Literature Worksheet III | English Core | Class XII | CBQs | Board PYQs |2024-25
Practise the following Literature worksheets to ace your marks in English Core Exam in Board Exam 2024-25
Q1. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow. Attempt any ONE: (6 Marks)
(a) A thing of beauty is a joy forever
Its loveliness increases,
it will never pass into nothingness:
but will keep A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health and quiet
and breathing.
Therefore, on every morrow are we wreathing
A flowery band to bind us to the earth;
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o'er darkened ways
Made for our searching.
(i) Keats defines beauty as
(a) transient
(c) illusionary
(b) eternal
(d) short lived
(ii) 'will keep a bower quiet for us' means all of the following EXCEPT
(a) create a peaceful, shady place
(b) provide a shelter
(c) will decrease noise pollution
(d) nature's canopy
(iii) i) On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given below:
1. Beautiful things uplift the soul.
2. Beauty is ever changing.
(a) 1 can be inferred from the extract but 2 cannot.
(b) 2 can be inferred from the extract but 1 cannot.
(c) both 1 and 2 can be inferred from the extract.
(d) both 1 and 2 cannot be inferred from the extract.
(iv) The things that cause unhappiness are
(1) lack of noble nature
(2) old tunes
(3) dull days
(4) calm mind
(5) a flowery band
(6) strong relationships
Choose the most appropriate option:
(a) (1) and (2)
(b) (1) and (3)
(c) (4) and (5)
(d) (3) and (6)
(v) Complete the analogy. Do not repeat from used example:
flowery band : metaphor ::_______ : alliteration
(vi) According to the poet 'every morrow' we are _______
(b) Aunt Jennifer's tigers prance across a screen,
Bright topaz denizens of a world of green,
They do not fear the men beneath the tree;
They pace in sleek chivalric certainty.
Aunt Jennifer's fingers fluttering through her wool
Find even the ivory needle hard to pull.
The massive weight of uncle's wedding band
Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer's hand.
(i) Denizens of the world of green refer to
(a) huntsmen
(b) Aunt Jennifer
(c) uncle
(d) tigers
(ii) Choose the option that displays the same poetic device as used in the second line of the extract.
(a) heart of stone
(c) silver spoon
(b) trees sprouting
(d) white murder
(iii) The men setting beneath the tree are _______
(iv) What quality of uncle can be inferred through these lines ?
(a) compassionate nature
(b) courageous
(c) confident
(d) dominating
(v) The tigers in the extract are symbolic of
(a) creativity and courage
(b) confidence and gentleness
(c) cruelty and fear
(d) aggression and starving
(vi) Aunt Jennifer's tigers prance across
(1) the screen
(2) the fields
(3) the embroidered tunic
(4) the cage
Which of the following is the most appropriate choice?
(a) (1) and (2)
(b) (2) and (4)
(c) (1), (2) and (3)
(d) (1) and (3)
Q2. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow. Attempt any ONE: 4x1 = 4
(a) To make sure, I walked over the newsboy and glanced at the stack of papers at his feet. It was The World and The World hasn't been published for years. The lead story said something about President Cleveland. I've found that front page since, in the Public library files, and it was printed June 11, 1894.
I turned toward the ticket windows knowing that here on the third level at Grand Central - I could buy tickets that would take Louisa and me anywhere in the United States we wanted to go. In the year 1894. And I wanted two tickets to Galesburg, Illinois.
(i) The newspaper that covered the lead story about President Cleveland was
(a) The Pioneer
(b) The New York Times
(c) The World
(d) The Times
(ii) The narrator wanted to buy tickets to _______
(iii) Which of the following in the extract most nearly means the opposite of 'stare?
(a) glance
(b) peek
(c) ignore
(d) examine
(iv) Charley wanted two tickets because he wanted to go with
(a) Sam (b) Cleveland (c) Louisa (d) the Psychiatrist
Q2. (b) When I was studying in the third class, I hadn't yet heard people speak openly of
untouchability. But I had already seen, felt, experienced and been humiliated by what it is. I was walking home from school one day, an old bag hanging from my shoulder. It was actually possible to walk the distance in ten minutes. But usually it would take me from half an hour to an hour to dawdle along watching all the fun and games that were going on, all the entertaining novelties and oddities in the streets, the shops and the bazaar. 4 * 1 = 4
(i) The narrator was humiliated because _______
(ii) The narrator 'dawdled along' as she
(a) enjoyed looking at the various sights
(b) was getting late for school
(c) she didn't like going home
(d) she enjoyed haggling and shopping
(iii) On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to the two statements given below:
(I) The distance from school to home was very short.
