provide even basic amenities


to the hapless, helpless and hopeless unfortunates. A visit to ‘Aishraya’ anorphanage for children revealed the pathetic state of existence of the inmates.The reason behind this was financial crisis. The sudden demise of two of itspatrons resulted in cash crunch. The situation took a turn for the worse with thearrival of about 50 more destitute.Our NGO, Disha, organised a campaign to mobile funds and awaken the conscienceof the society. Charity shows, fete and balls for the elite class helped us collectmoney. People felt shocked on watching the street plays depicting the plight oforphans. We submitted a proposal to the management to let us help them inrunning the orphanage.Now all the inmates have joined the local school. A training centre has beenopened. It provides training in some craft to make the children independent. Thevisits of local leaders have made the inmates feel that they are not neglected bysociety.

WORKSHEET–56

1. WORKSHOP ON DISASTER MANAGEMENT(Ravi/Rani, student reporter)

Noida: 30 January, 20XXKeeping in view the frequent occurrence of earthquakes, APS School, Noida, inassociation with the Indian Red Cross Society organised a talk on DisasterManagement. Around 100 teachers and 250 students from various educationalinstitutions participated in the workshop. Mr. Harihar Narayan, the society secretarywas the main speaker. He cited statistics from World Disaster Report and identifiedareas, more vulnerable to earthquake in the states. He also explained the precautionarymeasures to be taken by the public and the government in case of emergency. Thesession included a multimedia presentation on the aftermath in the disaster struckareas of Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan. Mrs. Subha Rao, Secretary ‘Seva’, anNGO was the other resource person. She focussed on the capacity assessmenthighlighted the problems of rehabilitation and relief work. A mock evacuation drillwas also conducted by the volunteers from the NCC team of the school.The workshop was really enlightening for one and all.

2. RELIEF MEASURES UNDERTAKEN(Mithun/Mallika, reporter ‘The Delhi Times’)

Delhi: Oct. 15, 20XXIn view of the immense loss of life and property caused by the devastatingearthquake in the Western Himalayas on 8th Oct. 20XX, the RWA, Vikas Colony,held an emergency meeting to discuss various relief measures for the victims.Mr. Chopra, the convener, briefed the members about the situation. The actioncommittee then drew up a plan to expedite the relief work. It was decided totransport and distribute relief-care packages as well as blankets, medicines andtents for the survivors. Each relief care package containing rations of dry food,milk powder and water cans etc. was meant to serve a family for two days. Mr.Makhani, the President RWA, urged the volunteers to prepare 1000 such packages.An eleven-member team was appointed to coordinate and transport relief suppliesto the strategic places. Collection points were finally fixed for the residents todeposit their material and food items. The funds collected were to be forwarded tothe Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.


Letter Writing (Business/Official Letters)

WORKSHEET–57

1. 175C–JanakpuriNew Delhi20 June 20XXThe DirectorThe Centre for Creativity and DevelopmentMall RoadDelhiSirSub: Information regarding 8-week Summer CourseMy younger sister has just passed the All India Secondary School Examination ofCBSE. She is a brilliant student and has secured 85% marks in X. She does not wantto opt for the traditional prestigious courses in science viz. medicine or engineering.She is enamoured of the information technology, but I feel that she is a bit timid andlacks self-confidence. She certainly needs some skilled guidance and training inpersonality development, leadership and interaction. She consulted her languageteacher on the subject and he advised her to join your centre for this purpose.Kindly supply me the following information regarding the 8-week summer coursein leadership. (a) the number of students in each group. (b) whether separate coaching classes are held for girls. (c) fee for the whole course. (d) whether fee is accepted in two/three instalments.

Yours faithfully Rakesh Gupta

2. Planwel CompanyTarapore Towers, MG Road, BengaluruRef. No. 20/PC/3519 April, 20XXThe ManagerApex Information Centre3, Anna Nagar, NambaccumChennaiSirSub: Offer of a premises on rentReference your advertisement in The Hindu dated 18 April regarding availability of asuitable accommodation in the central market for your office. In this connection wedesire to inform you that we have a suitable office located in the vicinity of thecentral market. The accommodation (with roads on two sides) comprises a big hall25' × 40' with two adjoining rooms 12' × 15' each and an inter-connected pantry andtoilet. This is an ideal location for all kinds of business establishments. There arethree nationalised banks on the opposite road. The terms and conditions for rentare as under:

(i) A refundable security of rupees two lakh.(ii) Rent of ` 10,000 pm payable in advance.


(iii) Electricity and water charges extra.(iv) Sanitation at your disposal.(v) Rental lease will lapse after eleven months.

In case the above-mentioned terms are acceptable, please contact the undersignedwithin a week.Yours faithfully,Vishnu WasanOffice Manager

Letter Writing (Informal Letters)

WORKSHEET-58

1. 251, Navy NagarColaba, Mumbai17 March 20XXDear PriyankaReceived your affectionate letter and was glad to note that you are going tocomplete X standard. I felt elated when you sought my advice whether to opt forscience or commerce group in XI standard.In my opinion, you should not join the rat race of choosing the science stream.I know that you are a practical person, who is intelligent as well as diligent.I would therefore suggest that you should opt for commerce group. There are someother reasons behind this choice.

(i) Your father is a successful businessman. As a student of commerce you maylearn business/management in practice. Secondly, he may set up a small unitfor you and invest in it. You can manage and expand it with your knowledgeof Commerce and English.

(ii) In case you want to seek employment, your commerce degree may help youget a good job in some multinational firm.

(iii) You may appear in a competitive examination for bank recruitment etc.I do hope you will consider all these points before arriving at any decision.With love

Yours sincerelyPiyush

2. 7, Lawrence RoadKolkata19 September, 20XXDear AlbertI am looking forward to your visit to the City of Joy i.e. Kolkata. The city isconnected to the Railway Station by means of a famous bridge known as HOWRAHBRIDGE after the station. Since your train from Delhi arrives at 4.30 p.m., I shallreach platform no. 5 at 4.25 p.m. and wait near the Brooke Bond Tea Stall. Yourcoach M-5 will be just near that stall. In order to help you identify me I am sendingmy photograph in the get up I shall be putting on. I have chosen this multicoloureddress—white coat, grey trousers, red shirt and a bowler’s hat with a pink ribbon tohelp you recognise me at once.In case your train should arrive before time or if I am held up in traffic jam, pleasecall me on my mobile phone number 9136875543.


I do hope you will experience no difficulty.Hoping to see you soon.Yours sincerelySukomal Sen

Letter Writing (Letters to the Editor)

WORKSHEET–591. 23 Rifle Lane

Jhansi30 January, 20XXThe EditorThe Bhopal TimesBhopalSirSubject: Child-marriagesYesterday we went to the Laxmi Narayan temple to worship the deities on BasantPanchmi Day. What horrified my sensibility was a queue of young girls—hardlysixteen years in age and dressed in bridal clothes, waiting to be married off totheir respective bridegrooms arrayed in the opposite row. I was shocked beyondbelief that this evil practice of early marriage still continues in spite of legal ban.The presence of many bigwigs of society accorded these group marriages prestigein society. It seems that the law regarding girl’s marriage is not at all beingimplemented properly. People conveniently forget that the main cause of pregnancyrelated deaths is motherhood in the teens.I hope the government agencies will enforce the law strictly and save the lives ofmany innocent women and babies.Yours faithfullySavita Sen

2. 25 Indira ColonyRohtak17 June, 20XXThe EditorThe Rohtak TimesRohtakSirSubject: Problems of residents of Indira ColonyThe residents of Indira Colony are victims of twin problems. The frequent loadshedding and power cuts for long periods have made lives miserable during thesehot days of June.Secondly, the commercialisation of residential space in this colony has attractedworkshops and small scale industries resulting in pollution and noise and causingannoyance and disturbance to the peaceful lives of the residents.As a resident of the colony, I plead to you to bring our problems to the notice of theconcerned authorities and persuade/motivate them to take immediate remedial action.Yours faithfullyAnjana Malik


WORKSHEET–60

1. 15/1129 Rajiv NagarAnanthpurAndhra Pradesh20 March, 20XXThe EditorThe Indian ExpressHyderabad-24SirSub: Load of Heavy Bags on Primary School KidsThrough the columns of your prestigious newspaper I want to draw the attentionof the government about the undesirability of primary school students carryingheavy bags to their school.Sometimes these bags seem heavier than the kids and cause severe strain on theyoung shoulders. It becomes odd for them to get into the school bus. Can’t wereduce the content of school bags? Why not keep the books and exercise books atschools in their desks. Let games and electronic media do the rest. An improvementin techniques of education is essential in the new millennium.It is time the educationists realised the plight of these kids and evolved ways tolessen their burden.Yours faithfullyBharat Reddy

2. The EditorThe Times of IndiaNew Delhi5 April, 20XXSirSub: Security—A Major ConcernI wish to draw your attention to the crimes which are being perpetuated on a dailybasis against the common citizens of this country. Newspaper headlines everyday aresplashed with details of crimes ranging from petty chain snatching incidents to daringburglaries and gory blood chilling murders. No city, street or home is safe and thepeople live in constant fear of life and property. What is our society coming to?It is indeed a matter of great shame that the police has become ineffective andcannot check the rise of unprecedented crime graph. It is even more shockingthat the judiciary seems to have lost its voice and criminals are acquitted ofcharges ranging from kidnapping to rape and murder.It is high time that we rise with a heightened sense of urgency to tackle thisserious issue. Stringent laws need to be put into place and enforced religiously.The policing needs to undergo a rapid transformation by involving the communityat large. Resident Welfare Organisations, MLA’s, NGO’s and other support systemsmust work in tandem to address these security concerns. Self-defence trainingshould be provided to all students as a part of the school curriculum. People needto be vigilant at all times and report any suspicious activity noticed in theirsurroundings to the local authorities. The police force needs to be trained andempowered to develop a more positive image in the eyes of the common person.Yours trulyRanjit


WORKSHEET–61

1. 54, Kamraj StreetChennai3 March, 20XXThe EditorThe New Indian ExpressChennaiSub: Chain-snatching incidentsSirMay I use the columns of your esteemed daily to draw the attention of theconcerned authorities towards the increasing incidents of chain-snatching in thecity. Our organization has lodged several complaints with the police, but no actionseems to have been initiated so far as no tangible results can be perceived.It seems that some anti-social elements have adopted this method to make a fastbuck. Crowded market places, railway platforms, bus shelters and lonely ordeserted roads are usually the scenes of these crimes.It is suggested that the police as well as general public must take some strongsteps and precautions to check these incidents and nab the culprits. Girls andladies should not flaunt their ornaments or display them brazenly to tempt thechain-snatchers. More policemen with facility of wireless and mobile phonesshould be posted at sensitive points. Concerted efforts should be undertaken.It is hoped that the authorities will take prompt action.Yours faithfullyKarthik

2. 23, Cubbon RoadBengaluru–560 001

7 March, 20XX

The EditorThe Deccan HeraldBengaluruSub: Daylight robberies and burglariesSirThrough the columns of your esteemed daily I want to draw the attention of theauthorities towards an urgent law and order problem – namely the increase indaylight robberies and burglaries.During the last fortnight twenty cases have been reported in the papers. Theseincidents have occurred in various parts of the city and no area seems immunefrom the criminals. However, one thing stands out common which suggests amethod in their madness. It is the victims who are targetted by them. A roughand ready analysis of the cases cited above shows that most of them were eitheraged couples living alone or widows/widowers having no members of family withthem. Almost all these homes had trusted male servants/maid servants. It clearlypoints out the nexus between the criminals and the household helps.Keeping in view the above, it is suggested that the police should augment day-time beat vigils and undertake a summary check of the antecedents of thehouseholds servants. It will be advisable to households not to engage domestichelps without proper verification of their conduct from the police. The CitizensWelfare Associations should evolve local supervision schedules.


I am confident that all these steps will help to curb the menace of daylightrobberies and burglaries and the citizens will lead peaceful and carefree life.Yours faithfullyNavin/Namitha

Letter Writing (Applications for a Job)

WORKSHEET–62

1. 23 Raman VillaRace Course RoadBhopalAugust 11, 20XXThe Personnel ManagerPioneers (Pvt.) Ltd. Co.HyderabadSirSub: Application for the post of an AccountantIn response to your advertisement in The Times of India dated 1 August, 20XX, Iwish to be considered for the position mentioned above. I feel my qualificationsand experience are good enough to enable me to discharge my duties. I attachherewith attested copies of my certificates and my biodata. If given a chance, Imay assure you, sir, that I shall spare no pains in the discharge of my dutyhonestly and devotedly. I will certainly win the confidence of my superiors.Thanking youYours faithfullyNipun(Nipun)

Encl: Biodata

BIODATA

1. Name : Nipun Verma2. Father’s Name : Mr Mohan Lal Verma3. Address : 23, Raman Villa, Race Course Road, Bhopal4. Date of Birth : 15 September, 19705. Educational : (i) CBSE (10+2) 1987 83%

Qualifications (ii) B.Com. (Hons) 1990 73%(iii) CA 1994(iv) ICWAI 1997

6. Experience : TISCO ‘Bhopal’ since Nov. 19977. Salary Expected : ` 25,000 pm + perks8. Marital Status : Unmarried9. Languages known : Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu

10. References : (i) Dr. V. Anand, H.O.D. Commerce, Holker University, Indore(ii) Mr R.K. Sareen, Financial Advisor GRASIM (India)

Bengaluru.


2. 158, Nirala NagarLucknow26 September, 20XXThe ManagerICICI BankLucknowSirSub: Application for the post of Business Development ManagersWith reference to your advertisement in The Pioneer, dated 24 September, 20XXseeking applications for the post of Business Development Managers for the creditcar section, I offer my candidature for the same. Please find enclosed my biodata/resume to enable you to assess my suitability for the aforesaid post.Yours faithfullyPritham/Priti

BIODATA/RESUME

Name : Miss Priti MudgilFather’s Name : Mr V.P. MudgilAddress for Correspondence : 58, Nirala Nagar, LucknowContact No. : 09819600325Age : 25 yearsEducational Qualifications : (i) ISC from St. Maria’s School, Agra, 1998—80%

marks(ii) B.Com. (Hons.) 2001—V.N. College, Lucknow

Professional Qualifications : (i) Short term course in Money and Banking - IBM(ii) Short term Computer Course - APTECH

Work Experience : (i) Development Executive HFDC, Lucknow—6months.

(ii) Working as Deputy Development Officer withCanara Bank, Kanpur.

Marital Status : UnmarriedOther Achievements : Proficient in spoken English and Customer DealingsSalary Expected : ` 20,000 pm plus usual perks.Reasons for change : Stay at Lucknow

WORKSHEET–63

1. Kamala6/39 Harrison RoadKolkata17 March, 20XXThe PrincipalRani Public SchoolKolkataSirSub: Application for the post of an English TeacherIn response to your advertisement in The Statesman dated 15 March, 200X, I wishto be considered for the position mentioned above. I feel my qualifications and


experience are good enough to enable me to discharge my duties. I attachherewith my biodata and attested copies of certificates. I am seeking a change asit will give me a chance to work in a better academic atmosphere in yourprestigious institution.If given a chance, I may assure you sir, that I shall prove worthy of the confidencereposed in me.Thanking youYours faithfullyKamalaEncl: Biodata & certificates

BIODATA

1. Name : Kamala Pradhan2. Father’s Name : Mr Biswajit Pradhan3. Address : 6/39 Harrison Road, Kolkata4. Date of Birth : 5 May, 1980

5.Educational Qualifications :(i) CBSE (10 + 2) 1997 85%

(ii) B.A. (Hons) 2000 74%

(iii) B.Ed. 2001 69%

6. Experience : Rosemary School since July 20XX

7. Salary Expected : ` 6000 + perks

8. Marital Status : Unmarried

9. Languages known : English, Bengali, Hindi

10. References : 1. Dr S. Mukherjee, HOD English Dept., PresidencyCollege Kolkata

2. Mrs Bhattacharya, Principal Rosemary School, Bali (Howrah)

2. Saranya217-B, Lajpat NagarDelhi

17 July, 20XX

The ManagerNew India AnodisersA-10, Phase II, Mayur ViharNew DelhiSirSub: Application for the post of an AccountantThis is in response to your advertisement for the post of an Accountant publishedin ‘The Times of India’ dated 16 July. I think I fulfil all the eligibility conditionslaid down by you. Hence I offer myself as one of the candidates. My biodata isenclosed for your kind perusal.Yours faithfullySaranya


BIODATA

Name : Miss Saranya SethiFather’s Name : Mr R.P. SethiAddress for Correspondence : 217 B, Lajpat Nagar, New DelhiContact No. : 011-25731077Age : 25 yearsEducational Qualifications : (i) S.S.C. from CBSE 1998—85% marks.

(ii) B.Com. (Hons.) 2001. LSR College (DU)Professional Qualifications : (i) Diploma in Advanced Accountancy (IBCM)

(ii) Short Term Computer Course (APTECH)Work Experience : (i) Accounts Clerk, Spencers: 11/2 years

(ii) Junior Accountant, BPL Sales. Noida—2 yearsPresent Posting : Accountant, Harsha Fans, NoidaMarital Status : UnmarriedSalary Expected : ` 20,000 plus usual perks

Letter Writing (Letters to School Authorities)

WORKSHEET–641. The Principal

J.P. Public SchoolNew DelhiSeptember 10, 20XXDear Sir,I wish to bring to your attention the pathetic condition of the school’s toilets andclassrooms. The toilets are woefully inadequate and stink a lot. There is improperflushing of toilets to lack of adequate running water and insufficient overheadtanks. The tiles in the walls and floor of the toilets are broken at many places andno attempt has been made to repair them.The water taps also do not close properly and this results in water loss.The condition of the classrooms is also deplorable. There are no dustbins inclassroom. The plaster has come off in many classrooms. This gives a bad impressionto the parents who come to see the school.It is our earnest request that necessary action may please be taken to undertakethe repairs at the earliest.Yours faithfullyShashikant Arora

2. The PrincipalVidya NiketanSarojini NagarNew DelhiDecember 10, 20XXSir,I, on behalf of class XII students invite your attention to the fact that there in noproper canteen in our school. In the absence of the canteen students face many


difficulties. They depend upon hawkers who sell food items outside the school.These hawkers sell poor quality food prepared in unhygienic surroundings, usinginsufficient running water. Flies and mosquitoes swarm all over the eatables asthey are kept uncovered. The students often fall ill and they miss classes due to it.We therefore request you to kindly make arrangement of a good canteen at theearliest. Students would be able to get hygienic prepared eatables at reasonable rate.Thanking you.Meenal JainClass XII-C

WORKSHEET–651. The Principal

Sarvodaya Academy Sr. Sec. SchoolVikas Nagar, Delhi.20 July 20XXSir,As head boy of the school, I would like to put before you a genuine need of thestudents. Our school is one of the leading schools in the state and famous for itsacademic excellence. We students, however, feel handicapped in one respect only.Our school lacks the facilities for computer education.The need for computer education is felt nowadays by everyone. We know that themodern age is moving fast. The frontiers of knowledge are spreading fast andunfolding something new every moment. To cope with the increased inflow ofscientific and technical data, knowledge of computers is a must. Computers play avital role in bank, business houses, railways, airlines, science laboratories andresearch centres. Without effective training in computers, the students will not beequipped to cope with the problems they are likely to face in their forthcomingcareers. If we have to compete with other countries in the field of science andtechnology, the knowledge of computer must be imparted at an early age.Keeping in view the facts stated above, I request you to arrange for computertraining facilities in our school at the earliest.Yours ObedientlyRajat Mittal

2. All India Students Forum12/152, M.G. RoadNew Delhi-110001.The ChairmanCBSEPreet ViharNew Delhi-110002

December 20, 20XX

Sir/MadamRecently a conference of the students was held in Vigyan Bhawan on December15, 20XX. It was a platform for the students to voice their thoughts about thecurrent pattern of teaching, curriculum and its workload, and its effect on thestudents. Education, the students felt is about learning but the student daily


struggles through ever increasing homework, inescapable tuitions, coaching classes,excessive parental expectation and pressures, aggressive competition amongclassmates is leading to health disorders like blood pressure, hypertension, obesity,eye disorders, poor digestion and irritableness. The current examination systemwith its excessive emphasis on too many subjects instead of being selective isleading the students towards early breakdowns, stress problems, and burnouts.This inevitably leads to the development of a stunted personality in the students.It is time the Board had done some rethinking on the current pattern of educationand adopted a pragmatic approach to the problem of education in schools.Your faithfullyAjay MaggoPresident

Long Composition (Articles for School Magazines)

WORKSHEET–66

1. The Evils of Hitch-Hiking(by Anubha)

Hitch-hiking may seem to be a thrilling adventure at first, but the habit of takingfree lifts from the passing cars is fraught with dangerous consequences. In theirzeal to enjoy the fun of a free ride the young school boys and girls do not knowwho the persons offering them lift are. Everyday we read so many cases ofkidnapping, molestation, sexual abuse, rape and murder. Gone are the days whenface used to be an index of the mind. Now one may smile and smile and yet be avillain. You can never be sure of the intentions of these samaritans who mayprove ugly customers and ruin young promising careers forever. I think thispractice of seeking free lift should be discouraged by all the elders and well-wishers by educating the youth about the moral, physical and ethical aspects.Many boys and young girls have been duped and ill-treated by anti-social elementsby offering them free lifts, outings and entertainments. Although most of thevictims bear the trauma silently, some of them are bold enough to inform thepolice and local authorities. This acts as an eye-opener to others and also helpsthe authorities to curb crimes by nabbing the anti-social elements.

2. The Problems of The BlindHarsh TOI, 25 May 20XX

A visit to the ‘Home for the Blind’ provided us the opportunity of knowing thefeelings and problems of the blind from a close angle. Most of them revealed thestory of their blindness. Only a handful of them were born blind, the rest losttheir eyesight due to a stroke of bad luck.These blind persons were engaged in activities that required skilled hands. Thusthey can earn their living and are not a burden or parasites on the society. Thework house seemed neat and clean, but the dwelling places lacked proper sanitation.Their clothes were dirty and unclean. This unhygienic environment causes infectionand spreads diseases. It is the duty of the society as well as the government toprovide them basic necessities of life such as food, clothing, shelter, medicines andmeans of entertainment. They can’t see but their hearing is not impaired. Thesweet songs and bhajans some of them sang are still vivid in my memory. Their


living conditions can be further improved by establishing more such homes for theblind and teaching them skills which can help them earn more. They deserve careand honour rather than pity which sounds degrading to their ears. Excepteyesight they are compatible to do other activities. These self-reliant personsshould be accorded proper respect by the society.

WORKSHEET–67

1. Education for All(by Raghav)

A few years ago the Delhi Government directed the Education Department toimplement the new scheme EFA—“Education for All”, in order to educate all thepeople of Delhi. Teachers of many schools participated in the workshops headedby Education Officers to carry out the scheme with the help of non-governmentorganizations and students. However, it met with partial success. Despite theirbest efforts, this is still a dream.I think it would have been better if the government had employed fresh and youngunemployed dedicated teachers to teach the uneducated people, particularly in thevillages and the slums of Delhi. Another positive step is to open a few temporaryschools in the slums with the facility of mid-day meals. This would look after thephysical, social and educational needs of the illiterate slum dwellers. The parentswould feel encouraged and inspired to send them to such schools instead ofengaging them in menial jobs to earn their bread. It is a well known fact that thepoor can hardly make both ends meet.The experience of running Adult Education Centres is of no help in the ‘Education forAll’ programme. Teaching unwilling, young, hungry and unfed children is far moredifficult than teaching illiterate adults. Besides patience on the part of the teachers,some physical facilities and audio-visual aids are essential to eradicate illiteracy.

2. BAN CHILD LABOURChildren can be seen working in various jobs which are meant only for adultssuch as house-building activities, factories, industries, shops and restaurants.Factories making bangles, matches, crackers, carpets etc. usually employ childlabour. The atmosphere in these factories is not conducive to health. The workingconditions are awful and unhealthy. Children are forced to work there for longhours on low wages. This exploitation of child-labour goes on despite several lawsbanning the employment of children in hazardous industries. The real solutionlies in proper implementation of the ban on child labour. Empowered committeesshould inspect the factories without prior notice and take stringent action againstthose industrialists who flout the law. Only then child labour can be eliminated.The problems of deprived and exploited children should also be brought to thenotice of social workers, general public and parents to build general awareness.An enlightened public can force the greedy factory owners to desist from the profitmotive of employing small children in factories.

WORKSHEET–68

1. HAZARDS OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

The Bugle, 23 October 20XX(by Pravin Chopra)

Environmental pollution is the most dangerous health hazard for the modern


generation. Progress in science and technology has resulted in advancement inthe fields of industry, transport, medicine and agriculture. Population explosionhas increased the population of cities. Urbanisation, industrialisation and rapidtransport have resulted in pollution. Our environment is being polluted bydifferent means through air, water, noise and food. Certain species faceextermination and humanity is under a great threat.The tall chimneys of factories emit out smoke and pollute the air. The smokespewed by trucks, buses and other vehicles spreads poisonous gases as well assuspended particulate matter. Consequently city dwellers have become victims ofincurable chest related diseases. The noise of machines in factories, vehicles,loudspeakers, etc. has brought deafness to millions. Even the water has becomeso polluted that fish do not find their survival there. Inhaling fresh, pure air hasbecome a thing of the past. Our soil which produces grain, vegetables and fruitshas also been polluted by the excessive use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers.The soil pollution is contaminating the rivers along with the rainfall.

2. ROLE OF YOUTH IN COMBATING CORRUPTIONThe Yugantar, 25 Nov. 20XX

(by Mohit Sen)Corruption is rampant in our social and political life. Like cancer it is eating intothe vitals of the society. Self-serving politicians and their agents and powerbrokers can stoop to any extent to feather their own nest. Nobody is free from theneedle of suspicion. Corruption seems to rule the roost everywhere. In governmentoffices, it percolates from the top to the bottom. ‘You pay the piper and call thetune’ or ‘Money makes the mare go’ are the unwritten tenets of our administrative-cum-political set up.It seems that the older generation has given the go by to all that was good inIndia. It is the youth and specially students who have to take cudgels against thisdemon of corruption and crush it altogether. A beginning can be made in thisdirection by holding anti-corruption drives. The ill-effects of corruption in publiclife should be publicised through inter-school declamation and essay-writing contests.Students should take a pledge to resist the temptation of using unfair means inexamination. They can also go a step further and persuade their friends, relativesand parents to curb this evil at all cost. The dedicated efforts of honest youth arebound to succeed in the long run in demolishing and vanquishing this social evilwhich has earned us a bad name.

Long Composition (Speeches)

WORKSHEET–69

1. Newspapers Ought to Contain More News and Fewer Advertisements(by Prachi)

Respected Chairperson, August faculty and dear friends,It is painful to see that journalists have lost all ethics and professionalism today.Like all other professionals, the pressmen are also attracted by the lure of thelucrae. They adopt diverse techniques to increase the revenue of their paper.They try to sensationalise the news to win more readers. However, even thenewspaper having the largest circulation is not self-dependent. It must have


plenty of commercial advertisements to meet its running costs. In fact it is theseads which provide the owners the requisite funds. Thus advertisements cannot beruled out. They are a necessary evil and must stay.The owners and editors of the newspapers must also realise their responsibility tothe nation. The press is the strongest pillar of democracy. It creates sensiblepublic opinion in favour of good policies and criticizes the wrong policies. Thenewspapers must maintain a balance between news and advertisements. A commonman buys a newspaper for news. It would be better that the editors publish aclassified advertisement supplement twice or thrice a week and save the generalreader from the proliferation of advertisements while scanning the pages forviews and news.

2. Each One Teach One

Dear friendsWe have all collected here to work together to realise the dream of the NationalLiteracy Mission. We would like to see an India where each person is literate. Ourlearners are not students or children like us but adults. They are people with arich experience of life and have an active role in society. We would like to buildupon that experience, wisdom and maturity. The learning strategies that we willadopt in our programme will be exploratory and interactive. We seek your com-mitment and involvement.Some of our objectives are to bring about at least a basic learning of reading, writingand counting. We wish to promote better health awareness and care to be taken. Wewould like to create an awareness about the democratic processes, rights, duties andobligations. We especially would like to focus on the status of women, the girl childand how they can fight against exploitation and injustice and thus build their own selfconfidence and respect. We wish to focus on social issues and create awareness aboutenvironmental problems, population control and self-employment. As a volunteer ofNational Literacy Mission, I pledge myself towards achieving our goals.

WORKSHEET–70

1. ‘Clean Your City’ Campaig(by Smriti)

Respected teachers and dear friends‘Cleanliness is next to godliness’ is an old adage. It is perhaps most relevant now-a-days when environmental pollution is increasing day by day. Prevention isbetter than cure. Dirt and disease thrive together. Insanitary conditions of thestreets not only give the city a filthy and ugly look, they also breed many harmfuldisease causing bacteria. Our first effort, therefore, is to keep our surroundingsclean. People should separate their household solid waste in two parts—biodegradable and non-biodegradable, instead of heaping them together. Propersteps should be taken for garbage disposal. Incinerators should be installed atproper places. The use of biogas and other eco-friendly materials can help to keepthe kitchen clean. The ‘clean your city’ campaign launched by the magazine ‘OurGood Earth’ aims at making us conscious of cleanliness of our surroundings. Wecan keep our environment clean by minimising the harmful gases spewn by theautomobiles by sharing the vehicles. The replacement of diesel driven buses byCNG buses will help to reduce the suspended particulate matter in the air. Thecitizens must become cleanliness conscious.


2. Teaching Profession is Better than the Medical Profession(by Meenu - in favour of the motion)

Respected teachers and dear friendsI stand before you to support the motion that, teaching profession is better thanmedical profession.‘You can be the candle that spreads its light and you can light up millions of tinylamps as you pass through life as a teacher.’ Teaching has always been andcontinues to be a noble profession. Commercialisation has touched it but notseeped right through it. The medical profession has been transformed today.Doctors take the oath but a large number seem to transform their conscience intoa commercial money spinning machine. Doctors’ shops have mushroomed atevery nook and corner in our cities. Teaching involves interactive sharing processwhich can transform the lives and outlook of an individual. The destiny andcharacter of many a leading personality has been shaped in the classrooms. Thefuture of the nation and the future of entire mankind is based on the valuesimbibed in the early impressionable years of life.If illiteracy is removed from our country a major problem for us will get solved.Even today an ordinary teacher has basic values and lives a simple life. Doctorson the other hand run after the luxuries of life. All in all it can easily be said thatteaching profession is better than the medical profession.

WORKSHEET–71

1. Noise PollutionIt appears that the giant strides of progress of man include a rising crescendo ofnoise. The natural sounds of twittering and chirping of birds is lost in the din ofloud city sounds. Everywhere you turn, you hear a volume of sound.At home, one can hear the blaring of stereos and television. Even if you prefer a quietevening of solitude, your peace will be shattered by the ear-splitting music from next door.But on the streets, it is worse. At a busy cross-road all one can hear is thehonking of horns, screeching of brakes and squealing tyres. If you take a latemorning walk, you are sure to come across construction going on and the gratingsound of machinery. There could be processions, slogan shouting, yatras, etc. Toget some peace, enter a restaurant and you find the latest numbers blaring out.Take a taxi and the driver will in all probability switch on his favourite loudmusic. Stations of all kinds—bus and railways are the hub of noise of all kinds,right from the hawker to the potter to the conductor, each one tries to competewith the other in shouting over the din.You expect night to be a time of peace but even then you can hear all night‘jagratas’ or marriages with a lot of loud music or the party next door which goeson and on. Noise is something that doesn’t end and silence, they say is golden. Itsurely is becoming as rare as gold.

2. Minimisation of Human Wants is the Wayto Cleanse Society from Corruption

(by Sangeeta)Respected Chairman and friends,Corruption is a canker that eats into the vitals of our society. It is the biggest killerand crippler of modern society. Our daily newspapers are replete with scams andmalpractices which have become the hallmark of the present day social set up.Although we have progressed in the fields of science and technology there seems to


be an awful decline in humanity and humanitarian values. Corruption has ingraineditself deep in our society. The social fabric is fast disintegrating. People are lured bywealth and do not bother how it is earned. Means are no longer important. One mustmake a fast buck—that seems to be the compelling motive behind every youngperson in quest of millions. The root of this malaise lies in materialism and growingconsumerism. In the past the slogan of life was simple living and high thinking. Nowthe roles have reversed. It is high living and simple thinking. Human beings haveincreased their desires. These uncontrolled desires have changed into needs.Mushrooming of wants have compelled modern man to run after money like alunatic. We have forgotten that money is a means to happiness and not an end initself. A complete change of attitudes is essential. I think that minimization of humanwants is the only way to cleanse society of all kinds of corruption.

