X-BOARD-ENG-ANSWER-KEY-SET-3

                                                                           ENGLISH

(Language and Literature)- Answer Key

SET-3 Q.P.Code: 2/3/3

 

SECTION A

Reading Skills

Marking Scheme – Unseen Passage-1                                              Total: 10 Marks

 

 

(i) MCQ – 1 Mark

Correct Answer: (B) (No partial marking)

 

(ii) MCQ – 1 Mark

Correct Answer: (A) (No partial marking)

 

(iii) Short Answer – 2 Marks

Content (Any two points) – 1 mark each

Expected points:

·        Causes anxiety

·        Causes stress

·        Leads to fear or paranoia

·        Compromises sense of personal safety

·        Loss of control over life

Award:

·        2 relevant points = 2 marks

·        1 relevant point = 1 mark

·        Incorrect/irrelevant = 0

 

(iv) True/False – 1 Mark

Correct Answer: False (No partial marking)

 

(v) Completion – 2 Marks

Expected Answer:

Because it is a clear violation of personal autonomy / it disproportionately harms marginalized groups.

Award:

·        Clear, relevant answer covering ethical violation = 2 marks

·        Partially correct/one idea mentioned = 1 mark

·        Incorrect = 0

 

(vi) MCQ – 1 Mark

Correct Answer: (B) (No partial marking)

 

(vii) Short Answer – 2 Marks

Expected point:

Internet users identifying and revealing real identities of offenders involved in online scams/criminal behaviour.

Award:

·        Clear example from paragraph = 2 marks

·        Vague reference = 1 mark

·        Incorrect = 0

 

(viii) Short Answer – 2 Marks

Any two of the following (1 mark each):

·        Locking down social media privacy settings

·        Using pseudonyms

·        Enabling two-factor authentication

·        Minimizing shared personal data

·        Supporting stricter data protection regulations

·        Platform moderation

Award:

·        2 correct steps = 2 marks

·        1 correct step = 1 mark

·        Incorrect = 0

 

Total = 20 Marks

 

Answer Key – Unseen Passage -2

 

(i) Assertion–Reason (1 Mark)

Correct Answer:

(A) Both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

 

(ii) Word indicating fascination (1 Mark)----“craze”

 

(iii) Evidence of ‘diverse range’ (2 Marks)

 

India's glass industry comprises a diverse range of products such as container glass, flat glass, and fibre glass.

Marking:

·        Complete evidence = 2 marks

·        Partial answer (one or two products mentioned) = 1 mark

 

(iv) Percentage of container glass (1 Mark)

Correct Answer: 25%

 

(v) Why Firozabad is called the “City of Glass” (2 Marks)

Because it is the heart of the Indian glass industry and specializes in decorative glassware, chandeliers, bangles and domestic glass products, with more than 400 manufacturing units employing over 1,50,000 workers.

Marking:

·        Clear explanation with industry specialization = 2 marks

·        Partial answer = 1 mark

 

(vi) Employability emphasis (2 Marks)

The large number of workers (over 1,50,000) shows that Firozabad provides large-scale employment opportunities and is a major employment hub in the glass industry.

Marking:

·        Clear connection to employment opportunities = 2 marks

·        Partial response = 1 mark

(vii) Completion (1 Mark)

India's glass industry is unique as compared to global leaders like China and the USA because it blends traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

 

(viii) Environmental benefit (2 Marks)

Using recycled glass (cullet) reduces energy consumption and carbon emission because it requires lower melting temperatures.

Marking:

·        Both points mentioned = 2 marks

·        One point mentioned = 1 mark

 

(ix) Completion (2 Marks)

The Indian glass industry is facing many challenges because **it depends on imported raw materials, involves energy-intensive manufacturing processes, and must comply with environmental regulations.**

Marking:

·        Two or more challenges mentioned = 2 marks

·        One challenge mentioned = 1 mark

 

Grammar – Answer Key

 

(i)sitting

 

(ii) Error | Correction - demands | demanded

 

(iii)Each

 

(iv) he had paid all the money his father had given him the previous day.

