ASSEB/AHSEC CLASS 12 Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2025, HS 2nd Year Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2025
2025
ALTERNATIVE ENGLISH
Full Marks: 100
Pass Marks: 30
Time: Three hours
The figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions
GROUP – A (Prose: 40 Marks)
1. Give brief answers to any five of the following questions in full sentence: 1x5=5
(a) What is the cost of the enamel box that Rosemary wanted to buy?
Answer:- The enamel box Rosemary wanted to buy cost twenty-eight guineas.
(b) Which Russian author influenced Katherine Mansfield?
Answer:- The Russian writer who influenced Katherine Mansfield was Anton Chekhov.
(c) What was the name of the airport situated in Guwahati in 1949?
Answer:-The airport in Guwahati in 1949 was named Kahikuchi Airport.
(d) What did Hazarika consider to be his only aim?
Answer:- Hazarika considered becoming a singer as his only goal.
(e) How much money did Albert Eduward have at the bank?
Answer:- Albert Edward had thirty thousand pounds in the bank.
(f) Where from had the new vicar come?
Answer:- The new pastor came from the West End.
(g) What did Rama give free with every item?
Answer:- Rama gave chutney free with every item.
(h) What type of house is “Bina Kutir”?
Answer:- “Bina Kutir” is a small house or hut.
(i) Which car brand is mentioned in the story “Bina Kutir”?
Answer:- The car brand mentioned in the story “Bina Kutir” is Ford.
2. Answer any five of the following question: 2x5=10
(a) On what occasion did the verger use his new gown?
Answer:- The wager used his new gown on special occasions such as funerals and weddings. For christenings and other ceremonies, he used his second-best gown, wearing the new gown as a dignified symbol of his rank.
(b) What business did Albert Foreman set up and where?
Answer:- After leaving his position as wager Albert Foreman set up business as a tobacconist and news vendor in London.
(c) Why did Rama have to move his stall two hundred yards away?
Answer:- Rama had to move his stall two hundred yards away because a memorial was erected at his original place, where a leader had been killed during a riot.
(d) What did Rama’s wife do upon his arrival at night?
Answer:- On Rama's arrival at night, his wife would open the door for him, take out all his belongings, take out a cloth bag with the day's earnings, count the cash and set aside the profit for saving in a wooden box. She acted as a helpful companion and managed their savings.
(e) How does Katherine Mansfield portray marriage in “A Cup of Tea”?
Answer:- Katherine Mansfield portrays marriage as influenced by social status and material concerns in "A Cup of Tea". Through Rosemary and Philip’s relationship, Mansfield highlights the superficiality and insecurities inherent in upper class marriages, as well as the power dynamics and emotional distance between the partners.
(f) Name two locations that Bhupen Hazarika reminisces about in “The Voyage”.
Answer:- Two places Bhupen Hazarika reminds us of in “The Voyage” are Sarnath and Bodh Gaya, both associated with Buddhism.
(g) How does ‘Bina Kutir’ differ from its surroundings?
Answer:- ‘Bina Kutir’ stands out from its surroundings as it stands out as a neat, tidy and peaceful hut, in stark contrast to the chaos and dirt of its surroundings (inferred from literary analysis; direct search results not available).
(h) Why does Rosemary like shopping at antique stores?
Answer:- Rosemary likes to shop at antique stores because she is attracted to unique and exquisite items that reflect her taste and social status, and shopping at such places gives her a sense of sophistication and exclusivity (inferred from the character's portrayal in "A Cup of Tea"; direct search result not available).
3. Give answers to any two of the following questions: 3x2=6
(a) Write a short note on Mansfield as a short story writer.
Answer:- Katherine Mansfield is considered one of the leading modernist short story writers. Her stories are known for stylistic innovation, use of stream of consciousness, and focus on the inner lives of characters. Mansfield often wrote about ordinary settings and everyday people, but her stories are rich in psychological depth and poetic language. She avoided traditional plot structures, sometimes using multiple narrators and fragmented narratives, making her work stand out among her contemporaries. Her stories such as The Garden Party, Bliss, and Daughters of the Colonel are considered masterpieces of this genre.
