Maharashtra Board Class 12 English Question Paper 2022 with Answer Key (March 4)

A1. True / False:

(a) True: Soapy broke the glass, as stated: "Soapy took a stone and dashed it through the glass."

(b) False: The statement is incorrect because "People came running, round the corner" after the glass broke. Corrected: People heard the breaking of the glass window and came running.

(c) False: The policeman chased another man running to catch a car, not Soapy. Corrected: The policeman did not chase Soapy but pursued another man.

(d) True: Soapy "stood still with his hands in his pockets" after breaking the window.

A2. Rearrange:

The correct order of occurrence:

(b) Soapy took a stone and dashed it through the glass (first action).

(a) The policeman refused to accept Soapy even as a clue (after questioning Soapy).

(d) Soapy, with disgust in his heart, drifted along twice unsuccessful (after the failed shop incident, before the restaurant).

(c) "Now, get busy and call a cop," said Soapy (in the restaurant, after eating).

A3. Guess:

(a) "Don't you think that I might have had something to do with it?" means Soapy is subtly admitting or hinting to the policeman that he was responsible for breaking the window, hoping to be arrested.

(b) "He told the waiter the fact that the minutest coin and himself were total strangers" means Soapy admitted to the waiter that he had no money at all to pay for the meal, implying he was penniless.

A4. Personal response:

As a hotel manager, if a poor boy ate a meal and couldn’t pay, I would approach the situation with empathy. I’d first confirm his inability to pay and inquire about his circumstances. To avoid embarrassment, I’d discreetly offer the meal for free as a gesture of goodwill, possibly asking him to help with a small task (e.g., cleaning tables) to maintain dignity. If he’s in genuine distress, I’d connect him with local support services. This balances compassion with business considerations, fostering a positive reputation for the hotel.

A5. Language study:

(A) Rhetorical question: Was there not a restaurant of no great pretensions on the opposite side of the street?

(B) Simple sentence: Men smashing windows do not stay to talk with police.

A6. Vocabulary:

Quick Tip: Analyzing literature extracts requires careful reading to identify sequence, intent, and language nuances; vocabulary context aids interpretation.

(A) The original sentence uses "can," indicating ability or possibility. To show compulsion, the modal auxiliary "must" is used, implying obligation.

Rewritten: We must accept our life gracefully.

(B) To begin with "No sooner," invert the subject and auxiliary verb (past perfect "had" for past tense), and replace "as" with "than" to form the correlative structure.

Rewritten: No sooner had I entered the post office than the Post Master presented me with a telegram.

(C) A rhetorical question implies an obvious answer for effect. Transform the declarative sentence by adding "Does...not" to emphasize the mother’s role.

Rewritten: Does the mother not look after her child? Quick Tip: Modal auxiliaries like "must" indicate obligation, while "No sooner...than" structures require verb inversion and past perfect for past events.

Error: The word "extreme" is an adjective, incorrectly modifying the adjective "hot." The correct form is the adverb "extremely," which modifies adjectives.

Corrected Sentence: Summers in Delhi are extremely hot. Quick Tip: Use adverbs (e.g., extremely) to modify adjectives, not other adjectives (e.g., extreme).

A1. Rewrite as per occurrence:

The correct chronological order:

(d) He graduated from Riverdale country from New York (early life event).

(a) He was appointed as the director-in-charge of the National Radio and Electronics Company Limited (after working at Tata Steel).

(b) Tata Group launched its passenger car Tata Indica in the year 1998 (later business venture).

(c) Bill Ford said to Ratan Tata, "You are doing a big favour for us by buying Jaguar-Land Rover" (in 2008, final event).

A2. Explain:

The statement "...I don't believe in taking the right decisions. I take decisions, I take decisions and then make them right" means Ratan Tata does not wait for a guaranteed "right" decision. Instead, he makes decisions confidently and then works diligently to ensure their success through effort and adaptability. It reflects his proactive and resilient approach to leadership, as seen in his turnaround of Tata Motors and the acquisition of Jaguar-Land Rover.

A3. Give reasons:

Ratan Tata decided to sell his passenger car business because:

1. Failure of Tata Indica: The Tata Indica, launched in 1998, failed in its first year, and the experiment seemed unsuccessful.

2. External advice: Many people advised him to sell the passenger car business due to its poor performance.

A4. Personal response:

I agree that making the right decision at the right time is crucial for success. Timely decisions capitalize on opportunities and mitigate risks. For example, Ratan Tata’s decision to acquire Jaguar-Land Rover in 2008, when Ford was struggling, was well-timed and led to profits. Delaying or rushing decisions can lead to missed opportunities or failures, as seen in the initial Tata Indica setback. Strategic timing, backed by effort, ensures success in business and life.

