If you are preparing for the HS First Year English exam, using the ASSEB/AHSEC Class 11 English Solved Question Paper 2015 can be very useful. Solved question papers help you understand how the exam is set and what kinds of questions might come. In this article, we will explain how the HS First Year English Solved Question Paper 2015 can help you and why it is important for Assam Board Class 11 English students.
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AHSEC CLASS 11 ENGLISH QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION 2015 - COMPLETE
2015
General English
Full Marks: 100
1. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Mahatma Gandhi has laid great stress on Satyagraha in his thoughts. Satyagraha means pursuance of truth. It means striving for truth even by undergoing physical pain. Gandhi relied on the methods of non-violence to strive for truth. Thus it was agreeable to him to suffer physical hardship for the sake of truth. He used to accept Satyagraha not simply as a means but as a principle by itself. He himself had written that Satyagraha is a spiritual principle based on love for mankind. There is no feeling of hatred towards the opponents in it. He used to regard Satyagraha as the most potent force. In ‘Hind Swaraj’ he wrote: ‘Passive resistance (Satyagraha) is an all sided sword, it can be used anyhow. It blesses him who used it and him against whom it is used without drawing a drop of blood. It produces for reaching results. It never rusts and cannot be stolen’.
Gandhi considered four conditions to be necessary for a Satyagraha. He stated, ‘After a great deal of experience it seems to me that those who want to become passive resisters for the service of the country have to (i) observe perfect chastity, (ii) adopt poverty (iii) follow truth and (iv) cultivate fearlessness. Gandhi used to give enough stress on morality. In his view, truth was the essence of morality.
Gandhi laid great stress on non-violence along with truth. He used to consider non-violence as a symbol of strength rather than of cowardice. On 11 August 1946, he wrote in ‘Young India’, Even if non-violence means taking hardship consciously in a constructive manner, nevertheless this principle does not support surrendering oneself before the tormentor. On the contrary, it encourages one to face a tormentor with full soul force’. Elsewhere he said, ‘I believe that non-violence has the power to solve all problems. At the same time I have this faith that if any country in the world can find a solution to all problems through non-violence, it is only India.’
Questions:
(a) What is Satyagraha? 1
Ans. Satyagraha means pursuance of truth. It means striving for truth even by undergoing physical pain.
(b) What did Gandhi write about Satyagraha in ‘Hind Swaraj’? 2
Ans. In ‘Hind Swaraj’ he wrote ‘Passive resistance (Satyagraha) is an all sided sword, it can be used anyhow. It blesses him who uses ti and him against whom it is used without drawing a drop of bold. It produces for reaching results. It never rusts and cannot be stolen.’
(c) What, according to Gandhi, are the four conditions necessary for the success of Satyagraha? 2
Ans. According to Gandhi, those who want to become passive resisters for the service of the country have to (i) observe perfect chastity, (ii) adopt poverty (iii) follow truth and (iv) cultivate fearlessness.
(d) What are the view of Gandhi on Non-violence? 3
Ans. Gandhi laid great stress on non-violence along with truth. He used in consider non-violence as a symbol of strength rather than of cowardice. On 11 August 1946, he wrote in ‘Young India’. ‘Even if non-violence means taking hardship consciously in a constructive manner, nevertheless this principle does not support surrendering oneself before the tormentor. On the contrary, it encourages one to face a tormentor with full soul force’. Else where he said, ‘I believe that non-violence has the power to solve all problems. At the same time I have this faith that if any country in the world can find a solution to all problems through non-violence, it is only India’.
(e) In which country can one find a solution to all problems through non-violence?
Ans. India.
