CBSE Class 12 English Unseen Passage Assignment Set 03

Points to be Kept in Mind while Answering Comprehension Questions

• Read the passage carefully and thoroughly to understand its contents.
• Underline the words you don't understand and try to guess their meaning from the context. Check the vocabulary-related questions and try to find the answers from context.
• Quickly go through the subject matter, questions and mark the parts of the passage you feel can be the answers to the questions. Make sure you have understood the questions.
• Read the passage again to check your answers and write your answers briefly.
• Answers should be based on information given/inference derived from the information in the passage.
• Make sure to use the same tense in which the question has been asked.
• In Multiple Choice Questions, analyse the questions and options carefully before selecting the correct option because at times the four options are closely related.

PYQs Previous Years' Questions

Passage 

1 What do we typically do when we find our children doing something we don't approve of? We become reactive parents. Often, we pepper our reactions with lectures. When it doesn't work and predictably so; we end up screaming and dole out a punishment. And our children react with anger, resentment or 'can't - be - bothered' attitude. 2 Buddhist Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh put it beautifully when he described how each child has both negative seeds - of anger, despair, hatred, fear and violence and wholesome seeds-of love, happiness, compassion and forgiveness. According to him, what will blossom depends on the seeds we nurture. 3 A parenting and educational approach that's gaining a large following internationally, called the Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) by Howard Glasser, is very much in keeping with this Zen approach. The three main aspects of this approach are • Refuse to energise negativity. • Relentlessly energise their positives. • Reset : Do not react negatively and stay calm when the child does something wrong. Parents following this approach commit to not saying or doing anything that may fuel negativity in the child. But the parent has to make sure she/he does this very calmly, without any anger or resentment. 4 While on a mission to cut the negative, the parent looks for every opportunity to energise the positive in the child. This is done through persistently appreciating the goodness in the child in the smallest ways : You were really generous about sharing your pizza with your sister; I appreciate the hard work you have put in your project; It takes courage to stand up to bully. If you observe, the appreciation is not about saying "excellent", "amazing" or "good", which is really an empty praise and does not speak much to the child. Qualifying a praise, on the other hand, gives the child direction and she/ he begins to understand what qualities, values and strengths are appreciated. These are also necessary ingredients of life skills and success. 5 This approach is not merely about noticing when the child is being good, it is about recognising the child's worth at every step. It's about aligning his energy in believing that he has great qualities, which are being identified and validated by the parents at every step. He realises that there is no point choosing negativity, as there are no pay offs in it. So start building your child's inner wealth - there is nothing to lose.

Question. Complete the following sentence with an appropriate word. "We end up screaming and dole out punishment." In the above sentence, the author criticise the ........ approach of the parents.
Answer: reactive

Question. Explain in about 40 words, when and how do parents become reactive.
Answer: Parents become reactive whenever they find their children doing something that they don't approve of or when the children react with anger, resentment or 'can't-be-bothered' attitude. In such cases, parents begin screaming and dole out punishments. However, such tactics often fail to make a positive impact with their kids.

Question. In the line 'what will bloom will depend on the seeds we nurture' - what seeds does the author refer to?
(a) Seasonal seeds
(b) Societal news
(c) Parental attitude
(d) Values and emotions
Answer: (d) Values and Emotions

Question. Explain in about 40 words why does NHA focus on reforming parents to reform children.
Answer: The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) focuses on reforming parents to reform children, as the mindset and actions of parents greatly influence their child's behaviour. By refusing to fuel negativity and emphasising their child's positives, parents can recognise and amplify positive behaviours, fostering a nurturing environment and promoting children's emotional growth.

Question. Share evidence from the text in about 40 words, to support the view that parents appreciate the goodness of the child at every opportunity.
Answer: The following lines from the text suggest that parents appreciate the goodness of the child at every opportunity: "While on a mission to cut the negative, the parent looks for every opportunity to energise the positive in the child. This is done through persistently appreciating the goodness in the child in the smallest of ways."

Question. In paragraph 5, in what way does 'This approach' differ from the earlier approach?
Answer: 'This approach' (NHA) emphasizes proactive recognition and reinforcement of positive behaviours and validates the child's inherent qualities at every step, which instills self-worth. In contrast, the reactive parenting approach mentioned earlier responds primarily to negative behaviours through screaming and punishment, which potentially reinforces negativity and overlooks positive actions.

Question. Select the option that can be classified as qualifying a praise as explained in the passage.
(a) You can be more helpful,
(b) You demonstrated patience while teaching your junior,
(c) Use your skill to be an excellent sportsman,
(d) You have to be amazing in your work.
Answer: (b) You demonstrated patience while teaching your junior.