A5. Grammar:

(A) Infinitive form: The gerund "building" is replaced with the infinitive "to build" for grammatical accuracy.

Rewritten: He worked hard to build a better consumer electronics division.

(B) Rewrite with new beginning: The sentence is restructured to start with the object and use passive voice.

Rewritten: The passenger car Tata Indica was launched by the Tata Group.

A6. Vocabulary:

Antonyms based on context:

(A) Profit: Loss (opposite of financial gain).

(B) Prevent: Allow (opposite of stopping an action). Quick Tip: When analyzing extracts, trace the timeline of events for rearrangement and use context to interpret quotes and vocabulary.

The summary encapsulates Ratan Tata’s journey using the provided points:

- Early career: Started at Tata Steel, later managed NELCO despite setbacks.

- Early setback: Tata Indica’s failure in 1998 led to advice to sell the car business.

- Meeting with Bill Ford: Ford’s humiliating remarks in Detroit motivated Tata to persevere.

- Success in passenger car business: Tata Motors overcame initial failures to thrive.

- Purchase of Jaguar-Land Rover: Acquired Ford’s luxury brand in 2008, turning it profitable.

The title reflects his transformation of challenges into triumphs through decisive action. Quick Tip: A summary should concisely cover key points in the order of significance, with a title that captures the essence of the narrative.

Mind Map: Proper Time Management

The mind map centers on "Proper Time Management" with three main branches: Planning, Prioritization, and Discipline, each with sub-branches detailing specific strategies.

Explanation:

- Planning: Involves setting clear goals (e.g., daily/weekly targets), creating schedules (e.g., timetables), and using tools like calendars or apps (e.g., Google Calendar).

- Prioritization: Focuses on distinguishing urgent vs. important tasks (e.g., Eisenhower Matrix), delegating non-essential tasks, and concentrating on high-impact activities.

- Discipline: Requires avoiding distractions (e.g., limiting social media), adhering to schedules, and regularly reviewing progress to stay on track.

This structure visually organizes strategies for effective time management, emphasizing proactive and disciplined approaches. Quick Tip: Mind maps visually connect ideas; use clear branches and concise labels to represent relationships and hierarchies effectively.

A1. Complete the web diagram:

The extract highlights qualities needed for life’s journey, derived from the speaker’s attitude and actions.

- Light-heartedness: "A foot and light-hearted" suggests a cheerful, optimistic approach.

- Health: "Healthy, free" indicates physical vitality for the journey.

- Freedom: "The world before me, leading wherever I choose" reflects autonomy.

- Strength: "Strong and content" implies resilience.

- Contentment: "The earth, that is sufficient" shows satisfaction with simplicity.

A2. Analyze:

The line "I asked not good fortune, I myself am good fortune" means the speaker rejects dependence on external luck. Instead, they believe their confidence, decisions, and proactive attitude create their own success and opportunities. It reflects self-reliance and an empowered mindset, as the speaker takes control of their destiny on the "open road" of life.

A3. Personal response:

The 'long road / path' in man’s life symbolizes the journey of existence, filled with opportunities, challenges, and choices. It represents personal growth, as individuals navigate through experiences, learning and evolving. The "long brown path leading wherever I choose" suggests freedom to shape one’s future, but it also implies perseverance, as the road is unending and requires strength to continue. For example, choosing a career path or overcoming hardships mirrors this journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience and direction.

A4. Poetic Device:

The line "Still here I carry my old delicious burdens" uses an oxymoron. The words "delicious" (pleasant, enjoyable) and "burdens" (heavy, troublesome) are contradictory, creating a striking effect. The speaker suggests that responsibilities (e.g., relationships with "men and women") are both challenging and cherished, highlighting the complex joy of human connections.

A5. Poetic creativity:

There is no way leading back.

I move forward with courage and hope.

This continuation maintains the poem’s theme of progress and optimism, reflecting the speaker’s determination to embrace the future despite past burdens. Quick Tip: Poetry analysis requires identifying themes (e.g., freedom, resilience) and devices (e.g., oxymoron) while connecting personal insights to the text.

(A) Title of the poem, name of the poet:

The poem is "The House by the Side of the Road" by Sam Walter Foss. The extract reflects the poem’s core idea of living a life that positively impacts others through small acts of kindness.

(B) Theme:

The central theme is the importance of kindness and empathy in daily human interactions. The poem urges readers to reflect on whether their actions—greetings, deeds, or words—bring happiness, hope, or courage to others, emphasizing the value of selflessness over selfishness in life’s fleeting moments.