(f) Pick out words from the passage that mean. 1×3=3
(i) Powerful
Ans. Potent
(ii) Fear or lack of courage
Ans. Cowardice
(iii) A person who causes somebody to suffer
Ans. Tormentor
2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
How does television affect our lives? It can be very helpful to people who carefully choose the shows that they watch. Television can make us know more about the outside world; there are good programs that help us understand many subjects: science, medicine, the arts, and so on. Moreover, television helps the old and the sick who can’t leave the house or the hospital. It also gives learners of a foreign language lot of chances to practice the language and improve their vocabulary and listening.
On the other hand, there are several serious disadvantages to television. Of course, it gives us a pleasant way to relax and spend our free time, but in some countries, people watch the “boob tube” for over six hours a day. Many children watch TV for more hours each day than they do anything else, including studying and sleeping. It’s clear that the tube has a powerful influence on their lives and that its influence if often very bad.
Recent studies show that after only thirty seconds of TV, a person’s brain “relaxes” the same way that it does just before the person falls asleep. This is how television affects the brain and makes people unable to concentrate. Children who watch a lot of TV can often concentrate on a subject for only fifteen to twenty minutes; they can pay attention only for the amount of time between commercials!
Another disadvantage is that TV often makes people unhappy with their own lives. Real life does not seem as exciting to these people as the lives of actors on the screen. To many people, TV becomes more real than their own lives, which seem boring to them. Also, many people get upset when they can’t solve problems in real life as quickly as TV actors seem to. On the screen, actors solve serious problems in a half-hour program.
By the age of fourteen, a child will have watched eleven thousand killings on the tube. He or she begins to believe that there is nothing strange about fights, killings, and other kinds of violence. Many studies show that people become more violent after watching certain programs. They may even do the things that they saw in a violent show. An example is the effect of the movie The Deer Hunter. After it appeared on TV in the United States, twenty-nine people tried to kill themselves in a way similar to an event in the film.
The worst influence of the “boob tube” might be people’s addiction to it. People often feel a strong need be people’s addiction to it. People often feel a strong need to watch TV even when they don’t enjoy it. Addiction to a TV screen is similar to drug or alcohol addiction: People almost never believe they are addicted.
Questions:
(a) On the basis of your reading of the above passage, make notes on it using recognizable abbreviations wherever necessary. Add a suitable title to it.
Ans. A. TV and its advantages:
Increase our knowledge.
Helps to undrstnd science, mden, arts etc.
Helps old ppl and patnts in Hosptls.
Provides infrml language prctce to non native spkrs.
B. TV and its disadvantages:
Ppl spnd more time on TV.
Ngatv influence on children.
Causes ppl to bcom dissatisfied with their own live.
Ppl bcom more violent.
Most negative one is ppl’s addiction to it.
Title: Television and its effects on people.
Abbreviations used:
TV-Television.
Undrstnd-understand.
Mden-medicine.
Ppl-People.
Patnts-patients.
Hosptls-hospitals.
Infrml-informal.
Prctce-practice.
Spkrs-speakers.
Ngatv-negative.
Bcom-become.
(b) Make a summary of the above passage in about 80 words.
Answer:- Television has both positive and negative effects on our lives. On the positive side, it offers educational programs on topics like science, medicine, and the arts, and helps the elderly and sick stay connected when they cannot leave the house. It also aids in language learning by providing opportunities to practice vocabulary and listening skills. However, excessive TV watching can have several drawbacks. It can reduce concentration, especially in children, who often struggle to focus for more than a few minutes. TV can also make people dissatisfied with their own lives by creating unrealistic expectations and promoting violence. The worst effect is addiction, where people continue watching TV even when they don’t enjoy it, similar to substance addiction, without realizing the impact.
SECTION – B
WRITING
3. There was a cultural function in your school/college on the occasion of school/college Annual day. Prepare a report to be published in the Assam Tribune. 5
Annual Day Celebrations
Date: [Date of the Cultural Function]
Location: [School/College Name]
The annual day celebrations at [School/College Name] were marked by a spectacular cultural function that showcased the vibrant talents of our students. The event, held on [Date], brought together students, faculty, and parents for an evening of entertainment and celebration.