Question. The phrase 'to cut the negative' in para 4 most nearly means
(a) to reduce wasteful expenditure
(b) to stop criticising
(c) to eliminate challenges
(d) to humiliate someone
Answer: (b) to stop criticising

Question. Read the five headlines (i)-(v) given below, (i) New Age Parenting (ii) Children - A Rebellious Generation (iii) Channelising Energy (iv) Teacher - A Nation Builder (v) Skill Development - Careers Ahead Identify the option that displays the headlines that does/do not correspond with the occurrences in the text.
(a) (i) and (v)
(b) (iii) and (v)
(c) Only (ii)
(d) (i) and (iii)
Answer: (b) (iii) and (v)

Passage 

1 Five enterprises received approval and grants for prototype development of sustainable educational toys. 2 The government authorities, educational institutions and EdTech start-ups are planning to introduce state-of-the-art, made-in-India educational toys that not only throw light on Indian values and civilisations, but also help in developing children's critical thinking and decision-making skills. 3 "One such enterprise is working on different types of projects that can teach children how electromagnets and magnetic fields work. These projects can resolve a lot of issues in many schools in tier two and three cities that don't have proper infrastructure. Another is working on an excavation site to teach children about ancient Indian civilisations. It has implanted a few artifacts at the site, which the children will have to find so that they are able to learn how to preserve and label artifacts. Another start up has proposed to create miniaturised labs for schools in tier 2 and 3 cities where children can learn concepts of Physics. "We will ensure that these prototypes are developed within a year and then the production can be scaled up," says the senior manager of the project talking about the importance of indigenously-built educational toys. 4 Playtime is vital for the cognitive development of children and toys are an essential component that helps enhance specific cognitive abilities and skill sets. "Well-designed toys ignite student's curiosity, increase focus and can be very beneficial in helping them master a skill and enhance understanding. These can be in the form of visuals, auditory aids, kinesthetic, or a mixture of all three." says HOD, Early Childhood Education. 5 Toys offer an engaging avenue to teach mathematical, verbal, problem-solving skills. "Toys that engage students in experiential learning enhance their special awareness and fine motor skills. Those designed for two or more players help students develop better social skills as they learn to negotiate, settle differences, etc, with their peers." 6 Experiential gadgets and toys enable students to learn faster and retain lessons longer. "A child's interest is piqued when he is taught in a contextual framework as opposed to rote learning. The Indian education system has been witnessing several innovations with the development of toys and gadgets that can be used and felt in person or through VR platforms across subjects, be it Science, Technology, Math or Engineering.

Question. By tier 2 and tier 3 cities, the author refers to
(a) metro cities
(b) cities with huge population
(c) underdeveloped cities
(d) cities with less population
Answer: (c) underdeveloped cities

Question. Complete the sentence with evidence from the text. The made-in-India educational toys serves dual purpose of ........
Answer: elucidating the importance of Indian values and civilisations, and developing children's critical thinking and decision - making skills.

Question. The author's point of view that can be inferred from the above passage is that
(a) educational toys are the booming business,
(b) educational toys are meant to entertain children,
(c) educational toys will replace teachers,
(d) educational toys will make education more pragmatic.
Answer: (d) educational toys will make education more pragmatic

Question. Complete the following sentence appropriately. Educational toys enhance the personality of children by ........
Answer: Helping in the development of specific cognitive abilities and skill sets

Question. Read the five headlines (i) - (v), given below, (i) Sustainable Educational Toys are Developmentally Appropriate, (ii) Sustainable Educational Toys Promote Free play, (iii) Sustainable Educational Toys - Free and Widespread, (iv) Sustainable Educational Toys - Experiential Learning, (v) Sustainable Educational Toys - Hinder Interaction with people. Identify the option that displays the headline that does/do not correspond with what the passage highlights.
(a) Only (v)
(b) (i) and (ii)
(c) (iii) and (v)
(d) Only (iv)
Answer: (c) (iii) and (v)

Question. What evidences do you gather from the passage to state that educational system is revolutionised by educational toys? Answer in about 40 words.
Answer: It is evident from the passage that educational toys aim to transform the traditional educational system by introducing initiatives that enhance cognitive skills, foster the significance of Indian values, exercise practical learning, and encourage social interactions.

