![ASSEB Class 11 English Solved Paper 2024 [AHSEC HS 1st Year English Solved Paper 2024]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqm3xJYT_y6QYCxnQZx4n0pFhR7ZAuYn-rZtyPNm1Ap6ejmidr9j4bHO-Hh5GcN0DxuaMBEMN6S41BfimKKAQ4RCNJNLvUzHnwNU198Mg3Z9IW5WSUTHVIqifEDPSlLWlTdxb4YUKAd9GKXekhlLgpNaKDe6xGt3hNVmrnq7xZgPNKz6HtD3CeUVu37wCY/s1120/AHSEC%20Class%2011%20English%20Solved%20Paper%202024.jpg "ASSEB Class 11 English Solved Paper 2024 [AHSEC HS 1st Year English Solved Paper 2024]")
AHSEC Class 12 English Solved Question Paper 2024
2024
ENGLISH
Full Marks: 90
Pass Marks: 27
Tune: 3 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
1. The old lady was glad to be back at the block of flats where she lived. Her shopping had tired her and her basket had grown heavier with every step of the way home In the lift her thoughts were on lunch and a good rest; but when she got out at her own floor, both were forgotten in her sudden discovery that her front door was open. She was thinking that she must reprimand her daily maid the next morning for such a monstrous piece of negligence, when she remembered that she had gone shopping after her maid had left, and she had turned both the keys in their locks. She walked slowly into the hall and at once noticed that all the room doors were open, yet following her regular practice, she had shut them before going out. Looking into the drawing room, she saw a scene of confusion over by her writing desk.
2. It was as clear as daylight then that burglars had forced an entry in her absence. Her first impulse was to go round all the rooms looking for the thieves, but then she decided that at her age it might be more prudent to have someone with her, so she went to fetch the porter from the basement. By the time her legs were beginning to tremble, so she sat down and accepted a cup of very strong tea, while she telephoned the police. Then her composure regained, she was ready to set off with the porter's assistance to search for any intruders who might be still lurking in her flat.
3. They went through the rooms, being careful to touch nothing, as they did not want to hinder the police in their search for fingerprints. The chaos was inconceivable. She had lived in the flat for thirty years and was a veritable magpie at hoarding; and it seemed as though everything she possessed had been tossed out and turned over and over. At least sorting out the things she should have discarded years ago was now being made easier for her. Then a police inspector arrived with a constable and she told them of her discovery of her ransacked flat. The inspector began to look for fingerprints, while the constable checked that the front door locks had not been forced, thereby proving that the burglars had either used skeleton keys or entered through the balcony.)
4. There was no trace of fingerprints, but the inspector found a dirty red bundle that contained jewellery which the old lady said was not hers. So their entry into the flat was apparently not the burglars' first job that day and they must have been disturbed. The inspector then asked the lady to try to check what was missing by the next day and advised her not to stay alone in the flat for a few nights. The old lady thought that he was a fussy creature but since the porter agreed with him, she rang up her daughter and asked for her help in what she described as a little spot of bother.
Questions:
(a) Why did the old lady feel glad to be at her flat?
Answer:- The old lady felt glad to be at her flat because she had completed her shopping and was looking forward to having lunch and resting.
(b) Why was the old lady surprised to find her front door open?
Answer:-She was surprised to find her front door open because she had locked it before leaving and assumed everything was secure.
(c) What made her realize that burglars had entered her flat?
Answer:-She realized that burglars had entered her flat when she saw that all the room doors were open and there was a scene of confusion near her writing desk.
(d) Why did she go to the basement?
Answer:-She went to the basement to fetch the porter because she wanted help in checking the flat for any burglars before contacting the police.
(e) Why did the inspector conclude that the thieves had used the skeleton keys?
Answer:-The inspector concluded that the thieves had used skeleton keys because the front door locks had not been forced, suggesting that the burglars had gained entry without breaking the locks.
(f) What did the police inspector find while searching for fingerprints?