The cultural program featured a variety of performances, including dance, music, drama, and poetry recitations. Students captivated the audience with their mesmerizing dance routines, melodious musical performances, and thought-provoking theatrical acts.
Special guests and dignitaries graced the occasion, adding to the grandeur of the event. Awards and accolades were also presented to students for their outstanding achievements in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities.
The cultural function served as a platform for students to showcase their talents and creativity, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the school/college community.
Overall, the annual day celebrations at [School/College Name] were a resounding success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of students, teachers, and staff.
[Your Name]
[Your Position/Designation]
[School/College Name] Or
Describe the process of stitching up a cloth bag to your friend. Use the following clues to describe the process: A Pair of scissors, beads-needle or thread or sewing machine-thick cotton cloth at least one metre in length. 5
Ans: Stitching of a cloth bag
For a decent and durable cloth bag the things required to stitch up are a pair of scissor, beads for decoration, needle, thread and sewing machine. Thick Cotton cloth at least one metre in length is also required. Fold the cloth in half (right sides facing) and with the help of scissor, trim it to the size you need, leaving about 1-2 centimeter left for stitching. Sew the two parallel loose sides about 1-2 centimeter. Sew the handle on about 5 centimeter down from the top edge. Carefully turn the bag inside out. The bag handle should now also look as if has been attached inside the bag. Now use beads and other decorative to design it.
4. You are asked to address the morning assembly of your school on the topic, ‘Value of games and sports’. Prepare a speech in 100-150 words: 5
Ans:
Respected Principal sir, teachers and dear friends.
Good morning everyone,
Today, I stand before you to emphasize the value of games and sports in our lives. Beyond mere physical exercise, games and sports play a crucial role in shaping our character, fostering teamwork, and instilling discipline.
Participation in sports teaches us important life lessons such as resilience, perseverance, and the ability to handle both success and failure gracefully. It promotes a healthy lifestyle and helps in relieving stress and anxiety, thereby improving our overall well-being.
Furthermore, sports provide a platform for building camaraderie and forging lifelong friendships. Whether on the field or the court, we learn to work together towards a common goal, developing essential skills that are applicable in various aspects of life.
Therefore, let us embrace the value of games and sports, not just for physical fitness, but also for the invaluable life lessons they impart.
Thank you. Or
The use of plastic is not eco-friendly. Things made of plastic are not biodegradable. Write an article on the topic ‘Say no to plastic!’ in 100-150 words. 5
Ans:
Say no to Plastic Bags
The usage of plastic bags has become a part of life style in the 20th century. People go empty handed to the shops and return with loads of plastic bags. The concerns of Plastic bags towards the environment are too huge to ignore.
Plastic bags were mostly made of ‘polyethylene’ which is made out of petroleum. If you find the words PE on any plastic bag, be sure that it was made out of Polyethylene. Petroleum as we know is a limited natural resource, which can be exhausted if used irrationally. Besides, numerous toxic chemicals were released while manufacturing the Polyethylene. A plastic bag once thrown on the ground takes centuries together to degenerate. Since most of the plastic bags we use are not biodegradable, they would just break into small pieces and will never completely decompose into the earth! .The plastic bags left as a garbage would severely affect the wild life. Stray dogs and cows would eat them along with the food left in them. Marine creatures would mistake them to be jelly fish and consume them. Even the sea birds and turtles also eat the pieces of plastic bags thinking them to be of some kind of prey. Such an intake is almost fatal to creatures either instantly or in the long run. The garbage of plastic bags is the main culprit for blocking the drainage systems. They would just gather at the sewage blocking the flow of water. granules would become a part of the food chain! . Its damn easy to say no plastic bags. Keep a bag made out of jute or cotton with you. Don’t insist for a plastic bag if you don’t need one. If you have purchased a single commodity, carry it by hand. Don’t throw away the old plastic bags carelessly. Whenever you wish to depend on a plastic bag, be aware of the fact that it would be for centuries together on the earth. So let’s keep our earth clean!