Long Composition (Speech/Article)

WORKSHEET–72

1. Pathetic Life in SlumsThe living conditions in Indira slum settlement in Vijaynagar are really pathetic.The whole area has grown into one large garbage dump. Heaps of dirt and piles ofdung and garbage greet you in every street and open space. The open, uncovereddrains, pits and holes carrying foul water make the roads stink with a foul smell.The overflow of used water and its contact with dung and garbage furtherdeteriorates the whole situation. Garbage stinks and emits a foul smell. Mosquitoesbreed in the pits and pools of water and flies buzz over them. Stray dogs makemerry on the heaps of garbage. Pigs wallow in the mud near the open drains.Perhaps this slum is the most suitable place for the pigs to enjoy to their heart’scontent. By an irony of fate and circumstances, about two hundred persons have todwell in this slum. Strangely enough, these slum dwellers don’t have qualms due tothe dirty conditions prevailing all around them. They sit on their cots outside theirdark, dingy huts and chat for hours together. Their children roll and play on thesoil and heaps of dirt. Cows and buffaloes add to the filth by their dung and urine.Water taps are in the open and the dirty water in the nearby pool gets mixed withthe drinking water. Dirty clothes are washed up and utensils cleaned up in thisdirty water. The animals—cows, buffaloes, dogs and pigs—also drink this water.Drinking foul water causes dangerous diseases like cholera and gastroenteritis. Theliving conditions in this slum settlement are appalling. One can’t walk through thenarrow streets without putting a handkerchief over the nose.These unhygienic conditions call forth immediate remedial measures by theHealth Department. Besides providing physical amenities like safe drinking water,bath-rooms and disposal tanks, the slum dwellers should be educated aboutmaintaining healthy surroundings. They need awareness of the value of cleanenvironment. Social workers and voluntary organisations (NGO’s) can lend ahelping hand in slum up-lift.

2. Tree PlantationRespected teachers and dear friendsTrees play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. It is only recentlythat man has realised the importance of afforestation and growing more trees. Inthese days of ever increasing pollution, trees are our best friends. Tree plantation


should not be restricted to a particular day or a week, rather it should be a phasedprogramme spread over the whole year. Secondly, tree-plantation should not beobserved as a mere ritual or a necessary function imposed by the government.Thirdly, tree-preservation is far more important than tree-plantation.The importance of planting more and more trees lies in the fact that the number oftrees preserved is quite low as compared to the number of trees planted. Some ofthe trees wither away due to lack of proper nourishment and care and some are cutdown for timber or fuel wood. Two random examples are sufficient to illustrate thepoint. The number of trees planted in 2004 was 5000. Of these 2000 withered and3000 were cut. At the end of the year the number of surviving trees remained thesame as at the beginning of the year. Let us consider another example. During2011, as many as 7000 trees were planted, out of which 2000 withered. However,during the year as many as 8000 old trees were cut down. This has resulted in adepletion in the number of surviving trees at the end of the year by 3000. You willall agree that this is an unhealthy trend and must be opposed lock, stock andbarrel. Govt. authorities, voluntary organisations and environmental enthusiastsshould come forward and check indiscriminate felling of trees. The obnoxious nexusbetween corrupt forest officers and timber mafia should be broken and the guiltypunished. The villagers must be made aware of the importance of trees. Only theirwilling co-operation to preserve trees can make any programme successful.

WORKSHEET–73

1. The Qualities Required for Success(A Speech by Aditi)

Respected teachers and dear friendsThe modern age is the sputnik age. Everything has to be done fast, precisely andefficiently. Information Technology has made rapid strides. Computers and websiteshave brought a deluge of information. No wonder the generation-y is quiteconscious about the most important things in life. The modern youth are highlyaware of the qualities essential to attain success. Knowledge is regarded as themost important thing in life. There is no denying the fact that knowledge leads topower as it helps us to achieve an excellence of mind. Knowledge facilitates thecreation of critical, creative and rational outlook and helps us in seeking happinessof all and perfection wherever attainable. Love is another very important virtuewhich enables us to form healthy human relationship and win over people. Inmodern days, money factor has also acquired importance because it enables us tolead a tension free, peaceful and comfortable life. The gadgets of modern timesare quite costly, yet they are essential for comfortable living. Secondly moneyenables us to reduce worry and anxiety which the poor usually feel in their questfor livelihood. Thirst for fame and hunger for power are also considered asessential ingredients in modern life. Thus the modern youth are fully conscious ofthe virtues needed to fulfil their aims and ambitions.However, merely possessing these qualities or virtues is not enough. One must beaware of the most important factors essential for ensuring success. An ambitiousyoung person should realise the importance of hard work. True talent, intelligenceand integrity are also needed to bring success. Relying solely on lady luck isregarded as a sign of orthodoxy. Remember, fortune favours the brave. Lucksmiles only on those who think positively and execute their plans earnestly. Goodcontacts also help us to be successful. Last but not least, comes money. We havealready highlighted the importance of money for comfortable and purposefulliving. The power of money can also ensure success.


2. Women’s RightsEve’s Weekly: 15 July 20XX

Uma BhatnagarWomen constitute almost half of humanity, yet they have remained subservientto men in many fields. It is really very unfortunate that women have played asecondary and marginal role in the male dominated society till now. However,women of today can’t accept their exploitation lying down. They have launched avigorous movement for safeguarding their rights and interests. They areclamouring for women empowerment. They know that real power lies in moneyand policy making. That is why they are demanding reservation of 33% for womenin jobs as well as representation in state assemblies and national parliament. Atpresent women representatives are few and far between. They can be counted onfinger tips. Men outnumber women in jobs too. Harassment of working womenresults from the dominant position of the male bosses and the fear of economicinsecurity of the female workers.Some conservative sections of the society regard women as weak and inferior tomen and hence unsuitable for outdoor work. These people are highly mistaken.Modern women are fully equipped with education, expertise, confidence, self-respect and independence. A glance at the results of the public examinationsreveals the superior rank and pass percentage of girls. Then why discriminateagainst them in jobs or representation in legislation? If women can run homesefficiently, they can manage the affairs of the state with the same precision.Reservation for women should be incorporated in the constitution by passing a billto this effect. This measure will end the marginalisation of women in the supremepolicy making bobies and pave the way for their emancipation, enlightenment andempowerment.

Long Composition (Debates)

WORKSHEET–74

1. Respected chairperson, honorable teachers, members of the jury and my dear friends.The topic of today’s debate is “Cycle rickshaws should not be banned from the roads”.I Amit Khurana of class XII-E stand before you to speak in favor of the motion.Cycle rickshaw can be seen plying in every part of our country be it a city, a townor a village. They are the common man’s mode of travel as they are cheap andeconomical. Since they run by muscle power they are ecofriendly, non-polluting asthey do not use fossils fuels. The most important point in their favours is thatthey provide means of livelihood to several lakh unemployed men and therebysupport several lakh families. I don’t think my worthy opponent would disputethis great benefit of cycle rickshaws.But I don’t agree with my worthy opponent’s claim that the cycle rickshaws causeexcessive congestion in city’s roads. Aren’t auto rickshaws, cyclists, cars, buses,trucks and pedestrians equally involved in causing traffic snarls and jams? Thenwhy target the cycle rickshaws alone as the culprit for traffic jams.So, I am not at all in favour of banning cycle rickshaws from the roads. I wouldinstead suggest that battery operated cycle rickshaws be provided to the rickshawpullers by the government on a subsidised basis, to relieve them from the harmfuland strenuous pedalling of the rickhaws.Thank you


2. Respected chairperson, member of the jury, honourable teachers and my dearfriends. The topic for today’s debate is “Fast food is harmful to health” and I,Sushil Saxena of class XII-B stand before you to speak in favour of the motion. Ifully agree that fast food is harmful to health. The first reason is that these foodsare high carbohydrate, high fat and high salt. Secondly, they are laced with anumber of chemicals like antioxidants, emulsifiers, preservatives, colouring agents,flavoring agents like ajinomoto. Thirdly, these foods affect the child’s concentration,learning abilities and behaviour. Fourthly, these foods lead to poor bone formationas they lack calcium. My worthy opponent has mentioned that such foods arehealthy and safe. Let me remind him that tests conducted on children whoregularly eat fast ford have shown that some of them suffer from hypertension,heart problems, obesity, diabetes etc. at such a young age. It is because thesefoods lack minerals, proteins, vitamins which are present in fresh fruits, nuts,salads, eggs, meat, cereals and lentils cooked at home.To sum up children should be made to develop a liking for home made food. If saleof fast food items are banned from schools and its sorrounding then childrenwould go in for good food cooked at home or fresh fruit and salads. After all,health lost cannot be regained easily and cheaply.Thanks you

WORKSHEET–75

1. Respected chairperson, members of the jury, honorable teachers and my dearfriends. The topic for today’s debate is “cloning is an unethical practice”, and I,Rahul Khanna of class XII-A, stand before you to speak against the motion. Itotally disagree with my worthy opponent who has said that the harmful effect ofcloning will be more than the benefits of closing.I am of the opinion that the purpose of cloning is to study human development andto treat diseases. The second purpose of cloning is to develop tissues and organs fortransplants. My worthy opponent will no doubt agree with the fact that manypatients having damaged liver, heart, kidneys, skin and other organs can be given asecond chance to live if the damaged organ were to be replaced by an organ takenfrom the cloned person’s body. There would be greatly reduced chances of organreactions/failures if cloned organs were used. Moreover if cloning were done underproper authorization and under strict supervision, the chances of its misuse wouldbe very less. So I firmly assert that it is improper to say that closing is unethicaljust because a few stray cases of unethical practices were detected.Thank you

2. Respected chairperson honorable teachers, members of the jury, and my dearfriends. The topic of today’s debate is “Homework should be abolished” I AnilKumar of Class XII-A stand before you to speak in favour of the motion.Homework as we know is given to make the student become more familiar withthe subject.But the fact is that homework has little educational worth. In fact internationalcomparisons of students have revealed that homework has been found to exhaustthe student’s leisure time. Children may want to pursue activities like singing,sports or dancing but very often homework leaves them with no time for suchhobbies. I think my worthy opponent will definitely agree that homework leavesthe child tired and depleted after doing a sizeable quantity. Moreover excessive


homework makes the children copy from other students or take the help of theirparents or siblings. Further teachers must be sure whether the child has understoodthe topic or not. Thus I can say that homework is nothing but an extra burden onthe already burdened child and I strongly oppose the practice of giving homework.Thanks you

59TARETIL XETERU SKOOBT .. .

LITERATURE TEXTBOOKS ANDLITERATURE TEXTBOOKS ANDLITERATURE TEXTBOOKS ANDLITERATURE TEXTBOOKS ANDLITERATURE TEXTBOOKS ANDLONG READING TEXTSLONG READING TEXTSLONG READING TEXTSLONG READING TEXTSLONG READING TEXTS

CCCCC

FLAMINGO (FLAMINGO (FLAMINGO (FLAMINGO (FLAMINGO (English ReaderEnglish ReaderEnglish ReaderEnglish ReaderEnglish Reader)))))

My Mother at Sixty-Six

WORKSHEET–76

1. (a) The poet was driving from her parent’s home to the Cochin airport. Her motherwas sitting beside her.

(b) She noticed that her mother was dozing with her mouth open.(c) Her mother’s face looked pale, faded and lifeless like a dead body.(d) (i) doze (ii) corpse (iii) realised.

2. (1) When the poet sees the pale and corpse-like face of her mother, her old familiarpain or the ache returns. Perhaps she has entertained this fear since her childhood.Ageing is a natural process. Time and ageing spare none. Time and ageing have notspared the poet’s mother and may not spare her as well. With this ageing,separation and death become inevitable.

(2) The poet is driving to the Cochin airport. When she looks outside, the young treesseem to be walking past them. With the speed of the car they seem to be runningfast or sprinting. The poet presents a contrast—her ‘dozing’ old mother and the‘sprinting’ young trees.

WORKSHEET–77

1. (a) Her mother was lost somewhere else in thoughts. It pained her.(b) The poet withdrew her thoughts from her mother and looked outside.(c) The young trees growing outside went past as if they were sprinting. Happy

children were coming out of their houses.(d) (i) sprinting (ii) merry (iii) spilling.

2. (1) The poet’s mother is sixty-six years old. Her shrunken ‘ashen’ face resembles acorpse. She has lost her shine and strength of youth. Similarly, the late winter’smoon looks hazy and obscure. It too lacks shine and strength. The comparison isquite natural and appropriate. The simile used here is apt as well as effective.

(2) The poet’s parting words of assurance and her smiles provide a stark contrast tothe old familiar ache or fear of the childhood. Her words and smiles are adeliberate attempt to hide her real feelings. The parting words: “See you soon,Amma” give an assurance to the old lady whose ‘ashen face’ looks like a corpse.Similarly, her continuous smiles are an attempt to overcome the ache and fearinside her heart.


An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum

WORKSHEET–78

1. (a) These children are sitting in the school classroom in a slum which is far far awayfrom the winds or waves blowing strongly.

(b) The faces of these children look pale. Their uncombed and unkempt hair look likerootless wild plants.

(c) The head of the tall girl is weighed down by the burdens of the world. She feelsdepressed, ill and exhausted.

(d) It means that the boy is exceptionally thin, weak and hungry.2. (1) The colour of ‘sour cream’ is off-white. The poet has used this expression to

suggest the decaying aspect. The deterioration in the colour of the classroomwalls symbolises the pathetic condition of the lives of the scholars—the children ofthis slum-school.

(2) These pictures that decorate the walls hold a stark contrast with the world of theseunderfed, poverty-stricken, slum children living in cramped dark holes, obstacleshamper their physical and mental development and at best their growth is stunted.The pictures on the wall suggest beauty, well-being, progress and prosperity—aworld of sunshine and warmth of love.

WORKSHEET–79

1. (a) The colour of the classroom walls is ‘sour cream’ or off-white. This colour suggeststhe decaying aspect and pathetic condition of the lives of the children in a slum-school.

(b) The walls of the classroom have pictures of Shakespeare, buildings with domes,world maps and beautiful valleys.

(c) The poet hints at two worlds: the world of poverty, misery and malnutrition of theslums where children are underfed, weak and have stunted growth. The otherworld is of progress and prosperity peopled by the rich and the powerful. Thepictures on the wall suggesting happiness, richness, well being and beauty are instark contrast to the dim and dull slums.

(d) (i) ‘Open handed-map’ suggests the map of the world drawn at will by powerfulpeople/dictators like Hitler.

(ii) ‘Awarding the world its world’ suggests how the conquerors and dictatorsaward and divide the world according to their whims. This world is the worldof the rich and important people.

2. (1) He uses the images of despair and disease to describe the miserable and patheticlives of the children living in slums. The faces of these children are pale and lifeless.They and their hair are like ‘rootless weeds’. The burden of life makes them sitwith their head ‘weighed down’. The stunted growth is depicted by ‘the paper-seeming boy’ and ‘the stunted unlucky heir of twisted bones’. Their weak bodiesrecite their fathers’ ‘gnarled disease’.

(2) The burden of poverty and disease crushes the bodies of these slum children but nottheir souls. They still have dreams. Even their foggy future has not crushed alltheir hopes. They dream of open seas, green fields and about the games that asquirrel plays in the tree room.


Keeping Quiet

WORKSHEET–80

1. (a) The name of the poem is ‘Keeping Quiet’. The poet is Pablo Neruda.(b) The people of the world have been indulging in wars and bloodsheds on minor

excuses. If they keep quiet, they may not indulge in reasoning, disputes andquarrels. So let them keep quiet and not speak in any language. This will ensurepeace.

(c) We should cease all activities for a second. Man has used his arms only to kill anddestroy others. Therefore, let them not move their arms so much as to harm others.

(d) ‘The face of the Earth’ refers to the various countries on the surface of the earth.

2. (1) Counting up to twelve takes very short time. Keeping still for this brief interval oftime gives us a momentary pause to introspect and review the course of action. It isgenerally observed that most of the ills and troubles of the world are caused by ourrush or hurry. Violence is caused by anger. Keeping quiet and still will give usnecessary respite and ensure peace.

(2) No, he doesn’t advocate either total inactivity or death. He makes it quite clear that‘stillness’ should not be confused with ‘total inactivity’ or equated to it. Totalinactivity brings death. But Neruda has ‘no truck with death’. His stillness meanshalting of harmful and hostile human activities.

WORKSHEET–81

1. (a) The name of the poem is ‘Keeping Quiet’. The poet is Pablo Neruda.(b) There will be peace all around if there is no rush or the sound of the running of

engines and machines.(c) It will be a very enticing and beautiful moment.(d) All of us will enjoy the unusualness and sudden strangeness of that moment.

2. (1) The poet wants to prove that there can be life under apparent stillness. The poetinvokes the earth as a living symbol to prove his point. The earth never attainstotal inactivity. Nature remains at work even under apparent stillness. It keepsearth alive. This idea is beautifully illustrated by the following lines:

“as when everything seems deadand later proves to be alive.”

(2) Stillness is essential for calm reflection and quiet introspection. We hear the voiceof conscience in moments of silence. The poet is convinced that most of human illsand miseries are caused by man’s hurry and rush to do things. The poet wishes thatwe may withdraw from our undesirable actions and keep still for a moment.

A Thing of Beauty

WORKSHEET–82

1. (a) A thing of beauty is the source of constant joy. Its beauty goes on increasing. It willnever pass into nothingness.

(b) A bower is a pleasant place in the shade under a tree. It protects persons/animalsfrom the hot rays of the sun.


(c) It provides us a sound sleep, full of sweet dreams, health and peaceful breathing.(d) (i) loveliness (ii) nothingness (iii) quiet.

2. (1) Everything of nature is a thing of beauty and a source of pleasure. Some of themare: the sun, the moon, old and young trees, daffodil flowers, small streams withclear water, mass of ferns and the blooming musk-roses. All of them are things ofbeauty. They are constant sources of joy and pleasure.

(2) Many things cause us suffering and pain. Malice and disappointment are the biggestsource of our suffering. Another one is the lack of noble qualities. Our unhealthyand evil ways also give birth to so many troubles and sufferings. They dampen ourspirits. They act as a pall of sadness on our lives.

WORKSHEET–83

1. (a) We are weaving a flowery wreath to bind us to the beauties of the earth.(b) We possess the evil qualities of malice and disappointment. We suffer from the lack

of noble qualities and unhealthy and evil ways.(c) It means in spite of all the evils mentioned above.(d) (i) spite (ii) despondence (iii) gloomy.

2. (1) There are many things that bring us troubles and sufferings. They dampen ourspirits. However, ‘some shape of beauty’ brings love and happiness in our lives inspite of such unpleasant things. A thing of beauty removes the pall of sadness andsufferings. It makes us love life.

(2) The mighty dead were very powerful and dominating persons during their owntimes. Their achievements made them ‘mighty’ and great. Their noble works dazzleour eyes. We imagine that such mighty dead forefathers will attain more grandeuron the doomsday. Hence ‘grandeur’ is associated with the ‘mighty dead’.

Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’

WORKSHEET–84

1. (a) The poem is ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’. The poet is Adrienne Rich.(b) They are jumping across a screen or a wall. They look like shining yellow topaz.(c) They live in green forests. They are fearless. They don’t fear the men under the

tree.(d) (i) prance (ii) denizens (iii) chivalric.

2. (1) Like all beasts of prey, the tigers are the denizens of forest. They live far away fromhuman settlements. They are called ‘chivalric.’ This indicates the majestic andhonourable position that they occupy in the world of animals. So the use of thewords ‘denizens’ and ‘chivalric’ adds to our understanding of the tigers’ attitudes.

(2) Aunt Jennifer is weaving tigers on the panel. Her hands are moving about her wool.She is finding the needle quite hard to pull. The weight of years of her married lifeis lying heavy on her hand. This makes the pulling of the neddle so hard.

WORKSHEET–85

1. (a) Aunt Jennifer’s fingers were fluttering through her wool.(b) She was finding even the ivory needle hard to pull.(c) The weight of Uncle’s wedding band was lying heavily on her hand.


(d) (i) fluttering (ii) massive (iii) band.1. (1) In the third stanza, the poet refers to Aunt Jennifer’s ‘terrified hands’. The old

unhappy memories are still fresh in her mind. She had passed through manytesting and horrible times during her married life. These ordeals crushed andsuppressed her. Their effect is still visible. So she is still ringed with those ordealsthat dominated her life.

(2) The poem addresses the experience of marriage in the midst of constriction. Theword ‘ringed’ is significant. It suggests that the vicious grip or her unhappy marriedlife is still holding her tightly. The word ‘ringed’ has been used in two ways. First isthe conventional use. Here ring is a symbol of the sacred bond of marriage. Theother is the figurative use of ‘ringed’. It means encircled or surrounded.

The Last Lesson

WORKSHEET–86

1. That day Franz was expected to be prepared with participles because M. Hamel had saidthat he would question them on participles. Franz did not know anything aboutparticiples.

2. Usually, when school began, there was a great bustle, which could be heard out in thestreet. But it was all very still that day. Everything was as quiet as Sunday morning.There was no opening or closing of desks. His classmates were already in their places.The teacher’s great ruler instead of rapping on the table, was under M. Hamel’s arm.

3. For the last two years all the bad news had come from the bulletin-board. An order hadcome from Berlin to teach only German in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine. TheGermans had put up this notice on the bulletin-board.

4. M. Hamel had put on his best dress—his beautiful green coat, his frilled shirt and thelittle black silk cap, all embroidered. The whole school seemed so strange and solemn.On the back benches that were always empty, the elderly village people were sittingquietly like the kids.

5. Franz came to know that it was the last lesson in French that M. Hamel would givethem. From the next day they will be taught only German. Then he felt sorry for notlearning his lessons properly. His books, which seemed a nuisance and a burden earlierwere now old friends. His feelings about M. Hamel also changed. He forgot all about hisruler and how cranky he was.

WORKSHEET–87

1. Mother tongue helps a person to express his feelings and thoughts most lucidly andintimately. Conquerors try to subdue and control the people of the enslaved territory byenforcing many measures such as use of force to crush dissent and imposing their ownlanguage on them.From time immemorial the victorious nations have imposed their own language on theconquered people and taken away their own language from them. The Romans conqueredmany parts of Europe and replaced the local languages by their own language—Latin.Later on Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and French developed from Latin. The Musliminvaders imposed Arabic and Persian in the countries of Asia overpowered by them. Inmany Arab countries the local religion and language have disappeared. In India, a newlanguage Urdu developed from the mixture of Persian and Hindi.


2. The linguistic minority in any state is easily marked and faces the same discriminationas the religious, social or ethnic minorities. There is, however, a pronounceddifference in the treatment meted out and the level of acceptance displayed by themajority community in that region/city. Some cities like Delhi, Mumbai are cosmopolitanin outlook.The linguistic minority tries to preserve its identity through an intimate contact,interaction and preservation of their language in social get togethers, family functionsand festivals of their own region. Adherence to social customs and traditions in familygatherings/group meetings of women also promote the unity between members of thelinguistic minority.In short, they create a mini-Punjab in Bengaluru, mini-Chennai in Mumbai, mini-Bengaluru in Delhi and mini-Surat in Kolkata.

3. Language is always considered a medium of communication. Man is a gregarious animal.He has to interact with the fellow human beings. Therefore a set of complex symbols isdesigned to serve this purpose. We must ruminate over the past before discussing thestatus of a language. There are innumerable man made problems. At the dawn of civilizationthere was no discrimination on the basis of caste, colour, creed, language and nationality.But in this century these problems exist. Nature does not segregate nations. Scientificadvancement, material prosperity, lofty aspirations, materialistic attitude, a desire to rulethe world and vested interests are some of the causes of human sufferings. The conceptsof all languages are similar. They have nouns, pronouns, adjectives, adverbs, prepositionsand conjunctions. As no religion is insignificant in the same way no language is inferior.The characteristics and nature of all languages are similar. The only difference is in symbolsand pronunciation. The purpose and objective of all languages are synonymous. There isa dire need to understand that there should be only one religion i.e. humanity and thereshould be only one language i.e. the language of love. A language must not become thecause of rift among masses. It should bring people together instead of spreading hatred.One should not despise others because of their language. It is against human dignity andgrace.

4. Advantages of Three Language System. India is a democratic state. It is replete withpeople who have diverse backgrounds, and culture. Their customs and traditions vary.Their languages are also different. The language of a South Indian is entirely differentfrom that of the North Indians. People have their regional languages and dialects too. Insuch circumstances it becomes a herculean task to decide which language should be taughtat schools. So, India opted for three language system at schools. It is a boon to the residentsof a particular area. They do not feel that their language is insignificant and ignored. Theyare given ample opportunities to opt for the languages they intend to speak or learn.Pupils get fundamental knowledge of three languages and can appreciate the literature ofall these three languages. Such students never face failure due to language barriers. Theybring laurels to their parents and nations as well. They explore new avenues and horizonswith an astonishing ease. Three language system must be adopted by all nations so as toacquaint the children with various language patterns. The people of Alsace and Lorrainecould be taught both languages i.e. German and French. Linguistic discrimination marsthe future of humanity.


WORKSHEET–88

1. M. Hamel told the students and villagers that henceforth only German would be taught inthe schools of Alsace and Lorraine. Those who called themselves Frenchmen would neitherbe able to speak nor write it. He praised French as the most beautiful, the clearest andmost logical language in the world. He said that for the enslaved people, their languagewas the key to their prison. Then the people realised how precious their language was tothem. This shows people’s love for their own culture, traditions and country. Pride inone’s language reflects pride in motherland.

2. This comment of Franz shows a Frenchman’s typical reaction to the imposition of learningGerman, the language of the conquerors. Being deprived of the learning of mother tonguewould mean cutting off all bonds with the motherland. Teaching the pigeons to sing inGerman indicates how far the Germans would go in their attempts of linguistic chauvinism.

3. Franz was afraid of being scolded that day especially because M. Hamel, the teacher, hadsaid that he would question them on participles. Franz frankly admits that he was totallyignorant about the topic. His exact words are: “I did not know the first word about them.”Secondly, he had started for school very late that morning.

4. There was a bulletin-board near the town-hall. When Franz passed by it, he noticed acrowd there. He did not stop to look at it. He wondered what could be the matter then. Forthe last two years they had received all the bad news from the bulletin-board—the lostbattle, conscription and the orders of the commanding officer.

5. Usually, when the school began, there was a great bustle. The noise could be heard out inthe school. Students opened and closed their desks. They repeated the lessons togethervery loudly. They kept their hands over their ears to understand better. The teacherwould go on rapping the table with his great iron ruler.

Lost Spring

WORKSHEET–89

1. Saheb is looking for gold in the garbage dumps. He is in the neighbourhood of the author.Saheb has come from Bangladesh. He came with his mother in 1971. His house was setamidst the green fields of Dhaka. Storms swept away their fields and homes. So they left it.

2. One explanation offered by the author is that it is a tradition to stay barefoot. It is not lackof money. She wonders if this is only an excuse to explain away a perpetual state of poverty.She also remembers the story of a poor body who prayed to the goddess for a pair of shoes.

3. No, Saheb is not happy working at the tea-stall. He is no longer his own master. His facehas lost the carefree look. The steel canister seems heavier than the plastic bag he wouldcarry so lightly over his shoulder. The bag was his. The canister belongs to the man whoowns the tea-shop.

4. The city of Firozabad is famous for its bangles. Every other family in Firozabad is engaged inmaking bangles. It is the centre of India’s glass-blowing industry. Families have spent generationsworking around furnaces, welding glass, making bangles for the women in the land.

5. The author finds Saheb standing by the fenced gate of a neighbourhood club. He is watchingtwo young men, dressed in white, playing tennis. Saheb says that he likes the game, buthe is content to watch it standing behind the fence. He goes inside when no one is around.He uses the swing there.


WORKSHEET–90

1. Mukesh is the son of a poor bangle-maker of Firozabad. Most of the young men of Firozabadhave no initiative or ability to dream, but Mukesh is an exception. He has the capacity totake courage and break from the traditional family occupation. He has strong will poweralso. He does not want to be a pawn in the hands of the middlemen or moneylenders. Heinsists on being his own master by becoming a motor mechanic.He can realise his dream by joining a garage and learn the job of repairing cars anddriving them. He will have to overcome many hurdles before he succeeds. Then comestransport problem. Money is the first one. He will have to earn some money himself. Thegarage is a long way from his home. He will have to cover it twice everyday anyhow—bywalking on foot.Patience, hardwork, firm will and the determination to learn will help him realise hisdream.

2. The glass bangles industry has many health hazards. It usually employs small children. Itis illegal to employ very young children in hazardous industries, but certain forces likemiddlemen, moneylenders, police and politicians combine to entrap the poor workers.Let us first consider the places where bangle makers work. It is a cottage industry. Theywork in the glass furnaces with high temperatures. The dingy cells are without air andlight. Boys and girls work hard during day next to lines of flames of flickering oil lamps.They weld pieces of coloured glass into circles of bangles. Their eyes are more adjusted tothe dark than to the light outside. That is why they often end up losing their eyesightbefore they become adults.Glass blowing, welding and soldering pieces of glass are all health hazards. Even the dustfrom polishing the glass of bangles adversely affects the eyes and even adults go blind.Thus the surroundings, prevailing conditions and the types of job involved–all prove riskyto the health of the workers.

3. Poverty: A Vicious CircleIt is a well known saying that poverty is the root cause of all evils. Corruption, loot,begging and incidents of theft are the offspring of abject poverty. The destitute lead apitiable and miserable life. They do not get sufficient food. Lack of funds constrain them totake recourse to illegal activities. Slum dwellers always feel themselves dejected. Theyrecognise only those beings who help them and feed them. Political leaders take undueadvantages of their poverty. They are misused to win elections. Humanity, mankind,honesty, trust and love become significant when an individual succeeds in satisfying hishunger. Hungry people need only food. There is a dearth of people who are capable ofconverting obstacles into opportunities. These poor people are exploited ruthlessly byindustrialists, politicians and other middlemen. They scrounge for gold in the garbagedumps to earn their livelihood. The hiatus between the rich and the poor can never bebridged. It is increasing day by day. The poor are becoming poorer and the rich richer.There is no human being who would like to work for their welfare. Their plight is pitiableand horrible. The residential areas of these people are packed with filth. They becomehabitual of foul smell. Poverty is a vicious circle. It never comes to an end. The unemployedyouth are heading towards destruction. They do not remember anything except the helpthey receive from the opportunistic people who feed them to materialise their vestedinterests.


4. Life is Action and not ContemplationInitiation is the law of nature. Success depends on the actions taken by an individual. Onehas to take actions without wasting time. Dreams give us directions. But it should not beforgotten that a man cannot become influential by only dreaming . One who does notutilise time fails to do anything significant in life. Actions shape the destiny of the beings.Contemplation destroys happiness. Aimless thinking aggravates woes and worries. It leadsto nowhere. Such thinkers never get pleasure in this world of mortals. Those who believein taking actions attain their long cherished goals with an astonishing ease. They neverfeel confused or perplexed. They never become a victim of depression. All the humanbeings are to perform their duties on the earth. Contemplation leads to idleness. Life is ajudicious blend of contemplation and action. Contemplation transformed into action is ofutmost importance. Action without contemplation may be disastrous. Contemplation withoutaction is a sin. One should not waste time in thinking only. We should always rememberthat life is short and time is swift. Procrastination is the thief of time. One should notforget that there’s a time for everything.

WORKSHEET–91

1. Mukesh’s grandmother thinks that a God-given lineage can never be broken. Her son andgrandsons are born in the caste of bangle makers. They have seen nothing but bangles.Mukesh’s father has taught them what he knows—the art of making bangles. Mukeshwants to be a motor mechanic. He will go to a garage and learn, though the garage is faraway from his home.

2. People migrate from villages to cities in search of livelihood. Their fields fail to providethem means of survival. Cities provide employment, jobs or other means of getting food.The problem in case of the poor is to feed the hungry members. Survival is of primaryimportance.

3. The promises made to the poor are rarely kept. The author asks Saheb half-joking, if hewill come to school she starts. Saheb agrees to do so. A few days later he asks if the schoolis ready. The writer feels embarrassed at having made a promise that was not meant.Promises like hers abound in every corner of their bleak world.

4. Certain forces conspire to keep the workers in bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty.These include the moneylenders, the middlemen, the policemen, the keepers of law, thebureaucrats and the politicians. Together they impose a heavy burden on the child.

5. Saheb was a young boy of school-going age. He was looking for gold in the garbage dumpsof the big city. He had left his home in Dhaka, Bangladesh and came to the big city insearch of living. He has nothing else to do but pick rags.

WORKSHEET–92

1. Child labour should be eliminated because the children employed at tender age as domesticservants, dish-washers at road-side dhabas and in hazardous industries making glassbangles, biris, crackers etc. lose the charm of the spring of their life. Their childhood isstolen. Burdened by the responsibility of work, they become adults too soon. Most of themare undernourished, ill-fed, uneducated, and poor. They have a stunted growth.Child labour can be eliminated only through concerted efforts on the part of governmentagencies, NGOs (Non-Government Organizations), co-operative societies and political


leaders. Mere passing of law will not help. Laws should be enacted faithfully. The childrenthrown out of work should be rehabilitated and given proper food, clothes, education andpocket money. Their feelings, thoughts and emotions should be respected. Let them enjoysunshine and fresh air.

2. Poor rag-pickers like Saheb spend the early years of their lives looking for gold in garbagedumps. The parents of these street children have no fixed income. They wage war againstpoverty and hunger. They have no dreams except finding the means of survival. Garbageto them is gold. It is the source of their daily bread and provides a roof over their heads.He ends up as a servant at a tea-stall and loses his freedom.Mukesh, the son of a poor bangle-maker of Firozabad, has a dream of becoming a motormechanic. He also wants to learn to drive a car. He thinks of joining a garage to fulfil hisdream. He knows that the garage is far away, yet he has decided to walk. He realises thereality and is willing to overcome the obstacles. His daring to rise and decision to get freefrom the trap laid by vicious moneylenders and middlemen arouses a sense of hope.Deprived of education, proper food and upbringing, these children are forced into labourearly in life.