Answer:-While searching for fingerprints, the police inspector found a dirty red bundle that contained jewellery, which the old lady confirmed was not hers.
(g) Pick out the words/phrases from the passage which are the synonyms of the following: (i) enormous (Para 1) - monstrous
(ii) indication (Para 4) - evidence
2. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow:
Today, India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. A key contributor to this success story is the growing middle class. The liberalization in 1990s opened the gates to foreign goods and services, investments and technologies. This led to a growth in disposable incomes and a burgeoning middle class with rising consumption levels.
There are many aspects which can be looked at when discussing increasing consumption of the middle class. One of the key aspects is the rise in globalization and exposure to a vast range of products and services. In addition, access to telecommunications and internet has provided new avenues for consumers with online retailers offering a mindboggling choice at low prices. Moreover, a rise in incomes, social media and awareness is leading to an increased expenditure on health, education, communication, transport and entertainment. Increasing urbanization too is a factor affecting increased consumption. Another aspect leading to higher consumption is the rise in nuclear families, which spend more per person than joint families.
The growth of middle class and an increase in consumption is good news for economists as this leads to demand led growth resulting in creation of jobs and higher incomes. At the same time, increasing incomes and exposure to global media are leading to changes in consumption behaviours. The younger affluent middle class is spending more on aspirational goods such as branded apparel and gadgets leading to lesser investment in assets. Another fallout of the changing consumer behaviour is the increased use of online purchasing resulting in losses for small neighbourhood shops.
While the industry continues to adapt to changes in consumption patterns, an increase in overall consumption by middle class is a sign of higher income and prosperity. Moreover, it can certainly lead to creation of more jobs and be an engine for growth in the future.
Questions:
(a) On the basis of your reading of the above passage, make note on it, and add a suitable title to it. 5
Answer:- Title: The Growing Middle Class and its Impact on Consumption in India
India's Economy: One of the fastest growing economies globally.
Key Contributor: Growing middle class, post-liberalization in the 1990s.
Growth in Incomes: Rise in disposable incomes and consumption.
Factors Influencing Consumption:
Globalization: Exposure to a wide range of products.
Technology: Access to the internet and online shopping.
Social Media: Increased awareness leading to higher spending on health, education, transport, etc.
Urbanization: Contributes to higher consumption levels.
Nuclear Families: Tend to spend more than joint families.
Impact of Increased Consumption:
Positive: Job creation, demand-led growth.
Negative: Shift towards aspirational goods, less investment in assets.
Online Shopping: Threat to local shops.
Conclusion: Growth in consumption leads to higher prosperity, job creation, and economic growth.
(b) Make a summary of the above passage in about 80 words.
Answer:- India’s growing middle class is a significant driver of the country's economic growth. Since the liberalization of the 1990s, disposable incomes have risen, leading to increased consumption. Factors like globalization, access to technology, rising urbanization, and the shift to nuclear families have all contributed to this growth. This consumption surge has led to demand-led growth, creating jobs and higher incomes. However, changing consumption patterns, especially the younger middle class's preference for aspirational goods and online shopping, have led to challenges for local businesses. Overall, increased consumption is a sign of prosperity and future growth.
SECTION-B (Writing)
3. You are arranging a picnic party to Kaziranga next Sunday. Describe your arrangement of the picnic party to your classmates in about 100 words. 6
Answer:-
OR
You are Partha/Prarthana, Cultural Secretary of XYZ Public School, Tezpur. Your school observed National Unity Day to recognize the endeavours of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to unite the country. Prepare a report in about 100-125 words for your school magazine.
Answer:-
4. You are really worried about environmental degradation. Pollution is increasing day-by-day and is posing a great threat to the environment and mankind. The Ozone layer is getting depleted. Write an article on Environmental Pollution-a Global Problem' for your school magazine in about 150-200 words. 6
Answer:-
OR
To enforce strict discipline in schools and colleges is a great problem these days when cases of indiscipline have become quite frequent. Write a speech to be delivered at the morning assembly of your school/college on the topic, The importance of discipline in student's life'.
