If you are preparing for the HS First Year English exam, using the ASSEB/AHSEC Class 11 English Solved Question Paper 2017 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 2017 can help you and why it is important for Assam Board Class 11 English students.
AHSEC Class 11 English Question Paper Solution 2017 - Complete ✅
H.S. 1ST YEAR EXAMINATION
2017
English
Full Marks: 90
Time: 3 hours
Figures in the margin indicate full mark for the questions
SECTION – A (Reading)
1. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Look at the opposition between the pen and the sword. The sword can only destroy, ideas also can destroy – the ideas of Bolshevism destroyed Czarism; the ideas of Voltaire and Rousseau destroyed the French aristocracy. But ideas can also build, whereas the sword can only destroy.
It is in fact the power of ideas which has brought us out of barbarism into such civilization as we have been able to achieve. “In what”, asked Aristotle, “Does man differ from the animal?” and answered, “it is by virtue of a reason.” The greatness of man consists in his thinking. The universe is vast, and man is tiny, but man has one advantage over the universe. He knows it is vast and he is tiny, but the universe does not.
In this sense, that it is to ideas and not to violence, to the pen and not to the sword, that man owes whatever has distinguished him from animals, whatever has enabled him to rise above a purely savage condition. For the pen is the vehicle of thought, and it is by thought that man is enabled to voyage through the infinite in philosophy, to unlock the secrets of the universe, to create beauty and to commune with God,
Questions:
(a) (i) What destroyed Czarism? 1
Ans: The ideas of Bolshevism destroyed Czarism.
(ii) Who were responsible for the fall of the French aristocracy? 1
Ans: The ideas of Voltaire and Rousseau were responsible for the fall of the French aristocracy.
(iii) What has brought humankind out of barbarism into civilization? 1
Ans: The power of ideas has brought humankind out of barbarism into civilization.
(iv) What does the pen represent here? 1
Ans: The pen represents the vehicle of thought.
(v) How do ideas and the sword differ from each other? 2
Ans: Ideas and the sword differ in that the sword can only destroy, while ideas have the power to both destroy and build. Ideas can bring about change and progress, while the sword is limited to destruction.
(vi) What, according to Aristotle, makes man different from the animal? 2
Ans: According to Aristotle, what makes man different from the animal is his ability to reason.
(vii) What is the one advantage that man has over the universe? 2
Ans: The one advantage that man has over the universe is that he knows the vastness of the universe and his own smallness, whereas the universe does not have this knowledge.
(b) Pick out words from the passage that mean the following: 1×2=2
(i) People of noble birth or rank.
Ans: Aristocracy
(ii) Primitive condition.
Ans: Barbarism
2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
1) How does television affect our lives? It can be very helpful to people who carefully choose the shows that they watch. Television can increase out knowledge of the outside world; there are high-quality programmes that help us understand many fields of study such as science, medicine, the arts, and so on. Moreover, television benefits very old people who cannot often leave the house as well as patients in hospitals. It also offers non-native speakers the advantage of daily informal language practice. They can increase their vocabulary and practice listening.
2) On the other hand, there are several serious disadvantages of television. Of course, it provides us with a pleasant way to relax and spend our free time, but in some countries, people watch the ‘boob-tube’ for an average of six hours or more a day. Many children stare at a television screen 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 is often negative.
3) Recent studies show that after only thirty seconds of television watching, a person’s brain ‘relaxes’ the same way that it does just before the person falls asleep. Another effect of television on the human brain is that it seems to cause poor concentration. Children who view a lot of television can often concentrate on a subject for only 15 to 20 minutes.
4) Another disadvantage is that television often causes people to become dissatisfied 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, television becomes more real than reality and their own lives seem boring. Also, many people get upset or depressed when they cannot solve problems in real life as quickly as television actors seem to.
5) Before a child is 14 years old, he or she views eleven thousand murders 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 certain programmes. They may even do things that they have seen in a violent show.
6) The most negative effect of the ‘boob tube’ might be people’s addiction to it. People often feel a strange and powerful need to watch television even when they do not enjoy it. Addiction to a television screen is similar to drug or alcohol addiction. People almost never believe they are addicted.
Question:
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. 5
(a) Notes on the passage:
Title: Effects of Television on Our Lives
Positive Effects:
Helpful for those who choose shows carefully.
Increases knowledge in science, medicine, arts, etc.
Beneficial for elderly and hospital patients.
Offers language practice for non-native speakers.
Negative Effects:
Excessive viewing (6+ hours daily) affects children’s study and sleep.
Brain Relaxation: Brain relaxes after 30 seconds of watching.