3. Key To Success

Hard work is the key to success. Dogged determination and strong will power are theessential ingredients of success. Industrious people never feel disheartened. They burnthe midnight oil and strive hard to achieve the desired goals. It is said that between twostools one falls on the ground. Thus one has to dedicate one’s life to a specific field. Thelong term goals and aims of life must be set thoughtfully and not whimsically. The capriciousnature of a fellow does not allow him to reach the heights. Devotion always brings goodresults and rewards. The essence of devotion is trust or faith. If one has trust in performingthe actions, one is able in winning the battle of life. Trust gives strength and strengthgives birth to determination which leads to dedication. Devoted and dedicated people neverbecome a part of a problem. They remain a part of the solution. They do not do differentthings but they do things differently. Their devotion to the field encourage them to haveindepth knowledge. Those who dare to climb the hill conquer Mount Everest. Dedicationhas no substitute. It is the only way to great accomplishments.

4. Health and Food

One has to accept the fact that if wealth is lost, something is lost and if health is lost,everything is lost. The proverb ‘A sound mind lives in a sound body’ is apt. A healthy mancan enjoy the beauty of this world. An unhealthy man misses one of the greatest boonsgiven by the Almighty. A healthy beggar is better than an unhealthy king. A person whoaccumulates enormous wealth and suffers from chronic or fatal diseases cannot relish life.He wastes his time in clinics and hospitals. Health is essential to have positive thoughts.One should wake up early in the morning and take exercise. Nutritious food is indispensablefor good health. Junk food must be avoided. The destitute suffer because they do not getsufficeient food. They do not have any source of income. Undoubtedly good health plays apivotal role in the life of a mortal. Pecuniary gains are of utmost importance but a strongand sturdy body free from ailments is of paramount importance. It has no substitute. Amortal cannot endure the loss of health. Creativity, productivity and innovation getenhanced if a man is healthy. Thus, one should be in the best of health so that one can leada happy and contented life.


Deep Water

WORKSHEET–93

1. William O. Douglas had just learnt swimming. One day, an eighteen year old bigbruiser picked him up and tossed him into the nine feet deep end of the Y.M.C.A. pool.He hit the water surface in a sitting position. He swallowed water and went at once tothe bottom. He nearly died in this misadventure.

2. Douglas was frightened when he was thrown into the pool. However, he was notfrightened out of his wits. While sinking down he made a plan. He would make a bigjump when his feet hit the bottom. He would come to the surface like a cork, lie flat onit, and paddle to the edge of the pool.

3. This experience revived his aversion to water. He shook and cried when he lay on hisbed. He couldn’t eat that night. For many days, there was a haunting fear in his heart.The slightest exertion upset him, making him wobbly in the knees and sick to hisstomach. He never went back to the pool. He feared water and avoided it whenever hecould.

4. His fear of water ruined his fishing trips. It deprived him of the joy of canoeing, boating,and swimming. Douglas used every way he knew to overcome this fear he haddeveloped since childhood. Even as an adult, it held him firmly in its grip. Hedetermined to get an instructor and learn swimming to get over this fear of water.

5. The instructor built a swimmer out of Douglas piece by piece. For three months he heldhim high on a rope attached to his belt. He went back and forth across the pool. Panicseized the author everytime. The instructor taught Douglas to put his face under waterand exhale and to raise his nose and inhale. Then Douglas had to kick with his legs formany weeks till these relaxed. After seven months the instructor told him to swim thelength of the pool.

WORKSHEET–94

1. I must have been about eight or nine year old. It was the night of Diwali. All the houseswere shining bright with the rows of candles, oil lamps and electric bulbs. Childrenwere bursting crackers. Suddenly a cracker went up and hit the thatched roof of a poorgardener. Soon the hut was in flames. His only son, a tiny infant had severe burnsbefore he could be rescued. I began to tremble with fear as the police questioned theboys exploding crackers. From then on I had a fear of crackers, fire and police. Myparents and I had to work very hard to remove this blemish. It was adversely affectingmy personality. By learning the safeguards against fire and safe handling of crackers, Igradually overcame my fear. However, I still panicked at the sight of a policeman inuniform. The fear of police remained now. My uncle came to my rescue. He got medressed as a police inspector in one of his plays. I commanded many policemen andscolded them for misbehaving with the common people. I learnt that policemen werealso humans and not demons. Police protected and helped us to maintain law and order.Thank God, I have overcome all my fears now.

2. In his autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela tells the extraordinarystory of his life. He brings vividly to life the escalating political warfare in the fiftiesbetween the African National Congress and the government, culminating in his dramaticescapades as an underground leader and the notorious Rivonia Trial of 1964, at which he


was sentenced to life imprisonment. He recounts the surprisingly eventful twenty-sevenyears in prison and the complex, delicate negotiations that led both to his freedom and tothe beginning of the end of apartheid. Mandela also struggled against the exploitation oflabour and on the segregation of the universities. He persevered to achieve his missionand to liberate the oppressed and the oppressor. In 1990, he was freed from prison. Theapartheid laws were relaxed. Mandela became the champion for human rights and racialequality. He also became the first non-white president of the Republic of South Africa.

3. No Pains, No GainsThe dictum implies that one can’t attain phenomenal success without making sincereefforts. There is no substitute to hard work. There is no short cut to success. Allsuccessful persons have emphasised the importance of hard work in life. Nobodyachieved greatness overnight. The secret of their success was hard and systematicwork. Destiny never obliges the shirkers. God helps those who help themselves. Romewas not built in a day. Man must comprehend the significance of doing hard labour. Onemust burn the midnight oil to succeed in this world of intense competition. Never forgetthat rest is rust and work is worship. A person who toils and work hard gets applauseand recognition everywhere. Hard work is the only key to success. Those who workhard flourish and those who are passive ruin their earthly existence. They lose theiridentity. Industrious people reach at their long cherished destinations. They lead theirfellow human beings with politeness and humility.

4. Failures are the Pillars to SuccessIt is rightly said that failure plays an important role in a man’s life. Failure in one fieldbecomes the cause of exploring success in other fields. It is a sure key to many a riddle.Failures make us familiar with our weaknesses and flaws. They become the steppingstones and inspire us to fight against odd circumstances. Man should learn from his mistakesand strive hard to reach at his destination. Most of the successful peoples failed at any stepbut could get their target because failures guided them and encouraged them to try harder.One should never give up one’s target. Our duty is to do our ‘karma’. The result is in thehands of the Almighty. It is certain that failure inspires us to work with more strength andvigour. One should never get depressed and dejected. All leaders, fighters, businessmen,bureaucrats firmly say that failures are the pillars to success.

WORKSHEET–95

1. Douglas still felt terror-stricken when he was alone in the pool. The remnants of the oldterror would return, but he would rebuke it and go for another length of the pool. Hewas still not satisfied. So he went to Lake Wentworth in New Hampshire, dived off adock at Triggs Island and swam two miles across the lake. He had his residual doubts.So he went to Meade Glacier, dived into Warm Lake and swam across to the othershore and back. Thus he made sure that he had conquered the old terror.

2. Douglas gives a detailed account of his feelings and efforts to save himself from gettingdrowned. He uses literary devices to make the description graphic and vivid. Forexample, ‘Those nine feet were more like ninety’, ‘My lungs were ready to burst.’ ‘Icame up slowly, I opened my eyes and saw nothing but water..... I grew panicky’..... ‘Iwas suffocating. I tried to yell, but no sound came out!’

3. When Douglas grew up, he took the help of an instructor to learn swimming. Histraining went on from October to April. For three months he was taken across the poolwith the help of a rope. As he went under, terror filled him and his legs froze. The


instructor taught him to exhale under water and inhale through raised nose. He madehim kick his legs to make them relax. Then he asked him to swim. He continuedswimming from April to July. Still all terror had not left. He swam two miles acrossLake Wentworth and the whole length to the shore and back of Warm Lake. Then heovercame his fear of water.

4. The experience of terror was a handicap Douglas suffered from during his childhood.His conquering of it shows his determination, will power and development of hispersonality. He drew a larger meaning from this experience. “In death there is peace.”“There is terror only in the fear of death.” He had experienced both the sensation ofdying and the terror that fear of it can produce. So the will to live somehow grew inintensity. He felt released–free to walk the mountain paths, climb the peaks and brushaside fear.

5. Douglas was ten or eleven year old when he decided to learn swimming. He could swimin the Yakima River or the Y.M.C.A. pool at Yakima. The Yakima River was dangerous.Many persons had drowned in it. So he chose the Y.M.C.A. pool. It was considered safe.

The Rattrap

WORKSHEET–96

1. The peddler had been thinking of his rattraps when suddenly he was struck by the ideathat the whole world was nothing but a big rattrap. It existed only to set baits forpeople. It offered riches and joys, shelter and food, heat and clothing in the samemanner as the rattrap offered cheese and pork. As soon as someone let himself betempted to touch the bait, it closed in on him, and then everything came to an end.

2. His own life was sad and monotonous. He walked laboriously from place to place. Theworld had never been kind to him. So, during his gloomy ploddings, this idea becamehis favourite pastime. He was amused how people let themselves be caught in thedangerous snare and how others were still circling around the bait.

3. The crofter served him porridge for supper and tobacco for his pipe. He also played agame of cards with him till bed time. This hospitality was unexpected as people usuallymade sour faces when the peddler asked for shelter.

4. The crofter’s circumstances and temperament made him so talkative and friendly withthe peddler. Since he had no wife or child, he was happy to get someone to talk to in hisloneliness. Secondly, he was quite generous with his confidence.

5. The crofter had told the peddler that by supplying his cow’s milk to the creamery, hehad received thirty kronor in payment. The peddler seemed to doubt it. So, in order toassure his guest of the truth he showed the thirty kronor to the peddler.

WORKSHEET–97

1. The peddler wins our sympathy for his way of life and how the world treats him. It is anadmitted fact that the underdog always runs away with sympathy, so does the peddlerwith the rattraps. He begs the material like wire for his rattraps. His business notbeing specially profitable, he resorts to begging and petty thievery to keep body and soultogether.

His life is sad and monotonous. He plods along the road lost in his own meditation. Theworld has never been very kind to him and he feels happy in calling it a rattrap.


Whenever he asks shelter for the night, he meets sour faces. He is an unwelcome,unwanted and undesirable figure. The blacksmiths at forge glance at him only casuallyand indifferently. The master blacksmith nods a haughty consent without honouringhim with a single word.

The old and lonely crofter finds him an enjoyable company. The ironmaster mistakeshim for an old regimental comrade. Only Edla Willmansson behaves with him in a kind,friendly manner. Her nice treatment arouses the tramp’s goodness. He redeemshimself by returning the stolen money and wins our admiration. Thus we see that thesympathy is not only well earned but well justified as well.

2. There are at least three characters in the story who suffer from loneliness and expressthe need to bond with others. They represent three strata of the human society as well.The peddler with the rattraps, the old crofter and the ironmaster all suffer fromloneliness. The peddler is called a tramp, a vagabond and stranger at various points ofthe story. He moves wearily from one place to the other. He is lost in his own thoughts.He seeks shelter for night and people look at him with sour faces. Even the blacksmithslook haughtily at him and nod consent. The old crofter suffers from loneliness as he hasneither wife nor child with him. The cow which supports him is no company. Hence hefeels happy when he gets the peddler to talk to in his loneliness.

The Ironmaster is also lonely in his manor-house. His wife Elizabeth has died and hissons are abroad. There is no one at home except his oldest daughter and himself. Hisrequests to Captain Von Stahle to accompany him show his need for human bonding.He admits frankly that they didn’t have any company for Christmas. The stranger turnsdown the request not because he is against bonding with others but because he fearsbeing caught with stolen money.

3. Honest Means of Livelihood

Every human being has to earn his bread and butter. Means vary from person toperson, but one has to face many obstacles and odd situations in life. These means canbe fair or foul, honest or dishonest. Unfortunately, the modern man hankers aftermoney and has become commercial-minded. People are not afraid of the Almighty. Theywish to accumulate riches by hook or by crook. They have no respect for humanity andmoral values. The social norms and time-tested principles bemoan somewhere in acorner. The mortals of this computer age focus only on pecuniary gains. They aredesirous of becoming rich overnight. And it is sure that no one can make easy moneywithout resorting to corruption. One should always remember that those who arehonest get respect in society and feel themselves satisfied. They don’t have to feelguilty. But those who are corrupt hide themselves behind the veils when caught. Aperson should always be honest and sincere. The factory workers, farmers, teachersand poor artisans live an honest life and are appreciated everywhere. Freud rightlyproclaimed in his letter to Wilhelm Fliess that ‘Being entirely honest with oneself is agood exercise’. A few honest men are better than numerous bad ones.

4. “The crown and glory of life is character When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; When health is lost, something is lost; When character is lost, everything is lost”.

Channing said that the great hope of society is indivisual character. Character plays apivotal role in the life of a human being. It is as significant for a man as a crown for a


king. It is the glory of a man’s life. Character reflects the traits and personality of aperson. A man of character retains moral strength and faces the music of life bravely. Aman is judged by his character. A person who has good character is respected andhonoured in society. It is often said that our lot depends on our character. One rises inlife in proportion to the strength of one’s character. Character gives self-satisfaction toa person. He can lead a happy and contended life. He accumulates wealth in heaveninstead of building treasures on the earth. It is only character that distinguishes manfrom beasts. Goethe remarked that “Talent is nurtured in solitude; character is formedin the stormy billows of the world.

“Not in the clamor of the crowded street,Not in the shouts and plaudits of the throng,

But is ourselves, are triumph and defeat.—Longfellow

WORKSHEET–98

1. No, the peddler did not respect the confidence reposed in him by the crofter. At the firstopportunity that he got, he smashed the window pane, took out the money and hungthe leather pouch back in its place. Then he went away.

2. The peddler realised that he must not walk on the public highway with the stolenmoney in his pocket. He went into the woods. He kept walking without coming to theend of the wood. Then he realised that he had fallen in the rattrap. He had let himselfbefooled by a bait and had been caught.

3. The ironmaster walked closely up to the peddler. In the uncertain reflection from thefurnace, he mistook the man as his old regimental comrade, Captain Von Stahle. Headdressed the stranger as Nils Olof, spoke very kindly and invited him home.

4. The peddler knew that the ironmaster had mistaken him for his old regimentalcomrade. Secondly, he had the stolen money—thirty kronor—on him. Going to theironmaster’s residence would be like entering the lion’s den. So he declined theinvitation.

5. Miss Edla Willmansson looked at the peddler quite compassionately. She noticed thatthe man was afraid. She assured him that he would be allowed to leave just as freely ashe came. She requested him to stay with them over Christmas eve. Her friendlymanner made the peddler feel confidence in her and accept her invitation.

WORKSHEET–99

1. Yes, I know how the kindness of a Bishop transformed a hard-hearted beastly convictinto a man again with faith in God and human values. The story is presented in theform of a famous play ‘The Bishop’s Candlesticks’.

The Bishop provides food and shelter at midnight to a runaway convict who threatenshim with a knife. Long years of imprisonment and harsh treatment in the prisonshiphas transformed the man into beast and he is devoid of all human feelings now. Theconvict runs away with the Bishop’s silver candlesticks, but is caught by the police.

In order to save the convict from further punishment and torture, the Bishop tells thepolice officer that the fellow is his friend and he had himself given him the candlesticks.This kind act of the Bishop melts the hard heart of the convict. He sobs and weeps. Hepromises to be a man again.


2. The story entertains us by providing glimpses into human nature and how people reactto various situations. The actions of the peddler after stealing thirty kronor are quiteamusing. The reactions of the blacksmiths to the tramp’s request for shelter show howcasual and indifferent human beings can be.The U-turn in the ironmaster’s attitude towards the stranger reveal how selfish and ignoranthuman beings can be. Mistaking the vagabond for his old regimental comrade, whom hethinks he has run across unexpectedly, he asks the stranger to accompany him home andspend Christmas with them. When the stranger refuses to go with him, the Ironmaster sendshis daughter. With her better persuasive power she makes him follow her.The ironmaster is annoyed on seeing the stranger in broad daylight. But instead ofrealising his own mistake, he puts the blame on the man. He talks of handing him overto the Sheriff. The metaphor of the world being a rattrap saves the situation for thetramp, but the ironmaster wants to turn him out. His daughter’s comments are quiteentertaining and philosophical. She wants the tramp to enjoy a day of peace. Secondly,she does not want to chase away a person whom they had invited home and hadpromised Christmas cheer.

3. Loneliness: A Terrible MomentEnduring loneliness requires perseverance and strength of mind. The state of alienationmay depress a person. He may become insame. Everybody cannot bear the pangs of leadinga lonely life. Seclusion irritaes a mortal as it is known to us that man is a gregariousanimal. He needs company to share his views and thoughts. It is also said that solitude isthe playfield of satan. Man gets diverted and takes recourse to illegal ways. The Bible saysthat ‘woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up’. Analienated person leads a miserable and pitiable life. Survival at a deserted place becomesnext to impossible for a human being. Solitude gives vent to the fellings of enmity againstmankind. A depressed person may go to any extent to avenge his seclusion. Solitude andmelancholy are synonymous of each other. Mother Teresa has described loneliness in afitting manner. She said, “Lonliness and the feelin of being unwanted is the most terriblepoverty”. Each individual needs love, affection and company. The victims of solitude andlonliness never feel themselves gratified. They never feel themselves the part of the mainstream. It breeds negativity and animosity. They become hostile towards the fellow humanbeings. The repercussions of loneliness are catastrophic and disastrous.

4. The Bible proclaims that ‘Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy’. Lovebegets love and hatred begets hatred. People in this world have a reciprocal relationship.They reciprocate the thing they receive. It is a universally accepted aphorism that ‘To erris human, to forgive, divine’. Sympathy has a great power. A sympathetic person receivesthe blessings of the destitute whom he helps or forgives. People can’t imagine the incrediblepower of sympathy. A person’s kind acts and words may save many precious lives. Onemust not forget that those who sympathise with others get inner satisfaction. It awakensthe affection of a human heart. It leaves an indelible impression even on the most ruggednature. Its results are better than a king’s power. It helps a man in his endeavour toelevate his fellow human beings from a state of poverty and distress. Dr. Samuel Johnsonaverred that the wretched have no compassion. When a man suffers himself, it is calledmisery; when he suffers in the suffering of another, it is called pity. Forgiveness is,undoubtedly, a divine quality. The philanthropists should inculcate the habit of forgivingothers in their character.

“Sweet mercy is nobility’s true badge”—Shakespeare


WORKSHEET–100

1. As Edla lifted the peddler’s hat, he jumped up abruptly and seemed to be quite frightened.Even her kind looks, disclosure of her name and purpose of visit failed to calm him. Fromhis fear, she thought that either he had stolen something or he had escaped from jail.

2. Next morning, the stranger was cleaned and well-dressed. The valet had bathed him, cuthis hair and shaved him. He was led to the dining room for breakfast. The ironmaster sawhim in broad daylight. It was impossible to mistake him for an old acquaintance now. Theironmaster realized his mistake and threatened to call the Sheriff.

3. The peddler explained that he had not tried to pretend as his acquaintance. He was not atfault. All along he had maintained that he was a poor trader. He had pleaded and begged tobe allowed to stay in the forge. No harm had been done by his stay. He was willing to puton his rags again and go away.

4. Edla did not think it proper on their part to chase away a human being whom they hadasked to come to their house and had promised him Christmas cheer. She understood thereality of the peddler’s life and wanted him to enjoy a day of peace with them. Hence shestill entertained the peddler even after knowing the truth about him.

5. As soon as Edla opened the package of the gift, the contents came into view. She found asmall rattrap with three wrinkled ten kronor notes and a letter addressed to her. Thepeddler wanted to be nice in return as she had been so nice to him all day long. He did notwant her to be embarrassed at the Christmas season by a thief.

WORKSHEET–101

1. The theme of the story is that most human beings are prone to fall into the trap ofmaterial benefit. However, every human being has an essential goodness that can beawakened through understanding and love. A human being has the tendency to redeemhimself from dishonest ways.The theme is developed with the help of the metaphor of the rattrap. The peddler ofrattraps calls the world a big rattrap. The material benefits like riches and joys, shelterand food, heat and clothing are temptations that allure a person to fall into the rattrap ofthe world exactly as the bait of cheese and pork attract a rat to fall into the rattrap. Oncesomeone takes the bait, the world closes in on him and then everything is lost.The peddler is tempted by the thirty kronors of the old crofter. He steals the money. Nowhe is afraid of being caught and moves through the woods. It is the kind, sympathetic,loving and generous treatment given by Edla Willmansson that helps him get himself freefrom the rattrap of the world.

2. Having robbed his generous host, the peddler felt quite pleased with his smartness. He didnot feel any qualms of conscience that he had abused the confidence reposed in him by thecrofter. The selfish wretch thought only of his own safety. He realised the danger of beingcaught by the police with the stolen thirty kronor on his person. Hence, he decided todiscontinue walking on the public highway and turn off the road, into the woods.During the first few hours the woods caused him no difficulty. Later on, it became worseas it was a big and confusing forest. The paths twisted back and forth. He kept on walkingbut did not come to the end of the wood. He realised that he had only been walking aroundin the same part of the forest. The forest closed in upon him like an impenetrate prisonfrom which he could never escape.


The reaction of the peddler highlights the predicament of human nature. Temptationslead to evil. The fruits of evil seem pleasant at first, but they deprive man of his goodnessand push him into the maze of the world which holds a vice-like grip on him.

3. There is a Zen proverb which says, “Man stands in his own shadow and wonders why it’sdark. Virtually everyone experiences loneliness from time to time, during holiday season,and during times of extreme stress. People don’t always talk about feelings of lonelinessand don’t always know what to do with those feelings. Other than being emotionallypainful, loneliness can affect people in many ways:1. They may experience physical pain.2. They may become depressed and tend to experience less “togetherness” in social

interactions. It has been found that depression and loneliness can feed each other,each affecting the other.

3. They may become susceptible to a variety of health issues due to depressed immunitywhich is due to emotional stress. Loneliness and depression are linked to poorerhealth and well being.

One needs to come out of the darkness of loneliness. Loneliness can be something difficultto deal with and it is a sad fact that so many people suffer from a lack of close friendshipsand connections, despite the fact that many of us live in or near major cities. There area few things to keep in mind if you feel lovely in your life:1. Feeling separate from others is the direct result of focussing on how others are

different from us.2. Become curious about others and you will never be at a loss for words or feel unable

to connect with them again. Connection is achieved through shared experiences orempathizing with others. Instead allow your curiosity to naturally steer theconversation. Ask a single question. If you are paying attention (instead of worryingwhat you will say next), you’ll notice that there are many conversation topics embeddedin a simple answer or comment that can keep you talking for hours and result in amuch deeper connection.

3. If you are hungry for a deeper connection with others, don’t be too reluctant abouttaking the lead in the situation and putting a little bit of yourself out there to steerthe conversation in a deeper direction.Essentially what you are doing is you are welcoming other people to get more personaland share more of your feelings and experiences too. Once you start to learn moreabout their feelings and opinions on things, you can start to develop a real bond. Itmay seem vulnerable to put yourself out there, and it is! It can be difficult at times toshare parts of yourself with others, but that’s how others will really get to know you.If you ever feel lonely, don’t be afraid to try and straighten a weak friendship or builda new one. There are people everywhere, and all of them are worth getting to know.You can strengthen your existing relationships. Why not call friends more often, goout with them more, find other ways to enjoy your existing relationships and strengthenbonds.

4. 125/14, Alibas streetKanpurJanuary 20, 20XXDear Arun,In your last letter you wanted me to enlighten you on honesty. Honesty is the best


policy. We should be honest in whatever we do. It is however very difficult to adopthonest means of livelihood. This is often seen that people who adopt dishonest meansbecome rich overnight. On the other hand those who follow the path of honesty areoften seen struggling in life to satisfy their barest needs.This might have a dampening effect on their nerves and they might be tempted toearn money by adopting unfair means. But we should remember that money earnedby dishonest means never brings happiness. A man who adopts fair means to earn hisliving might spend a life of want and poverty, but he in contented. He is far betterthan a wealthy person who has amassed a huge fortune by adopting dishonest means.The importance of honest livelihood essentially means that people earn through therightful and honest means without any foul or impermissible means. The overridingprinciple is that any income which causes loss or inconvenience to any person isprohibited both at individual and collective levels. All sources of income that arebased on mutual benefit and welfare and conform with the principles of social justiceand equality are allowed.The illegal and prohibited means include bribery, usurpation of others’ belongings,stealing, defalcation, break of trust, using false measures and weights, and incomeearned through similar sources are to be avoided.Contentment and personal integrity are the two basic elements for honest livelihood.Contentment means that one should keep one’s desires and needs within limits andnot succumb to worldly temptations. Contentment, honesty, thankfulness to god, andrightful earning are the milestones of the right path that one should follow.Yours trulyAshim Arora

Indigo

WORKSHEET–102

1. (a) (ii) a politician (iii) a delegate (iv) a landlord.(b) (ii) physically strong

2. He had come all the way from Champaran district in the foothills of Himalayas toLucknow to speak to Gandhi. Shukla accompanied Gandhi everywhere. Shukla followedhim to the ashram near Ahmedabad. For weeks he never left Gandhi’s side till Gandhiasked him to meet at Calcutta.

3. Shukla led Gandhi to Rajendra Prasad’s house. The servants knew Shukla as a pooryeoman. Gandhi was also clad in a simple dhoti. He was the companion of a peasant.Hence the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant.

4. Gandhi’s first meeting with Shukla was at Lucknow. Then he went to Cawnpore andother parts of India. He returned to his ashram near Ahmedabad. Later he went toCalcutta, Patna and Muzaffarpur before arriving at Champaran.

5. The peasants paid the British landlords indigo as rent. Now Germany had developedsynthetic indigo. So the British landlords wanted money as compensation for beingreleased from the 15 per cent arrangement. The prices of natural Indigo would godown due to the synthetic Indigo.


WORKSHEET–103

1. For the poor of India means of survival are far more important than freedom or legaljustice. I don’t think the poor of India are free from fear after Independence.Theforeign rulers have been replaced by corrupt politicians and self-serving bureaucracy.Power-brokers and moneylenders have a field day. The situation has improved in citiesand towns for the poor but the poor in the remote villages still fear the big farmers andmoneylenders. The police and revenue officials are still objects of terror for them.The poor, landless workers have to still work hard to make both ends meet. Peasantsand tenant-farmers have to borrow money from rich moneylenders on exorbitant ratesof interest, which usually they fail to repay due to failure of monsoon or bad crops.Cases of small farmers committing suicide are quite common. If this is not due to fear,what is the reason behind it?

2. A good leader has a mass appeal. He rises from the masses, thinks for them and works forthem. He is sincere in his approach. He is a man of principles, truth, honesty, patriotism,morality, spirit of service and sacrifice are the hallmarks of a good leader. He never mixespolitics with religion or sect. He believes in working for the welfare of the nation and doesnot think in the narrow terms of class, caste or region. Corruption and nepotism are twoevils that surround a leader in power. The life of a good leader is an open book. There isno difference between his words and actions. Such good leaders are very rare. What wefind today are practical politicians, who think of achieving their end without botheringabout the purity of means. The law of expediency gets the better of morality.

3. PatriotismBreathes there the man with soul so dead,

who never to himself hath said,this is my own native land!

—Scott

Patriotism implies love for one’s nation. A patriot is ready to sacrifice his comfort for theservice of his nation. It was for his country’s sake that Sardar Bhagat Singh kissed thegallows. It was for the love for their land that Shivaji, Rana Pratap and Guru Govind Singhsuffered untold hardships. True patriots respect other nations and religions but don’t allowanyone to insult their nation. A great philosopher said, “It is not gold that makes a nationgreat. It is the sacrifice and martyrdom of patriots that raises a nation to the heights ofglory.” India is a land where patriots are in abundance. It got its freedom only because of theefforts of its patriots. Patriotism is a religion and an ideal. It is an ideology that guides thepeople of a nation. It is a feeling and a bond that unites the people of various sects, beliefsand backgrounds together. A patriot must not be narrow minded. He should develop aninternational progressive outlook. It would be pertinent to quote the words of Seneca here“No one loves his country for its size or eminence, but because it is his own.”

4. Corruption in Contemporary IndiaCorruption has engulfed all the educated, skilled and semi-skilled workers. Corruptionmeans dishonesty and illegal behavior especially of the people in authority. A person resortsto corruption because of his poverty, lack of moral strength and other psychological andfinancial problems. Moreover, the path of righteousness is full of thorns. Some of theyoungsters are misguided by the friends to multiply their benefits within a short span oftime. One should always remember that corruption starts from the top. If the head of thefamily is corrupt, the other members will also imitate his actions. Our politicians and


bureaucrats are corrupt and unscrupulous. They don’t have any moral authority. Suchcorrupt politicians and bureaucrats should be punished and the honest persons should berewarded if we intend to create a congenial atmosphere in our country. The system ofjustice is outdated and obsolete. It is said that ‘justice delayed is justice denied’. People donot get justice in the court of law. If corruption is not checked, the poor will be exploitedwithout any inhibition.

WORKSHEET–104

1. Gandhi’s politics was intermingled with the day-to-day problems of the millions ofIndians. He opposed unjust laws. He was ready to court arrest for breaking such lawsand going to jail. The famous Dandi March to break the ‘salt law’ is another instance.The resistance and disobedience was peaceful and a fight for truth and justice. This waslinked directly to his ideas of Satyagraha and non-violence.

2. For Gandhi the amount of the refund was less important than the fact that thelandlords had been forced to return part of the money, and with it, part of their prestigetoo. So he agreed to settlement of 25 per cent refund to the farmers.

3. The peasants were saved from spending time and money on court cases. After someyears the British planters gave up control of their estates. These now reverted to thepeasants. Indigo sharecropping disappeared.

4. The Champaran episode began as an attempt to ease the sufferings of large number ofpoor peasants. He got spontaneous support of thousands of people. Gandhi admits thatwhat he had done was a very ordinary thing. He declared that the British could notorder him about in his own country. Hence he considered the Champaran episode as aturning point in his life.

5. Gandhi asked the lawyers what they would do if he was sentenced to prison. They saidthat they had come to advise him. If he went to jail, they would go home. Then Gandhiasked them about the injustice to the sharecroppers. The lawyers held consultations.They came to the conclusion that it would be shameful desertion if they went home. Sothey told Gandhi that they were ready to follow him into jail.

Going Places

WORKSHEET–105

1. Sophie and Jansie would soon pass out of their school. Only a few months were left.Jansie knew very well that both of the them were earmarked for biscuit factory.Sophie had wild dreams about her career. Jansie was a realist. She knew that they didnot pay well for shop work and Sophie’s father would not allow her to work there.

2. Sophie wanted to open a boutique. It would be the most amazing shop that city hadever seen. Alternatively, she would become an actress and have the boutique as a sidebusiness. She also thought of being a fashion designer. Jansie had her feet firmlyplanted to the ground. She wanted Sophie to be sensible and drop all her utopian plans.All of them required much money and experience.

3. Sophie knew her father well. He would be angry if he knew of her meeting with theyoung Irish footballer, Danny Casey. She didn’t tell him. When Geoff told his fatherabout it, he became angry. He turned his head to look at her with disdain. Sophiewriggled where she was sitting at the table.


4. No, Geoff doesn’t believe what Sophie says about her meeting with Danny Casey. First, helooks round in disbelief and says, “It can’t be true”. Again he says, “I don’t believe it.”Sophie then narrates how Danny Casey came and stood beside her. Geoff asks her, “Whatdoes he look like?” So, he doesn’t seem to be convinced that Sophie met Danny Casey.

5. No, Sophie’s father does not believe her story. When Geoff tells him that Sophie metDanny Casey, his father looked at Sophie with disdain. He ignores her totally. Hethinks that it is yet another ‘wild story’. He begins to talk about Tom Finny, anothergreat football player.

WORKSHEET–106

1. Teenagers have boundless enthusiasm and ambitions. They have sweet dreams and goon fantasising. It is natural for them to do so. Every youth is a dreamer. Every greatscientist or writer has a dream. Without something to aspire for one can’t strive toachieve that goal. Dreams lead to the golden gate of success. Some teenagers float inthe world of fantasy. They have unreal dreams. It is just like a child asking for themoon. Their feet are in the mud and they dream of the stars in the sky. Suchfantasising results in disappointment and disillusionment. A dreamer who fails torealise his dream is labelled a failure. Those who realise their dreams become heroesand achievers in their spheres. I think it is better to have dreams even if we fail torealise them. Who would have dreams if the teenagers don’t—will these grey headed,grey bearded persons have dreams? Let the teenagers indulge in their natural activityand dream of a golden future. They will strive to translate them into reality.

2. Sophie is a young school girl. She dreams of big and beautiful things. Some of theseare beyond her reach or her means. Her ambitions have no relation with the harshrealities of life. She thinks of having a boutique. She wants to have the most amazingshop this city has ever seen. Then she entertains the idea of being an actress ‘There’sreal money in that.’ Actresses do not work full time. So she would run the boutique asa side business. If need be, she can be a fashion designer. She doesn’t realise that herfamily is not rich enough and her dreams can’t be fulfilled.Sophie develops a romantic fascination for Danny Casey. He is a young Irish footballplayer and the hero of her dreams. She indulges in hero worship. She tells a story thatshe met Casey. Her father calls it another of her “wild stories”. Even Geoff does notbelieve her. He tries to caution her. Casey is a celebrity. Many girls run after him.Sophie is an incurable dreamer. She has seen Casey only once, but all the time shethinks of him. She sits alone and waits for his arrival. She becomes sad and despondentwhen Casey does not come. She suffers because of her dreams. These dreams anddisappointments are all the creations of her mind.

