Maharashtra Board Class 12 English Question Paper 2023 with Answer Key

Step 1: Understanding the passage.

In the passage, the writer describes how he struggled with English and felt out of place in IIT and Mumbai. The incident with the senior guy further aggravated his sense of humiliation and depression. However, in the end, the writer's self-esteem and a feeling of determination helped him overcome his depression.


Step 2: Analyzing the options.

(1) The writer had his entire education in English: This is incorrect. The writer mentions that his education was in Marathi, not English.

(2) The writer wished to run away from IIT and even Mumbai: Correct — The writer felt out of place and wanted to run away from IIT and Mumbai, as stated in the passage.

(3) The senior guy was co-operative and he encouraged the writer: This is incorrect. The senior was arrogant and insulted the writer, which contributed to his humiliation.

(4) The writer could overcome his feeling of depression with his own efforts: Correct — Despite feeling depressed, the writer’s self-esteem and determination helped him overcome his feelings of depression.


Step 3: Conclusion.

The correct answers are (2) The writer wished to run away from IIT and even Mumbai and (4) The writer could overcome his feeling of depression with his own efforts, as these are explicitly supported by the passage.
Quick Tip: In reading comprehension, focus on the emotional journey of the character. The writer's feelings of humiliation and later self-determination are key to understanding the passage.

Step 1: Understanding the sentence structure.

The sentence provided has a contrast between the writer's happiness at getting into IIT and the fact that his joy was short-lived. The word “though” is used to introduce a contrast, but it should not be followed by “but” in the same sentence.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.

(1) Though I was quite happy getting into IIT, but my joy was short-lived: Incorrect — The conjunction "though" already introduces the contrast, so the word "but" is redundant.

(2) I was quite happy getting into IIT, though my joy is short-lived: Incorrect — The tense of "is" is not consistent with the past tense of "was."

(3) Though I was quite happy getting into IIT, my joy was short-lived: Correct — This option properly uses "though" to introduce the contrast and maintains consistent tense.

(4) I was quite happy though getting into IIT, my joy was short-lived: Incorrect — The word "though" is incorrectly placed, as it should follow the entire phrase of happiness, not be in the middle.


Step 3: Conclusion.

The correct answer is (3) Though I was quite happy getting into IIT, my joy was short-lived, as it maintains proper sentence structure and tense agreement.
Quick Tip: When using "though" to introduce contrast, avoid using "but" in the same clause. Also, ensure that the tenses are consistent throughout the sentence.

Step 1: Understanding the transformation.

To change a statement into an exclamatory sentence, we need to express the strong emotion or feeling conveyed in the original sentence. In the case of "I felt extremely humiliated and upset," the exclamatory form should express the intensity of these feelings.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.

(1) What humiliated and upset I felt! This is incorrect. The structure "What + adjective + I felt" does not form a grammatically correct exclamatory sentence.

(2) How humiliated and upset I felt! Correct — This is the proper exclamatory form, as it effectively emphasizes the intensity of the feelings. The structure "How + adjective + I felt" is correct.

(3) How extremely humiliated do I feel! This is incorrect. The use of "do I feel" is not appropriate for the exclamatory form here.

(4) What a humiliated and upset I felt! This is incorrect. The phrase "What a + adjective + I felt" is grammatically wrong in exclamatory sentences.


Step 3: Conclusion.

The correct answer is (2) How humiliated and upset I felt!, as it maintains the proper structure for exclamatory sentences.
Quick Tip: When forming exclamatory sentences, use "How" or "What" appropriately, and make sure the structure fits the intended expression of strong feelings.

Step 1: Understanding the words and their meanings.

- Diffident means lacking confidence, so its opposite is humble, which means modest or not arrogant.

- Humiliated refers to feeling embarrassed or ashamed, so the opposite is exhilarated, which means feeling very happy or excited.

- Arrogant means having an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance, so its opposite is confident, which refers to a sense of self-assurance without being boastful.

- Inferiority refers to feeling of being less than others, so the opposite is superiority, which refers to the state of being better than others.


Step 2: Conclusion.