Poor Concentration: Children focus for 15-20 minutes only.
Dissatisfaction: Viewers feel real life is dull compared to TV.
Violence: Children see 11,000 murders by age 14, leading to desensitization to violence.
Addiction: Similar to drug/alcohol addiction, people feel compelled to watch even without enjoyment.
b) Make a summary of the above passage in about 80 words. 3
Answer: Summary: Television has both positive and negative effects on our lives. On the positive side, it increases knowledge, benefits the elderly and sick, and helps non-native speakers with language practice. However, excessive watching, especially by children, can lead to poor concentration, dissatisfaction with real life, and desensitization to violence. Television addiction, similar to drug or alcohol addiction, also affects many people, making them watch despite not enjoying it. In extreme cases, it negatively impacts children’s behavior and perception of reality.
SECTION – B (Writing)
3. You are arranging an excursion trip to Shillong planned in the last week of April. Write a paragraph on your preparations to your classmates in about 100 words given all relevant details. 6
Ans: Dear Classmates,
I am excited to inform you all about the upcoming excursion trip to Shillong planned for the last week of April. As part of our preparations, we have finalized the itinerary, which includes visits to popular tourist spots such as Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and Umiam Lake. We have also arranged comfortable transportation and accommodations for the duration of the trip. Additionally, we are organizing group activities and games to make the excursion more enjoyable for everyone. Please ensure that you have all necessary essentials packed and are ready to embark on this memorable journey together!
Looking forward to exploring Shillong with all of you!
Best regards,
[Your Name
]Or
Your school/college observed the Human Rights Day recently. Prepare a report on the daylong programme in about 80 words to be published in a local daily. 6
Ans:
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY CELEBRATION
Tezpur, 10th Dec,2017: Tezpur [Report]
[Date]
[Location]
[School/College Name] observed Human Rights Day with a daylong program aimed at raising awareness about human rights issues. The event featured various activities such as seminars, panel discussions, and presentations highlighting the importance of upholding human rights for all individuals. Students actively participated in debates and workshops, fostering a deeper understanding of human rights principles and promoting a culture of respect and equality within the school/college community.
[Your Name]
[Your Position/Designation]
[School/College Name]
4. Write a speech to be delivered in the school/college assembly on ‘Importance of Discipline in Life’.
Ans:
Discipline
Respected Principal sir, teachers and dear friends.
Good morning to all of you.
Today, I stand before you to talk about the importance of discipline in life. Discipline is the cornerstone of success and plays a vital role in shaping our character and achieving our goals.
Discipline instills self-control, responsibility, and accountability in our actions. It teaches us to prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and stay focused on our objectives. Without discipline, our efforts become scattered, and our potential remains untapped.
Discipline is not about suppressing our desires or conforming to strict rules. Rather, it is about cultivating good habits, making wise choices, and staying committed to our values and aspirations. It empowers us to overcome obstacles, navigate challenges, and pursue excellence in all our endeavors.
In our academic journey, discipline is essential for academic success. It enables us to stay organized, study diligently, and perform to the best of our abilities. Moreover, discipline extends beyond the classroom and is equally important in our personal and professional lives. Whether it's maintaining a healthy lifestyle, fostering meaningful relationships, or excelling in our careers, discipline is the key to unlocking our full potential.
Let us embrace discipline as a guiding principle in our lives. Let us strive to cultivate discipline in our thoughts, words, and actions, knowing that it is the pathway to success, fulfillment, and happiness.
Thank you.
[Your Name]
[Your Position/Designation]
Or
Write an article for your school/college magazine on the need to fight environmental degradation in our country.
Ans:
Environmental Degradation
In recent years, the issue of environmental degradation has become increasingly urgent and pervasive in our country. From air and water pollution to deforestation and climate change, the degradation of our natural environment poses a grave threat to our planet and future generations.
One of the most pressing environmental challenges we face is pollution. Rapid industrialization and urbanization have led to the release of harmful pollutants into the air and water, endangering human health and ecosystems. In addition, deforestation and habitat destruction have resulted in the loss of biodiversity and the disruption of delicate ecosystems.
Climate change, fueled by greenhouse gas emissions, is another critical issue that demands our immediate attention. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise threaten to destabilize ecosystems, jeopardize food security, and exacerbate poverty and inequality.
To combat environmental degradation, we must take collective action at all levels of society. Individuals can make a difference by adopting sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting eco-friendly products and initiatives. Communities can come together to advocate for environmental protection, promote green infrastructure, and participate in local conservation efforts. Governments must enact and enforce robust environmental policies, invest in renewable energy, and prioritize sustainability in urban planning and development.
