AHSEC Class 11: 2020 English Solved Question Paper [HS First Year English Solved Paper 2020]

Get Assam Board Class 11 English 2020 Solved Question Paper helpful for upcoming ASSEB Division - I Examinations.

If you are preparing for the HS First Year English exam, using the ASSEB/AHSEC Class 11 English Solved Question Paper 2020 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 2020 can help you and why it is important for Assam Board Class 11 English students.

AHSEC Class 11: 2020 English Solved Question Paper [HS First Year English Solved Paper 2020]

Class 11 English Solved Paper 2020

2020

ENGLISH

Full Marks: 90

Pass Marks: 27

Time: Three hours

The figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions.

SECTION-A (Reading)

1. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:

On his return from South Africa, Gandhi's first Ashram in India was established in the Kochrab area of Ahmedabad on 25 May 1915. The Ashram was then shifted on 17 June 1917 to a piece of open land on the banks of the river Sabarmati. Reasons for this shift included: he wanted to do some experiments in living, e.g., farming, animal husbandry, cow breeding, Khadi, and related constructive activities, for which he was in search of this kind of barren land; mythologically, it was the ashram site of Dadhichi Rishi, who had donated his bones for a righteous war; it is between a jail and a crematorium, as he believed that a satyagrahi has to invariably go to either place. The Sabarmati Ashram (also known as Harijan Ashram) was home to Mohandas Gandhi from 1917 until 1930 and served as one of the main centers of the Indian freedom struggle. Originally called the Satyagraha Ashram, reflecting the movement toward passive resistance launched by the Mahatma, the Ashram became home to the ideology that set India free. Sabarmati Ashram, named for the river on which it sits, was created with a dual mission: to serve as an institution that would carry on a search for truth and a platform to bring together a group of workers committed to non-violence who would help secure freedom for India.

By conceiving such a vision, Gandhi and his followers hoped to foster a new social construct of truth and non-violence that would help to revolutionize the existing pattern of life. While at the Ashram, Gandhi formed a school that focused on manual labor, agriculture, and literacy to advance his efforts for self-sufficiency. It was also from here, on 12 March 1930, that Gandhi launched the famous Dandi March, 241 miles from the Ashram (with 78 companions) in protest of the British Salt Law, which taxed Indian salt in an effort to promote sales of British salt in India. This mass awakening filled the British jails with 60,000 freedom fighters. Later, the government seized their property. Gandhi, in sympathy with them, responded by asking the government to forfeit the Ashram. The government, however, did not oblige. He had, by now, already decided on 22 July 1933 to disband the Ashram, which later became an asserted place after the detention of many freedom fighters, and then some local citizens decided to preserve it. On 12 March 1930, he vowed that he would not return to the Ashram until India won independence. Although this was won on 15 August 1947, when India was declared a free nation, Gandhi was assassinated in January 1948 and never returned.

Questions:

(i) When was Gandhi's first ashram in India established?
Answer: Gandhi's first ashram in India was established on 25 May 1915.

(ii) How was Sabarmati Ashram originally known as?
Answer: Sabarmati Ashram was originally known as the Satyagraha Ashram.

(iii) How far is Dandi from Sabarmati Ashram?
Answer: Dandi is 241 miles from Sabarmati Ashram.

(iv) What did Gandhi vow on 12 March 1930?
Answer: Gandhi vowed that he would not return to the Ashram until India won independence.

(v) Why did Gandhi shift his Kochrab Ashram to Sabarmati?
Answer: Gandhi shifted his Kochrab Ashram to Sabarmati for several reasons:

  • To conduct experiments in living, such as farming, animal husbandry, and Khadi.

  • The site had mythological significance as it was believed to be the ashram of Dadhichi Rishi.

  • It was located between a jail and a crematorium, symbolizing the path of a satyagrahi.