(b) What did Hazarika feel upon reaching New York city?
Answer:- On reaching New York City, Hazarika felt a deep sense of nostalgia and evolving identity. Initially, she felt a deep connection to Assam, but as her journey progressed, her sense of identity broadened to include a national perspective. The trip led them to reflect on cultural connections and shared human experience, filling them with both a sense of adventure and a longing for home.
(c) On the day of the christening, what did the verger compliment the new vicar on?
Answer:- On the day of the christening, the pastor did not praise the new pastor directly. Instead, after the ceremony, the pastor quietly carried out his duties and later, in the vestry, the pastor acknowledged that the pastor had completed his duties to everyone's satisfaction. The pastor expressed surprise at the pastor's illiteracy, but also acknowledged that he had the highest opinion of the pastor's character and ability, thus indirectly praising his work ethic and dedication.
(d) Why did Rama’s customers like him?
Answer:- Ram's customers liked him because he sold quality food at affordable prices and was generous, allowing customers to choose the items they wanted after careful scrutiny. His stall was always stocked with delicious items and he treated his customers – many of whom were poor or working-class people – with kindness and respect. Rama's caring attitude, especially to the boot polish boys, and his careful attention to customer satisfaction made him popular with his customers.
(e) Why do you think the speaker imagined the daughter’s name as Bina?
Answer:- The speaker may have thought of naming the daughter Bina because she was a rare and special person, just like the rare Bina flower that bloomed near the house. The daughter was loving, caring, beautiful, and sentimental – qualities that set her apart from her more materialistic brothers. The name Bina symbolized her unique personality and her deep emotional attachment to the house and its memories.
4. Answer any two of the questions given below: (5 × 2 = 10)
(a) Why was the verger asked to step down? Do you think this was a fair decision? Give reasons. (2 + 3 = 5)
Answer:- The Verger asked to step down because he was illiterate. He could neither read nor write. It was an unfair decision. His sixteen years of services speaks volumes for it. He had served the church for sixteen years to the situations of everybody without knowing reading or writing. According to the last Vicar, knowing or not knowing these things did not make any difference as far as Verger was concerned.
(b). Justify the title “The Martyr’s Corner”.
Answer:- The title “The Martyr’s Corner” is symbolic. Rama, a hardworking food vendor, used to sell his items at a busy market corner. That corner brought him good luck and regular customers, helping him earn a decent living. But one day, a political leader was killed there during a protest, and the place was turned into a memorial. Rama was forced to leave his spot.
After moving to a new location, Rama’s business failed. He lost his customers, faced losses, and was even accused of selling stale food. Eventually, he had to shut down his business and work as a waiter. Even though the corner became a martyr’s memorial, it was Rama who truly suffered. He lost everything—his work, income, and respect. So, the title is justified because Rama is the real martyr who sacrificed his livelihood.
(c) Write a short note on the character of Miss Smith.
Answer:- Miss Smith is a small but important character in the story "A Cup of Tea". She is a poor, hungry girl who asks Rosemary Fell for the price of a cup of tea. She looks weak and frightened when she first appears. Rosemary, trying to act kind and generous, takes her home.
At first, Miss Smith is shocked and scared. She even thinks she is being taken to the police. But when she sees Rosemary’s rich house and is treated kindly, she slowly becomes comfortable and eats the food given to her. She is shy but thankful.
However, when Rosemary’s husband Philip says that Miss Smith is pretty, Rosemary becomes jealous and sends her away. This shows that Miss Smith was used only to make Rosemary feel good about herself. She is important because her presence shows how fake Rosemary’s kindness really is.
(d). Present your views on the food and flavours mentioned by Hazarika in ‘The Voyage’.
Answer: In Hazarika’s account, he mentions a dish called “kalmou” that his grandmother used to cook for him. Although he longs for it during his journey, he is unable to find it in Sri Lanka. He also mentions “tenga” and “bamboo shoot,” which are traditional Assamese ingredients. These references to food and flavors highlight Hazarika’s nostalgia for his native Assam and his longing for the tastes and aromas of home. It reflects how food can evoke powerful memories and emotions, especially when one is far away from familiar surroundings.