Thus, the correct matching is as follows:

(a) diffident - (i) humble
(b) humiliated - (iv) exhilarated
(c) arrogant - (iii) confident
(d) inferiority - (ii) superiority Quick Tip: When matching words with their antonyms, consider their meanings and the contrast in emotional or intellectual states.

Step 1: Identifying Passive Voice.

In passive voice, the subject of the sentence receives the action rather than performing it. The verb in the passive voice should match the tense of the original sentence. The sentence is in the present perfect tense, so the correct passive form should be \textit{has been signed.


Step 2: Conclusion.

The correct passive voice form is (2) This agreement has been signed in haste by both the partners.
Quick Tip: In passive voice, ensure the subject receives the action, and adjust the verb tense accordingly.

Step 1: Understanding Indirect Speech.

In indirect speech, the question is reported without using the question mark and converting the question into a statement. We also change the tense to past when necessary. The speaker is asking about what he could do, so the correct form is \textit{I asked my sister what I could do for her in that matter.


Step 2: Conclusion.

The correct indirect speech form is (1) I asked my sister what I could do for her in that matter.
Quick Tip: In indirect speech, convert the question to a statement.

Step 1: Identifying 'No sooner... than' construction.

In the 'No sooner... than' construction, the auxiliary verb is \textit{had in the past perfect tense, followed by the main clause in the simple past tense. This structure emphasizes the immediate succession of events.


Step 2: Conclusion.

The correct form is (2) No sooner had he left the house than he met with an accident.
Quick Tip: In 'No sooner...than' constructions, use the past perfect tense for the first clause.

Step 1: Identifying the error.

The error in the sentence is the phrase "has been worked." The verb "worked" is incorrect in this context because it suggests the passive voice, but the intended meaning requires the present perfect tense in the active voice. In active voice, we use "has worked" instead of "has been worked."


Step 2: Correct sentence.

The correct sentence is \textit{She has worked in this office since 1996. The present perfect tense is appropriate here to indicate an action that started in the past and continues to the present.
Quick Tip: In the present perfect tense, use the active voice (e.g., "has worked") rather than the passive voice ("has been worked") when the subject is performing the action.

Step 1: Understanding the passage.

The passage highlights the benefits of medical tourism in India, but also discusses the risks involved, particularly with regard to the infection of diseases that are commonly found in India and other countries offering medical tourism services. The diseases mentioned in the passage are:


Hepatitis A: A viral infection affecting the liver, commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water.
Amoebic dysentery: A parasitic infection that affects the intestines, commonly found in areas with poor sanitation.
Mosquito-transmitted diseases: These include diseases like malaria and dengue, which are transmitted through mosquito bites.
Tuberculosis: A contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body.


Step 2: Conclusion.

The infection of diseases such as Hepatitis A, amoebic dysentery, mosquito-transmitted diseases, and tuberculosis are risks associated with medical tourism, particularly in countries with different infectious disease profiles.
Quick Tip: When discussing medical tourism, it’s important to mention both the potential benefits and risks, especially regarding infections and the quality of healthcare services in different countries.

N/A

Step 2: Completing statement (ii)

The passage highlights that medical tourism can face challenges in India due to the limited accessibility of private healthcare and the inadequate public healthcare system. This makes it difficult for medical tourism to be successful, especially in a country where a large section of the population has little or no access to private healthcare.

Complete Statement (ii):
The concept of medical tourism can not be much successful in India because \textit{the public healthcare system is inadequate and lacks proper infrastructure and facilities, while a large section of the population has little or no access to private healthcare. Quick Tip: When completing statements based on an extract, focus on key points and directly referenced information to fill in the gaps accurately.

Step 1: Positive aspects of Medical Tourism.

- Medical tourism boosts the industry by providing tax benefits, incentives, and opportunities for private hospitals to invest in advanced equipment and skills. This attracts foreign patients and helps the economy.

- Another positive aspect is that patients can receive high-quality medical treatment at lower costs compared to their home countries, making it an affordable option for many.


Step 2: Hazard/Negative aspects of Medical Tourism.