Question. Explain in about 40 words, how education at grassroot level is benefitted by these projects.
Answer: The projects aim to promote technical and hands-on knowledge in various fields such as Physics and ancient Indian civilisations. Some of the projects involve plans to resolve the issue of poor infrastructure in several schools of underdeveloped cities so as to impart holistic learning.

Question. As opposed to learning by heart, experiential toys
(a) ignite interest
(b) challenge the teachers
(c) replace textbooks
(d) confuse learners
Answer: (a) ignite interest

Question. Playing is usually considered a distraction. Is it justified on the part of the narrator to assert that playing is an important aspect of education? Write your answer in about 40 words.
Answer: Yes, it is justifiable. The passage mentions that educational toys promote the overall development of cognitive skills such as critical thinking, decision-making and comprehensive skills in children. Furthermore, the toys sharpen their focus and ignite the interests within them.

Passage 

1 When we think of the game of cricket, we come to the conclusion that it is primarily a game that depends on outstanding physical activities, good hand-eye co-ordination, speed, skill and strength. It provides entertainment and generates strong feelings of excitement. A good match of cricket or of any other game neither adds to the existing stock of human knowledge nor reveals any secret of existence. It does not carry any deep meaning but most people, particularly the lover of sports, attach deep emotions and numerous meanings to it. Games are thought of as a metaphor for life. They are supposed to teach many lessons. In fact, more is said and written about a cricket match than about scientific findings or great philosophy. 2 This is because games, like a morality play, in which settings and rules are made by us can easily make people test their fair and foul conduct, principles of reward and punishment, and emotions of joy and disappointment. They can make us experience the thrill of war without exposing us to its dangers. A man watching a cricket match on T.V. and munching popcorn is like a surrogate warrior. In fact, games provide us with a safe outlet for our aggressiveness. If games become aggressive, they lose the very purpose of providing entertainment and purging us of our aggressiveness. They can calm our impatience without creating any conflict. 3 Commentators, journalists politicians and analysts can do a great favour to the competing teams by keeping the excitement within limits. The teams should play without being dominated by feelings of national honour and shame. Excellent performance of the players of both teams should be enjoyed and appreciated. Winning or losing in a game should not be taken seriously. A game is fun if it is played with true spirit of sportsmanship.

Question. Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. Most people conclude that cricket is primarily a game because ........
(a) it is played as a match
(b) it requires two teams
(c) it includes physical activity
(d) it depends only on skill and strength
Answer: (c) it includes physical activity

Question. Comment on the writer's reference to that cricket does not reveal any secret of existence.
Answer: The author comments that a game of cricket adds no meaning and reveals no secret of existence. It's true as it does not have any deep emotion or meaning of its own even though there are people who attach emotions to it.

Question. List two responses which watching a game of cricket gives rise to.
Answer: Two responses which watching a game of cricket gives rise to are: (a) Strong feelings of excitement (b) Thrill of war

Question. Select the option that conveys the opposite of 'destroy' from words used in the passage,
(a) Reveals
(b) Experience
(c) Generate
(d) Purging
Answer: (c) Generate

Question. The writer would agree with the given statements based on Paragraph 2, EXCEPT
(a) Rules of any game are made by people,
(b) Watching a cricket match makes the viewer believe that he is fighting a battle?
(c) It is necessary for a game to be aggressive in order to build excitement,
(d) A game can test people's sense of fair judgement.
Answer: (c) It is necessary for a game to be aggressive in order to build excitement,

Question. With reference to the passage, a spectator is compared to a 'surrogate warrior'. Choose the option that best describes this phrase,
(a) A spectator who is paid to watch,
(b) A spectator who is in pain while watching the match,
(c) A spectator who enjoys the match as an armchair soldier,
(d) A spectator who makes judgement about reward and punishment.
Answer: (c) A spectator who enjoys the match as an armchair soldier.

Question. Why does the writer compare games to a morality play?
Answer: The author compares games to morality plays because games can make people test their conduct, principles of reward and punishments, and emotions of joy and disappointment just like morality plays do.

