CBSE Class 12 English Question Paper 2026 Solved Code 1-1-2

SECTION A

READING SKILLS

1. Read the following passage carefully : [12 Marks]

(1) Jonathan Seagull discovered that boredom, fear and anger are the reasons a gull's life is so short and with those gone from his thought, he lived a long, fine life indeed.
(2) They laughed at him. The other gulls scorned him. 'Such nonsense', they would squawk, as he practised flying, not for food but for the joy of flight itself. But Jonathan, undeterred, flew higher and faster than any gull before him. He learned that the secret to flight was not merely flapping wings, but in knowing the purpose of flying.
(3) 'Break the chain of your thought', he told himself, 'And you break the chains of your body.'
In solitude, he mastered loops, dives and rolls. He flew at speeds that blurred the ocean below. The flock cast him out for defying tradition, he discovered that exile was not the end but a beginning. Alone, he found peace. Alone, he found the sky.
(4) One morning, soaring silently above the clouds, Jonathan was joined by two radiant gulls. Their wings shone with light and their presence was calm and sure. 'We've been watching you', they said. 'You're ready to come with us.'
'Where ?' Jonathan asked blinking in the sunlight.
'To a higher level of being,' they answered.
'You have learned much but there is more - more to flying, more to being a gull.'
(5) He followed them into a realm where flight was pure thought and time had no meaning. There, gulls didn't fight over scraps of bread or squawk at one another in fear. They flew to understand themselves to explore the limitless. There Jonathan met Chiang, the wisest gull, who told him : 'The only true law is that which leads to freedom - there is no other.'
(6) Jonathan began to teach others what he had learned, sharing not just flight techniques but freedom of thought. 'You can go as far as you wish,' he would say. 'Because you have the right to learn. You have the right to be free.'
No longer bound by rules, written in sand, Jonathan soared not just through the skies but through understanding. And as he flew, he knew that greatness is not measured in a wingspan but in the courage to break free. (365 words)
Source : Jonathan Livingstone Seagull by Richard Bach.

Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :

(i) According to Jonathan, what was the secret of living a long life ? (para-1) [1 Mark]

Answer: The secret of living a long life was getting rid of (freedom from) boredom, fear and anger.

Teacher's Note:
a) All three words - boredom, fear and anger - should be mentioned.
b) The key idea is "freedom from" these feelings, not just naming them.

(ii) How did Jonathan's unconventional passion for flying lead to his exclusion from the flock ? (para-2) [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Jonathan defied tradition and norms by flying not for food but for his own joy and satisfaction.
2. So the other gulls laughed at him, scorned him and squawked at him, and he was cast out of the flock.

Teacher's Note:
a) Two points are needed for two marks - the reason (flying for joy) and the flock's reaction.
b) Flying higher and faster than any other gull is also an acceptable point.

(iii) Read and complete the following sentence suitably : [1 Mark]
'Break the chains of your thought and you break the chains of your body', suggests : (para-3)
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence :
(A) freedom is achieved through physical strength.
(B) mental liberation is the key to true freedom.

Answer: (B) mental liberation is the key to true freedom.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Chains of your thought" refers to the mind, not the body.
b) The line says the mind must be free first; the body follows.

(iv) Complete the following suitably with ONE advantage with reference to paragraph 3.
It was ironical that Jonathan Seagull's exile did not mean isolation but ___. [1 Mark]

Answer: peace and a new beginning (freedom, a chance to master loops, dives and rolls and achieve his full potential).

Teacher's Note:
a) Give only ONE advantage, as the question asks.
b) The passage says exile "was not the end but a beginning" - use this idea.

(v) What do the two radiant gulls who approached Jonathan, most likely represent ? (para-4) [1 Mark]
(A) rivals sent to watch his skills.
(B) a hallucination formed out of his loneliness.
(C) fellow gulls returning from his original flock.
(D) spiritual guides leading him to a higher plane.

Answer: (D) spiritual guides leading him to a higher plane.

Teacher's Note:
a) Their shining wings and the words "a higher level of being" point to guides.
b) They are calm and sure, so they are not rivals or old flock members.

(vi) Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph 4 to prove the following : [1 Mark]
You are ready to come with us.

Answer: "You have learned much but there is more - more to flying, more to being a gull." (Also accepted: he was soaring silently above the clouds.)

Teacher's Note:
a) Textual evidence means a line or phrase taken from the passage.
b) Quote it exactly and put it in quotation marks.

(vii) In Chiang's statement, "the only true law is that which leads to freedom - there is no other", what does the phrase 'the only true law refer to ? (para-5) [1 Mark]

Answer: It refers to the idea that freedom is the ultimate goal of existence - to understand oneself and explore the limitless (self-realisation).

Teacher's Note:
a) Link "law" with freedom and self-understanding.
b) One clear sentence is enough for one mark.

(viii) Select the option that best explains Jonathan's transformation after meeting Chiang. [1 Mark]
(A) becomes more aggressive and fearless
(B) forgets that past and returns to his flock.
(C) learns to use his skills to dominate the other gulls.
(D) internalises freedom and shares his wisdom with others.

Answer: (D) internalises freedom and shares his wisdom with others.

Teacher's Note:
a) Paragraph 6 says he began to teach others freedom of thought.
b) Options about aggression or domination go against the passage's message.

(ix) Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 6 : [1 Mark]
free : bound
dropped : ___
(A) soared
(B) learned
(C) measured
(D) break

Answer: (A) soared

Teacher's Note:
a) "free : bound" is a pair of opposites, so find the opposite of "dropped".
b) "Soared" means rose high, the opposite of dropped.

(x) In what way did Jonathan's journey challenge traditional beliefs ? Give an example. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Jonathan showed that success is not about meeting the flock's expectations but about self-realisation, freedom and reaching one's full potential.
2. For example, he flew for joy and not for food, and learnt that the secret of flight is not flapping wings but knowing the purpose of flying.