- A risk involved in medical tourism is exposure to diseases that are not commonly found in the home country, such as Hepatitis A, amoebic dysentery, and mosquito-transmitted diseases. These can pose significant health risks to medical tourists.

- Another negative aspect is the potential lack of proper post-operative care once the patient returns home. Since there is limited contact with the surgeon after returning, complications may arise, which can be difficult to manage.
Quick Tip: When evaluating a topic like medical tourism, it's essential to balance both the benefits and potential risks, which may include health hazards and issues related to healthcare quality and accessibility.

I agree with the statement. Here are two arguments in favor of promoting wildlife tourism in India:


1. Boost to the economy: Wildlife tourism can generate significant revenue for the country. Tourists visiting wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and reserves can contribute to the economy through entrance fees, accommodation, and other services. This can provide employment opportunities and promote local businesses.


2. Conservation of wildlife and natural habitats: Promoting wildlife tourism can also encourage the conservation of endangered species and natural habitats. The revenue generated from wildlife tourism can be reinvested into conservation efforts, protecting the environment and preserving biodiversity for future generations.
Quick Tip: When supporting an idea like wildlife tourism, emphasize both economic benefits and environmental conservation, as these are key motivators for promoting such tourism.

Step 1: Understanding the sentence.

The original sentence is in the present continuous tense (\textit{is encouraging), which indicates an ongoing action. When converting it to the present perfect tense, we need to consider that the action has been completed at some point in the past but still has relevance to the present. Therefore, the correct structure is \textit{has encouraged, as it reflects this aspect of the action.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.

(1) Govt. of India is encouraged medical tourism in the country: This is incorrect because "is encouraged" is not the correct use of the present perfect tense.

(2) Govt. of India had encouraged medical tourism in the country: This is incorrect because "had encouraged" is in the past perfect tense, which is used for actions completed before another past action.

(3) Govt. of India has been encouraged medical tourism in the country: This is incorrect because it wrongly uses the passive voice and is not a correct form for the present perfect tense.

(4) Govt. of India has encouraged medical tourism in the country: Correct — This is the proper present perfect form of the sentence, indicating the government has completed the action of encouraging medical tourism at some point in the past but still considers it relevant in the present.


Step 3: Conclusion.

The correct present perfect form is (4) Govt. of India has encouraged medical tourism in the country.
Quick Tip: In the present perfect tense, use "has/have" with the past participle of the verb (e.g., "has encouraged"). This tense connects past actions to the present.

Step 1: Understanding the statement.

The sentence uses the auxiliary may to express possibility or uncertainty. When replacing it with an auxiliary that shows more certainty or definiteness, \textit{will is the appropriate choice, as it expresses a stronger sense of certainty or inevitability.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.

(1) This can make it difficult to deal with any complication: Incorrect — \textit{Can expresses ability or possibility, but it doesn’t convey the same certainty as \textit{will.

(2) This might make it difficult to deal with any complication: Incorrect — \textit{Might expresses a weaker possibility, which does not replace \textit{may with certainty.

(3) This will make it difficult to deal with any complication: Correct — \textit{Will expresses certainty, making it the appropriate replacement for \textit{may when expressing definiteness.

(4) This have made it difficult to deal with any complication: Incorrect — The auxiliary \textit{have is in the wrong tense (present perfect), which does not match the context.


Step 3: Conclusion.

The correct sentence with an auxiliary of certainty is (3) This will make it difficult to deal with any complication.
Quick Tip: When replacing auxiliaries, use \textit{will to express certainty or definiteness, and use may or might for possibility or uncertainty.

Step 1: Identifying the words from the passage.

Based on the passage, the words matching the meanings are:


(i) booming — growing immensely, as the passage mentions that the medical tourism industry is booming.
(ii) hazard — threat, as the passage highlights potential risks associated with medical tourism.
(iii) acquiring — obtaining, as the passage talks about hospitals acquiring equipment and skills.
(iv) accessible — able to approach/possible to approach, as the passage refers to accessibility in healthcare. Quick Tip: When matching words with their meanings, focus on key descriptive terms in the passage that indicate the process or quality being described.