Question. Complete the given sentence with an appropriate inference with respect to the following. The writer says that games can calm our impatience without creating any conflict by ........
Answer: providing a safe outlet for our aggression

Question. The writer advises the players that games should not become aggressive because ........
Answer: then they will lose the purpose of providing entertainment

Question. Select the most suitable title for the above passage,
(a) Excellent Performance by Cricketers
(b) The Benefits of Playing Cricket
(c) Cricket-The King of Games
(d) The True Spirit of Playing Games
Answer: (d) The True Spirit of Playing Games

Passage

1 Once an organ donor's family gives its consent and the organs are matched to a recipient, medical professionals are faced with the onerous challenge of transporting organs while ensuring that the harvested organ reaches its destination in the shortest possible time. This is done in order to preserve the harvested organs and involves the police, especially the traffic police department. 2 The traditional method of transporting organs by road is referred to as a 'green corridor'. This process entails police escorting an ambulance, so as to move around traffic-usually a specific traffic lane is chosen and all signals on the route stay green to ensure it to reach its destination in the shortest possible time. A 'green corridor' is a route cleared and cordoned off by the traffic police to ensure the smooth and steady transportation of harvested organs, on most occasions, to those awaiting a life-saving transplant. Organs tend to have a very short preservation time, such as the heart, which has to be harvested and transplanted within four hours or the lungs, which can be preserved for only six hours once they are harvested. 3 The first green corridor in India was created by the Chennai Traffic Police in September, 2008 when they accomplished their task of enabling an ambulance to reach its destination within 11 minutes during peak hour traffic. That organ saved a nine-year-old girl whose life depended on it. 4 Similarly, such green corridors have been created by the Traffic Police of various cities such as Pune, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, etc. Personnel are stationed at selected points to divert, control and clear the traffic giving way to the ambulance. Apart from this, a motorcade of police vehicles accompanies the ambulance ensuring that it does not face any problems. Delhi Traffic Police provided a green corridor from IGI Airport to the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences in Vasant Kunj for transportation of a liver. The distance of 14 kms was covered in 11 minutes. 5 Experts point out the lack of a robust system to transport organs to super-speciality hospitals in least possible time. The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), the country's apex organ donation agency, is now framing a proposal to airlift cadaver organs and will send a report to the Union Health Ministry. "Cadaver organs have a short life and so transplant should be done within a few golden hours." Director (NOTTO) expressed. "Therefore, we are preparing a proposal for airlifting organs at any given moment." 6 Most States do not have enough well-trained experts to retrieve or perform transplant procedures. Also, there is an acute shortage of advanced healthcare facilities to carry out a transplant. So, it is referred to other big centres in Metropolitan cities. Organs retrieved from Aurangabad, Indore, Surat, Pune are sent to Mumbai as these cities do not have super-speciality healthcare centres, informed officials. 7 "In India, about fifty thousand to one lakh patients are suffering from acute heart failure and need heart transplant at any point of time. In a private set up, a heart transplant costs Rs. 15-20 lakhs, which is followed up by post-operative medication of about Rs. 30,000 per month lifelong."

Question. Complete the sentence by choosing an appropriate option. The first green corridor in India was created in ........
(a) New Delhi
(b) Chennai
(c) Mumbai
(d) Pune
Answer: (b) Chennai

Question. Write your opinion of the Chennai police with regard to the transportation of a harvested heart.
Answer: The dedication that the Chennai police showed in ensuring that the harvested organ reaches the hospital in time despite heavy traffic has earned them a lot of respect. It shows their devotion towards serving the people.

Question. Mention the organisation which is framing a proposal to airlift cadaver organs.
Answer: National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation

Question. Select the option that mentions what the author means by 'a few golden hours'.
(a) A period of 3-5 hours within which an organ should be transplanted
(b) A period of 4-6 hours within which an organ should be transplanted
(c) A period of 4-6 minutes within which an organ should be transplanted
(d) A period of 3-5 minutes within which an organ should be transplanted
Answer: (b) By the phrase 'a few golden hours', the author is referring to the time period of 4 to 6 hours within which an organ should be transplanted.

Question. The 'onerous task' that the author is talking about in Para 1 is
(a) finding organ donors
(b) finding doctors capable of performing transplants
(c) to carry the harvested organ in the shortest possible time
(d) to arrange the requisite facilities for the transplant
Answer: (c) To carry the harvested organ in shortest possible time

Question. Most states refer organ transplant cases to big hospitals because
(a) they don't have well-trained experts
(b) the patients don't trust local doctors
(c) the state hospitals are very crowded
(d) they don't have a pool of harvested organs
Answer: (a) they don't have well-trained experts

Question. Why is smooth transportation of the retrieved organ necessary?
Answer: Smooth transportation of the retrieved organ is necessary because these organs have a very short preservation time. Any sort of delay in transportation will make these organs useless.