Teacher's Note:
a) One mark is for the way beliefs were challenged and one for the example.
b) Pick the example directly from the passage.

2. Read the following passage carefully : [10 Marks]

(1) Introduction : India faces a serious road safety challenge. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 4.8 lakh road accidents were reported in 2023, leading to 1.72 lakh deaths. Many of these could have been avoided by simple precautions - wearing helmets, fastening seatbelts and following speed limits. These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent lives lost and family dynamics changed forever.

Causes of Road Accidents in India (2023)
S. No. | Causes | %
1. | Overspeeding | 56
2. | Drunk driving | 8
3. | No seatbelt/helmet | 15
4. | Distraction (mobiles) | 6
5. | Mechanical failure | 4
6. | Weather/road condition | 6
7. | Others | 5

(2) Methodology : Recognising this, several cities are becoming proactive, especially near school zones. The municipal corporations and traffic police have introduced stricter school-zone safety measures - speed bumps, zebra crossings and digital signboards. This led to a 30% drop in minor accidents near schools, within a year. The success lay in combining infrastructure with awareness. Parents, teachers and traffic marshals helped monitor traffic during school hours.
(3) Survey : It's not just governments stepping up. In many cities, class XI and XII students launched a campaign called 'Ride Right', promoting helmet use among two-wheeler riders. They handed out stickers, ran roadshows and launched a 'No Helmet, No Selfie' challenge that went viral. Over 2000 riders pledged to wear helmets daily. Their success even led to invitations from the municipal body to speak in other schools - proof of how youth-led efforts can spark policy engagement.
(4) Results : Technology is also playing a significant role. Automation through AI-powered traffic cameras, digital signs and automated lights is being implemented in metros to reduce human error and improve monitoring including Pilot projects such as iRASTE and AI based road safety pilot to predict and prevent accidents using real time data and alerts for drivers. These systems have led to a 40% rise in fine collection, showing improved rule enforcement. GPS based alert systems in school buses now notify parents of speeding or unscheduled stops - another step towards safer school commutes.
(5) Implication for interventions : Still, personal responsibility is the most powerful safety tool. Whether it's a student cyclist using the left lane or a pedestrian waiting for the signal, every right choice sets an example. A popular slogan in school says it best : 'I follow, I influence.' Road safety is about respecting life, valuing time, and leading by example.

Answer the following questions, based on the given passage :

(i) What strategy does the author use in paragraph (1) to highlight the seriousness of road accidents ? [1 Mark]
(A) use of statistics and emotional appeal.
(B) humour and satire
(C) technical jargon and neutrality
(D) personal anecdotes and optimism

Answer: (A) use of statistics and emotional appeal.

Teacher's Note:
a) The figures 4.8 lakh accidents and 1.72 lakh deaths are statistics.
b) "Lives lost and family dynamics changed forever" is the emotional appeal.

(ii) What evidence from the passage suggests that stricter school-zone measures were effective ? [1 Mark]
(A) the number of schools increased rapidly.
(B) there was a 30% drop in minor accidents near schools.
(C) teachers and parents opposed the new rules.
(D) students stopped commuting by bicycle.

Answer: (B) there was a 30% drop in minor accidents near schools.

Teacher's Note:
a) Evidence of success must be a measurable result, stated in paragraph 2.
b) The other options are not mentioned in the passage.

(iii) What would the following be classified as ? [1 Mark]
Students launched a campaign called "Ride Right" promoting helmet use among two wheeler riders.
Select the appropriate response :
(A) primary purpose
(B) secondary objective
(C) method of analysis
(D) research outcome

Answer: (A) primary purpose

Teacher's Note:
a) The main aim of the campaign was to promote helmet use.
b) This answer follows the official marking scheme.

(iv) Give two points to support the success of the No Helmet - No Selfie Challenge. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Over 2000 riders pledged to wear helmets daily.
2. The students received invitations from the municipal body to speak in other schools.

Teacher's Note:
a) Each point carries one mark.
b) Both facts are in paragraph 3; the number 2000 makes the answer precise.

(v) Which word from paragraph 4 best conveys the idea of 'ensuring compliance through authoritative measures' especially in the context of traffic systems ? [1 Mark]
(A) collection
(B) enforcement
(C) monitoring
(D) automation

Answer: (B) enforcement

Teacher's Note:
a) "Enforcement" means making people obey rules through authority.
b) "Monitoring" only means watching, not making people comply.

(vi) Analyze why does the author emphasize that both technology and personal responsibility are important in promoting road safety. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. Technology such as automated systems can detect violations, reduce human error, improve monitoring and strengthen rule enforcement.
2. But real change depends on people's mindset and conscious choices, since every right choice sets an example; external enforcement and internal discipline work together to improve road safety.

Teacher's Note:
a) Cover both sides - technology and personal responsibility.
b) Show how the two work together for full marks.

(vii) Complete the following with a suitable reason : [1 Mark]
Road safety is about personal responsibility because ___.

Answer: it is the most powerful safety tool, and every right choice sets an example for others.

Teacher's Note:
a) The reason is given in paragraph 5.
b) Complete the sentence grammatically after "because".

(viii) Which of the following inferences is best supported by the data in the table ? [1 Mark]
(A) enforcement of helmet and seat belt rules would address the cause of road deaths.
(B) speeding is the key issue, which requires technological and behavioural interventions.
(C) mobile phone use while driving is the fastest growing cause of accidents.
(D) drunk driving accounts for more deaths than 'no helmet/seat belt' and distractions combined.

Answer: (B) speeding is the key issue, which requires technological and behavioural interventions.

Teacher's Note:
a) Overspeeding causes 56% of accidents, the largest share in the table.
b) Option (D) is wrong: drunk driving (8%) is less than 15% + 6% combined.