3. Horrors of Unrealistic DreamsPeople harbor fierce and uncontrollable desires. The search for a better life is one ofthe most basic desires of human beings. But they substantially deviate from the path ofrighteousness when they feel that their unquenchable desires can never be fulfilled.They found themselves in the depths of depression. The mortals should use theirwisdom to set realistic goals. Imagination is thrice away from reality. Undoubtedly, thehuman race is governed by its imagination. But it is also a harsh reality of life that ‘Hewho has imagination without learning has wings but no feet.’ One should not forgetthat there is a difference between real life and reel life. The happenings of dreamscannot take place in this physical world. Those who ignore the present situation while


setting their goals repent later. Man has to identify his latent talent and potential tomaterialise his goals. One should have thorough knowledge of one’s interests and outlook.

4. Man is a social animal. He has to interact with the fellow human beings to give vent tohis emotional grievances and sentimental grudges. He needs a person, a friend toconfide in his secrets. This dog eat dog world has numerous people who seem to betrustworthy. But they are pretenders, hypocrites and opportunists. A person who leadsa lonely life never feels happy and contented. His life becomes a hell. Expression ofthoughts lightens the human soul. It is a matter of fact that there is dearth of truefriends. People do not believe in one another. Material prosperity and unhealthy competitionhave eroded trust. Our forefathers worked together, lived together and earned theirlivelihood together. In the modern world lack of trust has created nuclear families. Theconcept of joint family was based on the principles of trust, honesty and brotherhood.These virtues have no significance in the present age. Trust gives us strength and courageto overcome the obstacles coming in the life. It is said that a friend in need is a friendindeed. We must have someone with us whom we can tell our secrets and reveal thetruth. There should be a person who could objectively listen to our candid confessions.

WORKSHEET–107

1. Geoff was always the first to share her secrets. So she told him about meeting DannyCasey. She also told him about her plan to meet him next week. She suspected areas ofhis life about which she knew nothing. She longed to know them. She wished thatsomeday he might take her with him. She saw herself riding there behind Geoff.

2. Jansie was ‘nosey’. She took interest in knowing things about others. She would spreadthe news in the whole neighbourhood. So Sophie didn’t want Jansie to know about herstory with Danny. It may also be mutual rivalry and one-upmanship on her part. Sophiewas startled to learn that Geoff had told Jansie about her story with Danny.

3. No, Sophie did not really meet Danny Casey. She was very fascinated by the youngIrish footballer. She imagined his coming. She sat in the park, waiting for Casey andknowing that he would not come. She felt sad. Sadness was a hard burden to carry.She was always lost in a dreamy world where she imagined Casey meeting her.

4. Sophie and Jansie are poles apart in tastes and temperament. Sophie has fantasticdreams and floats in a fairy land. She is an incurable escapist who won’t come out ofher dreams. Jansie is down to earth—a realist. Sophie wants to do somethingsophisticated. Jansie knows that these things require a lot of money which theirfamilies do not possess. Jansie also knows that they were earmaked for the biscuitfactory. She even advises Sophie to be sensible and practical. Sophie considers Jansie‘nosey’ and does not want to confide in her.

5. Sophie belongs to a lower middle class family. She is an escapist and has wild dreams.She dreams of things she can’t have in real life. Jansie tells her that boutique needs alot of money. Sophie knows that the family doesn’t have money. Even little Derekunderstands her unrealistic nature.Geoff’s occupation reflects their socio-economic background. He is an apprenticemechanic. His jacket is shapeless. Her father lacks sophistication. He sits in his vest atthe table. He grunts and tosses one of little Derek’s shoes from his chair on to thesofa. There is stove in the same room where dirty washing is piled in a corner.Sophie’s father goes to pub on his bicycle. All these indicators confirm their lowermiddle class family background.


VISTAS (Supplementary Reader)

The Tiger KingThe Tiger KingThe Tiger KingThe Tiger KingThe Tiger King

WORKSHEET–108

1. On surface level, ‘The Tiger King’ seems to be a simple story about a royal prince, hisgrowth and exploits as a king. The prophecies at his birth about the manner of hisdeath make the story interesting by introducing the element of surprise and suspense.On a deeper level, the story is a satire on the conceit of those in power. It is usually seenthat those in power have too much pride in themselves and what they do. Two suchspecimens in the story are the Tiger King and the British officer. The author employsdramatic irony and humour to show their faults and weaknesses. The words of thesecharacters carry an extra meaning. They do not know what is going to happen. TheTiger King resolves to hunt a hundred tigers to disprove the prediction of the astrologer.In his stubbornness, he falls prey to a wooden tiger. The high-ranking British officer isequally vain. He is more interested in photograph with carcass than hunting itself. TheTiger King offers to organise any other hunt except tiger-hunt. It may be a boar-hunt,mouse-hunt or a mosquito-hunt. He has to lose three lakh of rupees for his refusal. Theego of the British officer is satisfied when his wife is pleased.

2. For centuries innocent animals have been subjected to the wilfulness of human beings.Man has been killing animals for sport, meat or organs of body. The author does notmake any direct comment about it in the story. Man advances strange logic to defendeven his unlawful and cruel acts. The Maharaja quotes an old saying, “You may killeven a cow in self-defence”. Hence he finds no objection to kill tigers in self-defence. Itreveals not only the callousness of human beings towards wildlife but their disregardfor maintaining ecological balance. The extinction of tiger species in Pratibandapuramstate and the state ruled by the Maharaja’s father-in-law amply illustrates the result ofman’s cruelty towards wild animals. An old tiger has to be brought from the People’sPark in Madras to satisfy the king’s whim to kill one hundred tigers.

3. A number of wild animals are found in India but the sad fact is that their numbers areswiftly diminshing. While on the one hand deforestation is depriving the animals oftheir natural habitat, on the other hand inhumanity and human greed is leading to themerciless slaughter of these innocent creatures.A number of wild animals are fast heading for extinction because of illegal poaching.The most important of these is the tiger. In spite of the Government’s “Project Tiger”attempt to save the animal, the number of tigers is diminishing at an alarming rate.Tigers in the wild are killed by poached for their skins, claws, bones and blood whichfetch a high price in the international market. The World Conservation Union haswarned that at this rate tigers in India would be wiped before 2020 AD.This is a threat which holds good for much of India’s wildlife. In the northeast of India,the one horned rhinoceros is the target of attack. They are killed for their mattedhorn, in a very cruel fashion. Each of these horns fetches several lakhs of rupees andare used in Chinese traditional medicine. So is care of leopards, elephants, musk deer,black bear, snakes, mongoose. The onslaught on all our animals continues to be heavy.The government in its attempt to save these animals has a number of animal reservesall over the country yet these reserves are not able to safeguard the life of theirprecious animals, due to illegal hunting.


A number of solutions can be suggested to control the situation. There should be strictpatrolling of the resources by forest rangers to prevent poachers from causing havoc.They should be provided better weapons and they should the tough and incorruptable.Further the offenders should be heavily penalised. Further the wild animals should belodged in buffer zones to prevent them from straying into nearby villages and causingdamages to cattle. These animals also fall victim to the anger of villagers whose cattlehave been killed, by the wild animals.If these measures are strictly implemented, they may go a long way in protecting ourwild animals. Only then can future generation hope to enjoy the magnificent sight ofthe most beautiful and majestic of God’s creations.

WORKSHEET–109

1. The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram was called the Tiger King. At the time of his birththe astrologers declared that the prince would have to die one day. The ten-day-oldprince asked the astrologers to reveal the manner of his death. The wise men werebaffled at this miracle. The chief astrologer said that his death would come from thetiger. The young prince growled and uttered terrifying words: ‘Let tigers beware!’ Hedecided to kill one hundred tigers. He thus got the name ‘Tiger King’.

2. Crown prince Jung Jung Bahadur grew taller and stronger day-by-day. He was broughtup by an English nanny and tutored in English by an Englishman. He got the control ofhis state when he came of age at twenty. He decided to kill tigers. For him it was anact of self-defence, as the astrologer had predicted his death by a tiger

3. Within ten years the Maharaja was able to kill seventy tigers. Thirty tigers stillremained to be shot down by his gun. The Maharaja decided to get married. TheDewan found the right girl from a state which possessed a large number of tigers. TheMaharaja killed five or six tigers each time he visited his father-in-law. Thus he wasable to find the required number of tigers to kill. He shot ninety-nine tigers.

4. Maharaja’s anxiety reached the highest level of excitement when only one tigerremained to be killed. He thought of the hundredth tiger during the day and dreamt ofit at night. But it became impossible to locate tigers anywhere. The Maharaja wassunk in gloom. Then came a happy news. In his own state sheep began to disappearfrequently from a hillside village. Surely, a tiger was at work. The Maharaja set out onthe hunt at once. But the tiger was not easily found. The Maharaja continued campingin the forest and waiting for the tiger.

WORKSHEET–110

1. A minion is an unimportant person in an organization who has to obey orders. TheMaharaja has many minions or servants. Most of them fear the Maharaja and obey hisorders faithfully. They dare not disobey him or contradict him. The Maharaja’sdispleasure means loss of job or even loss of life. Only a few of them are truly sinceretowards him. One such person is the chief astrologer. He is willing to burn his books ofastrology, cut off his tuft and crop his hair short if his prediction proves untrue. Theothers try to keep the Maharaja in good humour. Even the Dewan is no exception.Many officers lose their jobs when the Maharaja’s fury and obstinacy mount higher.The king’s bullet misses the hundredth tiger. It faints from the shock and falls as acrumpled heap. The hunters realise the truth, but they decide not to reveal it to theking. They fear that they might lose their jobs.


In today’s political order, subordinates serve their superior bosses as deaf and dumbcreatures who see only what their masters want them to see. Their self-interests andfear of elimination make them faithful servants.

2. In our times, big game-hunting has been banned by law as so many species of wildlifehave been declared endangered species. Sanctuaries, national parks and games reserveshave been established to preserve wildlife from extinction and maintain ecologicalbalance in nature. Even then sporadic cases of game-hunting are reported in papersnow and then. It is generally noticed that the erstwhile rulers—kings or nawabs or therich and powerful persons or famous film stars indulge in game-hunting. The casesagainst M.A.K. Pataudi and Salman Khan are still pending in courts. Poachers andsmugglers too destroy wildlife for skin, meat or for various organs of body and escapescot-free.

3. Respected principal, honorable teacher, and my dear friends. The topic of my speechtoday in “Man should not interfere in nature’s ways, to conserve wildlife” .Everything in nature has a part to play, be it wild animals, plants, trees etc. Broadlyspeaking nothing is superfluous and nothing is wasteful in nature. There should be abalance in their own right. If one wild animal does not kill another wild animal thenumber of animals would become large. For example if the tiger does not prey on thedeer, the population of deer in the forest will grow out of proportion and will prove amenace to the plants and farms nearby. The hare may be innocent, but in very largenumber it is also bad. It can wipe out all plant life in the forest leaving little for otherherbivorous animals. The balance is set by the wolves and wild dogs. Thus there seemsto be a natural controlling mechanism in which wild animals feed upon one another tokeep each other in check. Even snakes have a part to play. If snakes are destroyed inlarge numbers, the rat population (snakes eat rats) would become uncontrollable andwould wipe out the food-grains in the farmlands nearby. Man in his selfishness hastampered with nature’s ways. As his greed for more industries, farms, buildings,increases, the habitat open to wild animals becomes increasingly limited. There is alsoa danger that some species of animals or plants would become extinct due to alarmingdecrease in their numbers due to human activities. Ultimately man is the loser. Wemust remember that wild flora and fauna has definite place in the economy of nature;they should be safeguarded and not destroyed to cater to human greed.Thank you.

WORKSHEET–111

1. The Dewan got an old tiger brought from the People’s Park in Madras. It was taken tothe forest where the Maharaja was hunting. The Maharaja took careful aim at thebeast. The tiger fell down in a crumpled heap. The Maharaja was extremely happy thathe had killed the hundredth tiger.The hunters found that the tiger was not dead. It had only fainted on hearing thesound of the bullet. One of them shot at it and killed it. The dead tiger was taken inprocession through the town and buried there. A tomb was erected over it.The prophecy was not disproved as the king met his death with the infection caused bythe sliver of a wooden tiger. The astrologer was already dead. He could not bepunished or rewarded.

2. The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram is the hero of this story. He may be identified asHis Highness Jamedar-General, Khiledar-Major, Sata Vyaghra Samhari, Maharajadhiraja


Visva Bhuvana Samrat, Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur, M.A.D., A.C.T.C., or C.R.C.K.This name is often shortened to the Tiger King.

3. The astrologers said the child born under that particular star would one day have tomeet its death. At that very moment a great miracle took place. An astonishing phraseemerged from the lips of the ten-day-old Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur, “O wise prophets!”Everyone stood motionless with astonishment and stupidity.

4. The infant said that all those who are born will one day have to die. So he did not needtheir predictions to know that. He further said that there would be some sense in it ifthey could tell him the manner of that death.

The enemy

WORKSHEET–112

1. Dr Sadao Hoki faces a dilemma when he finds the body of an unconscious wounded whiteman lying on the lonely coast with dangerous rocks near his house. As they saw his face,they found that he was a white man with long yellow hair and a rough yellow beard.Being an expert surgeon, Dr Sadao saw that the man had a gun-wound on the right sideof his lower back. He at once packed the wound with sea moss to stanch the fearfulbleeding. Since Japan was at war with America, the white man was an enemy. If theysheltered a white man in their house they would be arrested and if they turned himover as a prisoner, he would certainly die. Hana still insisted on putting him back intothe sea. The man was a prisoner of war. He had escaped and that was why he waswounded in the back.Hana asked if they were able to put him back into the sea. Sadao then said that if the manwas whole he could turn the man over to the police without difficulty. He cared nothing forthe man. He was their enemy. All Americans were their ‘enemy’. But since he waswounded… Hana understood his dilemma and realised that in the conflict between hissense of national loyalty and his duty as a doctor, it was the latter which proved dominant.Since Sadao too could not throw him back to the sea, the only course left for them was tocarry him to their house. Sadao enquired about the reaction of the servants.Hana said that they would tell the servants that they intended to give the man to thepolice. She told Sadao that they must do so. They had to think of the children and thedoctor’s position. It would endanger all of them if they did not give that man over as aprisoner of war. Sadao agreed and promised that he would not think of doing anything else.

2. Dr Sadao and his wife, Hana, together lifted the wounded man and carried him to anempty bedroom. The man was very dirty. Sadao suggested that he had better bewashed. He offered to do so if she would fetch water. Hana was against it. Shesuggested that the maid, Yumi, could wash the man. They would have to tell theservants. Dr Sadao examined the man again and remarked that the man would dieunless he was operated upon at once. He left the room to bring his surgical instruments.The servants did not approve of their master’s decision to heal the wound of a whiteman. Even Yumi refused to wash the white man. There was so fierce a look ofresistance upon Yumi’s round dull face that Hana felt unreasonably afraid. Then shesaid with dignity that they only wanted to bring him to his senses so that they wouldturn him over as a prisoner. However, Yumi refused to have anything to do with him.Hana asked Yumi gently to return to her work.


3. 420/28, Gali HandianChandni ChowkDelhi-110006January 20, 20XXDear RahulLast time when I met you, you expressed the need that I let you know how one shouldmake a difficult decision. I give you some tips which may be helpful to you.You can never know for sure when you make a decision that it’s going to work out asyou hope. All, you can do is to follow your conscience, and then trust that whatever thefuture holds, it will enrich your lives, one way or the other. While deciding you canreflect on past decision and how you made them. The problem don’t have to be similarfor the method to work the same. You can do some meditation and listen to yourinstinct. You may ask yourself, “who will affect your decision and what does your hearttell you?” While making a decision you can talk it over with your friends, then afteryou have gathered as much info as possible, decide and act. Moreover you need to makea patient effort and have confidence in yourself as a decision maker. Whatever choiceyou make is valid, as you can gain experience and wisdom through any experience,preferred or not. You can also ask yourself three questions before diving into somethingnew or daunting. What’s the worst that can happen? How likely is that going tohappen? Can you deal with it? Take a moment to think about the consequences ofevery course of action and decide which course will be best for you. Sometimes youneed to try to see the situation from all angles; ask your elders for advice; they arealways great sources. Sometimes you need to walk away from the issue a bit, and thencome back for a fresh look into the matter.Well this is all I can say for the moment.Yours trulyManish Kumar

WORKSHEET–113

1. Dr Sadao Hoki was an eminent Japanese surgeon and scientist. He had spent eightvaluable years of his youth in America to learn all that could be learnt of surgery andmedicine there. He was perfecting a discovery which would render wounds entirely clean.Dr Sadao’s house was built on rocks well above a narrow beach that was outlined withbent pines. It was on a spot of the Japanese coast.

2. Dr Sadao knew that they would be arrested if they sheltered a white man in theirhouse. The wounded man was a prisoner of war who had escaped with a bullet on hisback. Since Japan was at war with America, harbouring an enemy meant being atraitor to Japan. Dr Sadao could be arrested if anyone complained against him andaccused him of harbouring an enemy.

3. The gardener and the cook were frightened that their master was going to heal thewound of a white man—an enemy. They felt that after being cured he will takerevenge on the Japanese. Yumi, the maid, was also frightened. She refused to wash thewhite man. Hana rebuked the maid who had refused to wash a wounded helpless man.Then she dipped a small clean towel into the steaming hot water and washed the whiteman’s face. She kept on washing him until his upper body was quite clean. But shedared not turn him over.


4. Dr Sadao and his wife, Hana, had told the servants that they only wanted to bring theman to his senses so that they could turn him over as a prisoner. They knew that thebest possible course under the circumstances was to put him back into the sea.However, Dr Sadao was against handing over a wounded man to the police. He decidedto carry him into his house. He operated upon him and extracted the bullet from hisbody. He kept the white man in his house. He and his wife looked after him and fedhim till he was strong enough to walk on his legs.

WORKSHEET–114

1. On the third day after the operation, the young man asked Dr Sadao what he was goingto do with him and if he was going to hand him over. Dr Sadao said that he did notknow himself what he would do with the man. He ought to hand him over to the policeas he was a prisoner of war.The young man saw that Dr Sadao and his wife Hana were different from otherJapanese. They spoke English well, looked after him and served him food. Seven daysafter the operation of the man, Dr Sadao was called to the palace to see the General.Hana thought that the police had come to arrest Dr Sadao. Dr Sadao confided in theGeneral and he (General) promised to send his personal assassins to kill the man andremove his body.Dr Sadao waited for three nights. Nothing happened. Then he made a plan to let theprisoner escape. He told Tom, the young American, about it. The young man stared athim and asked if he had to leave. It seemed he was reluctant to leave. Dr Sadao toldhim that he should understand everything clearly. It was not hidden that he was thereand this situation was full of risk for himself as well as for the doctor. Thus it is quiteclear that the reluctance of the soldier was caused by the single motive of self-preservation. He knew from the treatment he had received from the couple that theywould save him.

2. During his meeting with the General, Dr Sadao told him about the man he hadoperated on successfully. He explained that he cared nothing for the man. The Generalappreciated his skill and efficiency and promised that he would not be arrested.The General thought it quite unfortunate that the man had been washed up to DrSadao’s doorstep and thought it best if he could be quietly killed. He promised to sendhis private assassins to do so and remove his dead body. He suggested that Dr Sadaoshould leave the outer partition of the white man’s room to the garden open at night.It is evident that the General had no human consideration in this matter. For him anenemy was an enemy and must be wiped out. He wanted the man to be eliminatedsilently to save the doctor from being arrested. It was neither lack of national loyaltynor dereliction of duty that guided and inspired his decision. It was simply his sense ofself-absorption. He wanted to keep Dr Sadao safe only for his own sake. He had no faithin the other Germany trained doctors. He might have to be operated upon anytimewhen he had another attack and he had full faith in the skill and loyalty of Dr Sadaoonly.This fact is further corroborated by the General’s remarks to Dr Sadao, one week afterthe emergency operation upon the General. Dr Sadao informed him that the man hadescaped. The General asked whether he had not promised Sadao that he would kill theman for him. Dr Sadao replied that he had done nothing. The General admitted that hehad forgotten his promise as he had been suffering a great deal and he thought of


nothing but himself. He revealed the whole truth. He admitted that it was careless ofhim to have forgotten his promise. But added that it was not lack of patriotism ordereliction of duty on his part.

3. Wars have been fought from times immemorial. They have been destructive, disastrousand horrible. They have solved no problems; rather they have given rise to many moreproblems. Victories in wars are really no victories as well but worse than defeats asafter the wars great efforts and big resources are required to be done for repairing thedamage caused by wars. This is why wars have always been condemned and praiseshave been sung of peace by poets, peers and saints. Milton said that victories of peaceare more glorious than the victories of war.The victories of war are based on bloodshed, human suffering, ruin of hapiness and lossof life and property. On the other hand, the victories of peace are based on labour,construction, human welfare, goodwill and preservation of life and property.War gives rise to and spreads ill will and hatred. It increases jealousies and makes anycreative work impossible. Civil, social and cultural program comes to a standstill. Warcomplicates the problems which it sought to solve. A small war leads to a futuregreater war. For instance the I World War (1914-1918) paved the way for the II WorldWar (1939-1945) and a III World War is hanging over our heads which may destroyeverything on the earth. Wars dehumanise humanity by making men brutes andbeasts.Victories of peace are everlasting, it means happiness, positive work, delightfulatmosphere, nobler feelings of mankind. War leads to the race for armaments anddestructive weapons like guns, atom bombs, nuclear missiles, rockets, chemical bombsetc. Peace results in the race for civilization and culture, great literature, progress inarts and fine arts, etc. which give everlasting pleasure.Thus war is evil while peace is the elixir of life.

WORKSHEET–115

1. In the afternoon, a messenger came there in official uniform. He told Dr Sadao that hehad to come to the palace at once as the old General was in pain again.Hana, thought that the officer had come to arrest Dr Sadao. Dr Sadao told the Generalabout the white man he had operated upon. Since Dr Sadao was indispensable to theGeneral, he promised that Dr Sadao would not be arrested.

2. Dr Sadao told Tom, the white man, that he was quite well then. He offered to put hisboat on the shore that night. It would have food and extra clothing in it. Tom might beable to row to the little island which was not far from the coast and could live there tillhe saw a Korean fishing boat pass by.Dr Sadao gave the man Japanese clothes and covered his blond head with a black cloth.In short, Dr Sadao helped the man to escape from Japan.

3. Sadao’s father was a visionary. He knew that the islands near the sea coast were thestepping stones to the future for Japan. No one could limit their future as it dependedon what they made it. His son’s education was his chief concern. He sent his son toAmerica at the age of twenty-two to learn all that could be learned of surgery andmedicine. He loved the Japanese race, customs and manners.

4. Sadao was an eminent surgeon and a scientist. He was perfecting a discovery whichwould render wounds entirely clean. Secondly, the old General was being treated


medically for a condition for which he might need an operation. Due to these tworeasons Sadao was being kept in Japan and not sent abroad with the troops.

WORKSHEET–116

1. It is the consciousness of the demands of one’s calling that make a sensitive soulrespond to the call of his duty as a professional doctor to attend to the wounded humanbeing regardless of his being an enemy.In the story ‘The Enemy’ Dr Sadao Hoki finds a prisoner of war washed ashore and ina dying state thrown to his doorstep. As a patriot, it is his duty to hand him over to thepolice. If he does not want to be entangled, the next best thing is to put him back to thesea.However, the surgeon in him instinctively inspires him to operate upon the dying manand save him from the jaws of death. First, he packs the wound with sea-moss tostanch the fearful bleeding. Then he brings him home with the help of his wife. In spiteof stiff opposition and open defiance of the servants, he operates upon the man andharbours him till he is able to leave. He knows fully well the risk of sheltering a whiteman—a prisoner of war—in his house. But his sentimentality for the suffering andwounded person help him rise above narrow national prejudices and extend his helpand services even to an enemy.

2. Yes, I think the doctor’s final solution to the problem was the best possible one in thecircumstances. Initially, the doctor as well as his wife thought that the best as well askindest thing would be to put him back into the sea. But neither of them moved.Neither was able to put him back into the sea.Sadao explained that if the man was whole he could turn him over to the police withoutdifficulty, but since he was wounded, the doctor could not throw him back to the sea.He could not kill the man whom he had saved from the jaws of death.The General promised to send his private assassins to kill the man and remove hisdead body. Sadao waited for three nights for their arrival, but they never came as theGeneral being preoccupied with his own suffering, forgot everything else.Meanwhile the fear of Hana, the doctor’s wife, that he would be arrested on the chargeof harbouring an enemy kept on mounting. Dr Sadao made up his mind to get rid of theman as it was not only inconvenient but also dangerous for them to have him there anylonger. He, therefore, quietly devised the plan of letting the prisoner escape by usinghis own boat and Japanese clothes.As soon as the enemy left, the servants returned and life became normal once again.Dr Sadao informed the General that “the man” had escaped. The General admitted thathe had forgotten his promise as he thought of nothing but himself as he was sufferinga great deal. He confessed that it was careless of him but it was not his lack ofpatriotism or dereliction of duty. In short, the doctor’s strategy to let the prisonerescape was the best possible solution to the problem under the prevailing circumstances.

3. Hana is the alter ego of her husband, Dr Sadao Hoki. She has adapted herself to hisways. She knows that saving a life is a mission for him and when he is attending on hispatient, he forgets everything else—even Hana herself. Even years after their marriage,they retain the same love and affection for each other.She cared for him a lot and would not let him sand outside in the cold foggy Februarynight. She was a bit sentimental, yet pragmatic in her approach. She was quick tojudge what went on in her husband’s mind and suggested solutions. She maintained her


dignity when the servants showed resistance and open defiance. As an obedient anddevoted wife, she carried out all the orders and instructions of her husband. Shewashed the wounded white man, gave him anaesthesia and later on food.She was worried about her husband’s safety, position and reputation. Initially, shesuggested throwing the man back into the sea. She was afraid that the servants mightmisreport. Her fears are exhibited clearly when a messenger in uniform arrives fromthe palace. In order to calm down her fears, Dr Sadao decides to get rid of the whiteman anyhow. In short, she is an ideal partner.

WORKSHEET–117

1. Sadao married Hana when they returned to Japan after finishing their work at medicalschool. Sadao’s father saw her. The marriage was then arranged in the old Japaneseway. They had been married years enough to have two children. Their married life wasquite happy. They still loved each other.

2. The man lay motionless with his face in the sand. As they turned the man’s head, theysaw that he was a white man with long yellow hair. His young face had a rough yellowbeard. He was unconscious. From his battered cap they learnt that he was a sailor froman American warship.

3. Sadao’s head told him to put the man back into the sea as he was an American soldier–an enemy of Japan. His trained hands seemed, of their own will, to be doing what theycould to stanch the fearful bleeding. He packed the wound with the sea-moss thatstrewed the beach. The bleeding was stopped for the moment.

4. The white man was wounded. He needed immediate medical care. Dr Sadao could doso. But if they sheltered a white man in their house, they would be arrested. On theother hand, if they turned him over as a prisoner, he would certainly die.

Should Wizard Hit Mommy?

WORKSHEET–118

1. The story raises a moral issue—should parents always decide what the children shoulddo or let the children do what they like to do. There is an evident contrast between anadult’s perspective on life and the world view of a little child.Jack, the father, defends the behaviour of Roger Skunk’s mother who forced the oldwizard to restore the natural but offensive smell to Roger Skunk. He sums up the issuein one sentence: ‘She knew what was right’. As to why the little skunk agreed to hermother’s proposal, Jack says that the little skunk loved his mummy more than heloved all the other little animals. Jack cites an instance. When Roger Skunk was inbed, Mummy Skunk came up, hugged him and said he smelled like her little babySkunk again and she loved him very much.Little Jo, the spokesperson of children, does not agree with her father’s view. She feelsthat the Skunk’s mother should not have robbed the pleasure of her little son anddeprived him of the pleasant smell of the roses. She insisted that the wizard hit thatmummy on the head and did not change that little skunk back. She calls the littleskunk’s mother “a stupid mommy”. She realised that her father was defending his ownmother to her, or something odd.


Jo stuck to her viewpoint. She insisted that her father should tell her the story the next dayin a different manner. It was the wizard that took the magic wand and hit that mommy.

2. Jack feels that he has been caught in an ugly middle position physically, emotionally aswell as mentally. The woodwork, a cage of mouldings and rails and skirting boards allaround them was half old tan and half new ivory.He was conscious of his duties as a father and as a husband. Little Bobby was alreadyasleep. His efforts to make Jo fall asleep proved quite fatiguing. She kept on interruptinghim, asking for clarifications, pointing errors and suggesting alternatives.Jack did not like that women should take anything for granted. He liked them to beapprehensive. So he extended the story, through he was in a haste to go down stairsand help his pregnant wife in her hard work of painting the woodwork. The result ofthe extension to the story proved unfruitful and unpleasant for Jo, Jack and Clare. Jowanted him to change the ending of the story. Clare complained that he had told a longstory. Jack felt utter weariness and did not want to speak with his wife or work withher or touch her. He was really caught in an ugly middle pisition.

3. Of the two endings to the Roger Skunk story, I approve of the mature and realistic onenarrated by Jack that the mother skunk hit the wizard on the head and forced him torestore the original smell to the skunk.Every species of animals has its special features. She wanted Roger Skunk to smell theway a little skunk should have. It should not carry the deceptive and borrowed smell ofthe roses. Roger Skunk is agreed to go with her because he loved his mummy morethan he loved all the other little animals. She knew what was right.The mother’s point was proved right. When the wizard restored the original foul smellto Roger Skunk, the other little animals got used to the way he was an did not mind itat all. Of course, it took them sometime. Jack did not agree with Joanne’s remark thatshe was a ‘stupid’ mother. On the other hand we find her a caring and loving mother.When Roger Skunk was in bed, mummy skunk embraced him and said he smelled likeher little baby skunk again and she loved him very much. Thus Jack’s version bringsout the mother’s love, care and concern for her little baby.

WORKSHEET–119

1. Jo is the shortened form of Joanne. She is the four year old daughter of Jack and Clare.For the last two years, her father, Jack, has been telling her bed-time stories. Sincethese stories are woven around the same basic tale and have the same characters andturn of events, Jo takes so many things for granted and takes active interest in thestory-telling session. The protagonist (main character) is always named Roger. It maybe Roger Fish, Roger Squirrel, Roger Chipmunk or Roger Skunk. The other charactersare the huge, wise, old owl and the thin small wizard. Other creatures of the forest—small animals—also take part in playing with Roger and liking/disliking him.

2. Jack told the story of Roger Skunk—an animal which emitted a foul smell and how thewizard changed his smell to that of roses at his request. The other little creatures, whoearlier hated Roger Skunk, now gathered around him because he smelled so good.They played various games of children till dark and then went to their homes happily.

3. Little Jo had been accustomed to the happy ending of the stories of Roger, where thewizard was helpful to him in fulfilling his wish.Jo could not accept that mother’s stubbornness-hitting the well wisher of her son,Roger Skunk. Jo insisted that her father should tell her the same story again the next


day with changed ending. The wizard should hit that unreasonable mummy on the headand leave Roger Skunk emitting the pleasant smell of roses. In the beautiful world of achild’s imagination, fairies and wizard’s are more real than reality itself. She could notdigest the harsh realities of life. She did not like the unfeeling mother who hit thebenefactor of her son.

4. Jack would tell his four year old daughter Joanne (or Jo) a story out of his head in theevenings and for Saturday naps. This custom had begun when she was two and now itwas nearly two year old.

WORKSHEET–120

1. Jack has the typical parental attitude. He is of the opinion that the parents know whatis best for their children. He asserts the parental authority time and again to quietenJo and stifle her objections and amendments to the story of the foul smelling Skunkrelated by him.He defends the attitude of Roger Skunk’s mother. She does not approve of the unnatural,unskunk like smell that Roger has. She calls the sweet smell of the roses an awful smell.Earlier the little skunk smelled the way a little skunk should. She wants the naturalcharacteristic—the foul smell—restored. He says that she knew what was right. Secondly,the little skunk loved his mommy more than he loved all the other animals. That is why,he took his mommy to the wizard. She hit the wizard and forced him to change the smellof roses to his earlier bad odour. He insisted on this ending to emphasise the concern ofthe parents for children and their role in bringing them up on proper lines.

2. Jack feels that he has been caught in an ugly middle position physically, emotionally aswell as mentally. The woodwork, a cage of mouldings and rails and skirting boards allaround them was half old tan and half new ivory.He was conscious of his duties as a father and as a husband. Little Bobby was alreadyasleep. His efforts to make Jo fall asleep proved quite fatiguing. She kept on interruptinghim, asking for clarifications, pointing errors and suggesting alternatives.Jack did not like that women should take anything for granted. He liked them to beapprehensive. So he extended the story, though he was in a haste to go downstairs andhelp his pregnant wife in her hard work of painting the woodwork. The result of theextension to the story proved unfruitful and unpleasant for Jo, Jack and Clare. Jowanted him to change the ending of the story. Clare complained that he had told a longstory. Jack felt utter weariness and did not want to speak with his wife or work withher or touch her. He was really caught in an ugly middle position.

3. An adult’s perspective on life is different from that of a child’s because of the differencebetween their respective experiences and exposure to the world around them. An adultcomes across all sorts of experiences—good or bad, pleasant or unpleasant, happy orsad, encouraging or discouraging. The child lives a sheltered life under the protectionand love of his parents. In their rosy dream world of fairies and wizards, nothing goodis impossible for their favourite characters. Their adoration of these characters isnothing short of hero-worship.The world of make-believe makes the children lovers of romance, beauty and all thingspleasant in nature. These characters and their super feats, which appear so real instories, may not be real at all in real life. The adults who are familiar with harshrealities of life know that all that glitters is not gold. Everything is not honey. Theyaccept things critically—with a pinch of salt.