Answer:-
5. You are Chetan/Chetana Sarma, a commerce graduate from Gauhati University. You are seeking a suitable job. You came across an advertisement in The Assam Tribune, inviting young and dynamic fresh graduate as sales assistant in a reputed company. Write an application with complete bio-data to the Manager of the company.
Answer:-
Chetan Sarma
Bharalumukh, Guwahati-781009
Date: [Insert Date]
The Manager
[Name of the Company]
[Company Address]
Subject: Application for the Post of Sales Assistant
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in the position of Sales Assistant as advertised in The Assam Tribune. I am a commerce graduate from Gauhati University, and I believe my educational background and enthusiasm make me a strong candidate for this role.
I am a young and dynamic individual with excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team. I have completed my graduation with a specialization in business management, which has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to excel in a sales role. I am confident that my dedication and willingness to learn will contribute positively to your organization.
Please find my bio-data attached for your reference. I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to the opportunity to work with your esteemed company.
Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
Chetan Sarma
OR
Recently there have been a number of reports in newspaper about students of classes X and XII suffering from nervous breakdown. Write a letter to the Editor of The Assam Tribune, Guwahati, appealing to the authorities to ease the pressure on children. You are Pragyan/Pragati, a class XI student in New Guwahati HS School.
Answer:-
Pragyan
Class XI, New Guwahati HS School
Guwahati-781020
Date: [Insert Date]
The Editor
The Assam Tribune
Guwahati-781001
Subject: Appeal to Ease Academic Pressure on Students
Sir/Madam,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the attention of the authorities towards the increasing cases of nervous breakdowns among students of classes X and XII due to excessive academic pressure.
The heavy syllabus, continuous exams, and the fear of scoring high marks create an environment of stress and anxiety among students. Many children feel overburdened and are unable to cope, which affects their mental and physical health. Instead of focusing only on academics, schools and parents should encourage activities like sports, art, and music to create a balanced routine. Counseling sessions and workshops on stress management should also be introduced to help students deal with pressure.
I appeal to the concerned authorities to take necessary steps to ease the burden on students and create a supportive learning environment. A healthy mind is essential for a bright future.
Thank you for publishing this important matter.
Yours sincerely,
Pragyan
SECTION-C
(Grammar)
6. (a) Fill in the blanks with suitable determiners (any two):½×2=1
(i) He thinks that he is _____ Sarat Chandra.
(ii) Do you have _____ bun left?
(iii) She gave a cookie to _____ child.
Answer:
(i) He thinks that he is the Sarat Chandra.
(ii) Do you have any bun left?
(iii) She gave a cookie to each child.
(b) Rewrite any two of the following sentences with the correct forms of the verbs given in the brackets: ½×2=1
(i) If I (know) his address, I would have contacted him.
(ii) They (live) in Guwahati for five years.
(iii) Look, there (go) the bus.
Answer:
(i) If I had known his address, I would have contacted him.
(ii) They have been living in Guwahati for five years.
(iii) Look, there goes the bus.
(c) Fill in the blanks with appropriate modal auxiliaries: ½×2=1
(i) You _____ take regular exercise. (advice)
(ii) I _____ go out for a walk but now I don't. (past habit)
Answer:
(i) You should take regular exercise.
(ii) I used to go out for a walk but now I don't.
(d) Correct the following: ½×2=1
(i) There is no remedy _____ this.
(ii) He was invited _____ the meeting.
Answer:
(i) There is no remedy for this.
(ii) He was invited to the meeting.
7. (a) Complete the following piece of conversation by choosing the correct alternatives from the brackets: 2
He said, "Mother, (why/what) don't you use the new woolen shawl? (Don't/Haven't) you like it?" Mother replied, "(Many/Much) of my sons haven't got anything for use in winter. (How/Why) can I use mine?"
(b) Rearrange the words in the following to form meaningful sentences: 1×2=2
(i) this/is/buildings/that were/one of the/in/the/ earthquake/destroyed.