Education also plays a crucial role in raising awareness about environmental issues and empowering individuals to take action. Schools and colleges have a responsibility to educate students about the importance of environmental conservation and instill values of stewardship and responsibility for the planet.
As members of the younger generation, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to lead the fight against environmental degradation. By taking action to protect and preserve our natural environment, we can create a sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
Let us come together as a community to stand up for the environment and take meaningful action to address environmental degradation in our country.
[Your Name]
[Your Position/Designation] (if applicable)
[School/College Name]
5. You are Ranjan/Ragini. You have seen an advertisement in The Assam Tribune for the post of Assistant Teacher in an L. P. School in Goalpara. Write an application to the Headmaster of the school in response to the advertisement. Mention all relevant details. 8
Ans:
Examination Hall (* Whenever sender’s address is not given, we may write ‘’Examination Hall ‘’as sender’s address)
23rd Febuary, 20XX
The Headmaster
L. P. School, Goalpara
Subject: An application for the post of Assistant Teacher in Mathematics
Sir,
This is in esponse to your advertisement in ‘The Assam Tribune’ dated 22/2/20XX regarding the post of a ‘Assistant Teacher in Mathematics’. I wish to apply for the same post.
I am outgoing, deligent and open to learning and have good command over English speaking. I have all the requisite qualification and experience. I did my graduation from Sri Ram College, Delhi in Commerce stream. I worked as a maths teacher in A New High School, Tezpur for 1 year. I wish to bring difference in the lives of people through education.
As regard my qualification and experience , I am enclosing my bio- data for your kind consideration. I shall be available for an interview on any day of your convenience.
If selected I shall discharge my duties with utmost devotion and sincerity to your full satisfaction.
Yours sincerely
Arunabh
BIO-DATA
NAME : SOURABH/RIMPI
FATHER NAME : X
ADDRESS : North Lakhimpur( Assam)
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 (2014-2015)
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
Write a letter to the Editor of a local English Daily drawing attention of the authorities concerned to the nuisance of loudspeakers in your area.
Ans:
15th Febuary,2017
The Editor
The Telegraph
Guwahati- 781001
Sub: Complaining about nuisance of loudspeakers.
Sir,
Through the esteemed columns of your newspaper, I want to draw the attention of the authorities towards the noise created by loudspeakers and vehicles.
Not a single day passes, when one cannot escape from the noisy atmosphere. The blaring( loud unpleasant noise) of loudspeakers at the time of religious ceremonies, birthday parties or wedding ceremonies adds to the noise in the area. People use the loudspeakers at a high volume, which harms our ears and other sensitive parts of the body. The vehicular pollution too disturbs our health. The patients are unable to have a sound sleep. The attention of the students is affected due to loud noise, and thus, puts a direct impact on their health and studies.
I request the authorities to take remedial steps in this regard and instruct to use the loud speakers at the lower pitch. This will definitely bring a relief to all. I hope my voice will reach to the authorities and the residents would be protected.
Thanking You
Yours faithfully
Mohan/Anjali.
6. (a) Fill in the blanks with suitable determiners:
i. Do you need ____ help? (some/any)
Answer: Do you need any help?
ii. ____ of the boys was given a pen. (Every/Each)
Answer: Each of the boys was given a pen.
(b) Rewrite the following sentences with the correct form of the verb given in brackets:
i. Football (play) all over the world.
Answer: Football is played all over the world.
ii. She behaves as if she (know) everything.
Answer: She behaves as if she knows everything.
(c) Fill in the blanks with appropriate model auxiliaries (the sense of the sentence is indicated in the bracket):
i. He ____ pay his dues before he can be allowed to sit at the examination. (compulsion)
Answer: He must pay his dues before he can be allowed to sit at the examination.
ii. He ____ listen to what his parents say. (moral duty)
Answer: He should listen to what his parents say.
(d) Correct the following:
i. Guwahati is one of the oldest city in the country.
Answer: Guwahati is one of the oldest cities in the country.
ii. This city is known for its beautiful sceneries.
Answer: This city is known for its beautiful scenery.
7. (a) Complete the following piece of conversation by choosing the correct alternative from the brackets:
I said to her, “____ (How/When) are you?” She replied, “I’m fine. It’s so nice to see you ____ (returned/back/come) in our village again.”
Answer: I said to her, “How are you?” She replied, “I’m fine. It’s so nice to see you back in our village again.”