SECTION B

CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS

(Note : All details presented in the questions are imaginary and created for assessment purpose)

3. Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words : [4 Marks]

(A) You are Sakshi Mathur / Saksham Kher Counsellor of Bright Public School. Draft a notice informing students of Class X about the Annual Aptitude Test to be conducted.
This test would provide objective insights into individual strength and areas of improvement to help make better educational decisions. Include other necessary details. Put your notice in a box. [4 Marks]

Answer:
BRIGHT PUBLIC SCHOOL
NOTICE

10 February 2026

ANNUAL APTITUDE TEST

All students of Class X are informed that the Annual Aptitude Test will be held on 20 February 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the school auditorium. The test will give objective insights into your strengths and areas of improvement, to help you make better educational decisions. Interested students must register with the undersigned by 15 February 2026.

Sakshi Mathur
Counsellor

Teacher's Note:
a) Format (1 mark): school name, NOTICE, date, heading, signature, name and designation, all in a box.
b) Content (2 marks): name of event, date, time, venue, purpose, target class, registration deadline and contact.
c) Keep it to about 50 words; the purpose given in the question must be included.

OR

(B) You are Radhika Behl / Rahul Arora President of the School Community Service Club. To bridge the resource gap and provide free access to educational materials, draft a notice asking students to donate their used text books after the Annual Examination. Include all other necessary details. Put your notice in a box. [4 Marks]

Answer:
ABC PUBLIC SCHOOL
COMMUNITY SERVICE CLUB
NOTICE

5 March 2026

DONATION OF USED TEXT BOOKS

To bridge the resource gap and provide free access to educational materials, the Community Service Club is organising a book donation drive. Students are requested to donate their used text books after the Annual Examination, from 25 March to 31 March 2026, between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. in Room No. 12. For details, contact the undersigned.

Radhika Behl
President, Community Service Club

Teacher's Note:
a) Give a clear heading such as "Donation of Text Books".
b) Include purpose, dates, time, place and contact information.
c) Remember to put the notice in a box in the exam.

4. Attempt ANY ONE of the two (A) or (B) in about 50 words : [4 Marks]

(A) Draft an invitation on behalf of the Principal, Staff and Students inviting parents to attend a one-act play festival in your school. Mention one compelling highlight along with other necessary details. [4 Marks]

Answer:
ABC Public School, Jaipur

The Principal, Staff and Students
of ABC Public School
request the pleasure of your company
at the
ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL
on Saturday, 14 February 2026
at 10:00 a.m.
in the School Auditorium.

Chief Guest: Shri Rakesh Verma, noted theatre director
Highlight: A special performance of "Kabuliwala" by students of Class XII

RSVP: Ms. Neha Sharma (Cultural Coordinator), Ph. 9876543210

Teacher's Note:
a) A formal invitation is written in the third person; do not use "I" or "you" in the main lines.
b) Include host, occasion, day, date, time, venue, chief guest, one highlight and RSVP.
c) Put the card in a box and keep it close to 50 words.

OR

(B) You are Jessy / Joe Lobo CEO of Choice Fitness Company. You have been invited to inaugurate 'Himat' Martial Arts and Self-defence Centre. Draft a reply consenting to attend. [4 Marks]

Answer:
Choice Fitness Company
MG Road, Pune

10 February 2026

The Director
'Himat' Martial Arts and Self-defence Centre
Pune

Subject: Acceptance of invitation to inaugurate the Centre

Dear Sir/Madam,

Thank you for inviting me to inaugurate the 'Himat' Martial Arts and Self-defence Centre on 15 February 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at your premises. I am delighted to accept the invitation and shall be present on time. I wish the Centre great success.

Yours sincerely,
Jessy Lobo
CEO, Choice Fitness Company

Teacher's Note:
a) Format: sender's address, date, receiver's address, subject, salutation, complimentary close and name.
b) Content: thank the host, repeat the event, date, time and venue, and accept clearly.
c) Keep a formal and cordial tone throughout.

5. Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words : [5 Marks]

(A) Noise pollution is increasingly becoming a focus of concern today. Write a letter to the editor of a local daily discussing the negative impact on people's health and daily life by the indiscriminate use of loud speakers in the city. Also suggest effective ways to raise awareness about noise pollution. You are Sneh Lal / Sahil Ved.
You may use some of the given cues along with your own ideas to draft the letter.
Why are loud speakers used ?
What are the consequences of misuse of loudspeakers ?
disturbs peace, causes stress, irritation, hearing loss
How can this nuisance be checked ?
Stricter enforcement, spread awareness, time and volume limits [5 Marks]

Answer:
14, Civil Lines
Jaipur

10 February 2026

The Editor
The Jaipur Times
Jaipur

Subject: Growing menace of loudspeakers in the city

Sir,

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw attention to the indiscriminate use of loudspeakers in our city.

Loudspeakers are used at weddings, religious functions, rallies and shops, often late into the night. This noise pollution disturbs the peace of residents. It causes stress, irritation, headaches and sleeplessness, and long exposure can even lead to hearing loss. Students cannot study, and the elderly and the sick suffer the most.

This nuisance can be checked. Strict laws on time and volume limits must be made and enforced, with penalties for offenders. Awareness should be spread through campaigns, workshops in schools and messages on social media, so that citizens understand the harm caused by noise.

I hope the authorities take prompt action.

Yours truly,
Sneh Lal

Teacher's Note:
a) Content needs at least one point on negative impact and one on suggestions (any four points in all).
b) Format: sender's address, date, receiver's address, subject, salutation, close and name.
c) Stay within 120-150 words and keep a formal tone.