5. You are Ranjan/Ranjana. You have come across an advertisement in a local daily regarding a situation vacant for the post of Assistant Teacher in a school at Jorhat. Write an application to the Headmaster of the school submitting your candidature for the same. Mention other relevant details. 10
Ans:
Ranjan/Ranjana
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
The Headmaster
[School Name]
[School Address]
Jorhat
Subject: Application for the Post of Assistant Teacher
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in the position of Assistant Teacher advertised in [Name of the Local Daily] dated [Date]. With a strong passion for education and a dedication to nurturing young minds, I believe I am well-suited for this role.
I have completed my [Degree/Diploma] in [Subject] from [University/Institution Name] and have acquired [mention any additional qualifications or certifications, if applicable]. Additionally, I have [mention any relevant teaching experience, if applicable], which has equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively engage with students and create a conducive learning environment.
My approach to teaching emphasizes interactive and innovative methods that cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and support. I am committed to fostering holistic development in students, nurturing their academic growth, as well as their social and emotional well-being.
I am eager to contribute to the academic excellence of [School Name] and collaborate with the esteemed faculty to create a stimulating and enriching educational experience for the students.
Enclosed with this letter are my resume and relevant documents for your perusal. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my qualifications and experiences align with the requirements of the position.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the educational journey at [School Name].
Yours sincerely,
Ranjan/Ranjana
ENCLOSURE:
1.Testimonials
2.Bio- data
BIO-DATA
NAME : X
FATHER NAME : XYZ
ADDESS : Examination Hall
CONTACT : 9987XXXXXX
DATE OF BIRTH : 11/10/19XX
NATIONALITY : Indian
RELIGION : Hindu
MARITAL STATUS : Unmarried
GENDER : Male
AGE : 28 years
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION
WORK EXPERIENCE:
SKILLS:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Working knowledge of Tally, Excel, MS-Word.
Achievements:
Winner of Inter –college Debate Competiton (20XX-20XX)
Hobby: Interacting with people, reading books, cricket etc.
Language Known: Hindi, English, Bengali, Assamese.
Declaration:
I solemnly declare that all the above information are correct to the best of my knowledge.
Date: 23/02/20XX Ranjan/Ragini.
Place: Tezpur Signature
Or
There is no bus stop within a radius of 2 km. from your locality, causing a lot of inconvenience to the residents. Write a letter to the Editor of the Telegraph drawing attention of the authorities concerned to this problem. You are Mrinal/Malini.
Ans:
Jakubari, Guwahati
12th Febuary,2015
The Editor
The Telegraph
Guwahati- 781001
Sub: Inconvenience caused due to lack of bus stop.
Sir,
Through the esteemed columns of your newspaper, I want to draw the attention of the authorities towards inconvenience caused due to lack of bus stop within a radius of 2 km from Jakubari area.
People of Jakubari area face immence inconvenience caused due to lack of bus stop within a radius of 2 km from Jakubari area. One can notice that buses running on the main road for all places in Guwahati at every five minutes.
But, it is rather strange to note that the Government has not provided enough bus stops to cover Jakubari area. The residents have to walk more than 2 km to catch a local bus. Hiring of a rickshaw of a three wheeler is very costly for a common man. The chilly or the hot rough weather other puts the passengers in a great problem. This also wastes time, energy and stamina of the residents.
For lady passengers it is not advisable to walk long distances from the safety point of view.Being a fully residential area, it is necessary to provide bus stops at all the stops at all the appropriate points in this area.
I hope the authorities would definitely consider our difficulty and provide enough bus stops for the convenience of the passengers. It will provide relief to all of us as moving long distances of about 2 km in winter and hot sun is very troublesome and tiresome.
Yours truly
Mrinal/ Malini.