A mind map on "Human Interest" could look like the following:


Central Node: Human Interest


Branches:
1. Emotional Stories
- Personal challenges
- Inspiring journeys

2. Humanity and Compassion
- Helping others
- Community support

3. Cultural and Social Issues
- Human rights
- Equality

4. Notable Figures
- Role models
- Historical figures


Quick Tip: When creating a mind map, start with a central concept and create branches to represent main ideas. Each branch should lead to more specific sub-ideas, ensuring that the map remains clear and organized.

Step 1: Understanding the sequence of events.

The first event is the mariner wishing to hear the Inchcape Bell, as he is in distress. The second event is when the vessel strikes with a shivering shock, indicating the collision with the Inchcape Rock. The third event is Sir Ralph the Rover cursing himself in despair as the ship is sinking. The final event is when Ralph the Rover hears one dreadful sound, which is the sound of the Inchcape Bell ringing, symbolizing his doom.

Step 2: Conclusion.

The correct order of events is as follows:

(3) The mariner wished to hear the Inchcape Bell.
(2) The vessel strikes with a shivering shock.
(1) Sir Ralph the Rover cursed himself in despair.
(4) Ralph the Rover heard one dreadful sound. Quick Tip: When rearranging events in a poem or story, pay attention to the sequence of actions and emotions. Look for clues in the text that indicate what happens first, second, etc.

N/A Quick Tip: When completing a tree diagram, break down the main cause into sub-causes, and ensure each cause is clearly connected to the main reason for the event.

For this question, you may accept any answer that is logically correct or interprets the passage accurately, such as answers based on understanding the poem's context or ideas. Reasonably correct answers may involve recognizing important themes, events, or figures mentioned in the passage. Quick Tip: In questions that ask for reasonably correct answers, look for answers that demonstrate a clear understanding of the passage's main ideas, even if they are phrased differently.

The poetic device used here is called Inversion. Inversion involves changing the conventional word order for emphasis or to fit the rhythm and rhyme of a poem. In this case, the phrase "could hear one dreadful sound" has been inverted to "Rover could hear one dreadful sound" to fit the meter of the poem. The correct word order is: \[ The Rover could hear one dreadful sound. \] Quick Tip: Inversion is often used in poetry to maintain the rhyme scheme, rhythm, or meter, even if it alters the standard subject-verb-object structure.

For this question, any creatively composed lines that reflect the themes or style of the poem or passage are acceptable. Examples of such lines could involve expressing themes of despair, hope, emotional turmoil, or nature's forces, in the context of the "Inchcape Rock" poem. Quick Tip: In composing lines, try to capture the essence of the theme or emotions from the passage. Keep the tone and structure consistent with the poem’s style, and focus on creativity while ensuring the meaning remains clear.

The given extract is a beautiful description of the inner and outer beauty of a woman. The poet compares her to the night, which is serene, calm, and peaceful. The use of "cloudless climes and starry skies" reflects the purity and radiance of her beauty, free from any darkness or flaw. The phrase "best of dark and bright" signifies the harmonious balance in her features, which combine strength and gentleness.


The poet highlights how her grace remains untouched by time or imperfections, with "one shade the more, one ray the less" describing a balance in her appearance. The comparison of her beauty to "the tender light" that "heaven to gaudy day denies" suggests an ethereal quality, further emphasizing her gracefulness.


The poet also acknowledges the inner beauty of the woman. Her thoughts, expressed through her serene demeanor, reveal purity and innocence. The gentle and eloquent expression of her face, with the "smiles that win" and the glow on her face, reflects goodness and peace of mind.


In the final lines, the poet praises her heart for its innocent love, showing that her physical beauty is complemented by her virtuous and peaceful soul. Quick Tip: In appreciation, focus on explaining the imagery, themes, and poetic devices used in the poem, such as metaphor, simile, and personification. Highlight the overall meaning of the passage and how the poet conveys emotions and characteristics.