(vi) What was the dual mission of Sabarmati Ashram?
Answer: The dual mission of Sabarmati Ashram was:

  1. To carry on the search for truth.

  2. To serve as a platform for workers committed to non-violence, helping to secure India's freedom.

(vii) Why did Gandhi launch the famous Dandi march?
Answer: Gandhi launched the famous Dandi march to protest against the British Salt Law, which taxed Indian salt and promoted British salt sales in India.

(b) Pick out words in the passage that mean the following:

(i) Unable to produce plants or fruits
Answer: Barren.

(ii) To lose the right to have something
Answer: Forfeit.

2. Read the following passage given below and answer the questions that follow:

1. When Man first began to settle down, to live in groups in villages and to cultivate land, he found that he had to learn many new skills. One of these new skills was the ability to measure, to count and to calculate. He had to be able to count the animals he possessed. He had to be able to make simple measurements to enable him to build and to mark out the boundaries of his land; he had to be able to measure the passing of time and record it; and he had to trade. Therefore he began to think in terms of length, breadth, time and weight.

2.For many years, units of measurement were of a simple kind. For example, if Man had to measure, he used a part of his body as a unit. As a result, these units often differed from person to person. Therefore when Man settled down, the need for standardization arose. 

3.Before Man settled down, his life was not governed by the seasons, nor did he have to know what time of the day it was. Once he settled down to the agricultural way of life, he had to be able to calculate the change of seasons on which agriculture depended. So Man began to measure time, and first he looked for convenient units of measurements, one of which was the day. No one knows when Man first began to divide the day into twenty-four hours, and the hour into sixty minutes. But we know that Ptolemy, the famous Egyptian, used and recorded these divisions in the second century A.D. In order to calculate the passing of time, it was necessary for Man to record the number of days in each season. This was done by making a mark for each day on a tree trunk or on a piece of stick.

4.The next step was for Man to find longer units of time. He had observed the gradual changes in the shape of the moon. He discovered that from one full-moon to the next it took twenty eight days. And so he had another unit of time-a month. Then he observed that, if he added two days to some of the months, twelve of them nearly covered the four seasons which followed each other. This was the first simple calendar.

Questions:

(a) Make notes on the passage and add a suitable title: 5

Answer: Title: Man's Early Development of Measurement and Time

Notes:

  • Early man settled in villages and began cultivating land.

  • New skills needed: measuring, counting, calculating.

  • He needed to count animals, measure land, and record time.

  • Early measurement units were based on body parts, causing inconsistencies.

  • Need for standardization arose with settlement.

  • Settled life made time measurement necessary for agriculture.

  • Man began measuring time using the day as a unit.

  • Ptolemy recorded time divisions in the 2nd century AD.

  • Man observed moon phases and developed the month as a unit of time.

  • He created the first simple calendar based on moon phases.

(b) Summary of the passage in about 80 words: 3

When early man began settling in villages and cultivating land, he needed new skills such as counting, measuring, and calculating. Initially, measurements were based on body parts, leading to inconsistencies, prompting the need for standardization. As agriculture depended on the seasons, man began measuring time, starting with the day, later dividing it into hours and minutes, as recorded by Ptolemy. Man also observed the moon’s phases, creating the month and a simple calendar to track the passing of time and the seasons.

SECTION-B (Writing)

3. You are preparing for a picnic at Pobitora next week. Describe your preparations to your classmates in 100 words.

Answer: Dear Classmates, Next week, we have planned a picnic to Pobitora, and I am excited to share the preparations. First, we’ve decided on the date, which is next Saturday. I have been in charge of organizing the transportation, and I’ve booked a bus for the group. We’ll be leaving early in the morning to enjoy the entire day. We will carry packed snacks, water, and some games to keep us entertained. We’ll also need to bring a few essentials like sunscreen, hats, and extra clothes. I hope everyone enjoys this fun day together, and I can’t wait to see you all there! Warm regards,
Rupali

Or

Your school/college observed "The World Blood Donation Day" on 14th June. Many students and teachers took part in the camp. Prepare a report on the event to be published in your school/college wall-magazine.