(ii)hisage,/considering/made/much/he/has/progress.
8. Rewrite the following sentences as directed: 1×2=2
(a) You must go there to escape being fined.
(Change it into complex sentence)
(b) I am glad that you have come.
(Change it into compound sentence)
SECTION-D
(Textual Questions)
9. Read any one of the stanzas given below and answer the questions that follow:
(a) "Father and son, we both must live On the same globe and the same land, He speaks I cannot understand Myself, why anger grows from grief. We each put out an empty hand, Longing for something to forgive."
(ⅰ) Where must the father and son live together? 1
(ii) Can the father understand his son? Why? 2
(iii) What makes the father angry?
(iv) How do they try to fill up the gap that separate them? 1
(v) Find a word from the stanza that means 'world'. 1
OR
(b) "A sweet face, My mother's, that was before I was born. And the sea, which appears to have changed less, Washed their terribly transient feet."
(i) Whose sweet face is referred to here?1
(ii) Who is 1' in the second line?1
(iii) What is that has not changed?
(iv) Find out the word in the stanza that means 'transitory'.1
(v) Compare the change that comes in the mother and the sea.1
10. Answer any three of the following questions: 2x3=5
(a) Describe the three girls with particular reference to the 'Big girl' in the poem, A Photograph.
Answer: In the poem A Photograph, the three girls are the poet's mother and her two cousins. The "big girl" refers to the poet's mother, who was the eldest among them. She is described as confident, responsible, and playful, capturing the innocence and joy of childhood during a seaside holiday.
(b) What does the poet mean by the line, "Both wry with the laboured ease of loss"?
Answer: The line "Both wry with the laboured ease of loss" in A Photograph reflects the shared, ironic acceptance of loss. The poet's mother and the poet herself have come to terms with the pain of losing something precious—her mother's lost childhood and the poet's loss of her mother.
(c) What happens when the rain descends in the form of showers?
Answer: When the rain descends in the form of showers, it rejuvenates the Earth. The droplets sink into the ground, bringing life to parched lands, refreshing nature, and symbolizing renewal and hope.
(d) Describe the things that receive the blessings of the rain.
Answer: The rain blesses various elements of nature, such as the trees, plants, flowers, and fields. It nurtures them, making them flourish and sustain life. Additionally, it inspires poets and enhances human creativity.
(e) What is the central theme of the poem, Childhood?
Answer: The central theme of the poem Childhood is the loss of innocence and the realization of maturity. The poet reflects on the transition from a naive, carefree childhood to a more complex understanding of the world as an adult.
(f) What does the poet realize of Heaven and Hell?
Answer: The poet realizes that Heaven and Hell are not physical places but exist in the human mind. They are metaphors for the emotions and states of being created by our thoughts and actions.
(g) What is the father's problem in the poem, Father and the Son?
Answer: In the poem Father to Son, the father's problem is his inability to communicate and connect with his son. Despite living under the same roof, their emotional distance highlights a lack of understanding and unresolved conflicts between generations.
11. Answer any five of the following questions: 2×5=10
(a) What did Wu Daozi want to show the Emperor through his painting?
Answer: Wu Daozi wanted to show the Emperor the true essence of art by revealing the magical and spiritual world hidden within his painting. He created a painting of a landscape and, through his mystical art, entered the painting to disappear forever, emphasizing the idea that art is beyond materialistic appreciation.
(b) What is Nek Chand's contribution to the world of art?
Answer: Nek Chand is renowned for his creation of the Rock Garden in Chandigarh, a unique piece of environmental art. He used discarded materials like broken ceramics, bangles, and industrial waste to create sculptures and structures, transforming waste into a creative masterpiece.
(c) Why was it hard for the author to believe that his grandmother had a divine beauty?
Answer: The author found it hard to believe that his grandmother had a divine beauty because she looked old and wrinkled for as long as he could remember. Her physical appearance, characterized by her stooped posture and grey hair, reflected her advanced age rather than divine beauty.
(d) How did the sparrows mourn the grandmother's death?