(II) She was feeling upset and so dawdling her way home.
(a) (1) can be inferred from the extract but (II) cannot
(b) (II) can be inferred from the extract but (1) cannot
(c) Both (1) and (II) cannot be inferred from the extract
(d) Both (1) and (II) can be inferred from the extract
(iv) The word 'novelties' in the passage most nearly means
(a) colourful trinkets
(b) wooden toys
(c) unique and interesting items
(d) expensive souvenirs
Q3. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow. Attempt any ONE.
(a) “I sometimes find a rupee, even a ten rupee note”, Saheb says, his eyes lighting up when you can find a silver coin in a heap of garbage, you don’t stop scrounging, for there is hope of finding more. It seems that for children, garbage has a meaning different from what it means to their parents. For the children it is wrapped in wonder, for the elders it is a means of survival. One winter morning I see Saheb standing by the fenced gate of the neighbourhood club, watching two young men dressed in white, playing tennis. “I like the game”, he hums, content to watch it standing behind the fence. “I go inside when no one is around” he admits. “The gate keeper lets me use the swing.”
(i) Saheb found a rupee
(a) on the street
(b) in the garbage dump
(c) in Firozabad
(d) on the tennis court
(ii) Which emotion of Saheb is revealed in the phrase 'his eyes lighting up'?
(a) anxiety
(b) envy
(c) happiness
(d) greed
(iii) For the elders garbage is and for children it is _______
(iv) On the basis of the extract, choose the correct option with reference to I and II given below:
1. Saheb watches the game from outside.
II. Saheb had lost the previous match.
(a) I is true but II is not
(b) II is true but I is not
(c) Both I and II are true
(d) Both I and II are untrue
(v) 'Scrounging' in the passage most nearly means.
(a) digging
(b) searching
(c) flinging
(d) burying
(vi) 'There is hope for finding more.' Explain with reference to the above extract.
Q3. (b) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow.
(b) “Or an actress. Now there’s real money in that. Yes, and I could may be have the boutique on the side. Actresses don’t work full time, do they ? Anyway, that or a fashion designer. You know –something a bit sophisticated”. And she turned in through the open street door leaving Jansie standing in the rain. “If I ever come into money I’ll buy a boutique”. “Huh, if you ever come into money … if you ever come into money you’ll buy us a blessed decent house to live in, thank you very much.” Sophie’s father was scooping shepherd’s pie into his mouth as hard as he could go, his plump face still grimy and sweat – marked from the day. “She thinks money grows on trees, don’t she Dad ? Said little Derek, hanging on the back of his father’s chair. 6 1 = 6 Their mother sighed.
(i) Sophie wants to become an actress to
(a) become famous
(b) to earn money
(c) to support her father
(d) to compete with Jansie
(ii) Jansie wanted Sophie to spend her money on__
(a) her marriage
(b) her career
(c) to open a boutique
(d) buying a house
(iii) Sophie is daydreaming about _______.
(iv) The phrase ‘money grows on trees’ indicates that Sophie _____.
(v) Sophie’s mother’s sigh is one of
(a) regret
(b) delight
(c) relief
(d) helplessness
(vi) From the extract Jansie comes across as a _____ person.
(a) practical
(b) dominating
(c) immature
(d) starstruck
Q4. Answer any FIVE out of six questions given below in about 40-50 words : 5 x 2 = 10
(a) What does Gandhi refer to as 'conflict of duties'?
(b) What does the expression 'polished traffic' refer to? What does it reveal about city people? (
(c) Why did the iron master compare Edla to a parson?
(d) What is the significance of the word 'but' in
'but all I said was see
See you soon, Amma? (My Mother at Sixty-Six)
(e) What handicap did Doughlas suffer from? How did he overcome that?
(f) What according to Pablo Neruda in the poem 'Keeping Quiet' is the lesson that we should learn from mother earth?
Q5. Answer any TWO of the following in about 40-50 words each:
2 x2 = 4
(a) What role does Sam's letter play in the story?
(b) How did the 'duraisani' behave on receiving the gifts?
(c) How does Mr. Lamb try and convince Derry that there is no essential difference between them?
Q 6. Answer any ONE in about 120-150 words:
(a) The last lesson reflects the flaws in human character that led to the sad plight of people in Alsace. Substantiate your answer with evidences from the text.
OR
(b) A Roadside Stand is a social satire depicting the two contrasting worlds existing in society. Justify this statement with reference to the poem.