5. Explain with reference to context any one of the following extracts: (5 × 1 = 5)
(a) "Rama watched the unfolding of contemporary history through the shouts of newsboys, and in due course tried to return to his corner."
(b) "I drew the remaining drink with my last sip, and keeping the bottle at the counter, answerless, I kept looking within its emptiness for a long time."
6. Give answers to the following:
(a) Meanings of the words: (½ × 4 = 2)
(i) clamour – a loud and confused noise, especially by a crowd
(ii) aisle – a passage between rows of seats or shelves
(iii) cavern – a large cave or a large underground chamber
(iv) stagger – to walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall
(b) Antonyms of the words: (½ × 2 = 1)
(i) dusk – dawn
(ii) quiver – still
(c) Synonyms of the words: (½ × 2 = 1)
(i) sufficient – enough
(ii) glib – smooth-talking
GROUP-B (Poetry: 30 Marks)
7. Answer any five of the following questions in full sentences: (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) Name the poet of "Ozymandias of Egypt".
(b) Who is the speaker in "Strange Meeting"?
(c) What does the speaker discover in the underworld?
(d) What do you understand by the words "Sweet music of speech"?
(e) What led the scorpion to crawl beneath the sack of rice?
(f) What will purify the flesh and soul of the mother?
(g) "We paused before a House that seemed A _______ of the Ground." (Fill in the gap)
(h) "While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements grey I hear it in the deep heart’s core." — Name the poem.
8. Answer briefly any five of the questions given below: (2 × 5 = 10)
(a) Why does the poet wish to stay at Innisfree?
(b) What is the role of superstition in the poem "Night of the Scorpion"?
(c) What are the poetic devices often used by Wilfred Owen in his poem?
(d) What is the significance of the "Setting Sun" in the poem?
(e) Whose greatness is actually glorified in the poem "Ozymandias of Egypt"?
(f) What does the poet mean by "titanic wars"?
(g) How does Selkirk reflect upon the flight of the mind?
(h) What led to the formation of the giant scorpion shadows on the walls of the speaker’s hut?
9. Answer any two of the following questions: (3 × 2 = 6)
(a) What does "Wrinkled lip and sneer of cold command" signify?
(b) Comment on the significance of the title of the poem "Because I Could Not Stop for Death".
(c) What message did Selkirk want to convey to his friends?
(d) Describe the condition of the statue that the traveller comes across in the desert.
10. Answer any one of the following questions: (5 × 1 = 5)
(a) Explain with reference to the context:
"I parried; but my hands were loath and cold
Let us sleep now..."
(b) Does the poem "The Lake Isle of Innisfree" celebrate the theme of escapism? Explain.
(c) What does the poem "Night of the Scorpion" say about a mother?
11. Give answers to the following:
(a) Meanings of the words: (½ × 4 = 2)
(i) solitude – the state of being alone
(ii) affliction – pain, suffering, or distress
(iii) sullen – silent and bad-tempered; gloomy
(iv) citadels – strong forts or castles, especially on high ground
(b) Antonyms of the words: (½ × 2 = 1)
(i) haste – slowness
(ii) desolate – lively or crowded
(c) Synonyms of the words: (½ × 2 = 1)
(i) leisure – free time
(ii) despise – hate or dislike strongly
GROUP-C (Grammar: 10 Marks)
12. Add question tags to any five of the following sentences: (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) Rubi is coming tomorrow, __________
(b) He speaks French well, __________
(c) I am late, __________
(d) You should have done this, __________
(e) Please ask the boys to come in, __________
(f) Don’t go there, __________
(g) No book is allowed, __________
(h) You seldom come here, __________
13. Correct the errors in these sentences and rewrite them: (any five) (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) I cannot continue my study anymore.
(b) She likes vegetable.
(c) His wonder knew no bound.
(d) Every boy and every girl are present today.
(e) Mr. Bose, accompanied by his wife and children, were present there.
(f) He has five brother-in-laws.
(g) Fire broke out in our flat.
(h) I wish I were him.
GROUP-C (Grammar: 10 Marks)
12. Add question tags to any five of the following sentences: (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) Rubi is coming tomorrow, isn’t she?