Answer: The sparrows mourned the grandmother's death by sitting silently in and around her room. Thousands of them gathered without chirping or eating any food, showing their deep sense of loss and paying their respects in a poignant and unusual manner.
(e) Why was a mirror put inside a cage in the zoo at Lusaka?
Answer: A mirror was placed inside the cage at the Lusaka zoo to emphasize the message that humans are the most dangerous species for the environment. The mirror allowed visitors to see their reflection, prompting them to introspect and realize their role in harming the natural world.
(f) How are croplands and grasslands being converted into wasteland and deserts?
Answer: Croplands and grasslands are being converted into wastelands and deserts due to overgrazing, deforestation, excessive irrigation, and poor farming practices. These activities deplete soil fertility, disrupt ecosystems, and lead to land degradation.
(g) Why, according to Verrier Elwin, should wood carving be taught and encouraged in our educational institutions?
Answer: According to Verrier Elwin, wood carving should be taught and encouraged in educational institutions because it is a traditional art form that helps preserve cultural heritage and provides creative and economic opportunities for students, especially in rural areas.
(k) Why did Verrier Elwin say that he was an unconventional visitor?
Answer: Verrier Elwin described himself as an unconventional visitor because he sought to learn about and respect the tribal way of life. Unlike typical visitors who viewed tribes from a colonial or anthropological perspective, he embraced their traditions and advocated for their rights.
12. What appeal does Verrier Elwin make to the scholars of Assam concerning the songs and poems of the State? Why does he make this appeal? 4+2=6
Answer: Verrier Elwin appeals to the scholars of Assam to actively collect, preserve, and study the traditional songs and poems of the State. He emphasizes the importance of documenting these works, as they are deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Assam. These songs and poems reflect the joys, sorrows, and values of the people and are a testament to their rich artistic heritage.
Elwin makes this appeal because he fears that modernization and neglect may lead to the loss of these cultural treasures. He believes that preserving them is crucial for maintaining Assam's unique identity and passing it on to future generations. Additionally, he urges scholars to take pride in their heritage and ensure that the beauty and depth of Assamese art and literature are recognized and celebrated globally.
OR
Give a character sketch of the author's grandmother. 6
Answer: The author's grandmother, in The Portrait of a Lady, is a simple, kind, and religious woman.
1. Physical Appearance: She is old and wrinkled, always dressed in a white saree. Her silver hair and calm face make her look graceful and peaceful.
2. Religious Nature: She spends most of her time praying and reading holy books. Her faith in God is strong, and she leads a spiritual life.
3. Loving and Caring: She takes care of the author lovingly when he is a child. She helps him get ready for school, teaches him prayers, and walks him to school.
4. Strong and Adaptable: When the author grows up and they spend less time together, she accepts the change without complaint. She keeps herself busy with prayer and spinning yarn.
5. Kind to Animals: She has a special love for birds and feeds sparrows every day. The sparrows seem to love her back and mourn her death in silence.
The grandmother is a symbol of love, tradition, and strength. Her life leaves a lasting impression on the author, and her death feels like the end of an important chapter in his life.
13. Answer any one of the following questions: 6
(a) "The best way of getting to know a place is to visit it." Which place does the narrator refer to? What does he say about the place?
(b) What factors made Einstein's life in Munich miserable? What did he realize after six months?
(a) "The best way of getting to know a place is to visit it." Which place does the narrator refer to? What does he say about the place?
Answer:- The narrator refers to the city of Hyderabad in this context. He believes that the essence of any place can only be truly experienced by visiting it. Hyderabad, as he describes, is a city rich in culture, history, and modernity. It offers a unique blend of old-world charm and new-age development, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience.
The narrator highlights the historical significance of Hyderabad, particularly its monuments like the Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Mecca Masjid, which stand as testaments to its glorious past. These architectural marvels reflect the city's connection to the Nizams, who ruled Hyderabad and contributed significantly to its cultural and historical wealth. He also mentions the bustling bazaars such as Laad Bazaar, famous for its traditional bangles and pearls, which give visitors a glimpse into the local life and traditions of the city.