(C) Poetic devices, language:

The poem employs:

- Rhetorical questions: Lines like "Is anybody happier because you passed his way?" provoke introspection without expecting answers.

- Alliteration: Phrases like "toiling time" and "cheerful greeting" enhance rhythm.

- Imagery: "Slipping fast" and "vanish in the throng" create vivid mental pictures of time and crowds.

- Simple language: Clear, conversational words (e.g., "Howdy," "brother") make the poem relatable and direct, amplifying its emotional impact.

(D) Values:

The poem promotes values of kindness, empathy, and selflessness. It encourages helping others ("helped a single brother"), offering cheerful interactions, and inspiring hope ("man whose hopes were fading now with courage look ahead"), urging readers to prioritize positive contributions to society over personal gain.

(E) Your opinion about the poem:

The poem is inspirational and thought-provoking, reminding us of the power of small acts of kindness in transforming lives. Its simple yet profound questions encourage self-reflection, making it relevant to all ages. The rhythmic flow and relatable language make it engaging, while its message of empathy resonates deeply, motivating me to be more mindful in daily interactions. Quick Tip: Poem appreciation involves analyzing theme, devices, and values while connecting personally to its message for a holistic response.

(1) Virtual Message:

Subject: Message from Mr. Deshmukh Regarding Sales Report

Dear General Manager,

Mr. Deshmukh, Sales Manager, visited the office today to submit the available sales report. As you were attending a meeting, he could not meet you. He left the report with me and mentioned that he had to leave immediately to collect other reports. He will meet you today at 5:30 PM with additional reports.

Regards,

Gopal

Receptionist

October 12, 2025 Quick Tip: A virtual message should be concise, include key details (who, what, when), and maintain a professional tone.

(1) Email Writing:

Subject: Apology for Delay in Delivery of Gift Articles

Dear [Customer's Name],

I sincerely apologize for the delay in delivering your order of gift articles placed with us. Due to an unexpected shortage of stock caused by supply chain disruptions, we are unable to deliver on the promised date. We are working diligently to restock and ensure your order is dispatched by [specific date, e.g., October 20, 2025]. As a gesture of goodwill, we will include a complimentary gift with your order. Thank you for your understanding and patience. Please contact me at [your email/phone] for any queries.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Shopkeeper, [Shop Name]

October 12, 2025 Quick Tip: An apology email should acknowledge the issue, explain the reason briefly, offer a solution, and maintain a courteous tone.

(1) Speech Writing: Mask for Safety

Good morning, respected judges, teachers, and friends!

Today, I speak on a topic vital to our well-being: "Mask for Safety." In recent years, masks have become more than just a piece of cloth—they are a shield, a symbol of responsibility, and a tool for survival. Wearing a mask protects us from airborne diseases, such as viruses that spread through droplets, ensuring our health and that of those around us. For instance, during pandemics, masks reduced transmission rates significantly, saving countless lives. Beyond health, masks reflect our care for society, showing we value others’ safety. They are simple yet powerful, affordable yet effective. However, we must use them correctly—covering nose and mouth, using clean masks, and disposing of them responsibly. Let’s embrace masks not as a burden but as a badge of safety and unity. Wear a mask, stay safe, and protect lives!

Thank you. Quick Tip: A speech should have a clear structure (greeting, introduction, body, conclusion), use persuasive language, and include relevant examples.

(2) Blog Writing: Necessity of Social Awareness Regarding Cleanliness / Hygiene

Title: Clean Today, Thriving Tomorrow: The Need for Social Awareness

Date: October 12, 2025

Author: [Your Name]

Cleanliness and hygiene are the cornerstones of a healthy society, yet their importance is often overlooked. Social awareness about maintaining clean surroundings and personal hygiene can transform communities. Dirty streets, littered public spaces, and poor sanitation breed diseases like cholera and dengue, affecting millions annually. Awareness campaigns, such as India’s Swachh Bharat Mission, have shown that collective action—proper waste disposal, regular handwashing, and clean water access—reduces health risks significantly. Schools, media, and local leaders must educate people on segregating waste, using public bins, and practicing hygiene habits. By fostering a culture of cleanliness, we ensure safer environments, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance quality of life. Let’s pledge to stay aware, act responsibly, and inspire others for a cleaner, healthier tomorrow.

Comments: Share your thoughts on promoting hygiene in your community! Quick Tip: A blog should have a catchy title, clear structure (title, date, author, content), and a call to action to engage readers.

(A) Match:


- Murasaki Shikibu wrote The Tale of Genji, a classic Japanese novel.

- Jonathan Swift authored Gulliver's Travels, a satirical adventure.