 

(v) Correct Option:(A) Attend → attends

 

(vi)Correct Option: (B) My sister told me that she had washed her new dress.

 

(vii)Correct Option: (B) within

 

(viii)must

 

(ix) Error | Correction - developed | develop

 

(x) Mona asked Tina which was the shortest route to reach the museum.

 

(xi) Correct Option:(A) had taken

 

(xii) Error | Correction- are | is

 

 

Letter Writing (Formal Complaint Letter)

 

(a) You are AnkitalAnkit of B-222, VKJ Apartments, Rimjhimpur. Recently when you used your ATM card in the local branch of your bank, you faced failed ATM transactions multiple times. You called on the toll free number but it was of no use. Write a letter to the  manager of your bank explaining the problem, the inconvenience you are facing and requesting necessary action.

 

B-222, VKJ Apartments

Rimjhimpur

 

21 February 2026

 

The Branch Manager

State Bank of India

Rimjhimpur Branch

Rimjhimpur

 

Subject: Complaint regarding repeated failed ATM transactions-reg

 

Sir/Madam,

 I am writing to bring to your notice the repeated failure of ATM transactions when I used my ATM card at your local branch ATM over the past week. On three different occasions, I attempted to withdraw cash, but the transactions were declined despite sufficient balance in my account.

 In addition to this, on one occasion, the amount was debited from my account but cash was not dispensed. Although the amount was later reversed, the delay caused considerable inconvenience. I urgently needed the money for personal expenses, and the failed transactions caused unnecessary stress and embarrassment.

 I also contacted the toll-free customer care number provided by the bank. However, I did not receive any satisfactory response or solution to the issue.

 I request you to kindly look into the matter at the earliest, ensure that my ATM card is functioning properly, and take necessary steps to prevent such issues in the future. I would also appreciate it if the technical team could inspect the ATM machine for possible faults.

 I hope you will treat this matter as urgent and resolve the issue promptly.

 Thanking you.

 Yours faithfully,

Ankit

 

 Marking Scheme (5 Marks – CBSE Format)

 1. Format – 1 Mark

·        Sender’s address

·        Date

·        Receiver’s address

·        Subject

·        Salutation

·        Complimentary close

  (½–1 mark depending on completeness)

 

2. Content – 2 Marks

·        Clear mention of problem (failed transactions)

·        Mention of inconvenience faced

·        Reference to toll-free call

·        Request for action

·        Logical organisation

 

(b) You are Harpreet/Harman, Eco Club in-charge of HH International School, Unnatibagh. Your school is organizing a Go Green Campaign' on the occasion of the World Environment Day. Write a letter to the Principal sharing the different hands-on activities such as tree plantation, designing school gardens, clean-up drives and competitions. You would also like to engage the community in the celebration.

 

H. No. ___

Unnatibagh

 21 February 2026

 The Principal

HH International School

Unnatibagh

 

Subject: Proposal for organising a ‘Go Green Campaign’ on World Environment Day

 

Sir/Madam,

 I would like to inform you that the Eco Club of our school proposes to organise a ‘Go Green Campaign’ on the occasion of World Environment Day. The objective of this campaign is to create environmental awareness among students and encourage them to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.

 As part of the campaign, we plan to conduct a tree plantation drive within the school premises and nearby community areas. Students will also participate in designing and maintaining small school gardens to promote biodiversity and responsibility towards nature. A cleanliness drive will be organised to keep the campus and surrounding locality free from litter.

 In addition, we propose to conduct various competitions such as poster making, slogan writing, best-out-of-waste, and eco-quiz to enhance students’ creativity and knowledge about environmental conservation. We also wish to invite parents and local community members to join the plantation and clean-up drives so that the message of environmental protection reaches beyond the school campus.