(b) Rewrite the following sentences as directed:
i. Stephen Hawking is the most famous scientist of this generation. (use the comparative degree of ‘famous’)
Answer: Stephen Hawking is more famous than any other scientist of this generation.
ii. She Knows my address. (Make it a complex sentence)
Answer: She knows my address because I told her.
8. Rearrange the words in the following to form meaningful sentences:
a) Shyam not know swim does to how.
Answer: Shyam does not know how to swim.
b) He came I had left after place the.
Answer: He came after I had left the place.
SECTION – D (Textual Questions)
9. Read any one of the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
a) 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,
All three stood still to smile through their hair
At the uncle with the camera.
i. What does the cardboard show the poet?
Answer: The cardboard shows the poet a memory of the time when the two girl cousins went paddling with the poet's mother.
ii. How did the girls go to the sea beach?
Answer: The girls went to the sea beach holding their mother’s hands.
iii. Why did the two girl cousins hold one of the poet’s mother’s hands?
Answer: The two girl cousins held one of the poet’s mother’s hands because they were likely small and needed her support while paddling.
iv. Who clicked the three girls in the cardboard?
Answer: The uncle clicked the photograph of the three girls in the cardboard.
v. What kind of childhood do the quoted lines project?
Answer: The quoted lines project a nostalgic and carefree childhood, filled with innocence, togetherness, and love, as reflected in the memory of the poet’s mother and cousins.
b) I do not understand this child
Though we have lived together now
In the same house for years, I know
Nothing of him, so try to build
Up a relationship from how
He was when small.
i. Where do these lines occur?
Answer: These lines occur in the poem "A Photograph" by Shirley Toulson.
ii. Why does the speaker say that he does not know this child?
Answer: The speaker says that he does not know the child because, despite living together for many years, they have not been able to form a deep understanding or bond.
iii. For how long have the father and son lived together?
Answer: The father and son have lived together for years.
iv. What does the speaker try to build?
Answer: The speaker tries to build a relationship with the child based on how the child was when he was small.
v. What idea do you form about the relationship between the father and son from the quoted lines?
Answer: The relationship between the father and son seems distant and emotionally strained. Despite living together for years, the father feels a lack of true understanding and connection with his child, which he attempts to rebuild by recalling the child’s earlier years.
10. Answer any two of the following questions: 3×2=6
a) How is the cyclic movement of rain brought out in the poem "The Voice of the Rain"?
Answer: In the poem "The Voice of the Rain," the cyclic movement of rain is depicted as a continuous, natural process. The rain rises from the earth, forms clouds, and eventually falls back to the earth, completing its cycle. This cyclical process represents the interconnectedness of nature, where rain nourishes the earth, and the earth, in turn, helps the rain rise again.
b) The poet’s mother laughed at the snapshot. What did this laugh indicate?
Answer: The poet’s mother laughed at the snapshot because it reminded her of her own youth and brought back memories of her past. Her laughter indicates a sense of nostalgia and amusement, as she sees her younger self and the innocent, carefree moments captured in the photograph.
c) What, according to the poem "Childhood," is involved in the process of growing up?
Answer: According to the poem "Childhood," the process of growing up involves the loss of innocence, joy, and a sense of wonder. It is a transition from the simplicity and purity of childhood to the complexities and challenges of adulthood. The poem highlights how childhood gradually fades as one becomes more aware of the world and experiences emotional growth.
d) How is the father’s helplessness brought out in the poem "Father to Son"?
Answer: In the poem "Father to Son," the father's helplessness is expressed through his inability to communicate or connect with his son. Despite trying to understand and guide his son, the father feels a growing distance between them. He is unable to bridge the gap of emotional misunderstanding, and this helplessness is highlighted as he watches his son become more distant and unresponsive.
11. Answer any five of the following questions: 2×5=10
a) What are the different ways in which we come to know that the author’s grandmother was a deeply religious person?
Answer: The author’s grandmother was deeply religious in several ways. She spent most of her time in prayer, reading scriptures, and visiting the temple. Her simple, pious lifestyle reflected her strong devotion. She also taught the author and other children the importance of religion and values, further indicating her commitment to spirituality.
b) Contrast the Chinese view of art with the European view.
Answer: The Chinese view of art emphasizes harmony with nature and the expression of the inner self. It values simplicity, fluidity, and spiritual connection, often focusing on depicting nature in a symbolic way. On the other hand, the European view of art is more concerned with realism, precision, and the detailed representation of subjects, often highlighting human experiences and emotions.
c) What does the notice ‘The world’s most dangerous animal’ at the cage in the zoo at Lusaka, Zambia, signify?