- John Bunyan wrote The Pilgrim's Progress, an allegorical Christian work.

- Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay wrote Rajmohan's Wife, an early Indian English novel.

(B) Odd word out:

(a) Henry Fielding: Amit Ghosh, Vikram Seth, and Anita Desai are Indian authors; Henry Fielding is British.

(b) novella: Plot, setting, and theme are narrative elements; novella is a form of fiction.

(c) epistolary: Place, time, and climate are setting components; epistolary is a narrative style (letter-based).

(d) picaresque: Horror, mystery, and thriller are modern genres; picaresque is a historical narrative style about a rogue’s adventures. Quick Tip: For matching and odd word tasks, identify common characteristics (e.g., nationality, category) to find connections or differences.

(A) Change in students’ behaviour:

In To Sir, With Love, Ricky Braithwaite, a black teacher in a tough London school, transforms his students’ behaviour by:

- Building respect: He insists on being addressed as "Sir" and treats students as adults, using respectful titles (e.g., "Miss" or "Mr."), fostering mutual respect.

- Engaging teaching: He abandons rigid curricula, teaching practical life skills like budgeting and relationships, making lessons relevant.

- Addressing prejudice: Facing racial hostility, he remains calm and professional, earning trust by showing empathy and fairness (e.g., handling Denham’s boxing challenge).

Example: His approach turns rebellious students like Pamela Dare into cooperative learners, improving classroom discipline.

(B) Cultural exposure:

Braithwaite enhances cultural exposure by:

- Discussions: He introduces debates on social issues (e.g., race, gender), broadening students’ perspectives.

- Outings: He organizes trips to museums and theaters, exposing students to art and history outside their East End environment.

- Real-world connections: He invites guest speakers and relates lessons to current events, encouraging critical thinking.

Example: A museum visit helps students appreciate cultural heritage, enriching their worldview. Quick Tip: For character-based questions, focus on specific actions and their impact, using examples from the text to support your answer.

(A) Mr. Fogg and Aouda’s relationship:

In Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne, Phileas Fogg and Aouda share a relationship that evolves from duty to love:

- Initial rescue: Fogg saves Aouda from sati in India, showing his principled nature but maintaining emotional reserve.

- Mutual respect: Aouda admires Fogg’s calm determination, while he values her courage and gratitude, treating her with courtesy.

- Growing affection: During their global journey, Aouda’s care for Fogg (e.g., tending to him after attacks) fosters closeness. By the end, their bond deepens, leading to marriage.

Example: Aouda’s proposal to Fogg in London reflects their mutual devotion.

(B) Sherlock Holmes and the pearls:

In The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan Doyle, Holmes discovers the connection between Miss Morstan’s pearls and Major Sholto through:

- Observation: Miss Morstan receives a pearl annually since her father’s disappearance, suggesting a link to a hidden motive.

- Deduction: Holmes learns Major Sholto was Captain Morstan’s friend, involved with the Agra treasure. Sholto’s deathbed guilt implies he sent pearls to Morstan’s daughter as atonement for withholding her share.

- Evidence: Holmes connects the pearls’ timing to Sholto’s wealth and death, confirming his involvement.

Example: The pearls’ anonymous delivery is traced to Sholto’s attempt to ease his conscience. Quick Tip: For plot-based questions, summarize key events and character motivations clearly, referencing specific moments from the text.

(A) Mystery of Bartholomew’s murder:

In The Sign of Four, the murder of Bartholomew Sholto leads Holmes to Jonathan Small:

- Crime scene analysis: Holmes finds a poisoned dart and a footprint with a wooden leg mark at Bartholomew’s murder scene, indicating an accomplice and a specific killer.

- Agra treasure link: The theft of the treasure from Bartholomew’s home connects to Major Sholto’s past, implicating Small, a convict tied to the treasure.

- Motive: Holmes deduces Small’s desire to reclaim the treasure, stolen by Sholto, drove the murder, leading him to pursue Small.

Example: The wooden leg footprint points to Small’s accomplice, Tonga, guiding Holmes to Small.

(B) Tracking down Small:

Holmes tracks Jonathan Small by:

- Deduction: Using the footprint and dart, Holmes identifies Small’s accomplice, Tonga, and links Small to the Agra treasure.

- Investigation: He interviews witnesses (e.g., Mrs. Smith) to trace Small’s boat, the *Aurora*.

- Pursuit: Holmes and Watson chase the *Aurora* on the Thames with police, capturing Small after a dramatic boat chase.

Example: Holmes uses a dog to track Small’s scent to the river, confirming his escape route. Quick Tip: For detective novel questions, focus on Holmes’ logical steps: observation, deduction, and action, with specific textual references.