 We request you to kindly grant permission and extend your support for organising this meaningful initiative. With your approval, we are confident that the campaign will be a great success.

 Thanking you.

 Yours sincerely,

Harpreet

Eco Club In-charge

HH International School

 

Marking Scheme – Letter Writing (5 Marks)

Topic: Proposal for ‘Go Green Campaign’

 

1. Format – 1 Mark

·        Sender’s address

·        Date

·        Receiver’s address

·        Subject

·        Salutation

·        Complimentary close and signature

  Full format – 1 mark

  Minor omission – ½ mark

 

2. Content – 2 Marks

   The letter should clearly include:

·        Purpose of writing (organising Go Green Campaign on World Environment Day)

·        Mention of hands-on activities (tree plantation, school gardens, clean-up drives, competitions)

·        Proposal to involve community/parents

·        Request for permission/support

  All points clearly covered – 2 marks

  Partial coverage – 1 mark

  Irrelevant/incomplete – 0

2. Organisation & Coherence – 1 Mark

·        Logical comparison

·        Proper paragraph structure

·        Use of comparative language

3. Accuracy -1 mark

·        Grammatical accuracy

·        Spelling accuracy

·        Punctuation accuracy

4. Fomat - mark

·        Proper introduction

·        Appropriate content

·        Proper conclusion

 

(a) Read the given details about sleep patterns and their effects.

•         restores energy

•         enhances immunity

•         promotes emotional well-being

•         benefits concentration and productivity

•         oversleep leads to fatigue, weight gain and irritability

 

Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph on the importance of sleep in maintaining physical health, mental well-being, and academic performance.

Title: The Importance of Sleep for a Healthy and Productive Life

 Sleep is essential for maintaining physical health, mental well-being, and academic performance. Adequate sleep restores energy levels, enabling the body to recover from daily physical and mental strain. During sleep, important processes such as tissue repair and hormone regulation take place, which enhance immunity and protect the body from illnesses. Proper sleep also promotes emotional well-being by stabilising mood and reducing stress, anxiety, and irritability.

 Sleep plays a significant role in improving concentration, memory, and productivity. Students who follow healthy sleep patterns are more attentive in class, understand concepts better, and perform efficiently in examinations. Sleep supports the consolidation of learning, which directly influences academic success. However, oversleeping can also be harmful. It may lead to fatigue, weight gain, and irritability, thereby affecting both physical health and daily functioning.

 Thus, maintaining a balanced sleep routine is crucial. While adequate sleep boosts energy, immunity, emotional stability, and academic performance, excessive sleep can negatively impact health. A disciplined sleep schedule is therefore necessary for leading a healthy, focused, and productive life.

 Marking Scheme (5 Marks – Analytical Paragraph)

 

1. Content – 2 Marks

 

·        Clear analysis of importance of sleep

·        Coverage of physical health, mental well-being, and academic performance

·        Mention of negative effects of oversleeping

2. Organisation & Coherence – 1 Mark

·        Logical comparison

·        Proper paragraph structure

·        Use of comparative language

3. Accuracy -1 mark

·        Grammatical accuracy

·        Spelling accuracy

·        Punctuation accuracy

4. Fomat - mark

·        Proper introduction

·        Appropriate content

·        Proper conclusion

 

Kharif and Rabi crops play a pivotal role in agriculture in India. Analyze the data given below and write an analytical paragraph by drawing a comparison between the two.

Aspect	Kharif crop	Rabi crop
Sowing season Harvesting season Major crops   Rainfall required Regions dominated   Irrigation dependency Temperature required	June to July September to October Rice, Maize, Cotton, Groundnut, Soybean   High East and South India   Less, as it is monsoon-based Warm and humid	October to November March to April Wheat, Barley, Soybean, Mustard, Peas, Gram Low to moderate Northwest and Central India   High, as it requires irrigation Cool and dry

Title: Comparison between Kharif and Rabi Crops in India

 Kharif and Rabi crops are the two main agricultural seasons in India, each differing in terms of sowing time, climatic requirements, and regional dominance. Kharif crops are sown during June to July with the onset of the monsoon and harvested between September and October. Major Kharif crops include rice, maize, cotton, groundnut, and soybean. These crops require high rainfall and warm, humid climatic conditions for proper growth. As they are largely dependent on the monsoon, irrigation dependency is comparatively low. Kharif cultivation is mainly dominant in East and South India, where monsoon rainfall is abundant.