SECTION – C
GRAMMAR
6. Rewrite the following sentences after making necessary correction of errors, (any four) 1×4=4
(a) Everybody have to work.
Ans. Everybody has to work.
(b) She said she will take care of the baby.
Ans. She said she would take care of the baby.
(c) One should learn how to read and write in his mother language.
Ans. One should learn how to read and write in one’s mother language.
(d) He left the hostel with bag and baggage.
Ans. He left the hostel bag and baggage.
(e) He is a MA in History.
Ans. he is an MA in History.
(f) My mother never listens what I say.
Ans. My mother never listens to what I say.
7. Rearrange the words and phrases of the following to form meaningful sentences: any two: 1×2=2
(a) He has yet not from returned school.
Ans. He has not yet retuned from school.
(b) Mahesh not know swim does to how.
Ans. Mahesh does not know how to swim.
(c) Are harmless to people most bats.
Ans. Most bats are harmless to people.
(d) People along had up lined road the.
Ans. people had lined up along the road.
8. Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb given in brackets: (any four) 1×4=4
(a) I wish I ____ a king (be)
Ans. Were.
(b) The earth ____ round the sun. (revolve)
Ans. Revolves.
(c) It ____ since morning. (rain)
Ans. Has been raining.
(d) The Prime Minister ____ here tomorrow. (come)
Ans. Will come.
(e) If you came here, you ____ him. (see)
Ans. Would have seen.
SECTION – D
TEXTUAL QUESTIONS
9. Read one of the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
The cardboard shows me how it was
When the two girl cousins went paddling
Each one holding one of my mother’s hands
And she the big girl-some twelve years or so
What does the cardboard show the poet? 1
Ans: The cardboard shows the poet, the photograph of her mother, along with her two girls cousins.
How did the girls go to the sea beach? 1
Ans: the girls went to the sea beach paddling.
Why did the two girl cousins hold one of the poet’s mother’s hands? How old was the poet’s mother? 1+1=2
Ans: Two girl cousins was holding one of the poet’s mother’s hands because she was the eldest one among them.
Who clicked the three girls in the cardboard? 1
Ans: The poet’s mother’s uncle clicked the photograph.
When did my childhood go?
Was it the day I ceased to be eleven,
Was it the time I realized that Hell and Heaven,
Could not be found in Geography,
And therefore could not be
Was that the day!
1. What is the poet asking for?
The poet is asking when their childhood ended, questioning the exact moment when they stopped being a child.
2. What does ‘Hell and Heaven’ stand for?
‘Hell and Heaven’ symbolize the innocence and simplicity of childhood beliefs, representing the ideas of good and bad, which are not necessarily tied to physical places but were once accepted unconditionally by the child.
3. What phase of life does the stanza reveal?
The stanza reveals the phase of growing up, where the poet starts questioning the things they once believed, such as the existence of Heaven and Hell, which marks the loss of innocence.
4. How does the poet describe the process of being grown up?
The poet describes growing up as a gradual realization and a loss of innocence. It is the moment when the simplicity of childhood beliefs is replaced with a more complex understanding of the world, signaling the end of childhood and the beginning of maturity.
10. Answer any one of the following questions: 2×2=4
1. Why would the poet’s mother laugh at the snapshot?
The poet’s mother would laugh at the snapshot because it reminded her of her younger days, possibly of her carefree childhood or her youthful innocence, which might have seemed amusing or nostalgic to her at that time.
2. How is the cyclic movement of rain brought out in the poem, ‘The Voice of the Rain’?
In "The Voice of the Rain," the poet brings out the cyclic movement of rain through the description of the rain's journey. The rain descends from the sky, nourishes the earth, and is eventually absorbed by the earth's surface. It then evaporates back into the atmosphere to form clouds and repeats the cycle, symbolizing the constant and eternal process of nature.
3. In the poem, Childhood, the poet asks two questions – one is about the time and the other about the place. Why does he ask these questions?