OR

(B) You are Sabhya / Sarit of 14, Lotus Enclave, Bhopal 40025. You read the following advertisement in the Bhopal Times and wish to apply for the post mentioned. Write a job application along with your bio-data.
Bright Residential School,
Dehradun.
Requires :
Athletics Coach for Senior School.
Qualification : Bachelor's degree in Physical Education
Experience : 4 years experience in coaching track and field events.
Skills Required :
Sound knowledge of training techniques.
Adept at physical fitness assessments.
Capable of inquiry management.
Competent to train students for Zonal level and National level competitions.
Good communicative skill and children management.
Apply to : The Principal, Bright Residential School, Dehradun [5 Marks]

Answer:
14, Lotus Enclave
Bhopal 40025

10 February 2026

The Principal
Bright Residential School
Dehradun

Subject: Application for the post of Athletics Coach

Sir/Madam,

With reference to your advertisement in the Bhopal Times dated 8 February 2026, I wish to apply for the post of Athletics Coach for the Senior School. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and have four years of experience in coaching track and field events. I have trained students for zonal and national level competitions. I believe I am suitable for the post. My bio-data is enclosed for your consideration.

Yours faithfully,
Sabhya

Enclosure: Bio-data

BIO-DATA
Name: Sabhya
Address: 14, Lotus Enclave, Bhopal 40025
Date of Birth: 12 March 1996
Educational Qualification: B.P.Ed., Barkatullah University, Bhopal (2018)
Work Experience: Athletics Coach, Sunrise Public School, Bhopal (2021 to present)
Skills and Achievements: Sound knowledge of training techniques; skilled in fitness assessment; trained students who won medals at zonal and national meets; good communication and child management skills
Languages: Hindi and English
References: 1. Mr. A. K. Singh, Principal, Sunrise Public School, Bhopal 2. Dr. R. Mehta, Head, Department of Physical Education, Barkatullah University, Bhopal

Teacher's Note:
a) The covering letter must refer to the advertisement, state qualifications and offer candidature.
b) The bio-data should have personal details, qualifications, experience, skills, references and enclosures.
c) Match your skills to the ones listed in the advertisement.

6. Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words : [5 Marks]

(A) You are Aanya/Ankit. You are deeply disturbed by how moments of silence and relaxed living are vanishing from today's fast-paced, lives. You decide to write an article for the newspaper on 'The Vanishing Art of Slowing Down'.
You may use the following cues alongwith your own ideas :
impact of hustle culture and technology on mental well-being.
losing connection with nature, people and self.
importance of mindful celebrations and slow/relaxed living.
role of schools, communities, and media.
need for digital boundaries, reflection, and simple joys. [5 Marks]

Answer:
THE VANISHING ART OF SLOWING DOWN
By Aanya

Today, life moves at a breathless speed. Hustle culture, constant connectivity and over-scheduled days leave no time for breaks. The result is anxiety, stress, digital fatigue and shallow social interactions. We are slowly losing our connection with nature, with people and even with ourselves. Even festivals and traditions have become rushed and performative.

We must relearn the art of slowing down. Mindful living means real conversations, walks in nature and time spent with family and friends. Screen-free hours and clear digital boundaries can give us space for reflection and simple joys like reading or pursuing a hobby.

Schools can hold reading circles and nature walks. Communities can organise local celebrations that bring people together. The media can run campaigns that promote silence, balance and a slower pace of life.

Slowing down is not laziness. It is the key to a calm and happy life.

Teacher's Note:
a) Format (1 mark): title and by-line.
b) Content: cover problems of fast-paced life and solutions (at least one point from each part).
c) Use paragraphs - introduction, problems, solutions, conclusion - within 120-150 words.

OR

(B) Your school organised a 'Tastes of India' Week to educate students on the diversity of Indian cuisine. Write a comprehensive report detailing the activities conducted during the week. Describe the events, participation details, chief guest, and the overall impact of the programme on the school. You are Arti/Aryan a student of Std. XII and the Secretary of the School Magazine Editorial Board. You may organise your report on the basis of
What - When - Where - Who - Why - How [5 Marks]

Answer:
'TASTES OF INDIA' WEEK CELEBRATED
By Arti, Secretary, School Magazine Editorial Board

ABC Public School, 20 January 2026: To educate students on the diversity of Indian cuisine, our school organised a 'Tastes of India' Week from 12 to 17 January 2026 in the school campus.

The week was inaugurated by the chief guest, renowned chef Mr. Sanjay Kapoor, who spoke about how food reflects the culture of each region. Each day was dedicated to a different region of India. Over 400 students from Classes VI to XII took part. The activities included food stalls with regional dishes, a quiz on Indian spices, a poster-making contest, a talk on traditional millets and a fireless cooking competition. Parents and teachers visited the stalls with great enthusiasm.

The event was a grand success. Students learnt to value India's food heritage, healthy eating and the unity in our diversity. The Principal appreciated the efforts of all participants.

Teacher's Note:
a) Format (1 mark): heading and by-line; begin with place and date.
b) Content: what, when, where, who (chief guest, participants), why and how (activities and impact).
c) Write in the past tense and in reported style within 120-150 words.

SECTION C

LITERATURE

7. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B) : [6 Marks]

(A)

It would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines.
we would all be together
in sudden strangeness
Fishermen in the cold sea
would not harm whales
and the man gathering salt
would look at his hurt hands.
(Keeping Quiet)

(i) What does the phrase 'an exotic moment' in the extract signify ? [1 Mark]
(A) surreal pause from mechanized human activity enabling reflection and unity.
(B) ceremonial halt wherein humans acknowledge traditional and ecological wisdom.
(C) spontaneous event where all human labour becomes obsolete.
(D) rare disruption of routine that highlights cultural diversity and isolation.

Answer: (A) surreal pause from mechanized human activity enabling reflection and unity.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Without rush, without engines" shows a pause from machines and hurry.
b) "We would all be together" shows unity, so (A) fits both ideas.

(ii) Complete the following sentence suitably : [1 Mark]
The words 'we' and 'together' signify ___.

Answer: the unity and harmony of all humanity, and our shared responsibility.

Teacher's Note:
a) Key words: unity, harmony, collective awareness.
b) Complete the sentence in a grammatical way.