 In contrast, Rabi crops are sown during October to November and harvested from March to April. Important Rabi crops include wheat, barley, mustard, peas, gram, and soybean. These crops require low to moderate rainfall and grow best in cool and dry climatic conditions. Unlike Kharif crops, Rabi crops depend heavily on irrigation due to limited rainfall during the winter season. They are predominantly grown in Northwest and Central India.

 Thus, while Kharif crops rely on monsoon rains and warm temperatures, Rabi crops depend more on irrigation and cooler climates. Both seasons are equally significant in ensuring food security and agricultural sustainability in India.

 Marking Scheme (5 Marks – Analytical Paragraph)

1. Content – 2 Marks

·        Clear comparison between Kharif and Rabi crops

·        Coverage of sowing and harvesting seasons, rainfall, temperature, irrigation, regions, and major crops

2. Organisation & Coherence – 1 Mark

·        Logical comparison

·        Proper paragraph structure

·        Use of comparative language

3. Accuracy -1 mark

·        Grammatical accuracy

·        Spelling accuracy

·        Punctuation accuracy

4. Fomat - mark

·        Proper introduction

·        Appropriate content

·        Proper conclusion

 

Total = 5 Marks

 

Extract-1 Lesson: A Letter to God by Gregorio López y Fuentes

 

(i) Justification – 1 Mark

 The postmaster says this because Lencho showed complete and unquestioning faith in God by writing a letter directly to Him, believing that God would surely help him in his time of need.

1 mark – Clear reference to Lencho’s strong belief in God

 

(ii) Fill in the blank – 1 Mark---immense

 

(iii) Portrayal of the postmaster – 2 Marks

The postmaster is portrayed as kind-hearted, empathetic and considerate. Although he initially laughs at the letter, he soon respects Lencho’s deep faith and decides to help him. His decision to answer the letter and collect money shows his generosity and desire to preserve the writer’s faith in God.

2 marks – Mentions at least two qualities with reference to action

1 mark – Mentions one relevant quality

 

(iv) MCQ – 1 Mark

Correct Answer: (D) He had never known such an address.

 

Extract:2 : Lesson: The Book that Saved the Earth by Claire Boiko

 (i) Inference – 1 Mark

The statement means that Think-Tank believes the situation is serious and should not be treated lightly or as a joke. He feels the discovery is important and potentially dangerous.

1 mark – Clear understanding of “no time for levity” (no joking/serious situation)

 

(ii) Reason – 2 Marks

Think-Tank believes Earthlings have reached a high level of civilisation because he misunderstands the rhyme and assumes they can grow rare metals like silver and even explosives. He thinks they have combined agriculture and mining, which to him shows advanced scientific development.

2 marks – Both misunderstanding and advanced civilisation idea mentioned

1 mark – Partial explanation

 

(iii) Completion – 1 Mark

The piece of information that Noodle provides to Think-Tank is that the invasion fleet is ready to go down and take over Earth.

 

(iv) MCQ – 1 Mark

Correct Answer: (B) serious

 

Extract-3: Poem: A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris

 (i) Completion – 1 Mark

The tiger ignores the visitors because he is frustrated and depressed due to his confinement in the cage.

1 mark – Mentions frustration/sadness/anger due to captivity

 

(ii) Justification – 2 Marks

The lines show a contrast between the tiger’s natural strength and instincts and his helpless condition in captivity. A tiger is naturally powerful and meant to roam freely in the wild, but here he is locked in a concrete cell behind bars. Instead of hunting or moving freely, he can only stalk the limited length of his cage. This contrast highlights the cruelty of confinement.