(b) He speaks French well, doesn’t he?
(c) I am late, aren’t I?
(d) You should have done this, shouldn’t you?
(e) Please ask the boys to come in, will you?
(f) Don’t go there, will you?
(g) No book is allowed, is it?
(h) You seldom come here, do you?
13. Correct the errors in these sentences and rewrite them: (1 × 5 = 5)
(a) I cannot continue my study anymore.
Answer:- I cannot continue my studies anymore.
(b) She likes vegetable.
Answer:- She likes vegetables.
(c) His wonder knew no bound.
Answer:- His wonder knew no bounds.
(d) Every boy and every girl are present today.
Answer:- Every boy and every girl is present today.
(e) Mr. Bose, accompanied by his wife and children, were present there.
Answer:- Mr. Bose, accompanied by his wife and children, was present there.
(f) He has five brother-in-laws.
Answer:- He has five brothers-in-law.
(g) Fire broke out in our flat.
Answer:- A Fire broke out in our flat.
(h) I wish I were him.
Answer:- Correct as it is. (No error )
GROUP-D (Writing and Comprehension: 20 Marks)
14. Choose any one of the topics listed below and write an essay on it: (10 Marks)
(a) Women Empowerment
Answer:-
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
Introduction
Women empowerment means giving women the right to participate equally in all spheres of life — social, economic, political, and personal. It enables women to make their own decisions, live with dignity, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Importance of Women Empowerment
Social Equality: Empowerment removes gender-based discrimination and promotes equality.
Economic Growth: Women’s participation in the workforce increases household and national income.
Improved Family Welfare: Educated and empowered women raise healthier and more educated children.
Reduction of Social Evils: Issues like dowry, domestic violence, and female foeticide reduce when women are aware and empowered.
Government Initiatives in India
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana – Promotes the education and survival of girl children.
Ujjwala Yojana – Provides free LPG connections to women from BPL households.
Maternity Benefit Act – Offers paid maternity leave and job security to working women.
Self Help Groups (SHGs) – Encourage rural women to become financially independent.
Legal Provisions for Empowerment
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
Hindu Succession Act (Amended), 2005 – Equal inheritance rights for daughters.
Challenges to Women Empowerment
Gender-based discrimination and stereotypes
Lack of education and awareness, especially in rural areas
Wage gap and unequal job opportunities
Violence and harassment at home and in public spaces
Conclusion
Women empowerment is essential for a just and developed society. An empowered woman not only improves her own life but also contributes to the progress of her family, community, and nation. True empowerment will be achieved only when women have equal rights, respect, and opportunities in all walks of life.
(b) Knowledge is Power
Answer:-
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
Introduction
The phrase "Knowledge is Power" highlights the importance of learning and understanding. It means that a person who has knowledge is more powerful than one who only has physical strength or wealth. Knowledge gives us the ability to face challenges, solve problems, and make wise decisions in life.
Importance of Knowledge
Knowledge helps us grow mentally and morally. It opens our minds to new ideas and allows us to understand the world better. A knowledgeable person can think critically, act responsibly, and guide others in the right direction. It also builds confidence and helps in achieving personal and professional goals.
Historical Examples
History has shown us that great thinkers, scientists, and leaders used knowledge to change the world. Mahatma Gandhi led India to freedom through non-violence and wisdom. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar used his legal and social knowledge to frame our Constitution. These people proved that knowledge is stronger than weapons.
Knowledge in the Modern World
Today, in the age of technology, knowledge is more valuable than ever. Those who are educated and skilled lead in every field—science, business, healthcare, and more. Countries with educated populations are more developed and peaceful. Education empowers people to improve their lives and society.
Using Knowledge Wisely
While knowledge is powerful, it must be used carefully. Power without good intentions can be harmful. Therefore, we must use our knowledge for the good of others and not for selfish or harmful purposes. Ethical use of knowledge is true wisdom.
Conclusion
To conclude, knowledge is the true source of power. It gives us strength, wisdom, and the ability to shape a better future. As students, we must focus on gaining knowledge and using it to serve society and the nation in a positive way.