WORKSHEET–121

1. A small creature named Roger had some problem. He would go to the wise owl whotold him to go to the wizard. The wizard performed a magic spell. It solved Roger’sproblem. He demanded more pennies than Roger had. Then he directed Roger to theplace where extra money could be found. Roger felt happy and played many games withother creatures. He then went home. His daddy arrived from Boston. They had supper.The story wound up with the description of the items of their supper.

2. Jo was growing up. She never fell asleep in naps any more. Her brother, Bobby, whowas two, and already asleep with his bottle. But Jo would not take her nap like aninfant. The bumps her feet made under the covers were halfway down the bed. Her fatface deep in the pillow shone in the sunlight. The custom seemed futile and especiallyfatiguing on Saturdays.

3. Jo suggested ‘skunk’ for the story that day. It was a new animal for her. They must be talkingabout it at nursery school. A skunk or a pole-cat is a small black and white North Americananimal. It can produce a strong unpleasant smell to defend itself when it is attacked.

4. Jo squeezed her eyes shut and smiled to be thinking that she was thinking. She openedher blue eyes and said firmly, “Skunk”. Having a fresh hero momentarily stirred Jackto creative enthusiasm. He started telling the story of Roger Skunk that smelled so badthat none of the other little woodland creatures would play with him.

On the Face of It

WORKSHEET–122

1. Both Derry and Mr Lamb suffer from physical impairment. Derry has one side of hisface disfigured and burnt by acid. The old man has a tin leg because his real leg gotblown off during the war. Apart from these physical disabilities, Derry finds signs ofloneliness and disappointment in Mr Lamb’s life. The old man tries to overcome thesefeelings but the sense of alienation felt by him is more painful than the pain caused byphysical disability. Derry tries to avoid meeting people because they consider his facefrightful and ugly. They avoid him as they are afraid of him. His parents seem worriedabout him and talk about him and his future.Mr Lamb provides him a new approach to things. He tells him to see, hear, feel andthink about things around him. He should not hate others. Hatred is worse than acidbecause it burns the inside. He has all the God-given limbs. He must take a firmdecision and work towards it. He will succeed. He should not be afraid of people andthey will not be afraid of him. All these factors draw Derry towards Mr Lamb.

2. It is in the middle section of the first scene of the play that Mr Lamb displays signs ofloneliness and disappointment. He says that when it is a bit cooler, he will get theladder and a stick, and pull down those crab apples. He makes jelly. Derry could helphim. Then he says he is interested in anybody or anything that God made. It may be aperson, flower, fruit, grass, weeds or rubbish. There are plenty of things to look at.Some of them are his crab apples or the weeds or a spider climbing up a silken ladderor his tall sun-flowers. He also likes to talk and have a company. He has a hive of bees.He hears them singing. He sits in the sun and reads books. He likes the light and thedarkness. He hears the wind coming through open windows. There aren’t any curtainsat the windows as they either shut things out or shut things in.


3. The play ‘On The Face Of It’ focuses our attention on the physical pain and mentalanguish of the persons suffering from some physical impairment. The playwright,Susan Hill, presents the two leading characters—an old man and a small boy—havingdifferent sorts of physical disabilities.The old man has a tin leg. It did hurt him when it came off. Then he got used to it. Hefeels pain now and then in wet weather. He finds it inconvenient to run, to climb a treeor a ladder. He lives all alone in a big house with a garden.The boy has one side of his face badly burnt by acid. He felt the physical pain then.After discharge from hospital, he feels hurt at the attitude of the people. They regardhis face as horrible and ugly, show signs of being scared and avoid his presence. Inshort, he is disliked, if not hated. He is not accepted as an ordinary member of society.So he does not like people to look at him.It is clear that the sense of alienation that these disabled persons feel causes themconstant pain. Such persons expect kind and considerate behaviour from others. Theydo not want tears, sympathy or pity. They dislike being pointed at, nicknamed, mockedat or made a fun of. They only demand a reasonable bahaviour from others, full ofappreciation of their difficulties.

WORKSHEET–123

1. Mr Lamb is an old man with a tin leg. His real leg was blown off years ago during thewar. He lives all alone in his house. There is a garden near the house. It has ripe crabapples looking orange and golden in colour.Mr Lamb is sitting in his garden when Derry climbs over the garden wall to get into hisgarden. Though the gate is open, the boy does not use it.

2. At first Derry does not like being near people. Mr Lamb offers him a new way ofthinking. All this brings a change in Derry’s attitude towards Mr Lamb. He promises tocome back after informing his mother. He asks Mr Lamb about his life and friends andrecognises his loneliness and disappointment. He keeps his promise and returns only tofind Mr Lamb lying on the ground.

3. Mr Lamb issues this instruction to Derry, a boy of fourteen, who climbs over thegarden wall and enters the garden. He asks him twice to mind the apples which havebeen blown down by the wind from the trees and strewn in the grass. He could put hisfoot on some apple, fall down and hurt himself.

4. Mr Lamb’s attitude to the small boy is quite gentle, protective and accommodating.Like an elder in the family offering advice and instructions to the younger members,Mr Lamb advises the young boy to mind the apples lest he should trip and not to feelafraid.

Evans Tries an O-level

WORKSHEET–124

1. It is Evans who has the last laugh. The play makes a fun of the routine procedurefollowed by prison authorities and police. It depicts how the criminals are one stepahead of the jail authorities.All precautions have been made by the Governor of Oxford Prison to see that the O-Level German examination, held in prison for the prisoner Evans, does not provide him


means to escape. The examination passes off peacefully. Mr Stephens, a prison officer,sees off McLeery, the invigilator and on returning to the cell finds injured “McLeery”sprawling in Evans’ chair.It is easy for Evans impersonating as McLeery to leave the prison along with policeofficer. He claims to have spotted Evans driving off along Elsfield Way but loses trackat the Headington roundabout. He grogs off near the Examination offices. Then hedisappears. He is located in the Golden Lion in Chipping Norton by the Governor ofOxford Prison. Instead of bringing Evans securely back to prison, the Governor letshim come in a prison van guarded by a prison officer. It is just what Evans had planned.The driver and the ‘prison officer’ are his friends and Evans escapes from prison onceagain.In fact, Evans has made elaborate arrangements. He joins the night classes inSeptember. The German teacher is one of his friends. He has his friends in theExamination Board as well. He waits patiently till June. Two of his friends bind and gagReverend Stuart McLeery in his Broad Street flat. One of them personates him. He isdressed up as a minister. He has two collars and two black fronts on his person. Evansfiddles about under the blanket with the black front and the stud at the back of thecollar. His friends also arrange a car where he can change his make up as well asclothes. He successfully deceives the police as well as the prison authorities.

2. On his return to the cell of Evans, Stephens saw a man sprawling back in Evans’ chair.For a semi-second Stephens thought it must be Evans. But the small black beard, whiteclerical collar and black clerical front and red blood dripping from the front of his head,made Stephens jump to a conclusion—Evans impersonating McLeery, had walked out.Almost immediately the whole machinery jumped into action. No one bothered tocheck the identity of the injured ‘McLeery.’ The assumption of Stephens prevailed. Itwas reinforced by the broader Scots accent and slimmer body of the parson he had seenoff and the blood coming out of wound and dress of the “parson” in the cell.The hasty conjecture prevents one from seeing the obvious. The jail breaker mighthave played a trick again. Even the Governor is deceived. He believes what his staffsays. The man who doubted everything and cross checked it, does not even examinethe victim.Due to their long sojourn in prison the criminals become familiar with the temperamentsof prison officers as well as the routine they follow. A criminal is always disbelieved. Onthe other hand, an officer’s word is always accepted. The criminals are certain thatnegligence of the prison authorities is their only passport to freedom. They doubt theremotest possibility and doubt genuine telephone calls as fake ones, yet an assumptionis accepted as truth and the obvious is ignored. Hence the criminal is able to predictsuch negligence on the part of prison authorities.

3. Crime and punishment are like two sides of the coin. Punishment follows crime. It isonly after a crime has been committed that the law-enforcing agencies become activeand try to nab the offenders and bring them to book. If efforts of the police aresuccessful, suitable punishment is awarded to the criminals.Since the location, time and victim of a crime cannot be predicted in advance,preventive action to check the crime is not possible. Even tight security fails whenhardened criminals or suicide-minded human bombs come into play.Criminals are always one step ahead of the police. It is always a battle of wits betweenthe two. The police tries to trace the clues left by the criminals and apprehend them on


the basis of these. On the other hand, the criminals devise a foolproof plan and try toleave no clues which might help in identification later on. Since the legal system isbased on evidence—both human and material—police as well as criminals and theirlawyers, use their wits to turn the case in their favour and win it.

WORKSHEET–125

1. James Roderick Evans was a jail bird. The prison officers called him ‘Evans the Break’as he had escaped from prison three times. At present he was in a solitary cell inOxford Prison. He was quite a pleasant sort of chap—an amusing person who was goodat imitations. He was not at all violent. He suffered from the disease of involuntarilystealing things. This was disease with which he was born.

2. The solitary cell of Evans was turned into examination room by placing two smalltables and two chairs in it. Reverend Stuart McLeery, a parson from St. Mary Mags wasto work as invigilator. The cell was to be kept locked from outside and a prison officerwould observe Evans from a peep-hole after every minute or so. All potential weaponssuch as knife, scissors, nail-file and razor had been taken away. Even the contents ofthe suitcase of the invigilator were thoroughly searched. The paper knife was takenaway by a prison officer. The Governor himself was to listen-in the conversation in thecell during the examination. The cell was in the D-Wing which had two heavy gates—outer and inner. Both were locked securely. Mr Jackson, the prison officer, was inconstant contact with the Governor on the phone.

3. The request was to create an examination centre in the prison for one candidate namedJames Roderick Evans. He had started night classes in O-Level German last September.He was the only one in the class and said that he was keen to get some sort ofacademic qualification. The Secretary agreed to give him a chance and promised tosend all the forms and stuff.

4. Evans was called ‘Evans the Break’ by the prison officers. He had escaped from prisonthree times already. He would have done so from Oxford Prison as well if there had notbeen unrest in the maximum security establishments up north.

WORKSHEET–126

1. The Governor should have escorted Evans himself to the Oxford Prison. He had onlytwo persons with him, and later it turned out that these two persons were associates ofEvans. One of them, who posed to be the silent prison officer instructed the driver tomove on faster. The driver, who spoke in a broad Scots accent, was the person whoacted as the Reverend S. McLeery. The Governor should have at least checked theidentity of the staff to whom he was entrusting the prisoner.Secondly, he should have contacted Mr Jackson and Mr Stephens, the two prisonofficers, Detective Superintendent Carter and Detective Chief Inspector Bell, who wereall searching Evans.It was perhaps his over excitement and childish enthusiasm at his arm-chair reasoning inlocating the hide-out of Evans and catching him at the Golden Lion, that he threw allcautions to wind and acted foolishly by reposing confidence in wrong persons. Evans and hisassociates had befooled him earlier as well. The German teacher and the invigilator werefriends of Evans. The correction slip sent from Examination Branch was a clever device toconvey the route of escape and the hide-out. The Governor’s last act of foolishness reallyproved that he was only worth being laughed at as he was too credulous and trustful.


2. People condemn the crime as it is an evil act against law and society. In the past,punishment was the only way to treat the criminals. The greater the crime, theharsher and harder the punishment, which could go to the extent of life-imprisonmentor death sentence.In the modern age, efforts are on to reform the criminals, even the hard core, andbring them back to the mainstream. Hence police, prison officers, judges and other law-enforcing agencies develop a soft corner for the people in custody. While the sufferershould get justice, the innocent must not be punished. This idea too helps the prisonstaff often develop a soft corner for the prisoners.The behaviour of prison officer Jackson amply illustrates the above point. He is verystrict in enforcing the rules and regulations of prison as well as the Governor’s orders.Yet somewhere in him we find a tiny core of compassion. Even Evans knew it. MrJackson has asked Evans to remove that filthy bobble hat. Evans requested him toallow it to wear it during exam as it brought luck to him. It was kind o’ lucky charm forhim. Jackson agreed.

3. Modern prisons are no longer the dark dungeons of the middle ages where even therays of the sun could not penetrate. Human rights are observed scrupulously in allcivilised countries even in jails. These prisons are gradually becoming reform houses.Under the prevailing conditions criminals are given the opportunity of self improvement.Provision is made for learning and education. The light of knowledge, it is hoped, willreform the criminals, change their thoughts and make them responsible citizens. Theywill join the mainstream, give up crime and contribute to the well-being of society andnation. Instead of physical torture and mental agony, love and sympathy be used totransform the bitterness, cruelty and evil bent of mind. Let us hate sin and crime, notthe sinner and criminals. Hence, the criminals should be given opportunity of learningand education in prison.

Memories Of Childhood

WORKSHEET–127

1. The two accounts given in the unit ‘Memories of Childhood’ are based in two distantcultures. Two grown up and celebrated writers from marginalised communities look backon their childhood. They reflect on their relationship with the mainstream.The discrimination, oppression, humiliation, suffering and insults that they faced asyoung members of the marginalised communities are common to both. Zitkala-Sahighlights the severe prejudice that prevailed towards the Native American culture andwomen. Depriving her of her blanket that covered her shoulders made her look indecentin her own eyes. The cutting of her long hair reduces her to the status of a defeatedwarrior as in her culture shingled hair are worn only by cowards. The replacing of hermoccasins by squeaking shoes and “eating by formula” at breakfast table are other signsof forcible erosion of their own culture and imposition of dogma on them.Bama highlights the humiliations faced by the untouchables who were never given anyhonour, dignity or respect as they were born in lower classes. They were made to liveapart, run errands, and bow humbly to the masters. They scrupulously avoided directcontact with the people of higher classes or the things used by them.The sense of rebellion against the existing state of affairs and decision to improve themare also common themes.


2. Children are more sensitive and observant than the adults. They see, hear, feel andexperience whatever happens around them. They are quick to note any deviation fromthe normal or any aberration.Bama at first, thinks the behaviour of the elder of her community is quite funny. He isholding the packet by string and running with it awkwardly. But when she learns thereason of his behaviour in that particular manner her ire is aroused against the cruel,rich people of upper castes who shamelessly exploit them and heap humiliations onthem. She is ready to rebel against the oppression by snatching the packet of vadaifrom the landlord and eating them herself. Her elder brother channelises her anger.He tells her to study with care and make progress. We see the seeds of rebellion inher.Zitkala-Sa too shows that she has the seeds of rebellion in her even at an early age.Her friend Judewin tells her that the authorities are going to cut their long, heavyhair. She says that they have to submit, because they (authorities) are strong. ButZitkala-Sa rebels. She declares that she will not submit. She will struggle first. And,she does carry out her resolution. She hides herself to foil their attempt. When she isdetected hiding under the bed and dragged out, she resists by kicking and scratchingwildly. She is overpowered and tied fast in a chair, but she does not take things lyingdown. The spark of rebellion in her is not put out by oppression.

3. Bama is a victim of the caste system as she has been born in a dalit community.Zitkala-Sa is a Native American who finds that the people who have overpowered thenatives are out to destroy their culture. She notices the discrimination against NativeAmerican culture and women. The cutting of her long hair is symbolic of subjection tothe rulers. In their culture, only unskilled warriors who were captured had their hairshingled by the enemy. She is deprived of her soft moccasins—the shoes worn byNative Americans. Her blanket has been removed from her shoulders and she feels shyand indecent. The rules observed at the breakfast table are alien to her.Both of them rebel against the existing circumstances. They do not bow down to theirsituations. They struggle hard to remove the discrimination and other barriers raisedby people in power. Their struggle is against oppression, prejudice, dogma, superstitionand ignorance. The tool with which they carry out their struggle is education. BothZitkala-Sa and Bama study hard and earn a name for themselves. They take to writingand distinguish themselves in their respective fields. Their works depict their viewpointsand carry on their struggle against the discrimation that constraint and binds the freeflow of their spirits.

WORKSHEET–128

1. It was a bitter-cold day. The snow still covered the ground. The trees were bare. Alarge bell rang for breakfast. Its loud metallic sound crashed through the belfryoverhead and penetrated into their sensitive ears.

2. The annoying clatter of shoes on bare floors disturbed the peace. There was a constantclash of harsh noises and an undercurrent of many voices murmuring an unknowntongue. All these sounds made a bedlam within which she was securely tied. Her spirittore itself in struggling for its lost freedom.

3. The ringing of a large bell summoned the students to the dining room. Then a smallbell tapped. Each pupil drew a chair from under the table. Then a second bell wassounded. All were seated. A man’s voice was heard at one end of the hall. They hung


their heads over the plates. The man ended his mutterings. Then a third bell tapped.Everyone picked up his/her knife and fork and began eating.

4. Judewin knew a few words of English. She had overheard the pale face woman. Shewas talking about cutting their long, heavy hair. Judewin said, “We have to submit,because they are strong.” Zitkala-Sa rebelled. She declared that she would not submit.She would struggle first.

NOVELSNOVELSNOVELSNOVELSNOVELS

Lord Of The Flies/The Hound Of the Baskervilles

WORKSHEET–129

1. In the midst of a wartime evacuation, a British plane crashes on to an isolated island ina remote region of the Pacific Ocean. The boys survive and meticulously plan to maketheir life comfortable. They decide that they need to make a fire. Ralph opines, “If aship comes near the island they may not notice us. So we must make smoke on top ofthe mountain. We must make a fire.” Every individual becomes happy. Jack suggests touse Piggy’s eyeglasses as burning glasses. There is pushing and pulling and officiouscries. Ralph moves the lenses back and forth, this way and that, till a glossy whiteimage of the declining sun lies on a piece of rotten wood. Almost at once a thin trickleof smoke rises up. Jack kneels too and blows gently so that the smoke drifts away.Eventually, the flame flaps higher and the boys break into a cheer. The boys startdancing. The pile is so rotten, and now so tinder-dry, that whole limbs yield passionatelyto the yellow flames that pours upwards and shakes a great beard of flame twenty feetin the air. Ralph shouts, “More wood ! All of you get more wood ! ” To keep a clean flagof flame flying on the mountain is the immediate goal. Even the smallest boys bringlittle pieces of wood and throw them in. The boys feel delighted as if they have beenrescued. Life becomes a race with the fire as they want to maintain the fire to rescue.

OrDr. Mortimer discussed several incidents with Holmes which are hard to reconcile withthe settled order of Nature. He found that before the unexpected death of Sir Charles,several people have seen a creature upon the moor which corresponded with theBaskerville’s demon. They reported that it was a huge creature, ghastly, and spectral.He interrogated and cross-examined these people and discovered that their tales weresimilar. They all spoke about the dreadful apparition, exactly corresponding to the hell-hound of the legend. He candidly confessed, “... there is a reign of terror in the district,and that it is a hardy man who will cross the moor at night.” It would be pertinent toquote Dr. Mortimer’s words here: “The original hound was material enough to tug aman’s throat out, and yet he was diabolic.” Dr. Mortimer did not believe in the words ofthe village folk. He was a man of science. Moreover, he had noticed the footprints nearthe dead body of Sir Charles. He did not desire Holmes to accept the theory of theuneducated villagers and requested him to help Sir Henry, who was the last heir of theBaskervilles.

2. The smaller boys were known as littluns. The undoubted littluns, those aged about six,led a quite distinct, and at the same time intense, life of their own. They ate most ofthe day, picking fruit where they could reach it and not particular about ripeness andquality. They were used to stomach-aches and a sort of chronic diarrhoea. They


suffered untold terrors in the dark and huddled together for comfort. Apart from foodand sleep, they found time for play, aimless and trivial, among the white sand by thebright water. They cried for their mothers much less often than might have beenexpected. They were very brown and filthily dirty. They obeyed the summons of theconch, partly because Ralph blew it, and he was big enough to be a link with the adultworld of authority, and partly because they enjoyed the entertainment of the assemblies.But otherwise they seldom bothered with the biguns and their passionately emotionaland corporate life was their own. They used to build castles in the sand. These castleswere about one foot high and were decorated with shells, withered flowers andbeautiful stones. The littluns played there, if not happily at least with absorbedattention and often as many as three of them would play the same game together.

OrSherlock Holmes got three clues to solve the problem of Sir Henry. He was told thatBarrymore had black beard. He was the son of the old caretaker. They had beenlooking after the Hall for four generations. Holmes thought that the man inside the cabmust be Barrymore. He sent a telegram to confirm if he was at the Hall. He came toknow that Barrymore received the telegram and he was at Devonshire.Holmes had another man who could assist him in solving the riddle. He was the cabdriver named John Clayton. But he also could not supply significant information tohim. The cab driver said, “The truth is that the gentleman told me that he was adetective and that I was to say nothing about him to anybody.” He also told Holmesthat the passenger’s name was Sherlock Holmes as it was told to him.The last clue which could help him in trapping the culprit was the page of the Times.But Cartwright’s message shattered that hope also. He reported that he visited twentythree hotels as he was directed. But he could not trace the cut sheet of Times.Holmes uttered, “Snap goes our third thread, and we end where we began.” Thus thetitle Three Broken Threads is apt and justified.

WORKSHEET–130

1. Ralph is the chief of the group. He works in a democratic way. He is pragmatic andpractical. He emphasizes on erecting shelters so that the littluns and biguns spend thenight peacefully. He opines, “If it rains like when we dropped in we’ll need shelters allright. And then another thing. We need shelters because of the —.” But Jack’sperspective is altogether different. He does not help Ralph in building shelters. He laysstress on hunting. He goes to the forest to hunt a pig. He wants meat. He takes theboys with him. Ralph gets annoyed because he is not helped by the hunters in makinghuts. Only Simon and Piggy support him in accomplishing the task. Ralph asserts, “...We want shelters. Besides, the rest of your hunters came back hours ago. They’ve beenswimming.” Jack does not want to listen to anybody. He is interested only in hunting apig. He says, “I’ve got to get a barb on this spear ! We wounded a pig and the spear fellout. If we could only make barbs —”. He has no intention to talk about shelters.Irrespective of Ralph’s advice Jack says that he will trek over to the other side of themountain and see if he can find any traces. Both of them look at each other becausetheir perception towards life varies. They are the opposite poles.

OrCartwright was a boy of fourteen, with a bright, keen face. He was given the names oftwenty-three hotels situated at Charing Cross. He was asked to visit all these hotels to


see the waste-paper of the day before. He was instructed to give the outside porter oneshilling and tell that an important telegram had been miscarried, which was to befound. The real thing which he was asked to collect from the waste-paper was thecentre page of the Times with some holes cut in it with scissors. He was also providedwith a copy of the Times and was shown the page he was to collect. He was also told,“In each case the outside porter will send for the hall porter, to whom also you will givea shilling”. He was given twenty three shillings. Cartwright was instructed that hewould learn in possibly twenty cases out of the twenty three that the waste of the daybefore had been burnt or removed. In the three other cases he would be shown a heapof paper and he would look for the page of the Times among that. The odds wereenormously against his finding. He was given ten shillings extra for emergency.Holmes wanted to trace the writer of the letter which Sir Henry received in the hotel.So he employed Cartwright and asked him to collect the page of the Times.

2. Jack speaks these words. Jack, Roger and Ralph try to explore the reality of the beast.So, they climb the mountain. But everyone is frightened. They reach to the flat topwhere the rock is hard to hands and knees. They find a creature bulging. Ralph putshis hand in the cold, soft ashes of the fire and smothers a cry. Roger lies behind himand Jack’s mouth is at his ear. Jack says, “Over there, where there used to be a gap inthe rock. A sort of hump—see?” They observe something like a great ape sitting asleepwith its head between its knees. Then the wind roars in the forest and the creaturelifts its head, holding towards them the ruin of a face.Jack wished to climb the mountain to hunt the beast. Ralph wanted to postpone thehunt for the next day. But Jack called Ralph cowardly. Jack said sarcastically, “If youdon’t want to go on, I’ll go up by myself.” All the three boys were scared. They did nothave the knack to face the beast. But even then they wanted to see the beast. So, Jacksaid, “Let’s creep forward on hands and knees.” He opined that the beast might besleeping. He intended to take the advantages of the beast’s sleeping state. But theycould not do anything and returned to the shelters.

OrThe Baskerville Hall was a source of fascination to Sir Henry and Dr. Watson. Whenthey reached the Hall, they saw that the center was a heavy block of building fromwhich a porch projected. The whole front was draped in ivy, with a patch clipped barehere and there where a window or a coat of arms broke through the dark veil. Fromthis central block rose the twin towers, ancient, crevelated and pierced with manyloopholes. To the right and left of the turrets were more modern wings of blackgranite. The dining room was “a long chamber with a step separating the dais wherethe family sat from the lower portion reserved for their dependents.”It was a beautiful creation and a place where one could derive aesthetic pleasure. Thebeauty of the place had the knack to sooth a disturbed soul. The dark panelling glowedlike bronze in the golden rays of the sun. The Hall was large, lofty and heavily rafteredwith huge baulks of age-blackened oak. They also noticed the high, thin window of oldstained glass, the oak panelling, the stags’ head and the coats of arms upon the walls.

WORKSHEET–131

1. Roger killed Piggy and forced Samneric to join the tribe. The following morning, Jackordered his tribe to begin a manhunt for Ralph. There were many things he could do tosafeguard his life. He could climb a tree. But he thought that “hide was better than a


tree because you had a chance of breaking the line if you were discovered. So, he foundthe deepest thicket and crept in. At last he found the right place. The bushes and a wildtangle of creeper made a mat that kept out all the right of the sun. Beneath it was aspace, a foot high, though it was pierced everywhere by parallel and rising stems. Thehunters set the island on fire. The fire was a big one. Ralph heard the cries of thehunters. He could see a striped savage moving hastily out of a green tangle and comingtowards the mat where he hid. He fumbled to hold his spear. He saw that the stick wassharpened at both ends. The savage stopped fifteen yards away and cried. He movedahead to find Ralph. Suddenly, a herd of pigs came squealing out of the greenery behindthe savage and rushed away into the forest. The savage stopped five yards away. Heknelt down by the edge of the thicket. Ralph swung the stake and the savage tumbledover. But others were coming towards him. He forgot his wounds, his hunger andthirst. He fled hopelessly. He rushed towards the open beach and saw a naval officerwho protected him from the hunters. The hunters tried their level best to kill Ralph.But they could not execute their plan because of the naval officer’s sudden presence onthe island.

OrThe hound was very dangerous. It was a terrible creature in size and strength. It wasneither a pure bloodhound nor a pure mastiff. It appeared to be a combination of thetwo—gaunt, savage, and as large as a small lioness. Its huge jaws seemed to bedripping with a bluish flame and the small, deep set, cruel eyes were ringed with fire.Watson realised that it was bedecked with phosphorus. It was prepared thoughtfullyand purposefully. Holmes said, “There is no smell which might have interfered with hispower of scent. Fire burst from its open mouth, its eyes glowed with a smoulderingglare, its muzzle and hackles were outlined in flickering flame. Watson opined, “Neverin the delirious dream of a disorder brain could anything more savage, more appalling,more hellish, more conceived than that dark form and savage face which broke upon usout of the wall of fog.”

2. Ralph is a tall, good-looking boy with blond hair. His father is a commander in theNavy. He learnt swimming at the age of five. Ralph plays a significant role in ‘Lord ofthe Flies.’ His role epitomises democracy. He blows the shell to call the other survivorsof the plane. He becomes the chief in a democratic way. He is elected by the membersof the group. He is an optimistic fellow. He focuses on keeping the signal fire so thatthey can be rescued by the passersby. He is very supportive and caring too. When theyclimb the mountain to explore the reality of the beast, he wishes to send someone totake care of the Littluns and Piggy. He has indomitable faith in the participativemanagement. All the members of the group are given ample opportunities to expresstheir invaluable ideas. He allocates duties to the boys so as to make their survival easy.His foresightedness encourages his supporters to erect shelters. He has the knack toface the challenges of life. He goes to the Castle Rock to get Piggy’s eyeglass back. Hehas the ability to hunt also. But he becomes insane when Simon is killed mercilessly.He feels guilty and blames himself for this act of madness. Ralph safeguards himselffrom the clutches of the hunters and reaches the beach where he meets the navalofficer. It can be stated that Ralph is an emotional, sympathetic and non-violent fellow.He is indecisive too. He is guided by Piggy time and again. Ralph keeps focussing onmaintaining the fire signal so that they can be rescued. He says, “Fire is the most


important thing. Without fire we can’t be rescued. I’d like to put on war-paint and be asavage. But we must keep the fire burning. Fire is the most important thing on theisland ...” Ralph learns a lot of things on the island. His bitter experiences shatter hisworld of dreams and idealism. He represents the genteel, British middle class.

OrSir Charles was a widower. He was very rich and generous. He was simple in hispersonal taste. He was a superstitious man in waning health. He himself narrated thelegend of the hound to Stapleton. He was a philanthropist. He helped Mrs. Laura Lyonsand many other residents of the vicinity. A newspaper writes about him, “Being himselfchildless, it was his openly expressed desire that the whole countryside should, withinhis own lifetime, profit by his good fortune...” He was in the habit of walking down thefamous yew alley of Baskerville Hall before going to bed. He was so humble and honestthat he burnt the letter of Mrs. Laura Lyons as he was instructed. He readily gave hisconsent to meet her at the time without any inhibition.He was a strong minded, shrewd, practical and unimaginative being. His amiability ofcharacters and extreme generosity had won the affection and respect of all who hadbeen brought into contact with him. He was suffering from nervous depression andsevere heart disease. Dr. James Mortimer advised him to go to London so that he mayfeel better. But, unfortunately, he is killed by Stapleton making the use of the hound.He was really an innocent and good natured man.

WORKSHEET–132

1. Sam and Eric are twins. They are bullet-headed and their hair are like bow. They doeverything together. They breath together and grin together. They are chunky andvital. It seems that their thoughts are also similar. “ ... for they seemed provided withnot quick enough skin, so that their profiles were blurred and their mouths pulledopen.” They are the perfect followers of their leaders. They are asked to maintain thesignal fire. They see a parachutist and get afraid of it. They are terrified and flee fromthe mountain. The twins spread the dreadful news of the presence of the beast. Ericconfidently says, “We’ve seen the beast with our own eyes. No—we weren’t asleep—”Sam elaborates the story and describes the beast. They do not deceive Ralph and staywith him. They accompany Ralph to face Jack. But, unfortunately, they fail to endurethe torture inflicted on them by Jack and his hunters. They, eventually, join theirtribe. When Jack comes to them, they ask him to go because Jack and Roger hadpledged to kill him. They dread Jack and Roger. Samneric do not have the courage todisobey Jack. They also tell Jack about the hiding place of Ralph. Samneric are the twoguys who cannot do anything independently. They elect people and follow theirinstructions. They are the part of the crowd or the masses. Such people lack convictionto raise the hammers against the established conviction and malpractices. Their life isof utmost importance for them. They can do anything to avoid inconvenience. Samnericare ready to throw their spears at Ralph without any inhibition.

OrWatson is the narrator of the story. He is Holmes’ assistant. He is the chronicler of histriumphs as a private investigator. He tries his level best to satisfy the insatiablecuriosity of Holmes. He does his duty sincerely and honestly. He follows Holmes’instructions in letter and spirit. Holmes instructs him to always remain with SirHenry. When Sir Henry has to meet Miss Stapleton, he chases him and observes


everything from the top of the hill. He also explores the hidden facts at the Hall. Hecomes to know about Selden and Barrymore’s relation shrewdly. His interaction withMrs. Laura Lyons proves fruitful. He reaches Holmes, abode on the moor using hispresence of mind. He makes sincere efforts to solve the riddle of Sir Henry’s case. Theway he reports the sequence of events to Holmes is praiseworthy. It is a factual report.He never leaves any detail which may change the track of the investigation. Watson’scharacter teaches the readers that one should be receptive and should follow theguidelines and principles of the trainer so as to attain considerable success in this worldof mortals. He does not believe in the legend of the hound and feels convinced that it isthe work of some human agencies. He is really a man of his words.

2. Simon had an insatiable curiosity to know about the beast. So, he climbed themountain alone and came to know about the beast’s reality. He found that it was thedead body of a parachutist. The layers of rubber and canvas held together the poor bodythat was giving foul smell. The wind blew to lift the body. Simon could not see thishorrible sight and he vomited there. Then he took the lines in his hands and freedthem from the rocks. He intended to reveal the beast’s fact to the rest of the boys. Hestarted down the mountain and staggered. The boys were dancing. He found himself inthe centre of the boys. But they could not identify him and considered him the beast.He was telling them about a body on the hill. But they did not heed his words andkilled him mercilessly. His body moved out towards the open sea. Ralph felt guilty andhe could not endure this painful reality. He conceived that he murdered Simon. Piggycounselled him and said that it was an accident. He uttered, “Look, Ralph. We got toforget this. We can’t do no good thinking about it, see?” Ralph tried to understandPiggy’s concern. So, he overcame his grief and sadness.