2 marks – Clear explanation of contrast between wild nature and captivity

1 mark – Partial explanation

 

(iii) MCQ – 1 Mark

Correct Answer:(A) sympathetic and thoughtful

 

(iv) Fill in the blank – 1 Mark-----limited space

 

Extract-4: Poem: Fog by Carl Sandburg

 (i) Imagery – 2 Marks

The poet uses vivid imagery by comparing the fog to a cat. The phrase “on little cat feet” creates a visual image of the fog moving silently and gently. The description of it sitting on “silent haunches” over the harbour and city further strengthens the image of a cat observing its surroundings quietly. This imagery makes the movement of fog appear soft, quiet, and mysterious.

2 marks – Clear explanation of comparison and visual effect

1 mark – Partial explanation

 

(ii) Relationship between nature and urban environment – 2 Marks

The poet portrays nature as calmly and quietly interacting with the urban setting. The fog settles over both the harbour and the city, showing that nature surrounds and temporarily controls the man-made environment. It suggests that despite human development, nature continues to exist peacefully and powerfully alongside it.

2 marks – Clear explanation of interaction between fog and city

1 mark – Partial response

 

(iii) MCQ – 1 Mark---Correct Answer:(A) softness

 

(iv) Fill in the blank – 1 Mark--------playful and mysterious

 

 (i) Mandela emphasizes the need to liberate the oppressor. Illustrate.(Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom)

(i) Mandela emphasizes that true freedom is not only the liberation of the oppressed but also the liberation of the oppressor. He believes that the oppressor is imprisoned by hatred, prejudice, and narrow-mindedness. Such a person is not truly free because he lives in fear and insecurity. Mandela explains that both the oppressed and the oppressor are robbed of their humanity in a system of injustice like apartheid. While the oppressed suffer physically and emotionally, the oppressor suffers morally and spiritually. Therefore, genuine freedom can be achieved only when both are freed from the chains of hatred and discrimination. By advocating forgiveness and reconciliation instead of revenge, Mandela shows that liberation must restore dignity and humanity to all. His vision of freedom is thus inclusive and rooted in equality, justice, and mutual respect.

Value Points (1 mark each):

1. The oppressor is imprisoned by hatred, prejudice and fear, and is therefore not truly free.

2. Apartheid dehumanizes both the oppressed and the oppressor.

3. True freedom means restoring dignity, equality and humanity to both through forgiveness and reconciliation.

 

(ii) In "The Ball Poem", the poet asserts, 'A dime, another ball, is worthless', though material possessions can be easily replaced. Justify.

 (ii) In “The Ball Poem,” the poet states that “A dime, another ball, is worthless” to emphasize that material replacement cannot replace emotional attachment. Though the boy can easily buy another ball, the lost ball represents his childhood memories and innocence. It symbolizes the first experience of loss in his life. The poet suggests that money cannot compensate for emotional pain or restore lost moments. The boy is learning a deeper lesson about responsibility and the inevitability of loss. Through this incident, he understands that possessions may be replaced, but experiences and emotions cannot. Thus, the poet highlights that human feelings are far more valuable than material objects. The line underlines the idea that true loss is emotional, not financial, and this realization marks the boy’s gradual step towards maturity.

Value Points:

1. The ball symbolizes childhood innocence and emotional attachment.

2. Material things can be replaced, but emotional loss cannot.

3. The boy learns a life lesson about loss and responsibility, marking emotional growth.

 

(iii) Why did Kisa Gotami, in her grief, fail to realize the universality of death and what does she ask for despite the impossibility of reviving the dead ?(The Sermon at Benares)

(iii) Kisa Gotami was overwhelmed by grief after the death of her only son. Her sorrow was so intense that she became desperate and irrational. In her pain, she refused to accept the reality of death and believed that her child could be brought back to life. She failed to realize that death is universal and unavoidable because her personal loss blinded her understanding. In her desperation, she went from house to house asking for medicine to revive her son. Even when she approached the Buddha, she asked him for a way to restore her child to life. The Buddha wisely asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had died. Through this task, she gradually understood that death spares no family. This realization helped her overcome her grief and accept the truth of life.