Message:


Hi Sanket,


I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to let you know that I have to go to Pune to participate in the national level Chess Competition and will not be able to attend the class-test. Could you please inform our subject teacher about my absence and let them know the reason for it? I’ll catch up on the missed work as soon as I get back.


Thanks a lot for your help!


Regards,

Ramesh
Quick Tip: In virtual messages, keep the tone polite and concise. Ensure to convey the necessary information without being overly formal, as messages are usually informal in nature.

Statement of Purpose:


Dear Sir/Madam,


I am writing to express my keen interest in applying for a degree course in Mass Communication at the Royal Institute of Mass Communication in the United Kingdom. My passion for journalism, particularly in the field of crime reporting, has motivated me to pursue a career that will allow me to investigate, report, and raise awareness about societal issues.


Having followed various crime-related news and investigative journalism, I believe that the course at your esteemed institution will provide me with the necessary skills and exposure to develop my journalistic abilities. The diverse curriculum, coupled with the experienced faculty and resources at the Royal Institute, will help me achieve my career goals.


I am confident that studying at the Royal Institute will help me hone my skills and contribute significantly to the field of journalism. I look forward to the opportunity to be part of this prestigious institution.


Sincerely,

Your Name
Quick Tip: In a Statement of Purpose, ensure to highlight your passion, career goals, and why you have chosen the specific course and institution. Keep it concise and focused on your future aspirations.

Set of Dialogues:


Participant 1 (You):
Good morning, everyone. The topic for today’s discussion is "Traditional food provides more nutrition to children as compared to junk food". I believe that traditional food, which includes fruits, vegetables, and homemade meals, provides more essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Unlike junk food, which is high in unhealthy fats and sugar, traditional food helps in the overall growth and development of children.


Participant 2:
I completely agree with you. Traditional food is rich in natural ingredients, and it is an important part of our cultural heritage. Junk food, on the other hand, is highly processed and offers no nutritional value. Children who consume junk food regularly may face issues like obesity, weak immunity, and poor concentration, affecting their academic performance.


Participant 3:
While I understand both points, I believe that there’s room for moderation. Junk food isn’t inherently bad if consumed occasionally. Sometimes, traditional food may not be as easily accessible or convenient, especially in busy urban settings. It’s important to balance both, where traditional meals form the foundation and junk food can be an occasional treat.


Evaluator:
You’ve all presented valid points. Traditional food does indeed provide better nutrition, but as Participant 3 mentioned, a balanced approach works best. It’s crucial to educate children and parents about the importance of incorporating healthy eating habits while being aware of the risks associated with excessive junk food consumption. Quick Tip: In group discussions, always present your points clearly and back them up with logical arguments. Respect others' opinions, and ensure that you contribute to the discussion without dominating it.

Subject: Request for Quotation for 20 PCs


Dear Sir/Madam,


I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am planning to start a Computer Institute in [Your Area]. I am looking to purchase 20 computers for the institute and am considering DELL as a preferred brand due to its reliable performance and features.


Could you please provide me with a quotation for 20 PCs, including details about the model specifications, warranty, and any bulk discounts available? I would appreciate it if you could offer a moderate quotation, keeping in mind the budget constraints for this initiative.


Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you for your attention to this matter.


Best regards,

Your Name

Your Contact Information Quick Tip: When drafting an email, ensure that your subject line is clear, and the content is concise. Always include the key details like quantity, specifications, and any discounts, as this helps the recipient provide an accurate response.

Report:

Celebration of 75^th Anniversary of National Independence at College Name


[City Name], [Date] – Our college celebrated the 75^th Anniversary of India’s Independence from the 13^th to the 16^th of August with grandeur and patriotism. A series of socio-cultural activities were organized to mark the occasion. The celebrations began with the flag hoisting ceremony on the morning of 13^th August, followed by a speech delivered by the principal, emphasizing the significance of the struggle for freedom and the importance of national unity.


Throughout the week, a variety of events took place, including patriotic song competitions, debates, and dance performances, showcasing the talent of the students. A special exhibition highlighting India’s journey to independence was also set up, attracting large crowds. The celebrations concluded with a cultural program and a vote of thanks, appreciating everyone’s participation.