(iii) Select the option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank : [1 Mark]
The excerpt tells us that the poet ___ (condemns/glorifies) the moment 'without rush, without engines'.

Answer: glorifies

Teacher's Note:
a) The poet calls the moment "exotic", which is praise.
b) Write only the chosen word from the brackets.

(iv) Choose the correct option that BEST reflects the tone of the poet in the given extract : [1 Mark]
(A) despairing and cynical
(B) aggressive and accusatory
(C) meditative and hopeful
(D) humorous and sarcastic

Answer: (C) meditative and hopeful

Teacher's Note:
a) The poet imagines a calm, better world, so the tone is reflective and hopeful.
b) There is no anger or sarcasm in the lines.

(v) Complete the sentence : [1 Mark]
The phrase 'hurt hands' is a symbol of ___.

Answer: a life of relentless hard physical labour without a pause, which harms the worker himself.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link "hurt hands" to constant striving and hard labour.
b) The pause lets the salt gatherer notice his own suffering.

(vi) What message is the poet conveying through the given extract ? [1 Mark]

Answer: The poet conveys the importance of silence, stillness and introspection, pausing together for unity and peace, and not mindlessly exploiting nature, to create a better world.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention the idea of a pause for introspection and peace.
b) The fishermen and whales image shows care for nature.

OR

(B)

You have the money, but if you want to be mean
Why keep your money (this crossly) and go along
The hurt to the scenery, wouldn't be my complaint
So much as the trusting sorrow of what is unsaid :
Here far from the city we make our roadside stand
And ask for some city money to feel in hand
To try if it will not make our being expand,
And give us the life of the moving - pictures' promise
That the party in power is said to be keeping from us.
(A Roadside Stand)

(i) What emotion does the speaker reveal when he says, 'if you want to be mean, why keep your money (this crossly) and go along' ? [1 Mark]
(A) curiosity
(B) bitterness
(C) indifference
(D) detachment

Answer: (B) bitterness

Teacher's Note:
a) The word "crossly" signals anger and resentment.
b) The speaker is hurt by city people who do not buy anything.

(ii) What does the speaker imply in 'The hurt to the scenery wouldn't be my complaint' ? [1 Mark]

Answer: The speaker implies that the suffering and unsaid sorrow of the rural people matter more to him than the spoiling of natural beauty.

Teacher's Note:
a) Contrast human hardship with the "scenery" (beauty).
b) Refer to "the trusting sorrow of what is unsaid".

(iii) Complete the following suitably : [1 Mark]
The word 'expand' in the line 'to see if it will not make our being expand' implies an aspiration to ___.

Answer: better economic opportunities and a more fulfilling life, with an improved standard of living.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Expand" here means growth in life, not physical size.
b) Link it to the desire for "city money".

(iv) Read the two statements and choose the correct option : [1 Mark]
Assertion (A) : The speaker critiques the governing party for withholding opportunities from the rural poor.
Reason (R) : The extract praises the government for their promises of a life of the moving pictures'.
(A) Both the Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
(B) Both the Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
(C) Assertion (A) is true, but the Reason (R) is false.
(D) Assertion (A) is false, but the Reason (R) is true.

Answer: (C) Assertion (A) is true, but the Reason (R) is false.

Teacher's Note:
a) The party in power is "said to be keeping" the good life from the poor - this is criticism, not praise.
b) So the Reason is false while the Assertion is true.

(v) Which of the following concerns is NOT explored in the extract ? [1 Mark]
(A) political manipulation of rural dreams
(B) discrimination faced due to different religious policies.
(C) transactional disconnection between the city and the village.
(D) impact of unfulfilled expectations.

Answer: (B) discrimination faced due to different religious policies.

Teacher's Note:
a) Religion is not mentioned anywhere in the extract.
b) Read "NOT" carefully in such questions.

(vi) State in one sentence : [1 Mark]
What advice your address to the politicians from this extract is most likely to include ?

Answer: My advice would be to stop making false promises and to be empathetic, spending money to provide real opportunities that uplift the rural roadside dwellers.

Teacher's Note:
a) Answer in one sentence only, as asked.
b) Link the advice to the "promise" the party in power does not keep.

8. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B) : [4 Marks]

(A)

I cried aloud, shaking my head all the while until I felt the cold blades of the scissors against my neck, and heard them gnaw off one of my thick braids. Then I lost my spirit. Since the day I was taken from my mother, I had suffered extreme indignities. People had stared at me. I had been tossed about in the air like a wooden puppet. And now my long hair was shingled like a coward's ! In my anguish, I moaned for my mother, but no one came to comfort me. Not a soul reasoned quietly with me, as my own mother used to do; for now I was only one of many little animals driven by a herder.
(Memories of Childhood)

(i) Complete the following suitably "Then I lost my spirit", indicates that the speaker ___. [1 Mark]

Answer: gave up her resistance and resigned herself to her fate.

Teacher's Note:
a) Words like resigned, surrendered or gave up earn the mark.
b) She had resisted till the braids were cut.

(ii) What does Zit Kala-Sa imply about the prejudice prevailing in society when she talks of having 'suffered extreme indignities' ? [1 Mark]

Answer: She implies that the mainstream culture discriminated against Native Americans, oppressed them and showed no respect for their culture and beliefs.

Teacher's Note:
a) Key words: discrimination, oppression, disrespect for her culture.
b) Shingled hair was worn only by cowards in her culture.

(iii) Why did Zit Kala-Sa yearn to be with her mother in her moment of anguish ? [1 Mark]

Answer: Her mother was her source of comfort and reassurance, and she naturally longed for her protection and safety.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention comfort or protection.
b) The extract says her mother used to reason quietly with her.