The poet asks these questions to reflect on the moment when childhood fades away, pondering if it was a specific event or realization that marked its end. By questioning both the time and place, the poet expresses the uncertainty and complexity of growing up and losing the innocence of childhood.
4. What is the father’s greatest wish for his son?
The father’s greatest wish for his son is that he may not follow in his footsteps, but instead pursue his own path and achieve success through his hard work. He hopes that his son will live a life of fulfillment and self-reliance, free from the struggles and challenges the father faced in his own life.
11. Answer any five of the following questions briefly: 3×5=15
1. How did the sparrows react to the death of the author’s grandmother?
After the author's grandmother's death, the sparrows gathered around her body in silence, without chirping. They sat quietly, as though mourning her passing. Despite being offered crumbs of food, they did not eat, displaying a somber tribute to her.
2. What is the difference between village school education and urban school education as brought out in the lesson ‘The Portrait of a Lady’?
In "The Portrait of a Lady," the difference between village and urban school education is highlighted by the simpler, more traditional nature of the village school compared to the modern, formal system in the city. The village school was based on a community-oriented and intimate way of learning, while urban education was more structured, formal, and impersonal.
3. Describe the boat which was made for undertaking the voyage in the lesson, ‘We are not afraid to die….’
In "We Are Not Afraid to Die…," the boat designed for the voyage was a sturdy, specially built vessel called the Wavewalker. It was equipped to endure the tough conditions of the sea and had a strong steel hull, which helped ensure the safety of the crew during their challenging journey.
4. Why was Howard Carter’s investigation resented?
Howard Carter's investigation into King Tutankhamun’s tomb was resented because it was seen as a disruption of the sacredness and history of Egypt's ancient tombs. Some Egyptians believed that his work was an intrusion into their cultural heritage, while others were frustrated by the lengthy process and the expense of the excavation.
5. What do you understand by the concept of ‘sustainable development’ as explained in ‘The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role’?
The concept of sustainable development, as explained in "The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role," refers to the idea of meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, ensuring long-term ecological stability.
6. Why does Taplow say Mr. Crocker-Harris cannot be a sadist?
Taplow says Mr. Crocker-Harris cannot be a sadist because, despite being strict and unapproachable, he is not cruel. He does not derive pleasure from punishing others or causing them harm; rather, his discipline is a part of his professional demeanor and character, showing a sense of responsibility rather than sadism.
7. Describe and contrast the features of the Chinese and the European art landscapes.
Chinese and European art landscapes differ in their treatment of space, perspective, and nature. Chinese landscapes emphasize a harmonious and spiritual connection with nature, often using ink wash techniques and portraying vast, open landscapes with a focus on mountains, water, and skies. European landscapes, on the other hand, often use perspective to create a sense of depth and realism, with more attention to detail and the inclusion of human figures in the composition.
8. What does Verrier Elwin have to say to the hill people of Assam?
Verrier Elwin, in his interactions with the hill people of Assam, emphasizes the importance of preserving their culture, traditions, and way of life. He advocates for understanding and respecting their customs while also acknowledging their need for progress and modernization. Elwin believes in the balance between preserving indigenous culture and adapting to contemporary changes.
9. How do East Africans and Indians differ in their attitude to animals?
East Africans and Indians have differing attitudes toward animals based on cultural and religious beliefs. East Africans often view animals primarily as part of their ecosystem and may rely on them for livelihood (e.g., herding, farming), while Indians, influenced by religions like Hinduism, often view animals with reverence and believe in non-violence. In India, animals like cows are considered sacred, and there is a deep spiritual connection to many animals.
12. Answer any one of the following questions: 6×1=6
1. Cite reasons to validate whether the distancing relationship between the author and his grandmother was deliberate or beyond their control.