Question. Complete the given sentence appropriately. In a private hospital, the cost of a heart transplant is ........
Answer: Rs. 15-20 lakhs

Question. Green corridor route is cleared off by the traffic police to ........
Answer: ensure the smooth and steady transportation of harvested organs

Question. Most of the people do not go for heart transplant as
(a) it is very irsky
(b) it is very painful
(c) it may cause death of the recipient
(d) the cost is prohibitive
Answer: (d) the cost is prohibitive

Passage 

1 As a young adult, life can be stressful and overwhelming at times. Juggling among school, work social life and other responsibilities, it can be easy to feel alone and disconnected from the world around us. Dogs are the ultimate companions for anyone looking to alleviate stress and loneliness. We’ll explore many reasons why dogs make the best companions for young adults.
2 Unconditional love Dogs are known for their loyalty and love for their owners, no matter what. They don’t judge us criticise us, or hold grudges against us. No matter how flawed or imperfect we may be, our dogs will always love us unconditionally. This kind of unwavering support and affection can be incredibly comforting for young adults struggling to find their place in the world.
3 Social connection Dogs are great ice-breakers and conversation starters. Whether you’re walking them in the park, taking them to the dog beach, or simply hanging out at home, dogs have a way of bringing people together. For young adults who may feel isolated or disconnected from their peers, having a dog by their side can be a great way to connect with others and form new friendships.
4 Increase physical activity Dogs require regular exercise in order to stay healthy and happy. This means that young adults who own dogs are more likely to engage in physical activity themselves. Whether its going for run playing frisbee, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, getting out with your dog can be a great way to boost your mood and energy levels.
5 Emotional support Dogs are also great emotional support animals for those struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Their presence alone can provide a sense of calm and comfort and their ability to sense their owner’s emotions can be incredibly comforting. For young adults dealing with mental health challenges, having a dog as a companion can be a life-changing experience.
6 Improve responsibility and self-care Owning a dog also comes with a great deal of responsibility and self care. Dogs require regular feeding grooming exercise and attention, which can be a great way for young adults to develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline. Additionally, having a dog as a companion can encourage young adults to take better care of themselves, such as making sure they get enough sleep, eat healthy and engage in regular exercise.
7 For all these reasons and more, dogs make fantastic companions for young adults. Whether you’re looking for emotional support, social connection, increase physical activity, or simply someone to love and be loved by, a dog can provide all these things and more. So, the next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider finding a furry friend to take on the world with you.

Question. What is the significance of owning a dog for a young adult who is striving for acceptance in society?
(a) It means increased physical activity
(b) It builds a sense of responsibility
(c) It helps young adults get more sleep
(d) It is a source of unconditional love
Answer: (d) It is a source of unconditional love

Question. A dog can encourage its owner to lead a healthier life by .........
Complete the above sentence appropriately, in about 40 words, with a characteristic or description.
Answer: increasing their physical activity as dogs are in need of regular exercise in order to stay healthy. Dogs are also great emotional support animals and help their owners who are struggling with mental health issues. Thus, having a dog helps in keeping the owner physically fit and mentally sound.

Question. Share evidence from the text, in approximately 40 words to support the view that dogs provide a sense of calm and comfort to those struggling with mental health issues.
Answer: As mentioned in the passage, dogs provide a sense of calm and comfort to those struggling with mental health issues. In order to keep the dogs healthy, the owners are required to engage themselves in physical activities. This helps lift up one's mood and energy levels thereby increasing the mental health of the person.

Question. Explain in about 40 words the statement that ‘dogs are great ice-breakers’.
Answer: Dogs have a knack for bringing people together wherever they go, whether it is at home, park or dog beach. They play a great role in connecting people and forming social interactions. Thus, dogs are indeed ice-breakers.

Question. Which of the following activities help(s) young adults, owning a dog build their sense of responsibility and self-discipline?
(a) Walking the dog daily
(b) Feeding it regularly
(c) Engaging the services of a dog trainer
(d) Both (a) and (b)
Answer: (d) Both (a) and (b)

Question. What does this article aim to do?
(a) Explain the benefits of owning a dog
(b) Provide advice on how to get a dog
(c) Discuss how to take proper care of a dog
(d) Describe the experiences of dog owners
Answer: (a) Explain the benefits of owning a dog

Question. Select the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase ‘take on the world’.
(a) travel the world
(b) accept a responsibility
(c) to be pessimistic
(d) have a global outlook
Answer: (a) travel the world

Question. What does the underlined part in the sentence “consider finding a furry friend take on the world with you” refer to?
Answer: According to the passage, a furry friend refers to a dog.

Question. What is the tone of the article?
(a) Critical but supportive
(b) Indifferent and bored
(c) Positive and informative
(d) Humorous and casual
Answer: (c) positive and informative