Value Points:

1. She was blinded by intense grief after her son’s death.

2. She refused to accept the reality that death is universal.

3. She asked for medicine (mustard seeds from a house where no one had died) to revive her son.

 

(iv) How does Natalya's behaviour in 'The Proposal' reflect her stubbornness and insecurity ?

 (iv) Natalya’s behaviour in “The Proposal” clearly reflects her stubbornness and insecurity. Instead of calmly discussing Lomov’s marriage proposal, she becomes argumentative over trivial matters such as the ownership of Oxen Meadows and the superiority of their dogs. Her refusal to listen and her insistence on proving herself right reveal her obstinate nature. At the same time, her behaviour shows insecurity. She feels the need to assert dominance and defend her family’s property and reputation. When she learns that Lomov had come to propose marriage, she immediately regrets her quarrelsome attitude and anxiously urges her father to bring him back. This sudden shift exposes her fear of losing a suitable match. Through Natalya, Chekhov humorously portrays how pride, ego, and insecurity can overshadow meaningful relationships.

Value Points:

1. She quarrels over trivial issues like Oxen Meadows and dogs.

2. She refuses to accept Lomov’s statements, showing obstinacy.

3. When she learns about the proposal, she anxiously calls him back, revealing insecurity about marriage prospects.

 

(v) Analyse the young woman's mention of dyeing her hair in the poem 'For Anne Gregory'. How does her statement support the fact that most people love only external beauty ?

(v) In “For Anne Gregory,” the young woman says she may dye her hair in different colours to test whether anyone loves her for herself rather than her physical beauty. This statement highlights society’s tendency to value external appearance over inner qualities. The mention of dyeing her hair suggests that beauty is temporary and changeable, yet people are attracted to it. She feels that men admire only her yellow hair and not her true personality. By suggesting that she could alter her appearance, she indirectly questions the sincerity of such love. The poet uses this idea to show that most people are influenced by outward charm and rarely look beyond it. Thus, the young woman’s remark supports the theme that external beauty often overshadows inner beauty in human relationships.

Value Points:

1. Dyeing her hair suggests beauty is temporary and changeable.

2. People are attracted mainly to her outward appearance (yellow hair).

3. It highlights the theme that most people value external beauty over inner qualities.

  

Supplementary- Short answers

Here are the three answers in about 150 words each:

 

(i) Considering the emotional attachment of Mrs. Pumphrey with Tricki, state the impact of the word 'convalescing' on her.(A Triumph of Surgery)

(i) The word ‘convalescing’ has a deep emotional impact on Mrs. Pumphrey because of her intense attachment to Tricki. She treats her dog like a child and is constantly worried about his health. When she hears that Tricki is “convalescing,” she feels immense relief and happiness. The word assures her that he is recovering steadily and is out of danger. It soothes her anxiety and strengthens her trust in the doctor’s care. Instead of feeling guilty for overfeeding and pampering him, she becomes grateful and even more affectionate. Her joy is evident when she sends eggs, wine, and brandy to aid his recovery. Thus, the word not only comforts her emotionally but also reinforces her belief that Tricki’s well-being is being carefully looked after.