The distancing relationship between the author and his grandmother in “The Portrait of a Lady” seems to be more beyond their control rather than deliberate. As the author grew older and moved to the city for further education, physical distance began to grow. The grandmother's own world also shifted, as her life became more centered around religious duties and traditions, which may have led to her becoming less involved in the author's day-to-day life. This shift in their relationship wasn't out of intention but rather due to the natural progression of life and circumstances. It reflects the changes that naturally come with age and growth.
2. What is the Daoist concept of ‘Shanshui’ and Daoist view of the universe?
The Daoist concept of Shanshui refers to the traditional Chinese landscape painting style, which literally means "mountain-water" and symbolizes the natural elements of nature—mountains and water—representing the harmony and balance of nature. In Daoism, this concept reflects the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. The Daoist view of the universe is one of balance and harmony, where everything is interdependent and ever-changing. Daoism teaches the concept of Wu Wei (non-action), where humans should live in alignment with the natural flow of the universe, embracing simplicity and spontaneity.
3. ‘We have not inherited this Earth from our forefathers: we have borrowed it from our children’ Justify this statement.
This statement emphasizes the responsibility we have towards the environment and future generations. It suggests that we do not own the Earth but are merely caretakers for the next generation. Our actions today, particularly in terms of environmental conservation, will determine the quality of life for our children and their descendants. This perspective urges us to protect and preserve the planet, emphasizing sustainability, so that we pass on a world that is livable and thriving, rather than one that has been exploited and damaged beyond repair.
4. Compare and contrast Verrier Elwin’s views regarding his visits to the Game Sanctuaries of Kenya and Tanganyika on the one hand and Kaziranga on the other.
Verrier Elwin’s visits to the Game Sanctuaries of Kenya and Tanganyika, compared to Kaziranga, reflect differing attitudes towards wildlife conservation. In Kenya and Tanganyika, Elwin was impressed by the structured and systematic management of the sanctuaries, where the focus was on preserving species through a balance between tourism, hunting restrictions, and conservation efforts. The conservation efforts were rooted in a colonial framework, with a view towards conserving nature for the benefit of both people and the environment.
In contrast, Elwin found Kaziranga to be a more natural, less regulated environment, where conservation was deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the local people, particularly the indigenous communities. In Kaziranga, there was a stronger connection between nature and the people, and the local population was directly involved in protecting wildlife. This community-based approach in India differed from the more top-down, Western-influenced model in Kenya and Tanganyika, highlighting a contrast in conservation methodologies.
13. Answer any one of the following questions: 6×1=6
1. "Mourad was the natural descendant of the crazy streak of Uncle Khosrove." Explain the statement giving instances from the story "The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse."
Answer:
This statement reflects how Mourad inherits his uncle Khosrove's impulsive, extravagant, and reckless nature. Uncle Khosrove is portrayed as a passionate, hot-tempered individual who often acts without thinking. Similarly, Mourad exhibits traits of adventure, impulsiveness, and a disregard for rules, particularly when he steals the horse. Despite the wrongness of his actions, he remains confident and carefree. For instance, Mourad's attitude towards stealing the horse and later convincing Aram to join him is reminiscent of Uncle Khosrove's behavior, as both characters act on their whims without concern for consequences. Thus, Mourad embodies the "crazy streak" of his uncle.
2. "Have you come back?" said the woman. "I thought no one had come back." Does this statement give some clues about the story? If yes, what are they?
Answer:
Yes, this statement gives some clues about the story. It hints at a sense of loss or separation in the narrative. The woman’s words suggest that there has been an absence or a delay, and her belief that "no one had come back" implies a sense of despair or a previous departure. This could indicate that the story involves themes of returning after a long absence, possibly reflecting on personal growth, reunion, or the consequences of a journey or departure. The idea of waiting for someone and the uncertainty surrounding their return suggests emotional depth in the storyline.
3. "English integrates India as a nation or it belittles the expressions of native speakers." Elucidate with examples from the lesson "Ranga's Marriage."