OrDr. Mortimer, Watson and Sir Henry were going to the Baskerville Hall. When theyreached the station, Watson was surprised to observe that by the gate there stood twosoldierly men in dark uniforms. They also saw a mounted soldier watching the roadalong which they travelled. Dr. Mortimer asked about the soldiers. He intended toknow the reason of their presence everywhere. Perkins told that a convict had escapedfrom Princetown. His name was Selden. He was not an ordinary convict. He was acruel man and would stick at nothing. He could go to any extent. He was a murderer.This was the reason that the warders were watching every road and every station. Heescaped three days ago. But the police had not been able to spot him yet. Dr. Watsonsaid, “I understand that they get five pounds if they can give information.” Perkinsexpressed his idea that five pounds was but a poor thing compared to the chance ofhaving your throat cut. So, this was the revelation pertaining to the escaped convict,Selden, the Notting Hill murderer.

SREPAPECITARP C 105

SECTION–A (READING SKILLS)

1.1 (a) Stress makes human body vulnerable to diseases by(i) depleting the stress related hormones

(ii) weakening the immunity system by suppressing body’s killer cells.(b) Worry is chief source of stress. The symptoms are

(i) pain in the head and neck region (ii) teeth grinding (iii) nail nibbling(iv) disturbed sleep (v) nervousness and shakiness

(c) Hypothalamus alters the nervous system and activates the pituitary gland whichreleases stress hormones like adrenaline. These make the body alert to react to theanxiety-provoking events. Increased levels of blood pressure, blood sugar and risk ofheart strokes are the possible results.

(d) (i) Adopting healthy lifestyle - exercise(ii) engaging in soothing activities

(iii) Positive attitude, socialising instead of loneliness(iv) alternative therapies—hypnotherapy, faith therapy, yoga and meditation.

(e) (i) People tend to have poor diets and consume more junk food, caffeine and alcohol.(ii) Prolonged stress causes vitamin and mineral depletion.

1.2 (a) immune (b) vague (c) amenable

2.1 Notes:1. Confi. Makers

(a) overcoming problems unaided(b) faith in ind’l ability(c) (i) self-help (ii) self-dependence

2. Confi. Shakers(a) overprotectn by family(b) never left alone to manage for themselves

3. Confi. and Success(a) manage without support

(i) more assurance (ii) greater self-esteem4. Confi. Building

(a) avoid overprotectn(b) self-reliance(c) self-assurance

5. Mid Gen. Parents(a) afraid of extra bold children - aggressiveness(b) lack confidence - meek suggestions - children more confident(c) obey and appease their old dictatorial parents(d) want children with ind’l entity and confidence(e) self-oriented child - disobey parents(f) suffer from both sides - lack of confi.

2.2 SELF-CONFIDENCEFaith in one’s own capacity and single handed tackling develops confidence whileoverprotective attitude destroys it. Self-supporting children have more assurance, andgreater self-esteem. Self-reliance and self-assurance are essential for success. The midgeneration parents, are afraid of the aggressiveness of the naughty and extra bold

SOLUTIONS TO PRACTICE PAPER–1


children. Their children are more confident and assertive because they have individualentity and are self-oriented. These mid generation parents suffer both ways—fromdictatorial parents and disobeying children simply because they lack self-confidence.

SECTION–B (ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS)

3. First Option

ACCOMMODATION WANTEDWanted for a Central Government senior officer, an independent accommodationcomprising three bedrooms with attached bathrooms, drawing-cum-dining room, kitchenwith modern amenities and facility for car parking in Greater Kailash/Friend’s Colonyon reasonable rent. Provision for separate bathroom and a store will be considered anextra facility. Contact Phone No. 2326 3081 between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Second Option

D-59, Adarsh NagarNew Delhi

18 May 20XX

Dear MridulaThank you for your cordial invitation for spending a part of my summer vacation withyou in your native village. I was eager to go to your village but the sudden illness ofmy mother has pushed back all my thoughts of recreation. I am sorry I am unable toenjoy your hospitality this summer.I hope you won’t feel upset or take it to heart.

Yours sincerelyVipasha

4. First OptionPREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

People generally love animals and keep them as pets. Of late domestic animals are beingill-treated by their masters. Instead of being well-fed, well nourished cattle, cows,bullocks and horses, we find emaciated bullocks pulling overloaded carts or woodenlegged horses yoked to tongas. The fate of cows is the worst of all. The dry cows are letloose on the roads. These stray cows wander about in search of grass and create manyproblems in the traffic besides creating insanitation. This is a very sorry state of affairs.Animals are in no way less faithful, punctual, helpful and sincere than man. They expresslove and loyalty, gratitude and anger. They serve us as true servants and guard us astrue guardians. We should stop maltreating animals. The harassment of animals beginsat home. If we can’t maintain pets properly, we have no right to keep them. Theauthorities should prevent cruelty to animals by checking overloading of goods/passengersin carts. Similarly, attention should be paid to the animals in circus or zoo. They shouldget proper food and care.

Second OptionREPORT ON OPENING CEREMONY OF SPORTS MEET

The tenth inter school state sports competitions were inaugurated at our school playgroundson Sunday, the 19th Feb, 200X. Mr T. N. Biswas, the Chief Secretary of the state declaredthe games open. Over 2500 school boys and girls would compete for honours in 27 disciplinesover the next 10 days. The flame for the Sports Meet was lit by famous athlete Anjaiya.29 participating contingents from various states and union territories took part in theimpressive march past. After the oath taking ceremony by the athletes, there was a

SREPAPECITARP C 107

beautiful cultural programme of folk dances and music. In his brief speech, the ChiefGuest congratulated the participants for their enthusiasm and expressed the hope thatthis sports meet will help the potential talent to bloom to full glory.

5. First OptionThe Director (Admission)Central Board of Secondary EducationPreet ViharNew Delhi 110092

July 10, 20XX

Sir/Madam

Sub: Eligibility Certificate

I am student who had passed the class X examination scoring 92% marks from Raj BahadurThapa Senior Secondary School, Kathmandu, Nepal. My father, an officer in the NepaleseForeign Ministry has been posted to Nepalese Embassy in New Delhi. I wish to migrate toJ.P. Public School, Lodhi Road, New Delhi since it is very near to my house. Since theschool I was studying in Nepal was not affiliated to the above Board I wish to seek aneligibility certificate from the above board. The principal of J.P. Public, Lodhi Road hasalready submitted my class X marksheets, school transfer certificate, school leavingcertificate and character certificate alongwith his recommendations to the above board.Kindly expedite the issue of the eligibility certificate to enable me to start attending classXI in J.P. Public School at the earliest.Yours faithfullyMohan BhattaraiClass X-ARaj Bahadur Thapa Sr. Secondary School,Kathmandu, Nepal

Second OptionD-52, Shakti NagarDelhi

18 August 20XX

The EditorThe Times of IndiaNew DelhiSirSub: Non-availability of Essential CommoditiesThrough the columns of your esteemed daily I want to draw the attention of our popularleaders, general public and the Food and Civil Supplies Department, Delhi, towards thenon-availability of essential commodities to the bonafide ration card holders at the fairprice shops of our area.Our area is densely populated and the arrival of migrant labour has worsened theconsumer supply ratio. The fair-price shops which used to cater to the needs of ourlocality have now adopted unfair means and indulge in malpractices in order to make afast buck.Their modus operandi is quite simple and obvious. Whenever the consumers—the genuineration card holders approach them for sugar, rice, wheat or kerosene oil, the stock reply isthat they have not yet received the supply. In case a truck comes during the daytime,serpentine queues can be seen. By the time half of them get their supply, the ‘NO STOCK’board is put up. Poor consumers waste their time and energy and return empty handed.


We have lodged frequent protests and complained to the concerned authorities. We getquite pleasing assurance. I think there is a vicious nexus between the blackmarketeers,shop-owners and inspectors of Food and Civil Supplies Department.I appeal to the political bosses to order a thorough probe into these irregularities andsafeguard the interest of the genuine ration card holders.

Yours trulyRashmi

6. First Option

THE INVOLVEMENT OF STUDENTS IN POLITICSThe involvement of students in politics began during the freedom struggle. Afterindependence politicians utilised the exuberance of bubbling youth for their partisanand selfish ends. The lowering of voting age and democratisation of the set up ofeducational institutions brought politics to the school level. While contesting electionsto the students’ council, the student leaders resort to all the tricks employed by theseasoned politicians. In the colleges and universities elections are contested on partylines. The political parties thus make inroads into educational institutions. They getdedicated workers and utilise their services during their own elections to parliament orstate legislatures. Well, political awareness is good, but too much involvement inpolitics is certainly harmful. The frequent elections to various civic bodies and legislaturesfurther aggravate the violence and disruptive activities on the campus. Students ignoretheir studies and indulge in slogan shouting, speech making and taking out processions.Sometimes there are clashes amongst student groups owing allegience to politicalparties with diverse ideologies. Students should not forget their main aim and mission–studies and learning. They should develop political conciousness but not become tools ofwily politicians.

Second OptionRespected chairperson, honourable teachers, members of the jury, and my friends. Thetopic for today’s debate is “children should not participate in reality shows”. I, LalitKhanna of class XII-D stand before you to speak in favour of the motion.It has become a craze among parents to train hard their children so that they give aflawless performance before the panel of judges. They have to undergo rigorous practice,face judges who are sircastic, nasty, and critical in their comments. Children who farepoorly or who don’t win, become bitter, emotional, sensitive and aggressive. Theydevelop a sense of fierce unhealthy competition leading to every hatred and ill feelings.My worthy opponent will also agree that even parents force their children to burnmidnight oil in order to give a superlative performance disregarding the health of theirchildren. What it leads to is a stunted, imbalanced and underdeveloped personality, poorin academics and sports. So it is high time that parents stop sending their children intraining them for such reality shows.Thank you

SECTION–C (LITERATURE TEXTBOOKS AND LONG READING TEXTS)

7. First Option(a) Green wars, wars with poisonous gases and wars with the fire are the different kinds of

wars.(b) It will be a victory where no survivors will be left to celebrate it.(c) They should put on clean clothes and walk with their brothers under the trees

leisurely doing nothing.(d) survivors

SREPAPECITARP C 109

Second Option(a) The life of the people in countryside is quite miserable for want of money. Money

which can increase the level of their living is not found there. Hence the spirit of therural people remains depressed because of poverty.

(b) The voice of the country people seems to complain of injustice against them and lackof money in their lives.

(c) The poet will feel a great relief if the rural people are liberated of all pains with onestroke.

8. (a) The poet has used beautiful images to highlight the stark contrast between thescene inside the car and the activities going on outside. The ‘ashen’ face of the poet’smother is pale and lifeless. It looks like that of a corpse. She is dozing and lost toherself. The image of the ‘dozing’ mother is contrasted with the ‘spilling’ of children.The ‘ashen’ and ‘corpse-like’ face is contrasted with the young trees sprintingoutside.

(b) In this poem Stephen Spender deals with the theme of social injustice and classinequalities. He presents the theme by talking of two different and incompatibleworlds. The world of the rich and the ‘civilized’ has nothing to do with the world ofnarrow lanes and cramped holes. The gap between these two worlds highlightssocial disparities and class inequalities.

(c) When Aunt Jennifer dies, her hands will still look terrified. Perhaps she hasexperienced a lot of hardships and troubles in the past. Their effect has left its printon her hands. The ordeals that crushed her married life had sorrounded andcramped her fingers and hands too.

9. (a) Firozabad is famous for its glass bangles. It is the centre of India's glass-blowingindustry. Families have spent generations working around furnaces, welding glass,making bangles for all the women in the land. Every other family in Firozabad isengaged in making bangles.

(b) Franz had hoped to get to his desk unseen during the commotion. But that day itwas quite quiet. So Franz had to open the door and go in before everybody. Heblushed as he was late. He was frightened that the teacher might rebuke him, butM. Hamel spoke kindly to him that day.

(c) Gandhi cooperated with the officials. He helped them regulate the crowd. He waspolite and friendly. He gave the Britishers a concrete proof that their dreaded andunquestioned power could be challenged by Indians.

(d) Sophie dreams to have a boutique of her own. It will be the most amazing shop thecity has ever seen. She says that she will buy a boutique if ever she comes intomoney. She does not mind becoming an actress to run a boutique as a side business.Since she has no money or experience, it is called a ‘dream’ and not a ‘plan’.

(e) The manner of the death of the Tiger King is of extraordinary interest. The mostfantastic aspect of his demise was that as soon as he was born, astrologers hadforetold that one day the Tiger King would actually have to die.

(f) Sadao’s father was a visionary. He knew that the islands near the sea coast werethe stepping stones to the future for Japan. No one could limit their future as itdepended on what they made it. His son’s education was his chief concern. He senthis son to America at the age of twenty-two to learn all that could be learned ofsurgery and medicine. He loved the Japanese race, customs and manners.

(g) The request was to create an examination centre in the prison for one candidatenamed James Roderick Evans. He had started night classes in O-Level German lastSeptember. He was the only one in the class and said that he was keen to get somesort of academic qualification. The Secretary agreed to give him a chance andpromised to send all the forms and stuff.


10. First OptionYes, I know how the kindness of a Bishop transformed a hard-hearted beastly convictinto a man again with faith in God and human values. The story is presented in theform of a famous play ‘The Bishop’s Candlesticks’.The Bishop provides food and shelter at midnight to a runaway convict who threatenshim with a knife. Long years of imprisonment and harsh treatment in the prisonshiphas transformed the man into beast and he is devoid of all human feelings now. Theconvict runs away with the Bishop’s silver candlesticks, but is caught by the police.In order to save the convict from further punishment and torture, the Bishop tells thepolice officer that the fellow is his friend and he had himself given him the candlesticks.This kind act of the Bishop melts the hard heart of the convict. He sobs and weeps. Hepromises to be a man again.Second OptionJo is the shortened form of Joanne. She is the four year old daughter of Jack andClare. For the last two years, her father, Jack, has been telling her bed-time stories.Since these stories are woven around the same basic tale and have the samecharacters and turn of events, Jo takes so many things for granted and takes activeinterest in the story-telling session. The protagonist (main character) is always namedRoger. It may be Roger Fish, Roger Squirrel, Roger Chipmunk or Roger Skunk. Theother characters are the huge, wise, old owl and the thin small wizard. Othercreatures of the forest—small animals—also take part in playing with Roger andliking/disliking him.

11. First OptionWar is a great threat to mankind. Fear, anxiety, tension and hatred are some of theoffsprings of war. No individual is in favour of this brutal act. Innocent people losetheir life because of the vested interests of some of the corrupt politicians. Moreover,war is not the solution to any problem. It only increases the hiatus between twonations. The desire to overpower the other disseminates hatred and the feelings ofenmity. The aftermaths of Hiroshima and Nagasaki are evident before us. It shouldalso be remembered that each nation is trying its level best to become a nuclearpower. A nuclear bomb has the power to devastate nations. Thousands of people willlose their lives. There will not be any survivor. If someone is left alive, he/she will becrippled. There is no doubt that war has put the human existence at stake. We haveheard seers say that one should shed one’s ego. The nations should also feel equallyimportant. No nation is self-sufficient. Peace enhances creativity and productivity. Theconcept of a global village should be followed by all countries. Thus war does notbenefit any individual.Second Option4120/28, Gali HandianChandni ChowkDelhi–110006

January 20, 20XX

Dear Rahul

Last time when I met you, you expressed the need to know how one should make adifficult decision. I give you some tips which may be helpful to you.

You can never know for sure when you make a decision that it’s going to work out asyou hope. All you can do is to follow your conscience, and then trust that whatever thefuture holds, it will enrich your lives, one way or the other. While deciding you canreflect on past decisions and how your made them. The problems don’t have to besimilar for the method to work the same. You can do some meditation and listen toyour instincts. You may ask yourself, “who will your decision affect and what does your

SREPAPECITARP C 111

heart tell you?” While making a decision you can talk it over with your friends; thenafter you have gathered as much info as possible, decide and act. Moreover you need tomake a patient effort and have confidence in yourself as a decision maker. Whateverchoice you make is valid, as you can gain experience and wisdom through anyexperience, preferred or not. You can also ask yourself three questions before divinginto something new or daunting. What’s the worst that can happen? How likely is thatgoing to happen? Can you deal with it? Take a moment to think about the consequencesof every course of action and decide which course will be best for you. Sometimes youneed to try to see the situation from all angles; ask your elders for advice; they arealways great sources. Sometimes you need to walk away from the issue a bit, and thencome back for a fresh look into the matter.

Well this is all I can say for the moment.

Yours truly

Manish Kumar

12. First OptionRalph is the chief of the group. He works in a democratic way. He is pragmatic andpractical. He emphasizes on erecting shelters so that the littluns and biguns spend thenight peacefully. He opines, “If it rains like when we dropped in we’ll need shelters allright. And then another thing. We need shelters because of the —.” But Jack’sperspective is altogether different. He does not help Ralph in building shelters. He laysstress on hunting. He goes to the forest to hunt a pig. He wants meat. He takes theboys with him. Ralph gets annoyed because he is not helped by the hunters in makinghuts. Only Simon and Piggy support him in accomplishing the task. Ralph asserts, “...We want shelters. Besides, the rest of your hunters came back hours ago. They’vebeen swimming.” Jack does not want to listen to anybody. He is interested only inhunting a pig. He says, “I’ve got to get a barb on this spear ! We wounded a pig and thespear fell out. If we could only make barbs —”. He has no intention to talk aboutshelters. Irrespective of Ralph’s advice Jack says that he will trek over to the otherside of the mountain and see if he can find any traces. Both of them look at each otherbecause their perception towards life varies. They are the opposite poles.Second OptionDr. Watson was Holmes’ assistant. They found a stick which their visitor had leftthere. Holmes asked Watson to tell him about the man by examining the stick.Watson observed the stick and said that Dr. Mortimer was a successful, elderlymedical man. He was well esteemed because those who knew him gave him this markof appreciation. He further stated that he might be a country practitioner who washabitual of walking. Watson guessed, “I should guess that to be the something hunt,the local hunt to whose members he has possibly given some surgical assistance, andwhich has made him a small presentation in return.” Holmes appreciated Watson’sefforts after examining the following script on the stick: To James Mortimer, M.R.C.S.,from his friends of C.C.H. 1884.” To encourage Watson, Holmes said, “It may be thatyou are not yourself luminous, but you are a conductor of life”. Dr. Watson applied hisanalytical skills and wisdom to give an accurate explanation. He informed Holmes thathe had not overlooked anything significant. But Holmes said that most of his conclusionswere erroneous. He accepted his two things that the man was a country practitionerand he walked a good deal.

13. First OptionThe smaller boys were known as littluns. The undoubted littluns, those aged about six,led a quite distinct, and at the same time intense, life of their own. They ate most ofthe day, picking fruit where they could reach it and not particular about ripeness andquality. They were used to stomach-aches and a sort of chronic diarrhoea. They


suffered untold terrors in the dark and huddled together for comfort. Apart from foodand sleep, they found time for play, aimless and trivial, among the white sand by thebright water. They cried for their mothers much less often than might have beenexpected. They were very brown and filthily dirty. They obeyed the summons of theconch, partly because Ralph blew it, and he was big enough to be a link with the adultworld of authority, and partly because they enjoyed the entertainment of the assemblies.But otherwise they seldom bothered with the biguns and their passionately emotionaland corporate life was their own. They used to build castles in the sand. These castleswere about one foot high and were decorated with shells, withered flowers andbeautiful stones. The littluns played there, if not happily at least with absorbedattention and often as many as three of them would play the same game together.Second OptionSir Henry was received by Dr. Mortimer. They went to their hotel. They reachedHolmes at 10 o’clock in the morning. Sir Henry Baskerville told him that he hadreceived a letter in the hotel. The content of the letter was as follows : “As you valueyour life or your reason, keep away from the moor.” He was confused and at a lossdecided the neat course of action. He also reported that he had lost one of his boots.They were tan boots and had never been varnished. So, he put them out. But someonestole them. Dr. Mortimer narrated the whole story of the legend. Sir Henry said, “Iseem to have come into an inheritance with a vengeance”.Sir Henry Baskerville was determined to go to his ancestral house. He announced that‘no devil in hell’ or ‘no man upon earth’ has the knack to prevent him from going tohis own house. It was his final decision. He was not afraid of the family fiend. The fierytemper of the Baskervilles was evident in his character and perception.

SREPAPECITARP C 113



1.1 (a) The most prominent quality associated with youth is energy.(b) It means ‘learn’ to operate the modern devices, ‘earn’ wealth by employing them,

‘burn’ the natural resources as well as oneself and ‘enjoy’ one’s own funeral.(c) They are intelligent, skilful and hardworking but they lack insight and foresight.

Being self-indulgent they do not follow any moral code of conduct. They are confinedto present joys and do not think deeper.

(d) It may take the form of political opposition. Sometimes these rebels become violentand indulge in insurgent and terrorist activities.

(e) Modern man is exploiting mother earth and nature to the extent of their destructionand consequently his own. The sensitive youth are looking for an alternative model ofdevelopment based on mutual love, friendship, co-operation and harmony.

(f) Humanity is likely to be ushered into the third millennium by evolving a new way oflife and releasing a new principle of global consciousness through a fundamentalresearch in the science of life.

1.2 (a) insurgent(b) insatiable(c) ethereal.

2.1 Notes:1. Defn. of dietary fibres2. Importance

(a) low incidence of heart diseases and cancer(b) removes constipation(c) checks obesity, diabetes, caries etc.

3. Characteristics(a) include cellulose, lignin, pectin etc.(b) specific chem. structure(c) solubility

(i) some sol in water(ii) others insoluble in H2O

4. Sources(a) cereals and grains, legumes(b) fruits with seeds, citrus fruits(c) carrots, cabbages, green leafy vegs.

5. Properties(a) not digested/absorbed by enzymes of stomach/small intestines(b) hold water—get swollen—act like sponge(c) add bulk to diet—increase transit time in the gut(d) undergo fermentn in the colon.

6. Action Mechanism(a) bind bile salts—prevent reabsorptn(b) decrease cholesterol level in circuln(c) decrease post prandial glucose level in blood

7. Adverse Effects(a) preventg absorpon of metals(b) nutritional deficiency—lesser minerals


2.2 ROLE OF DIETARY FIBRESDietary fibres are indigestible carbohydrates present in plant foods, which result in lowincidence of many diseases. These fibres include cellulose, lignin, pectin, plant gums andmucilages. They have a specific chemical structure but different physical and chemicalproperties. Some are soluble in water while others are insoluble. Cereals and grains,legumes, fruit with seeds, citrus fruits, carrots, cabbages and green leafy vegetables arerich in fibres. Being indigestible they add bulk to diet and increase transit time in theintestines. Since they hold water, they get swollen and act like sponge. Some fibresundergo fermentation in colon. They bind bile salts and prevent its reabsorption. Theyalso decrease cholestoral level and glucose level in blood. Since they prevent absorptionof metals and minerals increased dietary fibres may result in nutritional deficiency.


3. First Option

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTDOGS & KENNELS

Adult Pekinese and Dachshund, Scotch Terrier Pups, nine in all, three each of abreed, are available for sale. Age of pups – 3 to 6 months; adult dogs 1½ to 2 years –fully trained and inoculated, both male and female, imported blood line. Only genuinedog lovers need. Contact: Sumit Bandopadhayay, 38, Salt Lake, Kolkata.

Second Option

NOTICEGOLDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR

Book-loversThe International Book Fair is being organised at Pragati Maidan as per details givenbelow:

Dates : 14 Nov. to 19 Nov. 20XXTime : 2 pm to 9 pm

Latest publications and rare books will be on display. All students are requested toattend.

Chetan Swaroop 9 Nov. 20XXLibrarian

4. First OptionSPEEDING TRUCK HITS AND RUNS

—Mani AiyyarTrichy, 7 MarchIn yet another hit and run accident, a speeding truck struck against an autorickshaw fullof school children. The head of driver of the auto bumped into the wind screen. As he lostcontrol, the vehicle overturned and the road was littered with bags, books, waterbottlesetc. A number of children were thrown off and two hit the railing on the pavement.People rushed to save them. Fortunately they had received only minor injuries. Thetruck driver utilised the opportunity and sped away.Second OptionSunil Joshi, Head boy THE NEW STUDY CENTREThe school has added another feather to its cap by converting the new wing to a StudyCentre comprising a spacious hall for library with 90 stacks of open shelves and about60,000 books. The three reading rooms are well furnished with moulded chairs, gloss-top

SREPAPECITARP C 115

tables and velvety carpets. One of the reading rooms is for newspapers and periodicals.The other is for the faculty members. The third is reserved for self-study where we cancarry our books and read. All the reading rooms are well-lit and have curtains to ward offthe heat. The covers of newly arrived books are displayed on a notice-board. Themagazines and periodicals have their beautiful, transparent covers and are placed atspecific places and stands. Since the open shelf system has been introduced, it hasbecome easier to locate the books. In case it is not on the shelf, it can be requisitionedwith the help of catalogue card. The librarian is ever ready to help us.

5. First Option: Attempt yourself.

Second Option123 Diplomatic EnclaveNew DelhiThe EditorThe Hindustan TimesNew Delhi

18 March, 20XX

SirSub: Hard Core MarketingThrough the columns of your esteemed daily, I wish to draw the attention of theauthorities and parents to the malpractices that are being carried on by the media underthe guise of marketing strategies.Advertisements are launched in such a way that children are the targets of the advertisedgoods. Consumerism has made inroads to such an extent that all out efforts are made toentice them into becoming prospective consumers. Then there are numerous awardsattached to schemes – all very dear to the hearts of young children. Parents who love andfondle their children yield to their insistence. The child and through him the parents areeasily exploited by the advertisers of sports goods, shoes, confectionaries, textiles, fastfood and fizzy drink manufacturers.I think, before approving the advertisements for public display the authorities shouldtake note of its precise effect on children and check the errant agencies from committingsuch malpractices.

Yours trulySudhanshu

6. First OptionFAIR TREATMENT TO THE GIRL CHILD

For centuries the girl child has been a victim of misplaced notions and an object ofridicule and discrimination. Even educated people consider boys superior to girls becausethey are stronger physically, mentally and emotionally. The mothers fondle, cajole andcoax the boys and scold the equally intelligent, and rather more industrious girls due tothe misconceived notion that the family propagates only with the male child. Theseorthodox and retrograde views have forced the grown up women to raise the banner ofprotest and demand reservation for women. In fact, women are so suppressed anddepressed in the countryside that any project of women uplift is impossible without givingthem special treatment. It is only in the elite urban groups that the feats of girls andwomen are applauded. In the educated middle classes we find girls and women competingwith boys and men in every sphere—studies, jobs, administration or politics. Yet, thecondition of girls in 60% urban homes and 90% rural homes is still pitiable. Ourconstitution provides for equality of sexes and no discrimination or gender bias shouldthwart the progress of girl child. We have to change the social milieu and force thetraditional, orthodox, retrograde and backward looking people to change their point of


view and treat boys and girls equally by providing them equal opportunities for studies,creative sensibilities and developing physical stamina. They will find the girl child morehardworking, patient and understanding.

Second OptionRespected chairperson, members of the Jury, honourable teachers and my dear friends.The topic for today’s debate is “Summer is the best season of the year,” and I, RajivThapar of class XII-D stand before you to speak against the motion. I totally disagreewith my worthy opponent’s view that summer season is enjoyable all over the country.Summer season is enjoyable but only in the hill stations where winter is very severe. Atall other places like plains, seacoasts, plateaus, lowlying hills summers are hot, humid,or dry. The scorching heat saps our energy, makes us lazy and low in spirits. We sweat alot, suffer from bites of mosquitoes and the nuisance of flies and pests which breed fast insummer. We are always thirsty and long to rush indoors to enjoy the cool fan orairconditioners. We don’t feel like going out and meeting people. I would rather say thatwinter is the best season of the year. My worthy opponent would agree that in winter westay active, full of zest and energy; we are able to eat a variety of dishes and digest themtoo. Winter is definitely fun as we love to go outdoors, jog in the park and wear the bestof colourful woolen clothes.I hope I have been able to make my point clear.Thank you.


7. First Option(a) The poem is ‘A Thing of Beauty’. The poet is John Keats.(b) The magnificence that we imagine for our mighty dead forefathers on the dooms day.(c) The beauty of daffodils, rills and musk-rose is more enchanting than all lovely

stories that we have heard or read.(d) The endless fountain of nectar (immortal drink) pours into us from the heavenly

bliss of nature.

Second Option(a) The colour of the classroom walls is ‘sour cream’ or off white. This colour suggests the

decaying aspect and pathetic condition of the lives of the children in a slum-school.(b) The walls of the classroom have pictures of Shakespeare, buildings with domes,

world maps and beautiful valleys.(c) The poet hints at two worlds: the world of poverty, misery and malnutrition of the

slums where children are underfed, weak and have stunted growth. The other world isof progress and prosperity peopled by the rich and the powerful. The pictures on thewall suggesting happiness, richness, well being and beauty are in stark contrast to thedim and dull slums.

8. (a) The poet is driving to the Cochin airport. When she looks outside, the young treesseem to be walking past them. With the speed of the car they seem to be runningfast or sprinting. The poet presents a contrast—her ‘dozing’ old mother and the‘sprinting’ young trees.

(b) Instead of indulging in wars, the people must come out in their best dresses withtheir brothers. They should go out for a walk under the shady trees and enjoythemselves doing nothing.

(c) Aunt Jennifer’s tigers were created in the panel by her own hands. They appeared tobe prancing (jumping) across a screen. They looked sleek. They were bright likeyellow topaz. They were majestic and courageous. They didn’t fear the men beneaththe tree. They paced in ‘chivalric certainty’.

SREPAPECITARP C 117

9. (a) Mukesh’s father was born in the caste of bangle-makers. His father went blind withthe dust from polishing the glass of bangles. He is an old and poor bangle maker. Hehas worked hard for long years, first as a tailor and then as a bangle-maker. He hasfailed to renovate a house or send his two sons to school.

(b) Franz hardly knew how to write. He had not learnt his lessons properly. He wastedtime on seeking birds’ eggs or going sliding on the Saar. Books seemed a nuisance tohim and a burden to carry. He had put off learning till the next day thinking he hadplenty of time.

(c) Unpleasant memories of the past were revived and childish fears were stirred. In alittle while he gathered confidence. He paddled with his new water wings. Hewatched the other boys and tried to imitate them. He did so two or three times ondifferent days. He began to feel comfortable.

(d) The sharecropping arrangement was troublesome to the peasants. Many of themsigned the new agreement willingly. Some resisted and engaged lawyers. Then theycame to know about synthetic indigo. The peasants wanted their money back.

(e) The paper inside the first-day cover was not blank. It contained a note by Sam,written from Galesburg on 18 July 1894 and addressed to Charley. It revealed thatSam had found the third level and had been in Galesburg for two weeks, enjoyingthe company of carefree, song and music loving people there. He advised Charley tokeep looking for the third level as it was worth it.

(f) The reaction of the Dewan is quite funny and amusing. He thinks that the Maharajawants to marry him. He says that he has already two wives. The Maharaja clarifiesthat he does not want to marry him. He wants a tiger. The Dewan interrupts himsaying that his ancestors were married to the sword. He might marry the gun if heliked. He added that a Tiger King was more than enough for that state. It did notneed a Tiger Queen as well.

(g) Mr Lamb does not provide a straightforward solution. He says that in the street kidsshout “Lamey–Lamb” at him. Still they come to his garden. They are not afraid ofhim because he is not afraid of them. He simply ignores their comments. Heconcentrates on other things.

10. First OptionThe theme of the story is that most human beings are prone to fall into the trap ofmaterial benefit. However, every human being has an essential goodness that can beawakened through understanding and love. A human being has the tendency to redeemhimself from dishonest ways.The theme is developed with the help of the metaphor of the rattrap. The peddler ofrattraps calls the world a big rattrap. The material benefits like riches and joys, shelterand food, heat and clothing are temptations that allure a person to fall into the rattrapof the world exactly as the bait of cheese and pork attract a rat to fall into the rattrap.Once someone takes the bait, the world closes in on him and then everything is lost.The peddler is tempted by the thirty kronors of the old crofter. He steals the money.Now he is afraid of being caught and moves through the woods. It is the kind,sympathetic, loving and generous treatment given by Edla Willmansson that helps himget himself free from the rattrap of the world.

Second OptionIt is Evans who has the last laugh. The play makes a fun of the routine procedurefollowed by prison authorities and police. It depicts how the criminals are one stepahead of the jail authorities.All precautions have been made by the Governor of Oxford Prison to see that the O-Level German examination, held in prison for the prisoner Evans, does not provide himmeans to escape. The examination passes off peacefully. Mr Stephens, a prison officer,


sees off McLeery, the invigilator and on returning to the cell finds injured “McLeery”sprawling in Evans’ chair.It is easy for Evans impersonating as McLeery to leave the prison along with policeofficer. He claims to have spotted Evans driving off along Elsfield Way but loses track atthe Headington roundabout. He grogs off near the Examination offices. Then hedisappears. He is located in the Golden Lion in Chipping Norton by the Governor ofOxford Prison. Instead of bringing Evans securely back to prison, the Governor lets himcome in a prison van guarded by a prison officer. It is just what Evans had planned. Thedriver and the ‘prison officer’ are his friends and Evans escapes from prison once again.In fact, Evans has made elaborate arrangements. He joins the night classes in September.The German teacher is one of his friends. He has his friends in the Examination Boardas well. He waits patiently till June. Two of his friends bind and gag Reverend StuartMcLeery in his Broad Street flat. One of them personates him. He is dressed up as aminister. He has two collars and two black fronts on his person. Evans fiddles aboutunder the blanket with the black front and the stud at the back of the collar. His friendsalso arrange a car where he can change his make up as well as clothes. He successfullydeceives the police as well as the prison authorities.