Q7. Answer any ONE in about 120-150 words:
(a) Mr. Lamb stands as a symbol of optimism and hope. Support your answer with examples from the text.
OR
(b) Dr. Sadao emerges as a saviour of humanity. Substantiate your answer with evidence from the text.
Answer Key
Q1. (a)
Ans. (i) (b) eternal
(ii) (c ) will decrease noise pollution
(iii) (a ) 1 can be inferred from the extract but 2 cannot.
(iv) (b) (1) and (3)
(v) noble natures , band to bind
.(vi.) wreathing a flowery band / getting close to nature
Q1. (b)
(i) (d) tigers
(ii) (a) heart of stone
(iii) the hunters / symbolic of patriarchal society (any other relevant answer )
(iv) (d) dominating
(v) (b) confidence and gentleness
(vi) (d) (1) and (3)
Q2. (a)
(i) (c) The World
(ii) Galesburg
(iii) (a) glance
(iv) (c) Louisa
Q2 (b)
(i) she was born in a community that was treated as untouchable / victim of caste discrimination
(ii) (a) enjoyed looking at the various sights
(iii) (a) can be inferred from the extract but (II) cannot
(iv) (c ) unique and interesting items
Q3. (a)
(i) (b) in the garbage dump
(ii) (c) happiness
(iii) survival, wrapped in wonder.
(iv) ( a) I is true but II is not
(v) (b) searching
(vi) more money / more silver coins / something precious / something valuable (any one)
Q3. (b)
(i) (b) to earn money
(ii) (c)
(iii) Suggestes value points: (Any One)
becoming an actress
opening a boutique -
becoming a manager in boutique
becoming a fashion designer
(iv) Suggestes value points: ( Any One)
is daydreaming
fantasizing
is impractical
does not know the value of money
(v) (d) helplessness
(vi) (a) practical
Q4. Short Questions:
(a) What does Gandhi refer to as 'conflict of duties'?
Ans: Gandhi refers to the 'conflict of duties' as the dilemma one faces when two moral obligations seem to be in opposition, making it challenging to decide the right course of action. This concept highlights the struggle between adhering to legal norms and fulfilling ethical responsibilities. Gandhi, being a staunch advocate of nonviolence and moral integrity, often grappled with situations where following the law conflicted with higher moral duties.
(b) What does the expression ‘polished traffic’ refer to ? What does it reveal about city people ?
The expression ‘polished traffic’ refers to the luxurious cars driven by wealthy and sophisticated city dwellers. It reveals that city people are often self-centered and unwilling to contribute money to improve the living standards of the poor.
(c) Why did the iron master compare Edla to a parson ?
The iron master compared Edla to a parson because of her moralistic stand, her persuasive manner of speaking, her compassionate nature, and her goodness of heart. Edla's ability to empathize with and positively influence others mirrored the qualities often associated with a parson.
(d) What is the significance of the word ‘but’ in ‘but all I said was see you soon, Amma ? (My Mother at Sixty-Six)
The significance of the word ‘but’ in ‘but all I said was see you soon, Amma’ lies in the juxtaposition of the speaker's internal emotions with her outward expression. Despite her deep fear and anxiety about losing her mother, she chose to convey optimism and hope, masking her true feelings with a simple, hopeful farewell.
(e) What handicap did Doughlas suffer from ? How did he overcome that ?
Douglas suffered from a fear of water (hydrophobia) and did not know how to swim. He overcame this fear by hiring an instructor, practising regularly to build his confidence and skills, and eventually swimming alone across lakes and rivers to conquer his aversion to water.
(f) What according to Pablo Neruda in the poem ‘Keeping Quiet’ is the lesson that we should learn from mother earth ?
According to Pablo Neruda in the poem ‘Keeping Quiet,’ the lesson we should learn from Mother Earth is the value of life under apparent stillness. Just as the Earth experiences periods of hibernation and stillness, which lead to rejuvenation and regeneration, we too should embrace moments of quiet reflection to preserve and nurture life.
Q5 ( Short Questions/ Vistas)
(a) What role does Sam’s letter play in the story ?
Sam’s letter plays a crucial role in the story by justifying the existence of the Third Level, making it seem real and possible. It provides Charlie with a temporary refuge, allowing him to believe in the existence of the Third Level as an escape from the harsh realities of modern life. Additionally, the letter gives Charlie hope and motivation to continue searching for this peaceful, alternate reality, reinforcing his desire to find solace in a simpler, bygone era.
(b) How did the ‘duraisani’ behave on receiving the gifts ?