Answer: Report on World Blood Donation Day

On 14th June, our school/college observed "World Blood Donation Day" to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation. The event was organized in collaboration with the local blood bank. Students and teachers actively participated in the camp. The event started with a brief talk on the significance of donating blood and the life-saving role it plays. Several students and staff members volunteered to donate blood. The blood bank team was present to guide and help everyone through the process. It was an inspiring day that highlighted the power of giving back to society. We thank everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this meaningful event.

4. Write a speech to be delivered at the morning assembly of your school/college on the topic, "Say no to Plastic Bags!".

Answer: Good morning everyone,

Today, I want to talk about a major environmental issue that we all need to address – the use of plastic bags. Plastic bags are a threat to our environment and wildlife. They take hundreds of years to decompose, and in the meantime, they pollute our oceans, rivers, and land. Animals often mistake them for food, leading to death. As responsible citizens, we must take a stand and say no to plastic bags. We can use alternatives like cloth bags, paper bags, or reusable bags. By making this simple change, we can reduce pollution and protect our planet for future generations. Let’s join hands and make the world a cleaner place. Thank you!

Or

Write an article for your school/college magazine on "Importance of Traffic Rules".

Answer: Importance of Traffic Rules

Traffic rules are essential for maintaining order on the roads and ensuring the safety of every individual. They help reduce accidents, prevent chaos, and provide a clear framework for vehicles and pedestrians to follow. Following traffic signals, wearing seatbelts, and adhering to speed limits can save lives. Neglecting these rules can lead to severe consequences, not just for the violator, but for others as well. In a bustling society, traffic rules help keep everyone safe and ensure that the flow of traffic is smooth. It is our responsibility to follow these rules, respect other road users, and contribute to road safety.

5. You are Rupali/Rupam. You have seen an advertisement in a regional newspaper for the post of an Office Secretary in a reputed company. Write an application to the manager of the company in response to the advertisement stating your qualifications and experience.

Answer:

Rupali
[Address]
[City]
[Email]
[Date]

The Manager
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City]

Subject: Application for the Post of Office Secretary

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to apply for the position of Office Secretary as advertised in [newspaper name] on [date]. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and have over two years of experience working as an office assistant in a reputed firm. I possess excellent organizational skills, proficiency in office software, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

I am confident that my skills and experience make me a suitable candidate for the role. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Rupali

Or

Write a letter to the editor of The Assam Tribune drawing attention of the authorities concerned to the problem of flash flood and poor drainage system in your locality.

Answer:

The Editor
The Assam Tribune
[Date]

Subject: Flash Flood and Poor Drainage System in [Your Locality]

Dear Sir,

I am writing to bring your attention to the severe problem of flash floods and the inadequate drainage system in our locality, [Your Locality]. During the monsoon season, we often experience waterlogging due to clogged drains, which not only causes inconvenience but also poses a health hazard. The drainage system, which was built years ago, is no longer sufficient to handle the growing population and the volume of water.

I kindly request the concerned authorities to take immediate action to improve the drainage system and prevent further flooding. This would greatly improve the living conditions in our area.

Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]

SECTION-C (Grammar)

6. (a) Fill in the blanks with suitable determiners: ¹/² x 2 = 1
(i) She has barely ______ beautiful dress. (some/any)
(ii) ______ care could have prevented the accident. (Little/A little)

Answer:
(i) She has barely any beautiful dress.
(ii) A little care could have prevented the accident.

(b) Rewrite the following sentences with the correct form of the verb given in brackets: ¹/² x 2 = 1
(i) It (rain) now, we can't go out.
(ii) My uncle (arrive) from Mumbai last night.

Answer:
(i) It is raining now, we can't go out.
(ii) My uncle arrived from Mumbai last night.

(c) Fill in the blanks with appropriate modal auxiliaries (the sense of the sentence is indicated in the bracket):
(i) You ______ not steal. (command)
(ii) ______ you spare some time for me? (polite request)

Answer:
(i) You must not steal. (command)
(ii) Could you spare some time for me? (polite request)

(d) Correct the following:
(i) The honesty is the best policy.
(ii) She invited my husband and myself.