Answer: The notice "The world’s most dangerous animal" at the cage in the Lusaka zoo is a thought-provoking statement that points to humans as the most dangerous species. It reflects the destructive impact humans have on the environment, other species, and the planet, highlighting the irony that humans are often unaware of their own harmful behaviors.
d) Why did the author Verrier Elwin say that he was an unconventional visitor?
Answer: Verrier Elwin considered himself an unconventional visitor because, unlike other outsiders who visited the hill tribes of Assam with a sense of superiority or to exploit them, he genuinely sought to understand and respect their culture. He lived among them, learned their ways, and tried to view their life from their perspective, which made him different from the typical visitor.
e) Mention three ways in which the author’s grandmother spent her days after he grew up.
Answer: After the author grew up, his grandmother spent her days in quiet religious observance. She continued praying, reading scriptures, and feeding the birds in the temple. She also spent time reminiscing about her past, reflecting on life, and living in peaceful solitude.
f) What does Verrier Elwin have to say to the hill people of Assam?
Answer: Verrier Elwin expresses admiration and respect for the hill people of Assam. He acknowledges their unique lifestyle, values, and traditions. He emphasizes that these people are not inferior to others but have a rich cultural heritage that deserves respect and preservation. He urges outsiders to recognize and appreciate the diversity and wisdom of the hill people.
12. (a) “The earth’s vital signs reveal a patient in declining health.” Elucidate. 6
Answer: The statement refers to the worsening condition of the earth due to environmental damage. It suggests that, like a patient whose vital signs (such as heartbeat, blood pressure, etc.) indicate poor health, the earth’s natural systems are showing signs of decline. Rising pollution levels, deforestation, climate change, and loss of biodiversity are all indicators of this “patient's” deteriorating condition. The metaphor emphasizes the urgency of addressing environmental issues before the planet's health becomes irreparable.
Or
(b) Describe the changing relationship between the author Khushwant Singh and his grandmother. Did their feelings for each other change? 6
Answer: In the beginning, Khushwant Singh shares a close, loving relationship with his grandmother. She was his constant companion during his early years, helping him with his studies, telling him stories, and guiding him spiritually. As he grew older and moved to the city for education, their relationship began to change. He became more independent and less reliant on her, while she continued to live her simple, religious life. Despite these changes, their feelings for each other remained affectionate, with the author continuing to respect her deeply. The bond of love and respect never faded, even though they led different lives.
13. (a) “English integrates India as a nation.” Discuss with examples from the story "Ranga’s Marriage." 6
Answer: In the story “Ranga’s Marriage,” English plays a crucial role in bringing people together across regional and cultural divides in India. Ranga, a man from a small village, is initially hesitant to marry because of his exposure to Western ideals through education. However, the social network of the village, which communicates in English and shares common values, eventually brings him together with Ratna, despite the differences in their backgrounds. This illustrates how English, as a shared language, integrates diverse communities in India and fosters communication, unity, and understanding.
Or
(b) What do you make of Einstein’s nature from his conversations with his history teacher, his mathematics teacher, and the head teacher? 6
Answer: Einstein’s nature is depicted as curious, independent, and non-conformist. In his conversation with his history teacher, he questions the rote learning approach and emphasizes that memorizing facts without understanding is not real education. His conversation with the mathematics teacher shows his deep interest in the subject, even though he is not fond of the way it is taught. With the head teacher, he expresses his discomfort with the rigid educational system and its failure to encourage independent thought. Through these interactions, Einstein's questioning and rebellious nature, along with his desire for intellectual freedom, become apparent.
14. Answer any two of the following in brief: 2×2=4
a) Why does Einstein think that learning facts is no education at all?
Answer: Einstein believes that learning facts is not education because it involves memorization without understanding. True education, in his view, should encourage critical thinking, creativity, and the development of the mind, rather than just the accumulation of information that can be easily forgotten.
b) What were Ranga’s views on marriage?
Answer: Initially, Ranga was not very keen on marriage and preferred to wait until he found a girl with whom he felt a deep connection. He believed in love and compatibility over tradition or social pressure. However, after meeting Ratna, he realizes that love and marriage can be a harmonious union, and he eventually marries her.
c) How does the example of Einstein prove that the school system ends up by curbing individual talent? 6
Answer: The example of Einstein highlights how the rigid school system stifled creativity and independent thought. Einstein’s teachers emphasized rote learning and conformity, which discouraged him from thinking freely and questioning established norms. He felt alienated by this system, and it hindered his natural curiosity and individual talent, proving that the education system often curbs originality and personal growth.
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