This grand event truly instilled a sense of pride and unity among all participants. Quick Tip: In report writing, ensure to include the key details of the event such as the dates, activities, and purpose. The report should be clear, factual, and concise, adhering to the word limit.

Interview Questions:

1. Name of the Interviewee (Personality):
Could you please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to join the National Defence Academy?

2. Area of Success/Reputation:
What do you think were the key factors that contributed to your success in getting selected for the NDA?

3. Date / Venue / Time:
Can you tell us when and where the NDA selection process started for you, and how long it took for you to prepare for it?

4. Duration of Interview:
Could you describe the interview process at the NDA and the challenges you faced during that time?

5. His decision:
What made you decide to pursue a career in the defence services, and how did you prepare for the challenges ahead?

6. His idols/inspirations:
Did you have any idols or role models who inspired you along the way to join the NDA? How did they motivate you?

7. Support:
Who were the key people who supported you during your journey to the NDA? How did their encouragement help you stay focused?

8. Training / Difficulties / Challenges:
Could you share some of the most difficult training sessions or challenges you faced during your preparation and how you overcame them? Quick Tip: When drafting interview questions, ensure that they are clear, concise, and follow a logical sequence. Questions should encourage the interviewee to share their experiences and thoughts in detail.

Speech:

Good morning to all the respected teachers and dear students,


I am honored to be here with you today on the eve of World Environment Day. As a member of an NGO dedicated to water conservation, I would like to speak briefly on the importance of water harvesting. Water is one of the most essential resources for life, but unfortunately, we are facing a severe shortage due to overuse and poor management.


Water harvesting is a simple yet effective way to conserve water. It involves collecting and storing rainwater for future use, reducing dependency on groundwater. This method can help us save water for drinking, farming, and other purposes.


I urge each one of you to take part in this important practice. Small steps from all of us can make a huge difference. Let us join hands in ensuring a sustainable future for ourselves and the generations to come.


Thank you!
Quick Tip: When writing a speech, aim to keep the message clear, concise, and motivating. Always connect the topic to the audience’s interests and inspire them to take action.

Script for the Farewell Function:


Welcoming the Guests:
Good evening, respected Principal, esteemed faculty members, and dear students. A very warm welcome to all of you for this special occasion, the farewell function for our beloved students appearing for the H.S.C. examination. We are gathered here to celebrate their achievements and wish them the very best for their future endeavors. It is a proud moment for all of us as we bid farewell to these bright minds who will be stepping into new phases of their lives.


Introduction:
This event is a small token of our appreciation for the hard work and dedication shown by our students throughout their academic journey. The farewell function today is a celebration of their success and our shared memories. We are excited to hear from some inspiring individuals who will share their thoughts and experiences with us today.


Important Speeches:
At this point, I would like to invite our respected Principal, [Principal's Name], to deliver the opening speech. Please join me in welcoming him/her with a round of applause.


Principal’s Speech


Thank you so much, [Principal’s Name], for your inspiring words.


Next, I would like to invite our Senior Most Teacher, [Teacher's Name], to share their thoughts with the students.


Teacher’s Speech



Felicitations:
Now, we move on to the felicitation ceremony. I request [Felicitation Officer/Head of Student Affairs] to kindly proceed with the felicitation of our students who have excelled in their academic journey. Let's give them a big round of applause as they come forward to receive their tokens of appreciation.


Felicitation ceremony


Concluding Remark:
As we near the end of this memorable evening, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making this farewell function so special. Our students, with their hard work and determination, have earned this farewell. Let us continue to support them in their future endeavors as they embark on new journeys.


Vote of Thanks:
Finally, it is my pleasure to deliver the vote of thanks. A heartfelt thank you to our respected Principal, faculty members, and all the students for being a part of this beautiful occasion. I would also like to extend my gratitude to all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event possible. Thank you, everyone, and I wish all our students the very best in their exams and future careers. Quick Tip: When writing a compere's script, ensure that the flow of events is smooth and logical. Start with a warm welcome, followed by the main event activities, and end with a vote of thanks. Keep the tone engaging and respectful.