Answer:
(i) Honesty is the best policy.
(ii) She invited my husband and me.

7. (a) Complete the following piece of conversation by choosing the correct alternatives from the brackets: 2
I said to him, "________" (what/when) are you doing now?" He replied, "I am writing a few essays as part of my ________ (preparing/preparation) for the examination."

Answer:
I said to him, "What are you doing now?" He replied, "I am writing a few essays as part of my preparation for the examination."

(b) Rewrite the following sentences as directed:
(i) My friend lives in this house.
(Make it a complex sentence)
(ii) Greenland is the largest island in the world.
(Use the comparative degree of 'largest')

Answer:
(i) My friend lives in this house.
(Complex sentence)

  • The house in which my friend lives is very beautiful.

(ii) Greenland is the largest island in the world.
(Comparative degree of 'largest')

  • Greenland is larger than any other island in the world.

8. Rearrange the words in the following to form meaningful sentences: 1x2=2
(a) penguin I a seen never have.
(b) persons knows several he here.

Answer:
(a) I have never seen a penguin.
(b) He knows several persons here.

SECTION-D (Textual Questions)

9. Read any one of the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:

(a) Eternal rise impalpable out of the land and the bottomless sea,
Upward to heaven, whence, vaguely form'd, altogether changed, and yet the same,
I descend to lave the droughts, atomies, dust-layers of the globe,

(i) Who is the speaker here?
Answer: The speaker here is likely a natural element, such as the wind, water, or some form of life force.

(ii) From where does the speaker rise?
Answer: The speaker rises from the land and the bottomless sea.

(iii) What is meant by 'altogether changed, and yet the same'?
Answer: This suggests a process of transformation, where the essence of the speaker (possibly water or air) remains the same, despite undergoing different forms or changes in state.

(iv) What are 'atomies'?
Answer: 'Atomies' refers to tiny particles or atoms, representing small, almost invisible parts of something.

(v) How does the speaker go up and come down again on droughts, atomies and dust-layers?
Answer: The speaker likely refers to a cyclical natural process like evaporation and precipitation, where it rises (perhaps as vapor) into the sky and descends to nourish the earth, including dry areas, minute particles, and dust.

Or

(b) Silence surrounds us. I would have
Him prodigal, returning to
His father's house, the home he knew,
Rather than see him make and move
His world. I would forgive him too,
Shaping from sorrow a new love.

(i) Who are the 'us' here?
Answer: The 'us' here refers to the speaker and possibly a group of people, possibly a family or a community.

(ii) What surrounds them?
Answer: Silence surrounds them, indicating a state of quietness or stillness.

(iii) What is the meaning of 'prodigal'?
Answer: 'Prodigal' means someone who is wasteful or extravagant, particularly in terms of spending or behavior. It can also refer to someone who has been lost or estranged and is returning home.

(iv) Who is supposed to return to his father's house, after being prodigal?
Answer: The person who is supposed to return to his father's house is a son, who may have been lost or estranged, and is being expected to come back.

(v) In what context, is the speaker talking about forgiveness and new love?
Answer: The speaker is talking about forgiveness in the context of a wayward person (the prodigal) returning home. The forgiveness is offered in the hope of healing past sorrows, and new love is formed from the experiences of pain and reconciliation.

10. Answer any two of the following questions:

(a) What is the 'laboured ease of loss' in the poem 'A Photograph'?
Answer: The phrase "laboured ease of loss" refers to the painful yet inevitable acceptance of the poet's mother's death. It suggests a complex feeling, where the grief is both heavy and difficult, but the process of grieving has become somewhat easier with time, as the loss is slowly understood and accepted.