Value Points (1 mark each):

1. The word ‘convalescing’ reassures Mrs. Pumphrey that Tricki is recovering and safe.

2. It reduces her anxiety and brings her emotional relief and happiness.

3. It strengthens her faith in the doctor and makes her even more affectionate and grateful.

 

 (ii) Ausable displayed a remarkable presence of mind combined with a good sense of humour to handle Max. Justify.(The Midnight Visitor)

(ii) Ausable demonstrates remarkable presence of mind and humour when confronted by Max. Instead of panicking at the sight of an armed intruder, he remains calm and composed. He cleverly invents a story about a balcony outside his window to mislead Max. His casual tone and humorous complaints about the inconvenience of the balcony make the story sound believable. By maintaining his confidence and wit, he confuses Max and makes him anxious about the supposed arrival of the police. When someone knocks at the door, Ausable convinces Max that it is the police, prompting him to jump out of the window in an attempt to escape. In reality, there is no balcony, and Max falls to his death. Ausable’s intelligence, quick thinking, and sense of humour help him handle the situation safely and cleverly.

Value Points:

1. Ausable remains calm on seeing Max and does not panic in a dangerous situation.

2. He invents the story of the non-existent balcony to mislead Max.

3. His humorous and casual manner confuses Max and ultimately leads him to jump out of the window, saving himself cleverly.

 

(iii) What makes Bholi believe that the place where she was taken was better than her home ?(Bholi)

(iii) Bholi believes that the place where she was taken—her school—was better than her home because of the kindness and encouragement she receives there. At home, she is neglected and often treated as a burden because of her physical appearance and stammering speech. However, at school, her teacher speaks to her gently and kindly. The teacher encourages her to repeat words patiently and assures her that she will learn to speak properly with practice. For the first time, Bholi feels respected and valued. The colourful pictures and welcoming atmosphere of the classroom also attract her. Unlike at home, where she feels unwanted, at school she experiences affection, support, and hope. This positive treatment makes her believe that school is a better and happier place than her own home.

Value Points:

1. At school, she is treated kindly by the teacher, unlike at home where she is neglected.

2. The teacher speaks to her gently and encourages her, which builds her confidence.

3. She feels valued and hopeful about learning, making her believe that school is a better and happier place.

  

Long Answers- First Flight

(a) How does the method of the seagull's mother to teach her child to be independent contrast with Amanda's mother's constant nagging ? Examine how this affects the emotional responses of the seagull and Amanda. (Two Stories about Flying and 'Amanda!')

The method adopted by the seagull’s mother to teach her young one independence sharply contrasts with Amanda’s mother’s constant nagging. In Two Stories about Flying, the young seagull is afraid to fly and clings to the ledge. Instead of pampering him, his mother uses a practical and firm approach. She tempts him with food and refuses to feed him unless he attempts to fly. Her strategy is based on tough love and trust in his natural ability. Though the seagull initially feels terrified, desperate, and abandoned, this method pushes him to take the plunge. Once he flies, his fear turns into joy, confidence, and a sense of achievement. The mother’s approach ultimately builds independence and self-belief in the seagull.

 In contrast, Amanda’s mother constantly nags her about sitting properly, cleaning her room, and completing homework. Her instructions are repetitive and controlling rather than encouraging. As a result, Amanda feels suffocated and retreats into a fantasy world where she imagines herself as a mermaid or an orphan, free from restrictions. Unlike the seagull, who gains confidence through challenge, Amanda feels oppressed and emotionally disconnected. Thus, while the seagull’s mother fosters independence through constructive firmness, Amanda’s mother unintentionally creates frustration and escapism through overbearing control.

expected value points:

1. Seagull’s mother uses tough love.

2. She withholds food to push independence.

3. Seagull’s emotional journey: fear → confidence.

4. Amanda’s mother nags constantly.

5. Amanda’s emotional response: frustration and escapism.

6. Contrast between constructive firmness and over-control.

 

 (b) Both, Rajvir in 'Tea from Assam' and Valli in 'Madam Rides the Bus' are motivated by a strong desire to experience the world beyond their everyday life. How do their respective journeys reflect their curiosity, enthusiasm for discovering new things and shape their understanding of the world around them ?