Expansion of Idea: "Experience is the best teacher"


Experience is often considered the best teacher because it offers practical learning that cannot be obtained from theoretical knowledge alone. It provides a deeper understanding by allowing individuals to engage directly with real-life situations. Through experience, one learns to apply lessons learned in real time, often making mistakes and correcting them, which leads to a more comprehensive understanding.


Unlike bookish knowledge, which may provide general information, experience provides firsthand knowledge, allowing individuals to develop a more nuanced and realistic perspective. For instance, learning how to manage time or solve problems effectively can only be mastered through practice, not through reading about it.


In real-life situations, we face challenges and obstacles that books do not address. It is through these experiences that we learn how to adapt, overcome difficulties, and make better decisions. Therefore, experience truly stands as the best teacher, guiding us with practical insights and wisdom. Quick Tip: When expanding an idea, ensure that you connect the points logically and provide examples to make your argument more relatable. Emphasize the contrast between theory and practice to highlight the importance of experience.

Movie Review:


Name of the movie / Year of release:
The movie I watched recently is "The Pursuit of Happyness," released in 2006. This inspiring biographical drama is based on the life of Chris Gardner, a man who struggles with homelessness while trying to create a better life for his son.


Cast:
The film stars Will Smith as Chris Gardner, with his real-life son Jaden Smith playing his on-screen son. The performances by both actors, especially Will Smith, were highly moving and heartfelt.


Theme / Storyline in brief:
The storyline revolves around Chris Gardner’s challenges in life as he struggles with homelessness while trying to land a job as a stockbroker. His perseverance, determination, and love for his son keep him going, making the movie a powerful story of resilience, hope, and personal growth.


Producer / Director:
The film was directed by Gabriele Muccino, with the producer being Todd Black. Muccino’s direction brings out the emotional depth of the story, capturing the hardships and triumphs in a very realistic manner.


Technical aspects: Music / Photography:
The music, composed by Andrea Guerra, complements the emotional depth of the movie beautifully. The cinematography by Phedon Papamichael captures the gritty reality of the struggles Chris faces, with subtle lighting that enhances the mood.


Your opinion:
I highly recommend "The Pursuit of Happyness" to anyone looking for an inspiring and uplifting story. Will Smith’s performance is exceptional, and the movie as a whole is an emotional journey that showcases the power of hope and determination. It is a true testament to the human spirit and a must-watch for all ages. Quick Tip: When drafting a movie review, focus on providing a balanced perspective. Highlight key aspects like the plot, performances, technical elements, and your personal take on the movie. Keep your review engaging and informative.

Blog:


Title: The Negative Impact of Social Media on Education


In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, especially for students. However, its influence on education has raised serious concerns. Social media platforms, while offering instant access to information, have a detrimental effect on students’ concentration and academic performance.


One of the main issues is the distraction caused by apps like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Students often spend hours scrolling through their feeds, which takes away valuable study time. This constant engagement with social media not only hampers their ability to focus but also affects their mental health, leading to anxiety and stress.


Moreover, the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and lifestyles portrayed on social media often leads to low self-esteem among students. This negatively impacts their learning mindset, reducing their motivation to excel academically.


In conclusion, while social media can offer educational benefits, its negative effects on students’ minds and education cannot be ignored. It is crucial for students to find a balance and use these platforms responsibly to avoid distractions.
Quick Tip: When writing a blog, ensure that you provide a balanced view of the topic. Support your arguments with examples and keep the tone engaging and informative.

Appeal:


Slogan:

"Be the Change, Vote for Change!"



Dear Students,

As we celebrate the 75^th Anniversary of our National Independence, it is crucial that we remember the significance of our rights and responsibilities as citizens. One of the most important duties is to vote. To ensure your voice is heard, the State Election Commission has organised a "Voters' Registration Camp" on this historic occasion.


We strongly encourage all eligible students to participate in this camp and register themselves to vote. The camp will be set up on [Date] at [Venue] from [Time]. A special guest, [Guest Name], will be present to inaugurate the camp and motivate everyone to take part in this important democratic process.