(c) Global Warming and the Future of Mankind
Answer:-
GLOBAL WARMING AND THE FUTURE OF MANKIND
Introduction
Global warming is one of the most serious environmental challenges facing humanity today. It refers to the gradual increase in Earth’s average temperature due to excessive emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. If not controlled, global warming threatens the very future of mankind.
Causes of Global Warming
The major causes include burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial pollution, and excessive use of vehicles. These activities increase the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping more heat and raising global temperatures.
Effects on Mankind
Global warming has led to rising sea levels, melting glaciers, extreme weather conditions, droughts, floods, and loss of biodiversity. It affects agriculture, health, and living conditions. In the long run, it may result in food shortages, mass migration, and increased natural disasters.
The Threat to Our Future
If global warming continues unchecked, future generations may not be able to survive on Earth. Cities near coastlines could vanish, water scarcity will worsen, and new diseases may spread. The balance of nature will be disturbed, making life very difficult for mankind.
Solutions and Hope
To secure the future, we must act now. Planting more trees, using renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, and spreading awareness are key solutions. Governments, industries, and individuals must all take responsibility to fight climate change.
Conclusion
In conclusion, global warming is a global warning. The future of mankind depends on how wisely we act today. Saving the environment is not a choice—it is our duty for the sake of future generations.
(d) My Dream Holiday Destination
Answer:-
MY DREAM HOLIDAY DESTINATION
Introduction
Everyone has a dream destination where they would love to go on a holiday. My dream holiday destination is Switzerland—a land of snow-covered mountains, peaceful lakes, and beautiful landscapes. It has always fascinated me through books, films, and travel shows.
Natural Beauty
Switzerland is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The Alps, lush green meadows, sparkling lakes like Lake Geneva, and picturesque villages make it look like a fairytale land. I dream of riding a cable car through the snow-clad mountains and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Culture and Attractions
The country is rich in culture and tradition. Cities like Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne are famous for their cleanliness, architecture, and museums. I would love to visit the famous Matterhorn peak, enjoy Swiss chocolate, and take a train ride on the Glacier Express.
Peace and Cleanliness
What attracts me most is the peace and cleanliness of the country. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Switzerland offers a calm and refreshing environment, ideal for a perfect vacation.
A Dream Worth Living
Though it is an expensive destination, I dream of visiting it one day with my family. I believe that with hard work and proper planning, dreams do come true.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Switzerland is not just a travel goal but a dream of experiencing heaven on Earth. I hope to visit it someday and create memories that will last a lifetime.
15. Read the following passage carefully:
Suresh: How many events have you joined this year? What were they about?
Ranjit: I have joined more than 10 events so far, most of which were about education.
Suresh: What was your most memorable event?
Ranjit: The most memorable for me was an international study conference, in which I was introduced to some famous universities in Europe to study overseas.
Suresh: Was it organised indoors or outdoors?
Ranjit: It was an indoor event.
Suresh: Who sponsored the event?
Ranjit: The event organizer was the Education Department of American Center, but the universities introduced in the conference were the ones who paid.
Suresh: Who went to the event with you?
Ranjit: I went there with my friends, who shared the same interest in studying abroad as me.
Suresh: What were performances in the event?
Ranjit: There were not many performances. Each university representative just had a speech to introduce their school to students and then they hosted a Q and A session.
Suresh: Was the event shown on TV?
Ranjit: The event was not aired, but there were television advertisements for it.
Suresh: Would someone market an event?
Ranjit: Taking advantage of social media is a smart way to promote an event.
Answer the following questions based on your reading and understanding:
(a) Why did Ranjit attend the international study conference? (2)
Answer: Ranjit attended the international study conference to learn about famous universities in Europe and opportunities to study abroad.
(b) Who sponsored the event? (2)
Answer: The Education Department of the American Center organized the event, but the participating universities paid for it.
(c) How would you promote an event? (2)
Answer: Using social media is an effective way to promote an event.
(d) Who accompanied him to the conference? And why? (2)
Answer: Ranjit was accompanied by his friends who were also interested in studying abroad.
(e) Find a word in the passage which means: (2)
(i) Express Publicly – introduce
(ii) An act of presenting a play, concert, etc. – performance
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