(b) What does the speaker of the poem 'Childhood' speak about adults?
Answer: In the poem 'Childhood,' the speaker reflects on how adults seem distant, unable to understand or connect with the child’s view of the world. The speaker mentions that the knowledge of the world and the rules created by adults make the world seem less magical and more structured, thus diminishing the child's sense of freedom and wonder.

(c) Why is the father unhappy in the poem 'Father to Son'?
Answer: The father in the poem 'Father to Son' is unhappy because of the growing distance and lack of understanding between him and his son. He is troubled by the son's rebellion, his own inability to bridge the emotional gap, and his concern about the son's future and behavior.

(d) What does the phrase "strange to tell" mean in the poem "The Voice of the Rain"?
Answer: The phrase "strange to tell" expresses the poet's wonder and surprise at the fact that the rain, in its cycle of rising, falling, and nourishing the earth, is a process that is both mysterious and miraculous. It highlights the extraordinary nature of a seemingly ordinary natural phenomenon.

11. Answer any five of the following questions:

(a) How did the author's grandfather look in his portrait?
Answer: In his portrait, the author's grandfather is depicted as an old man with a sweet and gentle expression. His face reflects the wisdom and kindness that comes with age, and he is dressed in a traditional way, giving him an air of respectability and authority.

(b) How was 'outsider art' or 'art brut' defined at the beginning?
Answer: 'Outsider art' or 'art brut' was initially defined as art created by self-taught artists who were outside the mainstream art world. These artists typically had no formal training and their works were often seen as raw, unpolished, and spontaneous, reflecting personal experiences and emotions.

(c) How can population explosion be controlled?
Answer: Population explosion can be controlled through various measures such as promoting family planning, increasing awareness about the benefits of smaller families, improving education (especially for women), providing access to contraceptive methods, and encouraging policies that focus on sustainable development.

(d) When and where was the first nationwide Green Party founded?
Answer: The first nationwide Green Party, known as the "Green Party of the United States," was founded in 1984 in the United States, though earlier local green movements had been growing globally.

(e) How did the author's grandmother prepare to take him to the village school?
Answer: The author’s grandmother prepared to take him to the village school by making sure he was properly dressed in his school uniform, which was an old-fashioned, simple dress. She also packed his books and ensured he was ready for the long walk to school, carrying the hope and responsibility for his education.

(f) What are the things that Verrier Elwin loves about Assam?
Answer: Verrier Elwin loves Assam for its natural beauty, its cultural diversity, and the simplicity of life there. He appreciates the state’s unique tribal cultures, the landscapes, and the way of life that is closely connected to nature. He also admires the hospitality of the people and their deep-rooted traditions.


12. (a) "Man is the biggest enemy of mankind. Deforestation has become his habit." Elaborate this view.
Answer: This statement emphasizes how human activities, particularly deforestation, are harming the environment and, ultimately, humanity itself. Deforestation has become a widespread habit, driven by the need for land, timber, agriculture, and industrial development. This loss of forests leads to various environmental problems, such as loss of biodiversity, climate change, soil erosion, and disruption of water cycles. The destruction of forests not only harms wildlife but also impacts human lives by diminishing resources and increasing the risk of natural disasters. By indulging in deforestation, humans are unknowingly digging their own graves by depleting the planet's ability to support life. Therefore, this habit of deforestation makes man his own biggest enemy.

(b) Describe the changing relationship between the author and his grandmother from his boyhood to adulthood.
Answer: In his boyhood, the author shares a close, affectionate relationship with his grandmother. She plays a significant role in his daily life, providing him with love, care, and traditional wisdom. They share simple routines, and she helps him with his studies and ensures his well-being. As he grows older, particularly when he moves to the city for further education, their relationship begins to change. The author becomes more independent and less dependent on his grandmother. The distance between them grows both physically and emotionally, but their bond remains strong. Despite this, the author notes that his grandmother, with her deep spiritual beliefs and simple lifestyle, has always remained rooted in her values, even as the author matures into adulthood.