Food is another major attraction that the narrator praises. Hyderabad is globally known for its biryani, a flavorful rice dish that has become synonymous with the city's identity. Besides biryani, the narrator also recommends trying other delicacies like haleem and various street foods, which represent the city’s diverse culinary heritage.
Hyderabad is also a hub of modern development, with its rapidly growing IT industry and modern infrastructure earning it the nickname "Cyberabad." The narrator admires how the city balances its modernity with its deep-rooted traditions, making it a unique destination for travelers.
In conclusion, the narrator stresses that to truly appreciate a place like Hyderabad, one must visit it in person, as no description can fully capture its spirit, vibrancy, and charm.
---
(b) What factors made Einstein's life in Munich miserable? What did he realize after six months?
Answer:- Albert Einstein’s time in Munich was marked by dissatisfaction and unhappiness, primarily due to the rigid educational system and his lack of social connection. At the age of 15, Einstein found himself at odds with the methods of teaching employed at his school. The school’s system focused on rote learning, strict discipline, and blind obedience to authority, which clashed with Einstein’s natural curiosity and independent thinking. He found no joy in memorizing facts or conforming to strict rules, as his mind yearned for creativity and exploration.
Einstein’s teachers often misunderstood his reluctance to conform, labeling him as rebellious and uncooperative. This only deepened his sense of isolation and frustration. He felt suffocated by an environment that prioritized conformity over intellectual freedom, making it difficult for him to enjoy learning.
Apart from the school, life in Munich was also challenging for Einstein on a personal level. He had few friends and felt lonely in a city where he struggled to connect with the people and culture around him. The lack of emotional support, combined with the pressures of school, made his life increasingly unbearable.
After enduring this environment for six months, Einstein came to a significant realization. He understood that staying in Munich and continuing his education in the traditional system would not allow him to achieve his full potential. This awareness led him to make a bold decision—to leave school and Munich altogether.
Einstein’s decision to leave Munich marked the beginning of his journey toward intellectual and personal freedom. He sought an alternative path that allowed him to nurture his creativity and pursue his passion for science. This pivotal moment in his life reflects his courage to challenge the status quo and follow his instincts, even when it meant breaking away from societal expectations.
In summary, Einstein’s miserable experience in Munich stemmed from the rigid education system and his isolation in the city. His realization after six months set the stage for his remarkable journey as one of the greatest scientific minds in history.
14. Answer any two of the following questions in brief: 2×2=4
(a) How did Ranga and Ratna react at their unexpected encounter?
Answer: When Ranga and Ratna unexpectedly met, Ratna felt shy and nervous, immediately lowering her gaze. Ranga, on the other hand, was pleasantly surprised and captivated by her beauty. He couldn't hide his feelings, and his reaction indicated his growing interest in Ratna.
(b) Why was the narrator impressed with Ranga?
Answer: The narrator was impressed with Ranga because of his courteous behavior, modern outlook, and ability to blend traditional values with modern thinking. Unlike others in his village, Ranga greeted the narrator respectfully and showed a thoughtful, refined personality that set him apart.
(c) How did Yuri help Albert in getting a medical certificate?
Answer: Yuri helped Albert by introducing him to a friendly and understanding doctor. He explained Albert’s situation to the doctor, who sympathized with Albert's unhappiness in school and issued a medical certificate stating that Albert needed to take a break from school due to his mental stress.
(d) What was Einstein's idea of education?
Answer: Einstein believed that education should focus on fostering curiosity and critical thinking rather than rote memorization. He valued understanding concepts over blindly learning facts and emphasized the importance of creativity and independent thought in the learning process.
-0000-
Also Read PYQs Solutions:
1. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2011
2. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2012
3. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2013
4. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2014
5. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2015
6. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2016
7. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2017
8. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2018
9. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2019
10. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2020
11. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2022
12. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2023
13. QUESTION PAPER SOLUTION: 2024