(iv) The tone of the narrator in the extract can be best described as [1 Mark]
(A) bitter and strong willed
(B) detached and impersonal
(C) pained and despairing
(D) grateful and reflective

Answer: (C) pained and despairing

Teacher's Note:
a) Words like "anguish", "moaned" and "lost my spirit" show pain and despair.
b) The narrator is personal, not detached.

OR

(B)

Derry : But I'm not.... I'm not afraid [pause] people are afraid of me.
Mr. Lamb : Why should that be ?
Derry : Everyone is. It doesn't matter who they are, or what they say, or how they look. How they pretend. I know. I can see.
Mr. Lamb : See what ?
Derry : What they think ?
Mr. Lamb : What do they think, then ?
Derry : You think.... 'Here's a boy'. You look at me... and then you see my face and you think. That's bad. That's a terrible thing. 'That's the ugliest thing I ever saw.' You think, 'poor boy'. But I'm not. Not poor. Underneath, you are afraid. Anybody would be - I am. When I look in the mirror, and see it, I'm afraid of me.
Mr. Lamb : No, not the whole of you. Not of you.
Derry : Yes !
(On the Face of It)

(i) Which emotion dominates Derry's dialogue in this extract ? [1 Mark]
(A) superiority
(B) shrewdness
(C) vulnerability
(D) indifference

Answer: (C) vulnerability

Teacher's Note:
a) Derry admits he is afraid of himself, which shows vulnerability.
b) He is hurt by others' reactions, not indifferent to them.

(ii) Complete the following suitably : [1 Mark]
According to Derry, the people put up a pretence when they see him because ___.

Answer: they do not want to reveal their fear and repulsion on seeing his burnt face.

Teacher's Note:
a) Also accepted: they do not want to hurt his feelings.
b) Mention the burnt face to link the answer to the play.

(iii) Complete the following suitably : [1 Mark]
When Mr. Lamb says, 'No, not the whole of you. Not of you.' He means ___.
(A) Your face will get healed and your ideas about your appearance will change.
(B) You are not just your face or your injury. That is not the sum total of who you are.
(C) I am afraid of your face and your appearance.
(D) You shouldn't look into the mirror so that you don't get the feeling of dejection.

Answer: (B) You are not just your face or your injury. That is not the sum total of who you are.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mr. Lamb separates Derry's face from Derry the person.
b) This idea is central to the theme of the play.

(iv) State in one sentence :
What advice will you give to the people who pretend to look away when they see Derry's face ? [1 Mark]

Answer: I would advise them to show empathy, kindness and compassion, because a person is not just his face or injury but the sum total of who he is.

Teacher's Note:
a) Answer in one sentence only.
b) Use value words like empathy, inclusivity or kindness.

9. Read the following extracts and answer the questions for ANY ONE of the given two (A) or (B) : [6 Marks]

(A)

The make-up room had the look of a hair-cutting salon with lights at all angles around half a dozen large mirrors. They were all incandescent lights, so you can imagine the fiery misery of those subjected to make-up. The make-up department was first headed by a Bengali who became too big for the studio and left. He was succeeded by a Maharashtrian who was assisted by a Dharwar Kannadiga, an Andhra, a Madras Indian Christian, an Anglo-Burmese and the usual local Tamils. All this shows that there was a great deal of National Integration long before A.I.R. and Doordarshan began broadcasting programmes on national integration. This gang of nationally integrated make-up men could turn any decent-looking person into a hideous crimson hued monster with the help of truckloads of pancake and a number of other locally made potions and lotions. Those were the days of mainly indoor shooting, and only five percent of the film was shot outdoors. I suppose the sets and studio lights needed girls and boys to be made to look ugly in order to look presentable in the movie. A strict hierarchy was maintained in the make-up department.
(Poets and Pancakes)

(i) Why did the make-up room have a look of a hair-cutting salon ? [1 Mark]

Answer: It had lights at all angles around half a dozen large mirrors.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention both the lights and the mirrors.
b) The answer is directly in the first line of the extract.

(ii) What does 'fiery misery of those subjected to make-up' suggest ? [1 Mark]
(A) emotional stress faced by the actors.
(B) physical discomfort due to heat and lighting.
(C) anger of the make-up artists due to irritation.
(D) the discomfort caused by the cramped room.

Answer: (B) physical discomfort due to heat and lighting.

Teacher's Note:
a) Incandescent lights give out a lot of heat.
b) "Fiery" refers to heat, not anger.

(iii) Complete the following suitably : [1 Mark]
The tone of the author in the phrase 'hideous crimson hued monster' is ___

Answer: humorous and sarcastic (exaggerating).

Teacher's Note:
a) Asokamitran uses gentle humour throughout the lesson.
b) The exaggeration makes fun of the heavy make-up.

(iv) Why was excessive make-up considered a cinematic necessity at Gemini Studios during that era ? [1 Mark]
(A) minimised the cost of set design and costumes.
(B) was a mandated practice by the studio's creative heads and lead actors.
(C) aligned with the theatrical traditions the studio admired.
(D) compensated for the lack of advanced lighting and camera technology.

Answer: (D) compensated for the lack of advanced lighting and camera technology.

Teacher's Note:
a) The extract says the sets and studio lights needed actors to be made up heavily.
b) Most shooting was indoors, under artificial lights.

(v) What does 'became too big for a studio and left' imply about the Bengali make-up artist ? [1 Mark]

Answer: It implies that he had advanced in his career beyond the studio, or had become arrogant and over-ambitious.

Teacher's Note:
a) "Too big" is an idiom, not about physical size.
b) Either meaning - career growth or arrogance - is accepted.

(vi) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason :
The author refers to the presence of people from different regions in the make-up department to ___. [1 Mark]

Answer: show that national integration existed at Gemini Studios long before the media (A.I.R. and Doordarshan) publicised it.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link the variety of people to "National Integration".
b) Note the light irony about A.I.R. and Doordarshan.