13. Comment on the influence of the English language on the way of Indian life as reflected in the story "Ranga's Marriage".
Answer: In the story "Ranga's Marriage," the influence of the English language is evident in the way the protagonist, Ranga, perceives the world around him. Ranga is educated in English, and his knowledge of the language sets him apart from others in the village. His education in English, and his subsequent changing views on marriage, reflect a shift from traditional village values to more modern, progressive ideas influenced by Western culture. The English language, in this context, symbolizes modernity and the influence of colonial education. The story also showcases how Ranga's exposure to the English language broadens his horizons and makes him question traditional practices, leading to the development of his thoughts on love and marriage. Ultimately, the English language serves as a vehicle for the transformation of rural India, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Or

How do you distinguish between information gathering and insight formation from your reading of 'Albert Einstein at School'?
Answer: In "Albert Einstein at School," the distinction between information gathering and insight formation is evident in the way Einstein approaches his education and the world around him. Information gathering involves acquiring facts, memorizing details, and passing examinations, which is the traditional method of learning. This is reflected in the school's focus on rote learning and its emphasis on exams, which Einstein finds unimportant and disconnected from reality. Insight formation, on the other hand, refers to the ability to understand, interpret, and apply knowledge creatively. In the story, Einstein demonstrates insight formation when he questions the rigidity of the educational system, thinks critically about his studies, and seeks answers that go beyond what is simply taught. He is interested in understanding the "why" and "how" of concepts, rather than merely gathering information. Therefore, insight formation is marked by deep thinking and application, while information gathering is superficial and mechanical.

14. Answer any two of the following questions in brief: 2×2=4

(a) Why did Mr. Braun scold young Einstein?
Answer: Mr. Braun, Albert Einstein's teacher, scolded him because Einstein had failed to memorize his lessons and had shown a lack of interest in the subjects taught in a conventional manner. Einstein's unconventional approach to learning and his questioning attitude towards the rigid education system often clashed with Mr. Braun's expectations, leading to frequent scolding.

(b) Write briefly about Gundabhatta, the doctor of Hosahalli village.
Answer: Gundabhatta was the village doctor of Hosahalli. He was a highly respected and wise man, known for his vast knowledge of herbal medicine and his practical approach to treating patients. Gundabhatta was also portrayed as a figure of authority and compassion in the community, always willing to help those in need. His role as a healer went beyond simply providing medical treatment, as he embodied a deep connection to the people and traditions of the village.

(c) Why did Albert see no point in learning dates and facts from History books?
Answer: Albert Einstein saw no point in learning dates and facts from History books because he believed that such information did not contribute to real understanding or knowledge. He felt that memorizing facts without understanding the underlying reasons and connections was useless. Einstein valued critical thinking and insight over rote memorization, which he found to be meaningless and unimportant for his intellectual development.

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What Topics Are in the Solved Paper?

The HS First Year English Solved Question Paper 2020 covers many topics from the Assam Board Class 11 English syllabus, such as:
  1. Reading Comprehension: Understanding a passage and answering questions about it.
  2. Writing Skills: Writing letters, articles, essays, and more.
  3. Literature: Questions about the stories, poems, and plays you studied.
  4. Grammar: Questions on English grammar, like tenses and sentence structure.

Why Are Solved Question Papers Helpful?

  1. The ASSEB/AHSEC Class 11 English Solved Question Paper 2020 is useful because it shows you what the exam will be like. By solving these papers, you can practice answering different types of questions, such as multiple-choice, short-answer, and long-answer questions.
  2. The HS First Year English Solved Question Paper 2020 also helps you understand the exam pattern and how to manage your time. Solving these papers makes you feel more confident and helps you improve your writing skills.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the HS First Year English Solved Question Paper 2020 is a very helpful tool for students who are getting ready for the Assam Board Class 11 English exam. It helps you understand the exam, improve your writing skills, and manage your time better. By practicing with solved papers, you will feel more confident and be well-prepared for your exam.

Make sure to use the ASSEB/AHSEC Class 11 English Solved Question Paper 2020 to help you get better marks and be ready for the exam.

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