Answer:
In the story "Ranga’s Marriage," the role of English in Indian society is examined in terms of its impact on identity and cultural expression. English, in some ways, serves as a unifying factor, helping integrate people from different parts of India, as it provides a common language of communication, especially in education and governance. However, at the same time, English is seen to belittle the native expressions of the people. The characters in the story, particularly Ranga, are caught between their traditional rural upbringing and the influence of English education. Ranga, after being educated in English, begins to adopt more Western values, distancing himself from his native cultural practices, like his hesitation to marry according to tradition. The story highlights the conflict between embracing a global language and losing the essence of one's native heritage.
4. Describe the circumstances leading to Albert getting a medical certificate issued declaring him unfit to continue school.
Answer:
Albert, a student in the story, seeks to avoid attending school due to various reasons, including his dissatisfaction with the rigidity of school life. He concocts a plan to get a medical certificate declaring him unfit for school. Albert’s reasoning stems from his desire to escape the pressures of formal education, possibly due to the authoritarian teaching methods and the demands placed on students. He visits the doctor and convincingly portrays symptoms of illness, which ultimately lead to the doctor issuing the certificate. This event reflects Albert's struggle with the traditional schooling system and his desire for more freedom.
14. Answer any two of the following questions in brief: 2×2=4
1. Describe the quality of the mangoes of Hosahalli village.
Answer:
The mangoes of Hosahalli village are described as being exceptionally sweet and of superior quality. They are known for their unique taste and richness, which makes them highly sought after. The mangoes are so delicious that they are considered a special treat, and their flavor stands out among others. The villagers take great pride in growing these mangoes, and their reputation for quality spreads far and wide.
2. What was the Mathematics teacher Koch’s opinion about Albert’s mathematical knowledge?
Answer:
Mathematics teacher Koch holds a rather dismissive opinion about Albert’s mathematical knowledge. He believes that Albert lacks the necessary skills and understanding to excel in the subject. Koch sees Albert as a student who struggles with mathematics and does not show much promise. This view leads to Albert’s desire to escape from school and seek a way out of the pressures of education, particularly mathematics.
3. What is Cyril’s prime fault as expressed by Mrs. Pearson?
Answer:
Mrs. Pearson expresses that Cyril’s prime fault is his inconsiderate and selfish nature. She feels that Cyril is always focused on his own needs and desires without considering how his actions affect others. Mrs. Pearson highlights his lack of empathy, particularly in his interactions with her and his family. This selfishness is seen as a key flaw in Cyril’s character that Mrs. Pearson wants to address.
4. Why was Joe and Susan Morgan’s case special for Andrews?
Answer:
Joe and Susan Morgan’s case was special for Andrews because it involved a highly emotional and unique situation. Andrews, as a character, is touched by the personal circumstances of the Morgans. Their case stands out because of the depth of human emotion involved, possibly due to their relationship dynamics, challenges, or struggles. Andrews feels a strong connection to the Morgans, which makes their case different from the others he deals with.
5. Cite one instance of irony from the poem, ‘The Tale of Melon City’.
Answer:
One instance of irony in the poem "The Tale of Melon City" is when the king, in an attempt to find the true culprit of a construction disaster, orders that the architect be hanged. However, in a twist, the king ultimately decrees that the blame lies with the melon itself after an absurd series of events. The irony lies in the fact that the king, in his search for justice, ends up making an illogical and nonsensical decision, thus highlighting the absurdity of the entire process.
6. Was Ratna a victim of the arranged marriage system?
Answer:
Yes, Ratna was a victim of the arranged marriage system. She was forced into a marriage without her consent, as is common in the system, where the choice of a life partner is made by her parents or elders. Ratna's lack of agency and her acceptance of the marriage, despite her own wishes and feelings, reflect the limitations placed on her as a woman in that context. The arranged marriage system restricts personal choice and freedom, making Ratna a victim of societal norms and expectations.
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