 Both Rajvir and Valli are driven by curiosity and a desire to explore beyond their immediate surroundings. In Tea from Assam, Rajvir is deeply interested in learning about tea plantations. During his train journey through Assam, he eagerly observes the lush green fields and asks questions about tea production. His enthusiasm reflects intellectual curiosity. He even narrates legends about the discovery of tea and shares historical facts, showing his eagerness to expand knowledge. His journey enhances his understanding of India’s geography, economy, and cultural heritage.

 Similarly, in Madam Rides the Bus, Valli longs to experience the outside world by taking a bus ride to the nearby town. Unlike Rajvir’s knowledge-based curiosity, Valli’s desire is rooted in adventure and independence. She carefully saves money, plans the trip, and overcomes her fears to travel alone. During the journey, she observes people, scenery, and situations with great interest. However, the sight of a dead cow on the return trip makes her realize the seriousness of life and death. Both journeys reflect curiosity and enthusiasm, but they also contribute to emotional and intellectual growth. Rajvir gains awareness about tea cultivation, while Valli gains maturity and a broader understanding of life beyond her village.

expected value points:

1. Rajvir’s curiosity about tea and Assam.

2. His intellectual enthusiasm and sharing of facts.

3. Valli’s desire for independence and adventure.

4. Her planning and determination.

5. Observational learning during journey.

6. Growth in maturity/understanding of life.

 

Marking Scheme (6 Marks – Long Answer)

 

Content – 4 Marks

Award 1 mark for each relevant value point (any 4–6 strong points)

 

Long answers- Supplementary

 (a) Those who go astray can change for the better when treated with trust and respect. Justify the statement by citing suitable evidence from 'The Thief's Story'.

The story clearly proves that those who go astray can reform when treated with trust and respect. Hari Singh, a young thief, approaches Anil with the intention of robbing him. However, Anil treats him kindly and offers him food, shelter, and companionship without suspicion. Instead of questioning his background, Anil places complete trust in him and even promises to teach him how to read and write. This gesture plants the seed of transformation in Hari’s heart. Education represents a path to a better future, something Hari had never experienced before.

 When Hari finally steals Anil’s money and runs away, his conscience begins to trouble him. He realises that Anil’s trust and generosity were genuine. Unlike his previous victims, Anil never doubted him. The guilt becomes so strong that Hari returns the money. The next morning, Anil does not accuse him but quietly acknowledges the return of the money, once again showing trust. This silent forgiveness strengthens Hari’s resolve to change. Thus, the story highlights that compassion, trust, and respect can reform even a misguided individual.

expected value points:

1. Hari Singh’s initial intention to steal.

2. Anil’s kindness and trust.

3. Promise of education as reformative influence.

4. Hari’s guilt and inner conflict.

5. Return of stolen money.

6. Silent forgiveness reinforcing change.

 

 

(b) A little confession might have saved Matilda from years of suffering and hardships. Analyse how Matilda's vanity, pride, and fear of judgement caused her to live a miserable and tormented life. (The Necklace)

Matilda’s vanity and pride become the root causes of her long suffering. She is dissatisfied with her simple life and constantly dreams of wealth and luxury. When she is invited to a grand party, she borrows a diamond necklace from her friend to appear rich and impressive. Her desire to be admired and her fear of social judgement prevent her from revealing the truth when she loses the necklace. Instead of confessing, she and her husband decide to replace it with an expensive one, plunging themselves into heavy debt.

 For ten long years, Matilda endures poverty and hardship to repay the borrowed money. She performs exhausting household chores and lives a life far worse than before. Ironically, at the end, she discovers that the original necklace was artificial and of little value. A simple confession could have saved her from years of misery. Her vanity blinded her to reality, and her pride stopped her from seeking help. The story thus shows how excessive concern for social appearance can lead to unnecessary suffering and tragic consequences.

expected value points:

1. Matilda’s dissatisfaction and vanity.

2. Borrowing necklace to impress others.

3. Fear of confession and social judgement.

4. Replacement of necklace leading to debt.

5. Years of hardship and suffering.

6. Irony of fake necklace.