The low turn-out and lack of awareness about voter registration have been concerns in the past. It is time to break this cycle and make our mark on the future of the nation. Let’s all take a step forward in shaping a better India by registering to vote!


Your participation matters. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of the change. Together, we can make a difference!
Quick Tip: When writing an appeal, ensure that it is persuasive and addresses the importance of the event. Make the message clear and inspiring to encourage action from the readers.

Matching Answers:


(a) Oroonoku - (iii) Aphra Behn
(b) The Heart of Darkness - (i) Joseph Conrad
(c) Frankenstein - (iv) Mary Shelly
(d) The Pilgrim’s Progress - (ii) John Bunyan Quick Tip: When matching items, make sure to carefully read the descriptions or authors to ensure proper pairing. Double-checking can help avoid common mistakes.

(a) Novels with the elements of horror, blood-shed and mystery are called Gothic novels.

(b) The German word 'bildungsroman' indicates Growth.

(c) There are eight essential elements of ‘Novel’ or ‘Novella’.

(d) Struggle between the opposite forces in the story is called conflict. Quick Tip: When choosing the correct alternatives, focus on context and meaning. Understanding the subject matter can help guide you towards the right answers.

E.R. Braithwaite, the narrator of "To Sir, With Love," is a dedicated, passionate, and self-respecting teacher. Coming from a background of adversity, he faces many challenges in the classroom. Initially met with resistance by his students, he gradually wins their respect through his patience, understanding, and strong moral values. Braithwaite’s character reflects resilience and a desire to make a positive impact on society, especially in the lives of the youth he teaches.


(ii) Describe how Miss Philips justifies the importance of P.T. to Denham:


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Solution:


Miss Philips justifies the importance of physical training (P.T.) to Denham by explaining that it plays a vital role in developing discipline, health, and teamwork among students. She emphasizes that P.T. teaches students valuable life skills such as perseverance, respect for others, and the ability to work together, which are essential for their overall growth and success. She conveys that P.T. is not just about physical fitness, but it shapes their character and prepares them for the future. Quick Tip: When answering character-sketch or explanation questions, focus on the traits or actions that define the character and their significance in the story. Keep answers concise, focusing on key points.

In the context of Phileas Fogg’s journey around the world in eighty days, the quote reflects his unwavering determination and perseverance. Throughout his adventure, Fogg faces numerous challenges, yet he refuses to give up despite the obstacles. His refusal to quit and his commitment to completing the journey within the time limit demonstrate that success comes through persistence and resilience, qualities that define a true winner.


(ii) Phileas Fogg knocked detective Fix down – Give reason/s.


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Solution:


Phileas Fogg knocked Detective Fix down due to Fix’s constant pursuit and false accusations. Detective Fix had wrongfully suspected Fogg of being a bank robber, which caused unnecessary stress and frustration during Fogg’s race around the world. Fogg, overwhelmed by the deceit and provocations, reacted physically to defend his honor and integrity. Quick Tip: When elaborating quotes, connect them directly to the character’s actions or beliefs in the story. For incident-based questions, provide clear, concise reasons that explain the character's emotions or actions.

Mary Morstan’s visit to the Lyceum Theatre with Holmes and Dr. Watson marks an important moment in the novel. It reflects her growing trust and connection with the two men. The visit also symbolizes a shift in her relationship with Holmes and Watson, as it marks the beginning of her involvement in the mystery that Holmes is about to unravel, making her an integral part of the plot.


(ii) Write in brief the theme of the extract of the novel ‘The Sign of Four’.


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Solution:


The theme of the extract revolves around the interplay of mystery, intrigue, and the unknown. It introduces the readers to the complexity of the case that Holmes and Watson are about to solve, with Mary Morstan becoming a pivotal figure. The theme explores themes of loyalty, trust, and the pursuit of justice, with Holmes’s keen intellect guiding the narrative. Quick Tip: When answering questions related to literary themes or significance, focus on the key elements that drive the plot and character development. Provide concise examples from the text to back up your explanations.