OR

(B)

'Now I am going to tell you, Mr. Ironmaster, how things are', he said. 'The whole world is nothing but a big rattrap. All the good things that are offered to you are nothing but cheese rinds and bits of pork, set out to drag a poor fellow into trouble. And if the sheriff comes now and locks me up for this, then you, Mr. Ironmaster, must remember that a day will come when you yourself may want to get a big piece of pork, and then you will get caught in the trap.
The ironmaster began to laugh.
'That was not so badly said, my good fellow. Perhaps we should let the sheriff alone on Christmas Eve.'
(The Rattrap)

(i) What does the speaker mean when he says 'The whole world is nothing but a big rattrap' ? [1 Mark]
(A) The world offers many chances for success and prosperity.
(B) Temptations in life are traps that lead people into trouble.
(C) Good deeds are always rewarded with cheese rinds.
(D) Justice and fairness are not guaranteed for everyone.

Answer: (B) Temptations in life are traps that lead people into trouble.

Teacher's Note:
a) The bait in a rattrap stands for material temptations.
b) This is the central metaphor of the story.

(ii) What does the following phrase from the extract showcase : [1 Mark]
'Cheese rinds'.
(A) temptation
(B) affirmation
(C) gluttony
(D) deprivation

Answer: (A) temptation

Teacher's Note:
a) Cheese rinds are the bait used to lure rats.
b) They symbolise the "good things" that lure people into trouble.

(iii) Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank : [1 Mark]
By calling himself a 'poor fellow', the speaker emphasises his ___. (vulnerability/credibility)

Answer: vulnerability

Teacher's Note:
a) "Poor fellow" shows helplessness, not trustworthiness.
b) Write only the word chosen from the brackets.

(iv) What does the speaker imply through his warning to the ironmaster ? [1 Mark]

Answer: He implies that everyone gives in to temptation at some point, so the ironmaster too may one day be tempted and trapped, and judged in the same way.

Teacher's Note:
a) Link the warning to the "big piece of pork" image.
b) The idea is that no one is safe from the world's rattrap.

(v) What does the following line from the extract showcase about the ironmaster's nature ? [1 Mark]
'Perhaps, we should let the sheriff alone on Christmas Eve.'
(A) materialistic
(B) understanding
(C) conniving
(D) enterprising

Answer: (B) understanding

Teacher's Note:
a) He laughs and decides not to call the sheriff, which shows understanding.
b) The Christmas spirit softens his reaction.

(vi) Complete the following with a suitable reason :
In the extract, it is implied that the speaker will be locked up because ___. [1 Mark]

Answer: he had not been honest - he did not reveal his true identity and let the ironmaster believe he was his old regimental comrade.

Teacher's Note:
a) The key idea is deception about his identity.
b) Complete the sentence smoothly after "because".

10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in 40-50 words each : [5x2=10]

(i) Why were journalists and publishers puzzled by the success of 'The Name of the Rose' ? (The Interview) [2 Marks]

Answer: Journalists and publishers believed that people liked trash and did not read serious, difficult novels. Yet 'The Name of the Rose', a highly intellectual novel full of metaphysics, theology and medieval history, sold millions of copies. This huge success of a serious book puzzled them.

Teacher's Note:
a) Show the contrast between their belief and the novel's success.
b) Mention the serious content - metaphysics, theology, medieval history.

(ii) Gandhi opposed C.F. Andrews' help in the Champaran episode. What were his reasons ? (Indigo) [2 Marks]

Answer: Gandhi believed in self-reliance. He felt that the cause was just and the peasants and lawyers must rely on themselves to win the battle. Taking the help of an Englishman like Andrews would show the weakness of their hearts. So he asked Andrews not to stay.

Teacher's Note:
a) The key value point is self-reliance.
b) Use the phrase "weakness of their hearts" from the lesson.

(iii) Explain the paradox in the line 'Because I had experienced both the sensation of dying and the terror of fear ..........., the will to live grew in intensity.' (Deep Water) [2 Marks]

Answer: The paradox is that the thought of death is frightening, but death itself is not so scary. Douglas felt peace while nearly drowning, but the fear of death was terrible. Having faced both, he learnt that the fear of death is worse than death itself, and this made his will to live stronger.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain why the statement seems contradictory and then why it is true.
b) Key idea: fear of death is worse than death itself.

(iv) What was Franz expected to be prepared with on the day of the last lesson ? (The Last Lesson) [2 Marks]

Answer: On the day of the last lesson, Franz was expected to be prepared with the rules of participles. M. Hamel had said that he would question the students on them. Franz did not know even the first word, so he was afraid of being scolded.

Teacher's Note:
a) The key answer is "rules of participles".
b) Add a line of context to reach 40-50 words.

(v) Describe the tigers embroidered by aunt Jennifer on the panel. (Aunt Jennifer's Tigers) [2 Marks]

Answer: Aunt Jennifer's tigers are bright, topaz-coloured denizens of a world of green. They are fearless, proud and unafraid of the men beneath the tree. They prance with a chivalric, bold and magnificent certainty. They stand in contrast to the timid and oppressed aunt.

Teacher's Note:
a) Use words from the poem such as "topaz", "denizens", "prance" and "chivalric".
b) A contrast with Aunt Jennifer adds depth to the answer.

(vi) Edla insisted on letting the stranger stay for Christmas despite knowing he could be a thief. Comment. (The Rattrap) [2 Marks]

Answer: Edla was kind and compassionate. She believed that everyone deserves kindness and a chance to enjoy peace, especially at Christmas. She had promised the stranger Christmas cheer and wanted to keep the spirit of Christmas alive, so she did not let him be sent away.

Teacher's Note:
a) Any one clear reason from the scheme earns the content mark.
b) Mention the spirit of Christmas and her promise.