11. First OptionPoverty: A Vicious Circle

It is a well known saying that poverty is the root cause of all evils. Corruption, loot,begging and incidents of theft are the offspring of abject poverty. The destitute lead apitiable and miserable life. They do not get sufficient food. Lack of funds constrain themto take recourse to illegal activities. Slum dwellers always feel themselves dejected.They recognise only those beings who help them and feed them. Political leaders takeundue advantages of their poverty. They are misused to win elections. Humanity,mankind, honesty, trust and love become significant when an individual succeeds insatisfying his hunger. Hungry people need only food. There is a dearth of people whoare capable of converting obstacles into opportunities. These poor people are exploitedruthlessly by industrialists, politicians and other middlemen. They scrounge for gold inthe garbage dumps to earn their livelihood. The hiatus between the rich and the poorcan never be bridged. It is increasing day by day. The poor are becoming poorer and therich richer. There is no human being who would like to work for their welfare. Theirplight is pitiable and horrible. The residential areas of these people are packed withfilth. They become habitual of foul smell. Poverty is a vicious circle. It never comes toan end. The unemployed youth are heading towards destruction. They do not rememberanything except the help they receive from the opportunistic people who feed them tomaterialise their vested interests.Second Option4120/28, Gali handianChandni ChowkDelhi–110006January 20, 20XXDear RahulLast time when I met you you expressed the need that I let you know how one shouldmake a difficult decision. I give you some tips which may be helpful to you.You can never know for sure when you make a decision that it’s going to work out asyou hope. All you can do is to follow your conscience, and then trust that. Whatever thefuture holds, it will enrich your lives, one way or the other. While deciding you canreflect on past decision and how you made them. The problem don’t have to be similarfor the method to work the same. You can do some meditation and listen to your

SREPAPECITARP C 119

instints. You may ask yourself, “who will your decision affect and what does your hearttell you?” While making a decision you can talk it over with your friends, then after youhave gathered as much info as possible, decide and act. Moreover you need to make apatient effort and have confidence in yourself as a decision maker. Whatever choice youmake is valid, as you can gain experience and wisdom through any experience,preferred or not. You can also ask yourself three questions before diving into somethingnew or daunting. What’s the worst that can happen? How likely is that going to happen?Can you deal with it? Take a movement to think about the consequences of everycourse of action and decide which course will be best for you. Sometimes you need totry to see the situation from all angles; ask your elders for advice; they are always greatsources. Sometimes you need to walk away from the issue a bit, and then come back forfresh look into the matter.Well this is all I can say for the moment.Yours truly.Manish Kumar

12. First OptionLord of the Flies reveals the story of the boys whose plane crashes on a deserted landin the Pacific Ocean. The novel becomes interesting as the author does not introduceany grown-ups. They are left alone amidst the dangers of the forest. The boys range inage from six to twelve. Golding delineates the society sarcastically and discusses thenature of man interestingly.The theme of the novel is an attempt to trace the defects of society back to the defectsof human nature. The moral is that the shape of a society must depend on the ethicalnature of the individual and not on any political system however apparently logical orrespectable. The whole book is symbolic in nature except the rescue in the end whereadult life appears dignified and capable, but in reality enmeshed in the same evil as thesymbolic life of the children on the island. The officer, having interrupted a manhunt,prepares to take the children off the island in a cruiser which will presently be huntingits enemy in the same implacable way. And who will rescue the adult and his cruiser?The novel justifies the viewpoint that the innocent and law-abiding citizens become thevictim of the social forces. Children are deprived of innocence in this dog-eat-dogworld. Golding satirises the prevalent malpractices cautiously and effectively. He feelsthat the mortals are in dire need of civilization. Men have become savages. They havedogged determination to torment one another. Golding is of the opinion that laws andrules are indispensable to lead a happy and contented life. Without law and order,anarchism prevails. He feels the need of civilization because it promotes deific virtuesand discards vices. The primitive nature of man is horrible. Man loses identity in theabsence of civilization. The hunters paint their bodies and conceal their identity tospread fear. They kill and torture others. Lord of the Flies makes us aware ofdemocracy and autocracy. The anarchists, like Jack, terrify the fellow human beings.They have no scope for love and affection. The instinctive nature of man has to becontrolled by the principles of the society. Man has to be rational, pragmatic andsensible in the trying circumstances also.Second OptionDr. Mortimer and Sir Henry decided to meet Holmes at two o’clock and left for theirhotel. Holmes followed them to get some clues pertaining to the letter Sir Henryreceived in the hotel. Sherlock Holmes saw that a hansom cab with a man inside wasalso following Sir Henry. Suddenly the man sitting in the car looked at Holmes andasked the driver to drive fast. Holmes looked eagerly round for another, but no emptycab was in sight. He dashed the wild pursuit amid the stream of the traffic. But all wasin vain. He could not catch the cab. He cursed himself for such bad luck and bad


management. He felt convinced at this point of time that there was no supernaturalagency at work in Devonshire. It was the work of a man. He did not forget to get thenumber of the cab. He noted that the number of the cab was 2704. He hoped that cabdriver would certainly help them in getting hold of the man. The purpose with whichhe decided to follow Dr. Mortimer and Sir Henry Baskerville was fulfilled. He narratedthe complete story to them when he met them at 2 o’clock in the hotel.

13. First OptionThe smaller boys were known as littluns. The undoubted littluns, those aged aboutsix, led a quite distinct, and at the same time intense, life of their own. They ate mostof the day, picking fruit where they could reach it and not particular about ripenessand quality. They were used to stomach-aches and a sort of chronic diarrhoea. Theysuffered untold terrors in the dark and huddled together for comfort. Apart from foodand sleep, they found time for play, aimless and trivial, among the white sand by thebright water. They cried for their mothers much less often than might have beenexpected. They were very brown and filthily dirty. They obeyed the summons of theconch, partly because Ralph blew it, and he was big enough to be a link with the adultworld of authority, and partly because they enjoyed the entertainment of the assemblies.But otherwise they seldom bothered with the biguns and their passionately emotionaland corporate life was their own. They used to build castles in the sand. These castleswere about one foot high and were decorated with shells, withered flowers andbeautiful stones. The littluns played there, if not happily at least with absorbedattention and often as many as three of them would play the same game together.Second OptionCartwright was a boy of fourteen, with a bright, keen face. He was given the names oftwenty-three hotels situated at Charing Cross. He was asked to visit all these hotelsto see the waste-paper of the day before. He was instructed to give the outside porterone shilling and tell that an important telegram had been miscarried, which was to befound. The real thing which he was asked to collect from the waste-paper was thecentre page of the Times with some holes cut in it with scissors. He was also providedwith a copy of the Times and was shown the page he was to collect. He was also told,“In each case the outside porter will send for the hall porter, to whom also you willgive a shilling”. He was given twenty three shillings. Cartwright was instructed thathe would learn in possibly twenty cases out of the twenty three that the waste of theday before had been burnt or removed. In the three other cases he would be shown aheap of paper and he would look for the page of the Times among that. The odds wereenormously against his finding. He was given ten shillings extra for emergency.Holmes wanted to trace the writer of the letter which Sir Henry received in the hotel.So he employed Cartwright and asked him to collect the page of the Times.

SREPAPECITARP C 121



1.1 (a) It suggests breaking through the limitations of what the human body can achieve.(b) The adventure sports thrill human beings by infusing a sense of achievement which

initially seemed beyond the endurance limit of human body.(c) It showed that people involved in inexpensive leisure were more happy than those

involved in expensive ones. It is because the mind has to be pressed to the maximumconstructive use.

(d) The factors that inspire man to higher level of performance in life are:(i) necessity/personal gain (iii) pleasing others

(ii) fascination (iv) solving problems(v) actualising values (Any two out of five)

(e) (i) living for something greater than overselves(ii) knowledge of doing something different

(f) (i) it is lonely, dull and monotonous(ii) others try to pull you back.

1.2 (a) trivial (b) parable (c) ingredients.

2.1 Notes:1. Impact of fossil fuels on envt.

(a) huge cloud of polluts(i) haze (ii) acid rain

(b) global warm’g(i) green house gases (ii) acid gases (iii) depletn of ozone layer

(c) adverse effects of gn.house gases(i) rise in the sea level (ii) shifting of various deserts and plateaus

2. Investt. for envtl. protn.(a) Energy & Envt. correlated

(i) cleaning up polln. (ii) invt. at grass root level(b) Energy consn.

(i) envtl. necessity (ii) cost saving3. Refineries & Energy consumptn

(a) significant reduction in energy consumptn(i) better opern. in processing: conserve petrol, reduce pollution

(ii) ‘clean-burn’ pollt. free4. Energy consn.

(a) combined efforts(i) mental attitude (ii) behavl. aspects

(b) formulating envtl. mgt. system(i) prevtg. polln. (ii) energy & resource consn.

(c) renewable sources of energy(i) little envtl. harm (ii) no polln.

5. Goal of Industry(a) avoidance of wasting sources of energy(b) efft. use of energy(c) presn. of envt.


2.2 PETROLEUM CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENTA huge cloud of pollutants hovers over us due to burning of fossil fuels. Haze and acidrain will follow this global warming caused by greenhouse gases and depletion of ozonelayer. Rising sea level and shifting of various deserts and plateaus may follow. Henceinvestment for environmental protection is essential. Since energy and environment arecorrelated, investment at grassroot level will clean up pollution. Energy conservation isenvironmental necessity as well as cost saving. Refineries can help energy consumptionby better operations in processing and pollutant free ‘clean-burn’ combined efforts, properenvironment management and utilisation of renewable sources of energy are essential toconserve energy and preserve environment.


3. First Option

POSTER

THE RED CROSS SOCIETY, FARIDABADis organising

A BLOOD DONAA BLOOD DONAA BLOOD DONAA BLOOD DONAA BLOOD DONATION CAMPTION CAMPTION CAMPTION CAMPTION CAMPat

CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL, SECTOR 16on

15 August, 20XXat

11.00 HoursEVERY DONOR WILL BE AWARDED CERTIFICATE

RememberBLOOD DONATION CAUSES NO WEAKNESS

COME FORWARDDonate Blood and Save a Life

SecretaryDistrict Red Cross Society, Faridabad

Second Option

NOTICE 15 Nov. 20XXWhile playing hockey in the games period today, I lost my wristwatch in the schoolplayground. It is an HMT ‘Supriya’ model with golden case and a brown strap.It bears my initials on the backside. Being a birthday present, it has a sentimentalvalue for me. The finder is requested to hand it over to the undersigned or thePrincipal.

Mithun/MadhuriXII-A, Roll No. 305

SREPAPECITARP C 123

4. First OptionCOMPUTER EDUCATION

Computers have covered five generations since Charles Babbage invented a machine thatcould take in information and sort it in the form of tables. During the last three decadesof the twentieth century new dimensions have been added to computer technology. TheIndian computer industry has also taken rapid strides and now computers have far widerapplications.Scientists use computer for engineering science, oceanography and geology. Businesshouses and government departments use computers for data collection, analysis,comparison. Sales accounting, sales analysis and stock verification can be done accurately.E-mail and E-commerce are the latest applications of computer science. Banks, hotels andother establishments use them in various calculations and maintenance of record offunds, taxes, income, expenditure, profit/loss and record of employees/patrons. Trafficcontrol and space technology can be assisted by computers. Thus computer education hasbecome essential in the new millennium.

Second OptionToThe RegistrarKurukshetra UniversityKurukshetra

July 30, 20XX

Sir/Madam

I have recently passed the class XII examination from Kendriya Vidyalaya, which isaffiliated to the CBSE. I wish to seek admission in B.A. Economics Honours course in youruniversity. I shall be obliged if you could send me a prospectus detailing the admissionprocedure for entry to the above course. Kindly let me know what the charges for theprospectus are and where the payment should be sent to. Kindly also let us know if thereare any assistance cells of your university in New Delhi and where they are situated.

An early reply in this regard shall be appreciated.

Yours faithfully

Rajesh Ahluwalia

26/228, Sohail ApartmentsRohiniNew Delhi

5. First OptionSARVODAYA SCHOOL, BIKANER

Students’ ForumNo 328/SSB/01

15 March, 20XX

The General ManagerNorthern RailwayBaroda House, New DelhiSirSub: Reservation of a Bogie for 60 studentsA group of 60 students of senior classes of this school have planned to visit Bhubaneswarand nearby worth seeing spots during the summer vacation. They will be accompanied bythree lecturers and two attendants. The touring party intends to leave Bikaner on15 May, 20XX by Bikaner Mail in a specially reserved compartment to be linked to


Konark Express at Delhi. They are likely to commence their return journey on 5 June bythe same train. Please confirm whether a bogie can be reserved for them during theabove dates. An early confirmation at your end will help the school authorities finalisethe other necessary arrangements.You are also requested to supply the details of estimated expenditure with studentconcession so that the money may be deposited well in time. List of tour party onprescribed proformas is enclosed.Hoping for an early reply

Yours faithfullyVarshaSecretaryStudents’ Forum

Second OptionC-564, Vishnu GardensKarnal

21 September, 20XX

The ChairmanMunicipal CorporationKarnalSirSub: Insanitary conditions and erratic water supplyI would like to bring to your kind notice the plight of the residents of Vishnu Gardens dueto unsatisfactory state of sanitary arrangements and improper supply of drinking water.Heaps of dirt keep lying in the streets. The drains are open and keep over-flowing withgarbage and dirt. Low-lying areas and pits remain filled with stagnant waters. Stray dogs,pigs and cows also add to the worsening insanitary conditions.The supply of drinking water is very irregular and inadequate so people use water ofhand pumps. Due to non-availability of pure drinking water, the residents have becomevictims of water borne diseases like cholera, malaria, typhoid and diarrhoea. We haverequested the sanitary inspector time and again but our grievances remain unattended.We, therefore request you to kindly spare some time, visit our locality in person and takeimmediate steps to improve the living conditions.

Yours faithfullyHarish KumarSecretaryResidents Welfare Association

6. First OptionRAGGING IN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Ragging in schools and colleges has become a customary practice and symbol of modernity.No wonder ragging sessions have gained respectability in public schools. The motive behindragging is to make the freshers ‘comfortable’ in the new set up. Many defend the practiceof ragging the freshers as a harmless way of introduction and free mixing up. However, thesenior students resort to tricks of C-grade horror movies. They bully, intimidate, humiliateand even beat up their juniors. Imagine the torture and insults the freshers have toundergo during a ragging session. Physical and mental torture of the freshers is aharassment. The barbaric acts of beating innocent freshers, locking them up in lavatories,giving them electric shocks or asking them to parade naked are worst forms of torture andabuse. Authorities should take care that ragging doesn't affect the self-esteem of thefreshers or dehumanise them. The strategy of 3P’s: Prohibition-Prevention-Punishment

SREPAPECITARP C 125

devised by the UGC for colleges and universities should be made applicable to schools also.The administrators should keep a close watch on the activities of the students. Raggingshould be banned and the guilty should be given exemplary punishment.

Second OptionSMOKING—A HEALTH HAZARD

The use of tobacco in any form is harmful for health. Smoking is the most dangerous evilwhich is prevalent in almost all the countries of the world. In the western countrieswomen are addicted to smoking. In India too, mod girls copy their peers and indulge insmoking. The poor labourers—industrial, domestic or farm labourers—resort to smokingto snatch some moments of peace and rest from their back breaking routine. Althoughevery packet of cigarettes contains the statutory warning that smoking is injurious tohealth, it has little effect on the smoker.Tobacco contains nicotine that harms the lungs and may cause incurable cancer. Smokingaffects our nervous system, heart and circulatory system. It clogs the arteries and causesrespiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis. It reduces stamina and life-span butincreases blood pressure and incidence of heart attack. In short the use of tobacco in anyform is harmful for health.


7. First Option(a) (i) Greedy people pretending to be doing good things.

(ii) People who are cruel like the flesh-eating wild animals pretending to begenerous.

(b) The innocent rural people will be befooled. The cunning and greedy people will forcethem to part with their money. They will exploit the rural poor and mint money.

(c) They will pretend to teach the rural people how to sleep, relax and rest. Actuallythey will make them work but they themselves will sleep all day.

(d) The ‘greedy good-doers’ and ‘beneficent beasts of prey’ will use their old tricks todestroy their peace and sleep.

Second Option(a) Her mother was lost somewhere else in thoughts. It pained her.(b) The poet withdrew her thoughts from her mother and looked outside.(c) The young trees growing outside went past as if they were sprinting. Happy children

were coming out of their houses.(d) (i) sprinting (ii) spilling.

8. (a) The conquerors and dictators can change the map of the world according to their whimsand will. They change the boundaries of various nations and shape the ‘map’. Their fairmap is of a beautiful world full of domes, bells and flowers, rivers, capes and stars.

(b) The title of the poem is quite appropriate and logical. It suggests the necessity ofquiet introspection. The people of the world are overactive and always on the move.Their activities have caused untold troubles and sufferings. Keeping quiet will dothem a lot of good. It will save them from many harmful and violent activities.Moreover, it will help in reflecting over the fate of man and help in creating afeeling of mutual understanding among human beings.

(c) Aunt Jennifer is making her tigers in the panels. She is using ivory needles. Herfingers are fluttering through the wool. She finds it difficult (hard) to pull even theivory needles. The reason is obvious. The weight of unhappy and unfortunateexperiences of her married life sits heavily on her hands.

9. (a) Wachter was a blacksmith. He was reading the latest bulletin. He asked Franz not togo so fast to his school. He added that the little boy would get to his school in plenty


of time. Wachter had read the latest bulletin about teaching of German. Franzthought that the blacksmith was making a fun of him. So he ran to the school andreached there breathless.

(b) Douglas was frightened when he went down into the pool and was about to bedrowned. He had an aversion to water and now he was filled with terror. He hadremarkable self-control. He used his mind even in the crisis and thought of astrategy to save himself from being drowned.

(c) The owner of that mill was a very prominent ironmaster. His greatest ambition was toship out good iron to the market. He insisted on quality and kept a watch on the workboth night and day. He came to the forge on one of his nightly rounds of inspection.

(d) The manner of the death of the Tiger King is of extraordinary interest. The mostfantastic aspect of his demise was that as soon as he was born, astrologers hadforetold that one day the Tiger King would actually have to die.

(e) Sadao went on with his swift concise movements. He did not seem to hear her. Shewas used to his absorption when he was at work. She wondered for a moment if itmattered to him what the body was upon which he worked so long as it was for thework which he did so excellently.

(f) Derry thinks that the old man can put on trousers and cover up his tin leg. Then noone sees it. So people don’t have to notice and stare at, as they do at his face. MrLamb replies that some people do notice and stare at his disability. Some don’t. Inthe end, they get tired of it. Moreover, there are plenty of things to stare at.

(g) These included the performing monkey, the snakecharmer’s snake, the cyclist whohad kept on biking for three days, the spinning wheels, the Maariyaata temple andthe huge bell hanging there. She also noticed the pongal offerings being cooked infront of the temple.

10. First OptionChild labour should be eliminated because the children employed at tender age asdomestic servants, dish-washers at road-side dhabas and in hazardous industries makingglass bangles, biris, crackers etc. lose the charm of the spring of their life. Theirchildhood is stolen. Burdened by the responsibility of work, they become adults toosoon. Most of them are undernourished, ill-fed, uneducated, and poor. They have astunted growth.Child labour can be eliminated only through concerted efforts on the part of governmentagencies, NGOs (Non-Government Organizations), co-operative societies and politicalleaders. Mere passing of law will not help. Laws should be enacted faithfully. Thechildren thrown out of work should be rehabilitated and given proper food, clothes,education and pocket money. Their feelings, thoughts and emotions should be respected.Let them enjoy sunshine and fresh air.

Second OptionDr Sadao Hoki faces a dilemma when he finds the body of an unconscious wounded whiteman lying on the lonely coast with dangerous rocks near his house. As they saw his face,they found that he was a white man with long yellow hair and a rough yellow beard.Being an expert surgeon, Dr Sadao saw that the man had a gun-wound on the right sideof his lower back. He at once packed the wound with sea moss to stanch the fearfulbleeding. Since Japan was at war with America, the white man was an enemy. If theysheltered a white man in their house they would be arrested and if they turned himover as a prisoner, he would certainly die. Hana still insisted on putting him back intothe sea. The man was a prisoner of war. He had escaped and that was why he waswounded in the back.Hana asked if they were able to put him back into the sea. Sadao then said that if the manwas whole he could turn the man over to the police without difficulty. He cared nothing forthe man. He was their enemy. All Americans were their ‘enemy’. But since he was

SREPAPECITARP C 127

wounded… Hana understood his dilemma and realised that in the conflict between his senseof national loyalty and his duty as a doctor, it was the latter which proved dominant. SinceSadao too could not throw him back to the sea, the only course left for them was to carry himto their house. Sadao enquired about the reaction of the servants.Hana said that they would tell the servants that they intended to give the man to the police.She told Sadao that they must do so. They had to think of the children and the doctor’sposition. It would endanger all of them if they did not give that man over as a prisoner of war.Sadao agreed and promised that he would not think of doing anything else.

11. First OptionNO PAINS, NO GAINS

The dictum implies that one can’t attain phenomenal success without making sincere efforts.There is no substitute to hard work. There is no short cut to success. All successful personshave emphasised the importance of hard work in life. Nobody achieved greatness overnight.The secret of their success was hard and systematic work. Destiny never obliges the shirkers.God helps those who help themselves. Rome was not built in a day. Man must comprehendthe significance of doing hard labour. One must burn the midnight oil to succeed in thisworld of intense competition. Never forget that rest is rust and work is worship. A personwho toils and work hard gets applause and recognition everywhere. Hard work is the onlykey to success. Those who work hard flourish and those who are passive ruin their earthlyexistence. They lose their identity. Industrious people reach at their long cherisheddestinations. They lead their fellow human beings with politeness and humility.Second Option

HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH EMPATHY“To touch the soul of another human being is to walk on holy ground” said Stephen R. Corey.Human beings are precious. Their values, thoughts and independence are very important tothem. When dealing with another person one has to know that one is walking on holy ground.These aspects of communication are not playtings and should be approached and used withhumility and the intention of doing good, of providing mutual opportunities for growth.One is not empathetic if one uses communication skills for winning over other people orbending others to one’s will or to show one’s superiority. We should approach other peoplecautiously and we should not come closer to them than they will allow.How to be empathetic involves firstly listening, listening not just to the words beingspoken, but listening to what the reality is behind the words, what the other person’sunderstanding is of the reality, what the other person ascribes to what he or she perceivesas the reality. It is listening without judgement, without any need to change the otherperson. It is listening with a completely unconditional positive regard.Only about 7% to 10% of the full meaning of communication is conveyed by the wordsspoken. The balance is found in the myriad of nonverbal psychological clues which thespeaking person gives while speaking.Being sensitive to those clues is what empathy is all about in relationships. Empatheticlistening takes time, but it doesn’t take anywhere near as much time as it takes to backup and correct misunderstandings when you are miles down the road, to re-do, to live withunexpressed and unsolved problems.

12. First OptionSam and Eric, the twins, were given the responsibility to tender the fire. It was decidedthat one would sleep and the other would maintain the fire. But they could never manageto do things sensibly, if that meant acting independently. It was difficult for them to awakeall night. So they both slept. While sleeping they approached the darker smudge that hadbeen the signal fire, yawning, rubbing their eyes, treading with practised feet. When theyreached they stopped yawning and one ran quickly back for brushwood and leaves. Theother knelt down and said, “I believe it’s out.” He fiddled with the sticks that were pushed


into his hands. Eric bends down and blows softly till the patch was bright. Sam poked thepiece of tender wood into the hot spot, then a branch. The branch took fire. Sam piled onmore branches. Then, they talked with each other and shared their identical laughter. Ericlooked away at the mountain-top. They became motionless. They saw the parachutist andconsidered him the beast. They got frightened and fled. They told the boys, “We’ve seen thebeast with our own eyes. No—we weren’t sleep.” They described the physical appearanceof the beast. Moreover, they told them that the beast followed them.Second OptionDr. Watson went to Mrs. Laura Lyons to know the truth of the letter. While returning hewas invited by Mr. Frankland to enjoy a glass of wine as he had won some cases. He saw aboy through the telescope of Mr. Frankland and remembered the words of Barrymore. Hedecided to chase the boy and reached the threshold of his hiding place. He found a sheet ofpaper in the hut. The content of the sheet was, “Dr. Watson has gone to Coombe Tracey”.He thought that he was being dogged by the secret man. The man had not followed himhimself but he had set an agent upon his track. The boy was his agent and it was hisreport. He conceived that he had taken no step since he had been upon the moor whichhad not been observed and reported. There was always the feeling of an unseen force, afine net drawn round them with infinite skill and delicacy. He found himself entrapped.He tried to find other reports also. But there was no trace of anything of that kind. Hecould not discover any sign which might indicate the character or intentions of the manwho lived in the deserted house.

13. First OptionSimon had an insatiable curiosity to know about the beast. So, he climbed the mountainalone and came to know about the beast’s reality. He found that it was the dead body of aparachutist. The layers of rubber and canvas held together the poor body that was giving foulsmell. The wind blew to lift the body. Simon could not see this horrible sight and he vomitedthere. Then he took the lines in his hands and freed them from the rocks. He intended toreveal the beast’s fact to the rest of the boys. He started down the mountain and staggered.The boys were dancing. He found himself in the centre of the boys. But they could notidentify him and considered him to be the beast. He was telling them about a body on the hill.But they did not heed his words and killed him mercilessly. His body moved out towards theopen sea. Ralph felt guilty and he could not endure this painful reality. He conceived that hemurdered Simon. Piggy counselled him and said that it was an accident. He uttered, “Look,Ralph. We got to forget this. We can’t do good thinking about it, see?” Ralph tried to understandPiggy’s concern. So, he overcame his grief and sadness.Second OptionDr. Watson was Holmes’ assistant. They found a stick which their visitor had left there.Holmes asked Watson to tell him about the man by examining the stick. Watson observedthe stick and said that Dr. Mortimer was a successful, elderly medical man. He was wellesteemed because those who knew him gave him this mark of appreciation. He furtherstated that he might be a country practitioner who was habitual of walking. Watsonguessed, “I should guess that to be the something Hunt, the local hunt to whose membershe has possibly given some surgical assistance, and which has made him a smallpresentation in return.” Holmes appreciated Watson’s efforts after examining the followingscript on the stick: To James Mortimer, M.R.C.S., from his friends of C.C.H. 1884.” Toencourage Watson, Holmes said, “It may be that you are not yourself luminous, but youare a conductor of life”. Dr. Watson applied his analytical skills and wisdom to give anaccurate explanation. He informed Holmes that he had not overlooked anything significant.But Holmes said that most of his conclusions were erroneous. He accepted his two thingsthat the man was a country practitioner and he walked a good deal.

SREPAPECITARP C 129



1.1 (a) An air pollutant is a substance which is present in air although normally it is not or itis present in an amount exceeding the normal concentrations.

(b) The air pollutants may be present either in gaseous form or as a particulate matter.(c) It is caused by the lack of oxygen there.(d) It is a set of symptoms which indicate diseases caused by indoor pollutants. Sick

building syndrome is increasing due to overfurnished small houses. The indoorconcentration of pollutants exceeds those of outdoors.

(e) It can be overcome by identifying the offending antigen and then by removing itcompletely.

1.2 environmental tobacco smoke exposure causes several medical problems.

1.3 (a) syndrome (b) incidence (c) radon.

2.1 TITLE: FACING AN INTERVIEWNotes:1. Importance of Interview

(a) prospects depend on interview.2. What is an Interview?

(a) discussion – interviewer – candidate(b) questions (i) probe knowledge (ii) assess personality(c) formal means of interaction

3. Tips for facing interview(a) know’ge – imp. component of success

(i) range – beyond special’n(ii) depth – awareness of various aspects

(b) Read’g and listen’g imp. for gain’g know.(c) Dress – elegant but simple – no casuals.(d) conducting oneself properly

(i) way of mov’g, sitting, placing briefcase & talking.(e) Good expn

(i) clarity of mind – balanced thinkg(ii) clarity of speech: use right words. Avoid ambiguity/verbosity.

(iii) convey your pt. of view(iv) disagreement not to be visible on face(v) create imn of being a ldr.

2.2 Summary: Facing an interview is essential because our future prospects depend onits success. An interview is a formal interaction between an interviewer (or group ofinterviewers) and a candidate. Questions are put to the interviewee to probe hisknowledge and assess personality. Hence knowledge is most important component ofsuccess. One must put on elegant but simple dress. Casuals should be avoided. One’sdeportment is an index of one’s personality. Good expression conveying clarity ofmind, speech and point of view is an asset. Disagreement should not be visible onface. Leave impression of your leadership qualities.



3. First OptionAjay Gupta23D-Vasant ViharNew Delhi5 May, 20XXThe SecretaryLeo ClubSouth West DelhiVasant ViharDear SirIt is a matter of pleasure for all of us that the Leo Club is organising a seminar on‘Elimination of Child Labour’ at the Community Centre on 15 May, 20XX at 5 p.m. I willcertainly make it a point to participate in the seminar and acquaint others with my viewsand be benefitted by the ideas of other honourable members. I thank you for theinvitation extended to me.Yours sincerelyAjay Gupta

Second Option: Attempt yourself.

4. First OptionFROM MARKS TO GRADES

New Delhi: 15 Feb, 20XX —Nishi: TOI ReporterThe Chairman NCERT called a press conference today to enlighten the teaching fraternity,students and public at large about the proposed changes in evaluation from marks togrades. The NCERT has come out with a project paper to elicit the views of educationists,administrators and all those involved with the cause of education. One of the points thatgoes in favour of switch over to the grading system is the flexibility of approach. In themodern world of stress and strain caused by competition at every stage, students have toexert their capacities to the maximum to increase their marks tally by 0.5 per cent. Thegrading system will unburden them from this tension and inculcate in them the spirit ofinquiry and quest for depeer learning.

Second OptionThe PrincipalJ.P. Public SchoolNew DelhiSeptember 10, 20XXDear Sir,I wish to bring to your attention the pathetic condition of the school’s toilets and classroom.The toilets are woefully inadequate and stink a lot. There is improper flushing of toilets tolack of adequate running water and insufficient overhead tanks. The tiles in the walls andfloor of the toilets are broken at many places and no attempt has been made to repair them.The water taps also do not close properly and this result in water loss. The condition ofthe classroom is also deploration. These are no dustbin in each classroom. The plasterhas come out in many classrooms. This gives a bad impression to the parents who cometo see the school. It is our earnest request that necessary action may please be taken toundertake the repairs at the earliest.Yours faithfullySashikant Arora

SREPAPECITARP C 131

5. First Option: Attempt yourself.

Second OptionCOVERING LETTER

59 Sea Side RoadBandraMumbai

26 April 20XX

The Personnel ManagerNew World PublicationsWorliMumbai

Sir

Sub: Science Division: Executives

With reference to your advertisement in The Everyday Times, dated 24 April, 20XXseeking applications of science graduates, I offer my candidature for the same. Pleasefind enclosed my bio-data / resume to enable you to assess my suitability for the aforesaidpost.

Yours faithfullyRavi Sharma

BIO-DATA / RESUME

Name : Ravi SharmaFather’s Name : Sh. K.M. SharmaAge : 25 yrsEducational Qualifications : (i) ISC from St. Patrick’s School, Bandra 1990 - 75% marks

(ii) B.Sc. (Hons.) Chemistry 1993: Xaviers College MumbaiProfessional Qualifications : (i) Short term computer course - APTECH

(iii) Diploma in Journalism - IGNOUWork Experience : (i) Student Editor of School/College magazines

(ii) Working with M/s BHARAT SALES as ComputerOperator

Marital Status : UnmarriedOther Achievements : Proficient in Spoken English and Customer Dealing

6. First OptionHAZARDS OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

(by Pravin Chopra)Environmental pollution is the most dangerous health hazard for the modern generation.Progress in science and technology has resulted in advancement in the fields of industry,transport, medicine and agriculture. Population explosion has increased the population ofcities. Urbanisation, industralisation and rapid transport have resulted in pollution. Ourenvironment is being polluted by different means through air, water, noise and food.Certain species face extermination and humanity is under a great threat.The tall chimneys of factories emit out smoke and pollute the air. The smoke spewed bytrucks, buses and other vehicles spreads poisonous gases as well as suspended particulatematter. Consequently city dwellers have become victims of incurable chest relateddiseases. The noise of machines in factories, vehicles, loudspeakers etc. has broughtdeafness to millions. Even the water has become so polluted that fish do not find their


survival there. Inhaling fresh pure air has become a thing of the past. Our soil whichproduces grain, vegetables and fruit has also been polluted by the excessive use ofpesticides and chemical fertilizers. The soil pollution is contaminating the rivers alongwith the rainfall.

Second OptionRespected chairperson, honourable teachers, members of the jury and my dear friends.The topic of today’s debate is “Cycle rickshaws should not be banned from the roads.” I,Anil Khurana of class XII-E stand before you to speak in favour of the motion. Cyclerickshaws can be seen playing in every part of our country be it a city, a town or avillage. They are the common’s mode of travel as they are cheap and economical. Sincethey run by muscle power they are ecofriendly non polluting as they dont’ use fossil fuels.The most important point in their favour is that they provide means of livelihood toseveral lakh unemployed men and thereby support several lakh families. I don’t thinkmy worthy opponent would dispute this great benefit of cycle rickshaws. But I don’t agreewith my worthy opponent’s claim that the cycle rickshaws cause excessive congestion incity’s roads. Aren’t autorickshaws, cyclists, cars, buses, trucks, pedestrians equallyinvolved in causing traffic snarls and jams? Then why target the cycle rickshaws alone asthe culprit for traffic jams.So I am not at all in favour of banning cycle rickshaws from the roads. I would insteadsuggest that battery operated cycle rickshaws be offered to the rickshaws pullers by thegovernment on a subsidised basis, to relieve them from the painful and strenouspedalling of the rickshaws.Thank you.