The ‘duraisani’ kept all the 50 diamond rings she received as gifts and sent a "thank you" reply to the Tiger King, expressing her gratitude for the generous gesture. Her behavior showcased her acceptance and appreciation of the extravagant gifts, which highlighted the Tiger King's attempt to appease and impress her.
(c) How does Mr. Lamb try and convince Derry that there is no essential difference between them ?
Mr. Lamb tries to convince Derry that there is no essential difference between them by highlighting that both of them are disabled—Derry with his burned face and Mr. Lamb with his tin leg. He points out that the only difference is their age, with Derry being young and Mr. Lamb being old. Mr. Lamb emphasises that what truly matters is a person's inner qualities, not their outward appearance. Additionally, he acknowledges that both of them have been mocked and ridiculed by others, further showing their shared experiences and common ground.
Q 6. Long Question | Flamingo ( 120-150 words)
(a) The last lesson reflects the flaws in human character that led to the sad plight of people in Alsace. Substantiate your answer with evidences from the text.
"The Last Lesson" reflects the flaws in human character that contributed to the sad plight of people in Alsace through various evidences in the text. Firstly, the disregard for the importance of learning the mother tongue and education is evident, as people postponed learning till tomorrow. Instead of prioritising education, children were sent to work on farms or mills, reflecting a lack of value placed on academic pursuits. Even M. Hamel, the teacher, contributed to this negligence by prioritising his personal interests, such as tending to his flowers, over teaching the children. Furthermore, the declaration of a holiday by M. Hamel when he wanted to go fishing exemplifies a lack of dedication to education, emphasising personal desires over the future of the students. These instances underscore the collective apathy towards education and cultural preservation, ultimately leading to the unfortunate state of affairs in Alsace.
(b) A Roadside Stand is a social satire depicting the two contrasting worlds existing in society. Justify this statement with reference to the poem.
"A Roadside Stand" serves as a social satire by portraying the stark contrast between the selfishness of the rich and the struggles of the poor village folks. The village folks are depicted with a childish longing and unrealistic expectations, as they eagerly await prospective customers from the city to fulfill their desires for a better life. Their constant hope, symbolized by the "windows of hope always open," reflects their desperation and unhappiness in their current situation. On the other hand, the city dwellers are portrayed as wealthy and selfish individuals who ignore the roadside stand and its operators. They only complain about inconsequential issues like wrong signs, demonstrating their apathy towards the plight of the villagers. Furthermore, the city dwellers are depicted as greedy benefactors who exploit the villagers' vulnerability for their own gain. Through these contrasting depictions, the poem effectively critiques the societal divide between the rich and the poor, highlighting the exploitation and indifference prevalent in society.
Q7. Long Question | Vistas ( 120-150 words)
(a) Mr. Lamb stands as a symbol of optimism and hope. Support your answer with examples from the text.
Mr. Lamb indeed stands as a symbol of optimism and hope in the story, exemplified by several instances throughout the text. Despite being disabled, he maintains a remarkably positive attitude towards life, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. Mr. Lamb's empathy is evident as he welcomes and listens to others, always keeping his gate open and eschewing curtains to signify his openness to people and experiences. He finds solace in nature, spending time listening to its sounds and appreciating its beauty, showcasing his ability to find joy in simple pleasures. Moreover, Mr. Lamb harbors no hatred towards anyone, even those who mocked him, exemplifying forgiveness and compassion. He considers everyone a friend, emphasizing his inclusive and accepting nature. Overall, Mr. Lamb's efforts to celebrate life despite his challenges serve as a beacon of hope and optimism in the story, inspiring others to embrace positivity and kindness.
(b) Dr. Sadao emerges as a saviour of humanity. Substantiate your answer with evidence from the text.
Dr. Sadao emerges as a savior of humanity through his actions in the story, exemplified by several key instances. Despite Japan and America being enemies during wartime, Dr. Sadao's humanitarian instincts prevail when he discovers a wounded American soldier washed ashore. Despite the conflict of duty as both a doctor and a patriot, Dr. Sadao risks his career and family's safety by treating the soldier, demonstrating his commitment to saving lives above all else. He even goes as far as to clear his conscience by informing the General of the soldier's presence. Moreover, Dr. Sadao helps the soldier, named Tom, escape safely, rising above narrow prejudices and showing compassion and empathy towards a fellow human being in need. These actions underscore Dr. Sadao's role as a savior of humanity, as he prioritizes compassion, ethics, and the value of human life above nationalistic conflicts and personal considerations.
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