11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions, in 40-50 words each : [2x2=4]

(i) What does Bama's decision to excel in academics reveal about her character ? (Memories of Childhood - We Too are Human Beings) [2 Marks]

Answer: Bama's decision shows that she was hardworking, resilient and determined. She followed her brother Annan's advice and understood that education was a weapon against caste discrimination. By studying hard and standing first, she showed maturity and a belief in self-empowerment.

Teacher's Note:
a) Name at least two traits, such as determined and resilient.
b) Link education to fighting caste discrimination.

(ii) How did the newspaper 'The World' contribute to Charley's belief in the existence of the third level ? (The Third Level) [2 Marks]

Answer: At the third level, Charley saw a man with a copy of 'The World', a newspaper that had not been published for years. Its front page carried a story about President Cleveland. This convinced him that he had actually stepped into the year 1894, so the third level existed.

Teacher's Note:
a) Any one point - old paper or the President Cleveland story - is enough.
b) Link the newspaper to the idea of travelling back in time.

(iii) Evaluate the role of the court astrologer in shaping the trajectory of the Tiger King's life. (The Tiger King) [2 Marks]

Answer: The court astrologer predicted that the king would be killed by the hundredth tiger. This prophecy triggered the king's obsession with hunting tigers. He began a tiger-hunting spree, and every decision of his life, even his marriage, was guided by this obsession.

Teacher's Note:
a) Show that the prophecy was the trigger for the whole story.
b) "Evaluate" means you must judge its effect, not just narrate it.

12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in 120-150 words : [5 Marks]

(A) Sophie in 'Going Places' and Mukesh in 'Lost Spring' aspire for a better life yet external forces shape their realities and opportunities. Discuss. [5 Marks]

Answer:
Sophie and Mukesh both dream of a better life, but their circumstances limit them.

Sophie, a girl from a lower middle-class family, dreams of owning a boutique, becoming a manager, a fashion designer or an actress. She even fantasises about dating the football star Danny Casey. But her humble background has already earmarked her for the biscuit factory. Her family laughs at her dreams, and she escapes into a fantasy world.

Mukesh belongs to a poor family of bangle makers in Firozabad. His family is trapped in a vicious circle of poverty, debt and exploitation by middlemen and moneylenders. Yet he dreams of becoming a motor mechanic and driving a car.

Both lack opportunities because of their backgrounds. The difference is that Mukesh is determined to work hard and break away from his family lineage, while Sophie only daydreams. Thus, external forces shape their lives, but Mukesh's determination gives him more hope.

Teacher's Note:
a) Content (3 marks) needs points from BOTH texts, with a comparison or contrast.
b) Mention each character's dream and the force that limits it.
c) Expression (2 marks): organised paragraphs within 120-150 words.

OR

(B) How is the transient nature of beauty and life portrayed in the poems 'My Mother at Sixty Six' and 'A Thing of Beauty' ? [5 Marks]

Answer:
Both poems reflect on how life and beauty pass away.

In 'My Mother at Sixty Six', Kamala Das sees her mother's ashen, pale face and compares it to a corpse. Ageing shows that life moves from youth to old age and finally ends, so physical beauty is transient. The trees sprinting past and the merry children outside the car show vibrant, energetic life, which contrasts with the ageing mother. The comparison to a corpse suggests that death is inevitable.

In 'A Thing of Beauty', Keats accepts that life is full of sadness and suffering. But he says that a thing of beauty is a joy forever. Even when a beautiful object fades, its memory and impact last. Beauty is not merely physical; it shields us from the harsh realities of life.

Thus, life and physical beauty are transient, but the joy that a thing of beauty gives is everlasting.

Teacher's Note:
a) Refer to both poems; three points in all are needed for content.
b) Use images from the poems, such as "ashen face", "corpse" and "a joy for ever".
c) End with a conclusion linking the two poems.

13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in 120-150 words : [5 Marks]

(A) Examine how the presence of school students on the expedition contribute to the message of environmental responsibility and hope. (Journey to the End of the Earth) [5 Marks]

Answer:
The 'Students on Ice' programme takes high school students to Antarctica. Their presence gives the expedition a message of both responsibility and hope.

Students are the future policy-makers and caretakers of the planet. At an age when they are ready to absorb, learn and act, the programme exposes them to the realities of climate change. They get first-hand experience of the fragile Antarctic ecosystem. Watching glaciers retreat and ice shelves collapse drives home the effects of global warming in a way no textbook could.

This immersive learning gives them a faster and deeper understanding of, and concern for, the environment. They also learn how everything is connected, as with the tiny phytoplankton, and the importance of taking care of small things.

Thus, the expedition creates a generation of informed future leaders capable of making sustainable decisions, which gives hope for the planet.

Teacher's Note:
a) Any three value points are needed for content, such as future leaders, first-hand experience and phytoplankton.
b) Name the 'Students on Ice' programme for accuracy.
c) Link the answer to both responsibility and hope, as the question asks.

OR

(B) How does Pearl S. Buck explore the theme of humanitarianism versus patriotism in the lesson 'The Enemy' ? Support your answer with evidence from the text. [5 Marks]

Answer:
In 'The Enemy', Pearl S. Buck portrays the conflict between humanitarian values and national loyalty through the inner struggle of Dr. Sadao and his wife Hana.

When a wounded American soldier is washed ashore near their house during the war, Sadao is torn between his duty to Japan and his duty as a doctor to save a dying man. Sadao and Hana cannot throw him back into the sea. They bring him home and look after him.

Harbouring an enemy could have severe consequences, yet Sadao operates on the prisoner of war and hides him. The servants leave the household, which shows society's disapproval of helping the enemy. Later, Sadao helps the soldier escape.

By highlighting this dilemma, the author shows that true humanity rises above borders, politics and war.

Teacher's Note:
a) Support each point with evidence from the story, as the question demands.
b) Mention the servants leaving as proof of society's disapproval.
c) Conclude that humanity transcends national boundaries.

Please click the link below to download pdf file of CBSE Class 12 English Question Paper 2026 Solved Code 1-1-2