7. First Option(a) The poet was driving from her parent’s home to the Cochin airport. Her mother was

sitting beside her.(b) She noticed that her mother was dozing with her mouth open.(c) Her mother’s face looked pale, faded and lifeless like a dead body.(d) (i) doze (ii) corpse (iii) realised.

Second Option(a) The earth can teach us a lesson how to live on it.(b) Only the earth remains alive when everything seems dead.(c) The poet is Pablo Neruda. He wants to count upto twelve.(d) He asks us to keep quiet while he is counting upto twelve.(e) (i) seems (ii) dead (iii) quiet

8. (a) Stephen Spender uses contrasting images in the poem to picturise the condition ofthe slum children. For example:

“A narrow street sealed in with a lead skyFar far from rivers, capes and stars of words.”

The first line presents the dark, narrow, cramped holes and lanes closed in by thebluish grey sky. The second line presents a world of beauty, prosperity, progress,well-being and openness.

(b) The mighty dead were very powerful and dominating persons during their owntimes. Their achievements made them ‘mighty’ and great. Their noble works dazzleour eyes. We imagine that such mighty dead forefathers will attain more grandeuron the doomsday. Hence ‘grandeur’ is associated with the ‘mighty dead’.

(c) In the third stanza, the poet refers to Aunt Jennifer’s ‘terrified hands’. The old

SREPAPECITARP C 133

unhappy memories are still fresh in her mind. She had passed through many testingand horrible times during her married life. These ordeals crushed and suppressedher. Their effect is still visible. So she is still ringed with those ordeals thatdominated her life.

9. (a) His full name is “Saheb-e-Alam”. It means the lord of the universe. He does notknow it. If he knew it, he would hardly believe it. He roams the streets barefootwith otherrag-pickers. This army of barefoot boys appears in the morning and disappears atnoon.

(b) When Douglas grew up, he took the help of an instructor to learn swimming. Histraining went on from October to April. For three months he was taken across thepool with the help of a rope. As he went under, terror filled him and his legs froze.The instructor taught him to exhale under water and inhale through raised nose.He made him kick his legs to make them relax. Then he asked him to swim. Hecontinued swimming from April to July. Still all terror had not left. He swam twomiles across Lake Wentworth and the whole length to the shore and back of WarmLake. Then he overcame his fear of water.

(c) As Edla lifted the peddler’s hat, he jumped up abruptly and seemed to be quitefrightened. Even her kind looks, disclosure of her name and purpose of visit failed tocalm him. From his fear, she thought that either he had stolen something or he hadescaped from jail.

(d) Jansie was a classmate and friend of Sophie. She lived in the same neighbourhood.She knew Sophie quite well. She was also aware of Sophie’s habit of dreaming. Onlearning of her meeting with Danny Casey, her first reaction was of disbelief. “Younever did”, exclaimed Jansie. But when Sophie told her about her request forautograph, Jansie softened a little and said, “Jesus, I wish I’d have been there.”

(e) When the psychiatrist said that Charley was unhappy and wanted to escape,Charley’s wife, Louisa was shocked. The remark made her ‘kind of mad’. Thepsychiatrist explained that the modern world was full of insecurity, fear, war, worryetc. He regarded Charley’s stamp-collecting as a ‘temporary refuge from reality’.Charley’s friends agreed to the psychiatrist’s observation but Charley didn’t.

(f) Derry says that people always change the subject. They don’t ask him about hisphysical impairment. They simply pretend that it is not true and isn’t there. Theydon’t want the boy to mind and get upset. He thinks that the old man has changedthe subject because he is afraid to ask him about his burnt face.

(g) It was her first day at school. She was marching into the dining room with othergirls in a line. She walked noiselessly in her soft moccasins. But she felt that shewas immodestly dressed, as her blanket had been removed from her shoulders. Soshe felt like sinking to the floor.

10. First OptionThe peddler wins our sympathy for his way of life and how the world treats him. It is anadmitted fact that the underdog always runs away with sympathy, so does the peddlerwith the rattraps. He begs the material like wire for his rattraps. His business notbeing specially profitable, he resorts to begging and petty thievery to keep body and soultogether.His life is sad and monotonous. He plods along the road lost in his own meditation. Theworld has never been very kind to him and he feels happy in calling it a rattrap.Whenever he asks shelter for the night, he meets sour faces. He is an unwelcome,unwanted and undesirable figure. The blacksmiths at forge glance at him only casuallyand indifferently. The master blacksmith nods a haughty consent without honouringhim with a single word.


The old and lonely crofter finds him an enjoyable company. The ironmaster mistakeshim for an old regimental comrade. Only Edla Willmansson behaves with him in a kind,friendly manner. Her nice treatment arouses the tramp’s goodness. He redeemshimself by returning the stolen money and wins our admiration. Thus we see that thesympathy is not only well earned but well justified as well.

Second OptionThe two accounts given in the unit ‘Memories of Childhood’ are based in two distantcultures. Two grown up and celebrated writers from marginalised communities lookback on their childhood. They reflect on their relationship with the mainstream.The discrimination, oppression, humiliation, suffering and insults that they faced asyoung members of the marginalised communities are common to both. Zitkala-Sahighlights the severe prejudice that prevailed towards the Native American culture andwomen. Depriving her of her blanket that covered her shoulders made her lookindecent in her own eyes. The cutting of her long hair reduces her to the status of adefeated warrior as in her culture shingled hair are worn only by cowards. Thereplacing of her moccasins by squeaking shoes and “eating by formula” at breakfasttable are other signs of forcible erosion of their own culture and imposition of dogma onthem.Bama highlights the humiliations faced by the untouchables who were never given anyhonour, dignity or respect as they were born in lower classes. They were made to liveapart, run errands, and bow humbly to the masters. They scrupulously avoided directcontact with the people of higher classes or the things used by them.The sense of rebellion against the existing state of affairs and decision to improve themare also common themes.

11. First OptionHONEST MEANS OF LIVELIHOOD

Every human being has to earn his bread and butter. Means vary from person to person, butone has to face many obstacles and odd situations in life. These means can be fair or foul,honest or dishonest. Unfortunately, the modern man hankers after money and has becomecommercial-minded. People are not afraid of the Almighty. They wish to accumulate richesby hook or by crook. They have no respect for humanity and moral values. The social normsand time-tested principles bemoan somewhere in a corner. The mortals of this computerage focus only on pecuniary gains. They are desirous of becoming rich overnight. And it issure that no one can make easy money without resorting to corruption. One should alwaysremember that those who are honest get respect in society and feel themselves satisfied.They don’t have to feel guilty. But those who are corrupt hide themselves behind the veilswhen caught. A person should always be honest and sincere. The factory workers, farmers,teachers and poor artisans live an honest life and are appreciated everywhere. Freud rightlyproclaimed in his letter to Wilhelm Fliess that ‘Being entirely honest with oneself is a goodexercise’. A few honest men are better than numerous bad ones.Second OptionA number of wild animals are found in India but the sad fact is that their numbers areswiftly diminshing. While on the one hand deforestation is depriving the animals oftheir natural habitat, on the other hand inhumanity and human greed is leading to themerciless slaughter of these innocent creatures.A number of wild animals are fast heading for extinction because of illegal poaching.The most important of these is the tiger. In spite of the Government’s “Project Tiger”attempt to save the animal, the number of tigers is diminishing at an alarming rate.Tigers in the wild are killed by poached for their skins, claws, bones and blood whichfetch a high price in the international market. The World Conservation Union haswarned that at this rate tigers in India would be wiped before 2020 AD.

SREPAPECITARP C 135

This is a threat which holds good for much of India’s wildlife. In the northeast of India,the one horned rhinoceros is the target of attack. They are killed for their mattedhorn, in a very cruel fashion. Each of these horns fetches several lakhs of rupees andare used in Chinese traditional medicine. So is care of leopards, elephants, musk deer,black bear, snakes, mongoose. The onslaught on all our animals continues to beheavy. The government in its attempt to save these animals has a number of animalreserves all over the country yet these reserves are not able to safeguard the life ofthese precious animals, due to illegal hunting.A number of solutions can be suggested to control the situation. There should be strictpatrolling of the resources by forest rangers to prevent poachers from causing havoc.They should be provided better weapons and they should be tough and incorruptable.Further the offenders should be heavily penalised. Further the wild animals should belodged in buffer zones to prevent them from straying into nearby villages and causingdamages to cattle. These animals also fall victim to the anger of villagers whose cattlehave been killed, by the wild animals.If these measures are strictly implemented, they may go a long way in protecting ourwild animals. Only then can future generation hope to enjoy the magnificent sight ofthe most beautiful and majestic of God’s creations.

12. First OptionSimon reached the forest to contemplate and brood over the events. He knelt down andthe arrow of the sun fell on him. He felt thirsty. But he remained there. Far off along thebeach, Jack was standing before a small group of boys. He looked delighted. Simon wasobserving their activities. He heard Jack saying that they would hunt and he was goingto be the chief. They killed a mother pig mercilessly. Jack said, “We’ll take the meatalong the beach. I’ll go back to the platform and invite them to feast.” Simon saw Jackcutting the head of the pig. He held up the head and jammed the soft throat down on thepointed end of the stick which pierced through into the mouth. We stood back and thehead hung here. Its blood started dribbling down the stick. Jack spoke loudly, “This headis for the beast. It’s a gift.” Simon stayed there where he was. He was choked, suffocatedand surprised. Even if he shut his eyes, the sow’s head still remained like an after-image.Simon could not see the merciless act of the hunters. He became unconscious because ofthe heinous crime. Violence, blood, the head of the pig—The Lord of the Flies tormentedhim and constrained him to lie unconscious there.Second OptionThe Baskerville Hall was a source of fascination to Sir Henry and Dr. Watson. When theyreached the Hall, they saw that the center was a heavy block of building from which aporch projected. The whole front was draped in ivy, with a patch clipped bare here andthere where a window or a coat of arms broke through the dark veil. From this centralblock rose the twin towers, ancient, crevelated and pierced with many loopholes. To theright and left of the turrets were more modern wings of black granite. The dining roomwas “a long chamber with a step separating the dais where the family sat from the lowerportion reserved for their dependents.”It was a beautiful creation and a place where one could derive aesthetic pleasure. Thebeauty of the place had the knack to sooth a disturbed soul. The dark panelling glowedlike bronze in the golden rays of the sun. The Hall was large, lofty and heavily rafteredwith huge baulks of age-blackened oak. They also noticed the high, thin window of oldstained glass, the oak panelling, the stags’ head and the coats of arms upon the walls.

13. First OptionSam and Eric are twins. They are bullet-headed and their hair are like bow. They doeverything together. They breath together and grin together. They are chunky and vital.It seems that their thoughts are also similar. “ ... for they seemed provided with not quickenough skin, so that their profiles were blurred and their mouths pulled open.” They are


the perfect followers of their leaders. They are asked to maintain the signal fire. They seea parachutist and get afraid of it. They are terrified and flee from the mountain. The twinsspread the dreadful news of the presence of the beast. Eric confidently says, “We’ve seenthe beast with our own eyes. No—we weren’t asleep—” Sam elaborates the story anddescribes the beast. They do not deceive Ralph and stay with him. They accompany Ralphto face Jack. But, unfortunately, they fail to endure the torture inflicted on them by Jackand his hunters. They, eventually, join their tribe. When Jack comes to them, they askhim to go because Jack and Roger are pledged to kill him. They dread Jack and Roger.Samneric do not have the courage to disobey Jack. They also tell Jack about the hidingplace of Ralph. Samneric are the two guys who cannot do anything independently. Theyelect people and follow their instructions. They are the part of the crowd or the masses.Such people lack conviction to raise the hammers against the established conviction andmalpractices. Their life is of utmost importance for them. They can do anything to avoidinconvenience. Samneric are ready to throw their spears at Ralph without any inhibition.Second OptionWatson is the narrator of the story. He is Holmes, assistant. He is the chronicler of histriumphs as a private investigator. He tries his level best to satisfy the insatiable curiosityof Holmes. He does his duty sincerely and honestly. He follows Holmes, instructions inletter and spirit. Holmes instructs him to always remain with Sir Henry. When Sir Henryhas to meet Miss Stapleton, he chases him and observes everything from the top of thehill. He also explores the hidden facts at the Hall. He comes to know about Selden andBarrymore’s relation shrewdly. His interaction with Mrs. Laura Lyons proves fruitful. Hereaches Holmes, abode on the moor using his presence of mind. He makes sincere effortsto solve the riddle of Sir Henry’s case. The way he reports the sequence of events toHolmes is praiseworthy. It is a factual report. He never leaves any detail which maychange the track of the investigation. Watson’s character teaches the readers that oneshould be receptive and should follow the guidelines and principles of the trainer so as toattain considerable success in this world of mortals. He does not believe in the legend ofthe hound and feels convinced that it is the work of some human agencies. He is really aman of his words.

SREPAPECITARP C 137



1.1 (a) Character is constituted of the principles and values that give life direction, meaningand depth. It is made up of our inner sense of right and wrong.

(b) These traits are: integrity, honesty, courage, fairness and generosity.(c) Happiness and fulfilment result from success which is achieved by skill, talent,

energy, personality and character.(d) In the past, character was considered essential for experiencing true success and

happiness. In the last 80 years or so charm, skill and technique have becomeassociated with success as there is a shift to personality ethic.

(e) (i) by looking within—inside out approach: tackling a hard choice, committing tochange and staying with it.

(ii) by developing trust—being loyal to those who are not present.(f) True character begins at home because we are constantly tested there and are most

vulnerable there. Our families provide a critical measure of our character. Secondly,they provide the opportunity to nurture character.

1.2 (a) latitude (b) vulnerable (c) subvert.

2.1 TITLE: IMPORTANCE OF BREAKFASTNotes:1. Effects of Breakfast

(a) Eating—benefits memory, provides essenl nutrients and energy.(b) Skipping—affects cognitn, nutrient not made up, energy deficit.

2. Brain & Glucose(a) Imp’t in speed of recall(b) impro’d cognitive function(c) better retentn(d) decla. mem. sharpened

3. Breakfast and School Children(a) Vul. to dietry impovt.(b) Intelligence tests

(i) healthy childn—scores unaffected(ii) previously malnourished—score imp’d

(iii) high energy breakfast—more original ideation4. Breakfast and College Students

Little or no effect on prelunch perf.5. Breakfast Consumption

(a) impt. for all age groups(b) bene’l. for undernourished

2.2 Summary: Eating breakfast benefits the memory by providing essential nutrients andenergy whereas skipping breakfast affects cognition and mental performance adversely.Higher level of blood glucose improves speed of recall, cognitive function, retention andsharpens declarative memory. Breakfast is essential for children as they are vulnerableto dietary impoverishment. Though the scores of healthy children in intelligence testsremained unaffected those of previously malnourished ones improved after intake ofbreakfast. College students showed little or no effect on pre-lunch performance in mentalactivities. Thus breakfast consumption which is important for all age group is speciallybeneficial for the undernourished.



3. First Option

APEX PUBLIC SCHOOL, DEHRADUNSPORTS NOTICE 10 Sept, 20XX

All the students of our school are hereby informed that our football team will play itszonal final match in the inter-school competitions with St Francis School, Lucknow onSaturday, the 16th September 20XX at 4 p.m. on our school grounds. All are requestedto come and encourage the morale of our players.

Manoj SinhaSports Captain

Second Option

MR & MRS RAJ KARANrequest the pleasure of your benign presence

on the auspicious occasion of the

FIFTH BIRTH ANNIVERSARYof

their son

NIKHILat their residence

38, Kamal Kunj, Varanasiat 4.30 p.m.

on28TH DECEMBER, 20XX

R.S.V.P.Mr & Mrs KaranPhone: 25234761

4. First OptionFUND RAISING ACTIVITIES

Last November, the coastal areas of Orissa were hit by a severe cyclone. Thousands ofpersons lost their lives. Millions of them became homeless refugees without any meansof sustenance. The government declared it a national calamity. All out efforts were madeto despatch relief to the unfortunate victims of cyclone. The Three Arts Club of ourschool organised various cultural activities to raise funds for helping the cyclone affectedpersons. We organised a musical evening, a dance competition, an inter-school dramacompetition as well as a poetry recitation contest in which prominent poets participated.All the students took an active part in selling tickets. The citizens responded generouslyto our appeal. We were able to raise about one lakh fifty thousand rupees. Our principalsent a bank draft of this amount to the Orissa Cyclone Relief Fund. He appreciated ournoble gesture and congratulated us on our success.

SREPAPECITARP C 139

Second OptionTEACHER’S DAY

Teacher’s Day now occupies a prominent place in the school calendar. Ever since Dr S.Radhakrishnan, our philosopher president dedicated his birthday to teachers, this day hasbeen celebrated every September in almost all the schools throughout the country. Thisyear the Teacher’s Day in our school was celebrated with great fanfare. Our esteemedPrincipal Mr Brij Mohan Ghose was retiring after rendering 35 years’ meritorious serviceto the field of education in general and to this institution in particular. The Chairman ofthe managing committee, who was an alumnus of the school, recalled the spirit ofdedication, diligence, enthusiasm and inspiring leadership exhibited by Mr Ghose in theall round development of the students and making the school a premier educationinstitution. Encomiums and felicitations poured in from all quarters. The students toomade speeches highlighting the contribution of teachers in moulding and uplifting socialvalues. Almost everyone agreed that teachers deserved more recognition, facilities andsocial prestige to enable them to perform their arduous task of nation building properly.

5. First OptionRajan687, Sunder NagarNew Delhi

19 Nov, 20XXThe ManagerGlobal Travel AgencyGoaSirSub: Booking of AccommodationA party of twenty students of Delhi Public School plans to visit Goa during the winterbreak i.e. from Dec 20 to 2 January 20XX. Kindly arrange to book suitable accommodationfor our group in a lodge or youth hostel having proper boarding and lodging facilities.Since it will be a pleasure trip, we shall need the services of a guide for a conducted tourin a minibus, to be provided by you. We also plan to visit the beaches and watch theChristmas Eve and New Year Celebrations at important Hotels. Kindly book our seats forthat too. I am enclosing herewith a demand draft of Rs ten thousand as advance to meetthe initial expense.Please acknowledge the receipt of the letter and confirm the bookings.Thanking youYours faithfullyRajan

Second Option

The PrincipalJai Narain Public SchoolJhansi

7 September 20XX

Sir

Sub: Permission for Late ArrivalYou will be pleased to know that I have been selected by Madhya Pradesh state torepresent the state at the forthcoming National Athletic Meet at Delhi in the first weekof October.The pre-competition Athletic coaching camp is being held from 10th September to24 September 20XX. This fortnight long camp will begin at 6.00 a.m. and continue till


9.00 a.m. and then from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. I do not want to neglect my studies altogether.But circumstances constrain me. Much though I wish to reach the school in time, I fearI may be late by an hour.

Keeping in view the circumstances detailed above, I request you to grant me permissionto attend the school one hour late for a fortnight. The grace shown by you will keep metension-free.I hope you will grant my request.Yours faithfullyLalithXII-C Roll No. 1279

6. First OptionNEED OF ELECTORAL REFORMS

Elections are essential for a democracy as they provide the electorate the means toexercise their choice to elect their representatives. Of late, however, some glaringshortcomings, corrupt practices and malfunctioning have cropped up which have vitiatedthe whole democratic process and the elections have turned to a farce and sometimes abane for the society.I was shocked to see the blatant misuse of money and musclemen during the recentelection to local bodies in our district. Though every party and individual swore byGandhian principles of non-violence and co-existence, one could get enough display ofcoaxing, cajoling, coercion, threats, pressures and pulls to grab the ‘votes’ of thevulnerable sections of the society, who unfortunately constitute the majority of theelectorate. When the voters are threatened to vote for a particular person/party underduress or gratification, the whole system is vitiated as it stifles the exercise of free will.Under the prevalent circumstances this system of adult franchise has become outmoded.Urgent reforms in qualifications of voters as well as candidates are needed. Persons ofcriminal background should be debarred from contesting elections. Proper monitoring ofelection expenses and strict supervision will exercise a healthy check on many electoralmalpractices. The election commission should satisfy itself that the rules laid by it arescrupulously adhered to. Any violation of them should incur stringent penalties includingdebarring the candidate from contesting elections.

Second OptionEACH ONE, TEACH ONE

Dear friendsWe have all assembled here for a noble cause—a mission to eradicate illiteracy. It is thedream of the National Literacy Mission to educate all the Indians. We would worktogether for an India where each person is literate. Since most of the learners are adultswho have a rich experience of life, the learning strategies that will be adopted in ourprogrammes will be exploratory and interactive. We have to teach as well as learn. Wemust keep in mind their experience, wisdom and maturity while discussing any topic. Weshould encourage them to talk and express their views in a fair and frank manner.We should always keep in mind the learning objectives set for the adult illiterates. Wehave to make them literates by inculcating in them love for reading, writing andarithmetic. Let them do simple calculations and exult at the right calculations. Healthawareness and job related problems are next in order. It is only after sufficient bridge hasbeen built that we would like to create an awareness about civil rights, duties, privilegesand obligations. When they become confident of their powers, we must create in themsocial awareness. Issues like environmental pollution, population control and employmentgeneration can then be discussed. In short I’ll make sincere efforts to achieve thesegoals.

SREPAPECITARP C 141


7. First Option(a) Shakespeare and his works are of no use to the children in slum schools. So

Shakespeare is not good or noble to them. The map is a bad example because it doesnot depict their own world of narrow lanes and hovels.

(b) All beautiful things like ships, sun and love tempt these children of slum schoolbecause they don’t have them.

(c) They live like rats in their cramped little holes. Fog and darkness dominate theirlives.

Second Option(a) They are jumping across a screen or a wall. They look like shining yellow topaz.(b) They live in green forests. They are fearless. They don’t fear the men under the

tree.(c) They run with a well-groomed, honourable confidence.(d) (i) denizens (ii) chivalric

8. (a) The lifeless and faded face of the poet’s mother pains her heart. She looks lifelesslike a corpse. She provides an image of passivity, decay and death. The old ladyseems to be lost in her thoughts. The poet needs a distraction, a change. She putsthat thought away and looks outside. There she gets a picture of life, happiness andactivity.

(b) Pablo Neruda is against any kind of violence. He addresses the fishermen and asksthem not to harm whales living in the cold seas of the polar regions. He is alsoagainst any kind of self-torturing. The man who is gathering salt has hurt his hands.He asks this man to look after himself and take care of his injured hands.

(c) All beautiful things of nature are a boon for humanity. The magnificence and beautyof objects of nature surpasses the grandeur of dooms that we have imagined for ourmighty dead forefathers. It is lovelier than all the lovely tales that we have heardand read.

9. (a) The author finds Saheb standing by the fenced gate of a neighbourhood club. He iswatching two young men, dressed in white, playing tennis. Saheb says that he likesthe game, but he is content to watch it standing behind the fence. He goes insidewhen no one is around. He uses the swing there.

(b) Douglas mentions him for his misadventure in the Y.M.C.A. swimming pool inwhich he had nearly died. It was this boxer boy who had picked up Douglas andtossed him into the deep end. Later on, when Douglas was rescued, the boy said, “Iwas only fooling.”

(c) The world had never been kind to the peddler. So he got unusual joy to think ill ofthe world. His pastime was to think of people he knew who had let themselves becaught in the dangerous snare of the world, and of others who were still circlingaround the bait.

(d) The infant had an uneventful childhood. He grew up just like other royal princes ofIndian states during the British rule. The prince grew taller and stronger day byday. The boy drank the milk of an English cow. He was brought up by an Englishnanny and tutored in English by an Englishman. He saw nothing but English films.

(e) Hana was Sadao’s wife. He had met her by chance at an American professor’s house.Professor Harley and his wife had been kind people. They held a party at their homefor their few foreign students. Hana was a new student. He waited to fall in lovewith her until he was sure she was Japanese. It was because his father would neverhave received her unless she had been pure in her race.


(f) Whenever Roger Skunk went out to play, all of the other tiny animals would cry:“Uh–oh, here comes Roger Stinky Skunk”. Then they would run away. Roger Skunkwould stand there all alone. Two little round tears would fall from his eyes. Jackwould relate all this with zest, remembering certain humiliations of his own childhood.

(g) Mr Lamb tells Derry that he is interested in anybody and anything. There’s nothing Godmade that does not interest him. Fruit and flowers, trees and herbs, grass and weeds allinterest him. Even stuff or rubbish is interesting. He finds no essential difference betweena ‘weed’ and another ‘flower’ as both represent life—developing or growing.

10. First OptionHaving robbed his generous host, the peddler felt quite pleased with his smartness. Hedid not feel any qualms of conscience that he had abused the confidence reposed in him bythe crofter. The selfish wretch thought only of his own safety. He realised the danger ofbeing caught by the police with the stolen thirty kronor on his person. Hence, he decidedto discontinue walking on the public highway and turn off the road, into the woods.During the first few hours the woods caused him no difficulty. Later on, it becameworse as it was a big and confusing forest. The paths twisted back and forth. He kept onwalking but did not come to the end of the wood. He realised that he had only beenwalking around in the same part of the forest. The forest closed in upon him like animpenetrate prison from which he could never escape.The reaction of the peddler highlights the predicament of human nature. Temptationslead to evil. The fruits of evil seem pleasant at first, but they deprive man of hisgoodness and push him into the maze of the world which holds a vice-like grip on him.Second OptionIt is in the middle section of the first scene of the play that Mr Lamb displays signs ofloneliness and disappointment. He says that when it is a bit cooler, he will get theladder and a stick, and pull down those crab apples. He makes jelly. Derry could helphim. Then he says he is interested in anybody or anything that God made. It may bea person, flower, fruit, grass, weeds or rubbish. There are plenty of things to look at.Some of them are his crab apples or the weeds or a spider climbing up a silken ladderor his tall sun-flowers. He also likes to talk and have a company. He has a hive ofbees. He hears them singing. He sits in the sun and reads books. He likes the lightand the darkness. He hears the wind coming through open windows. There aren’t anycurtains at the windows as they either shut things out or shut things in.

11. First OptionPATRIOTISM

Breathes there the man with soul so dead,who never to himself hath said,

this is my own native land!—Scott

Patriotism implies love for one’s nation. A patriot is ready to sacrifice his comfort for theservice of his nation. It was for his country’s sake that Sardar Bhagat Singh kissed thegallows. It was for the love for their land that Shivaji, Rana Pratap and Guru Govind Singhsuffered untold hardships. True patriots respect other nations and religions but don’tallow anyone to insult their nation. A great philosopher said, “It is not gold that makes anation great. It is the sacrifice and martyrdom of patriots that raises a nation to theheights of glory.” India is a land where patriots are in abundance. It got its freedom onlybecause of the efforts of its patriots. Patriotism is a religion and an ideal. It is an ideologythat guides the people of a nation. It is a feeling and a bond that unites the people ofvarious sects, beliefs and backgrounds together. A patriot must not be narrow minded. Heshould develop an international progressive outlook. It would be pertinent to quote thewords of Seneca here “No one loves his country for its size or eminence, but because it ishis own.”

SREPAPECITARP C 143

Second OptionPrisoners in a prison can be given academic as well as vocational education. The goal ofsuch activities is to prepare the prisoner for achieving success outside the prison and toenhance the rehabilitive aspects of prison. There is need for such education in prisons.Many studies have shown significant decreases in recidivism (a recidivist is a personwho continues to commit crimes and seems unable to stop committing crimes evenafter being punished) The more educational programs successfully completed for eachsix months led to lower recidivision rate.Free classes can assist the prisoners is learning to read, write and perform basicmathematical computation. This is important in prisons because compared to thegeneral population prisoners are an undereducated group having studied less than Vthclass in school, coming from a culture of poverty, with few skills for handling everydaytasks and little or no experience in trade or career.Vocational training can offer more opportunities in the prison setting. Inmates can betaught trades like carpentry, carpet weaving, fabric weaving, plumbing, masonry,electrical repairs etc.Prison education offers the prisoners to further their education. It may be the first rayof hope to help them escape the cycles of poverty and violence that have dominatedtheir lives. Pursuing an education can also undo some of the damage that took placeduring their stay in prison; it can awaken their numbed senses and release creativitythat is both therapeutic and rehabilitative.With good skills and education the released prisoners can overcome a prison recordeasier. The college educated ex-prisoners can surmount the strigma of their criminalrecord and find stable employment. This employment can help them to get out of theprisons and stay out.

12. First Option Roger killed Piggy and forced Samneric to join the tribe. The following morning, Jackordered his tribe to begin a manhunt for Ralph. There were many things he could do tosafeguard his life. He could climb a tree. But he thought that “hide was better than a treebecause you had a chance of breaking the line if you were discovered. So, he found thedeepest thicket and crept in. At last he found the right place. The bushes and a wildtangle of creeper made a mat that kept out all the light of the sun. Beneath it was aspace, a foot high, though it was pierced everywhere by parallel and rising stems. Thehunters set the island on fire. The fire was a big one. Ralph heard the cries of the hunters.He could see a striped savage moving hastily out of a green tangle and coming towardsthe mat where he hid. He fumbled to hold his spear. He saw that the stick was sharpenedat both ends. The savage stopped fifteen yards away and cried. He moved ahead to findRalph. Suddenly, a herd of pigs came squealing out of the greenery behind the savage andrushed away into the forest. The savage stopped five yards away. He knelt down by theedge of the thicket. Ralph swung the stake and the savage tumbled over. But others werecoming towards him. He forgot his wounds, his hunger and thirst. He fled hopelessly. Herushed towards the open beach and saw a naval officer who protected him from thehunters. The hunters tried their level best to kill Ralph. But they could not execute theirplan because of the naval officer’s sudden presence on the island.

Second OptionDr. Mortimer discussed several incidents with Holmes which are hard to reconcile withthe settled order of Nature. He found that before the unexpected death of Sir Charles,several people have seen a creature upon the moor which corresponds with theBaskerville’s demon. They reported that it was a huge creature, ghastly, and spectral.He interrogated and cross-examined these people and discovered that their tales weresimilar. They all spoke about the dreadful apparition, exactly corresponding to the hell-


hound of the legend. He candidly confessed, “... there is a reign of terror in the district,and that it is a hardy man who will cross the moor at night.” It would be pertinent toquote Dr. Mortimer’s words here: “The original hound was material enough to tug aman’s throat out, and yet he was diabolic.” Dr. Mortimer did not believe in the words ofthe village folk. He was a man of science. Moreover, he had noticed the footprints nearthe dead body of Sir Charles. He did not desire Holmes to accept the theory of theuneducated villagers and requested him to help Sir Henry, who was the last heir of theBaskervilles.

13. First OptionRalph is a tall, good-looking boy with blond hair. His father is a commander in the Navy.He learnt swimming at the age of five. Ralph plays a significant role in ‘Lord of the Flies.’His role epitomises democracy. He blows the shell to call the other survivors of the plane.He becomes the chief in a democratic way. He is elected by the members of the group. Heis an optimistic fellow. He focuses on keeping the signal fire so that they can be rescuedby the passersby. He is very supportive and caring too. When they climb the mountain toexplore the reality of the beast, he wishes to send someone to take care of the Littlunsand Piggy. He has indomitable faith in the participative management. All the members ofthe group are given ample opportunities to express their invaluable ideas. He allocatesduties to the boys so as to make their survival easy. His foresightedness encourages hissupporters to erect shelters. He has the knack to face the challenges of life. He goes tothe Castle Rock to get Piggy’s eyeglass back. He has the ability to hunt also. But hebecomes insane when Simon is killed mercilessly. He feels guilty and blames himself forthis act of madness. Ralph safeguards himself from the clutches of the hunters andreaches the beach where he meets the naval officer. It can be stated that Ralph is anemotional, sympathetic and non-violent fellow. He is indecisive too. He is guided by Piggytime and again. Ralph keeps focussing on maintaining the fire signal so that they can berescued. He says, “Fire is the most important thing. Without fire we can’t be rescued. I’dlike to put on war-paint and be a savage. But we must keep the fire burning. Fire is themost important thing on the island ...” Ralph learns a lot of things on the island. Hisbitter experiences shatter his world of dreams and idealism. He represents the genteel,British middle class.Second OptionSir Charles was a widower. He was very rich and generous. He was simple in his personaltaste. He was a superstitious man in waning health. He himself narrated the legend of thehound to Stapleton. He was a philanthropist. He helped Mrs. Laura Lyons and many otherresidents of the vicinity. A newspaper writes about him, “Being himself childless, it was hisopenly expressed desire that the whole countryside should, within his own lifetime, profitby his good fortune...” He was in the habit of walking down the famous yew alley ofBaskerville Hall before going to bed. He was so humble and honest that he burnt theletter of Mrs. Laura Lyons as he was instructed. He readily gave his consent to meet herat the time without any inhibition.He was a strong minded, shrewd, practical and unimaginative being. His amiability ofcharacters and extreme generosity had won the affection and respect of all who had beenbrought into contact with him. He was suffering from nervous depression and severeheart disease. Dr. James Mortimer advised him to go to London so that he may feel better.But, unfortunately, he is killed by Stapleton making the use of the hound. He was reallyan innocent and good natured man.

❑❑

Documents

Me n Mine English Core Xii First Term Solution