CBSE has conducted the Class 12 English Board Exam on March 11, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The English Core theory exam carries a total of 100 marks, divided into 80 marks for the written exam and 20 marks allocated for internal assessment.
The question paper consists of different types of questions, including MCQ carrying 1 mark each,short-answer questions valued at 2 or 3 marks each and long-answer questions carrying 4 or 6 marks each.
CBSE Class 12 English 1-5-3 Question Paper and Detailed Solutions PDF is available for download here.
CBSE Class 12 2025 English 1-5-3 Question Paper with Solutions
CBSE Class 12 English Core Question Paper With Answer Key | Download PDF | Check Solutions |

Question 1:
1. Read the following passage carefully :
(1) In recent years, air pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental and
public health issues in India. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru often record Air
Quality Indices (AQI) that fall into the ’hazardous’ category, posing several health risks to
their inhabitants. The thick blanket of smog that shrouds these urban areas is composed of
harmful pollutants such as particulate material (PM 2.5 and PM 10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
and sulphur dioxide (SO2). These pollutants originate from various sources including
vehicular emissions, industrial activities and construction dust.
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(2) The constant emission of pollutants from vehicles, industrial activities and constructionworks exacerbate the problem. Residents of these cities are often seen wearing masks and
using air purifiers in a desperate attempt to mitigate the effects of polluted air. The ’urban
haze’ not only affects physical health but also impacts mental well-being. Studies indicate
that prolonged exposure to high pollution levels can lead to respiratory issues, such as
cardiovascular diseases and even cognitive decline.
(3) Furthermore, children and the elderly are the most vulnerable groups. Children, with their
developing respiratory systems, and the elderly, often with pre-existing health conditions
face the brunt of this environmental crisis. Schools frequently shut down during peak
pollution periods, disrupting education and daily life. The economic cost of air pollution is
staggering, with increased healthcare expenses and lost labour productivity. Businesses also
suffer as employees’ health issues lead to increased absenteeism and decreased efficiency.
(4) Government initiatives, such as the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aim at
reducing air pollution levels across the country. However, these measures require robust
implementation and public cooperation to be effective. Simple actions like reducing vehicle
use, promoting public transportation and adopting cleaner technologies can significantly
alleviate the situation. Additionally, the enforcement of stricter emission norms for industries
and vehicles is crucial. Public awareness campaigns can play a pivotal role in encouraging
others to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
(5) The role of technology in combating air pollution is also noteworthy. Innovative solutions
such as air quality monitoring systems, green buildings and electric vehicles are gaining
attraction. These technologies not only help in reducing pollution but also promote
sustainable development. Urban planning that incorporates green spaces can also mitigate
the effects of pollution by improving air quality and providing residents with a healthier
living environment.
(6) As we navigate this challenge, it is imperative to remember that the solution lies not just
in policy changes but also in the behavioural shifts of individuals. Embracing a lifestyle that
prioritizes environmental health will pave the way for a cleaner, healthier India. Collective
efforts and sustained commitments are crucial for ensuring breathable air for future
generations. It is a shared responsibility that requires action from every segment of society
from policy makers to ordinary citizens.
Answer the following questions, based on the above passage :
According to paragraph 1, what components make up the 'urban haze' that envelops Indian cities?
The writer refers to air pollution as a 'public health issue' in paragraph (1) because:
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Complete the analogy with one word from paragraph (2).
blanket : cover : : extended :
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Complete the following sentence suitably (Paragraph (2)):
"The prolonged exposure to high pollution levels leads to cognitive decline" indicates that it impacts .
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Provide one textual evidence with reference to paragraph (3), to prove the following:
"Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable groups affected by air pollution."
Complete the following suitably with one advantage with reference to paragraph (4):
Implementing stricter emission norms for vehicles can help to .
Assess the potential challenges and benefits of promoting public transportation as a solution to air pollution, as outlined in paragraph (4).
What is the significance of urban planning in mitigating air pollution according to paragraph (5)?
How does technology help in resolving the problem of air pollution?
Why does the author say that just the policy change is not the solution?
Read the following passage carefully :
(1) Introduction : In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of daily life,
profoundly affecting how individuals interact and perceive the world. This case study aims to
analyze the impact of social media on the mental health of different age groups in Indian
society and explore the implications for overall well-being.
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(2) Methodology : A survey was conducted among individuals across various age groups,ranging from teenagers to seniors, to determine their social media usage patterns.
Participants were asked to indicate the amount of time they spend on social media platforms
and describe their feelings and experiences related to its use. The data was then analyzed to
identify trends and patterns among different age demographics.
(3) Survey Examination : The survey encompassed a comprehensive examination of social
media habits, including not only the frequency and duration of usage but also the emotional
and psychological effects of social media engagement. Participants were encouraged to
articulate their experiences, providing invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of
social media’s impact on mental health.
(4) Results : The survey results revealed interesting insights into social media usage and its
effects on mental health among different age groups. Teenagers are deeply entrenched in
exploring their self image and forming their identity. They are heavily reliant on their peer
relationships and are vulnerable to the social aspects of online platforms to connect with
friends and share experiences. As a result, their usage is higher that of other age groups.
(5) Implications for Interventions : By discerning the diverse effects of social media
among different age groups, policy makers and mental health practitioners can tailor
interventions to address specific demographic needs, e.g., educational campaigns aimed at
teenagers could empower them to navigate social media more responsibly, while support
groups for seniors can enhance their digital literacy and reduce feelings of loneliness.
(6) Conclusion : The survey outcomes serve as a roadmap for designing targeted
interventions that not only cater to diverse demographic needs but also promote mental
well-being. By harnessing the insights gleaned from this study, stakeholders can
collaboratively work towards building healthier online communities and promoting
sustainable digital practices for generations to come.
Complete the following suitably:
In the introduction, the researchers link the digital age with the impact of social media on mental health to highlight \underline{\hspace{2cm.
Choose the correct option:
To examine social media usage patterns across various age groups in detail and assess the mental health implications will be classified as:
(A) Primary purposeView Solution
Give two points to support why it is likely that social media usage was a key factor in the study on mental health.
Paragraph (3) includes the words -'emotional and psychological'.
Classify the following sentences as 'emotional' or 'psychological':
(A) Educational campaigns aimed at teenagers could empower them to navigate social media more responsibly.
(B) Support groups for seniors can enhance their digital literacy and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Read the following text:
Rahul has a tendency to spend late night hours engaging in social media to avoid missing out on latest updates on different events. His friend, Rajneesh spends many hours on social media due to peer pressure whereas their close friend, Dr. Sharma uses social media to stay connected with his near and dear ones.
Select the option that identifies the correct demographic Rahul, Rajneesh and Dr. Sharma belong to:
(A) Rahul - middle-aged, Rajneesh - young adult, Dr. Sharma - teenager.
(B) Rahul - young adult, Rajneesh - middle-aged, Dr. Sharma - senior.
(C) Rahul - middle-aged, Rajneesh - young adult, Dr. Sharma - senior.
(D) Rahul - young adult, Rajneesh - teenager, Dr. Sharma - senior.
(D) Rahul - young adult, Rajneesh - teenager, Dr. Sharma - senior.View Solution
Why is the average daily usage of social media highest among teenagers?
According to paragraph (5), analyze how targeted interventions based on the diverse effects of social media on different age groups can lead to improved mental health outcomes.
Select the appropriate response:
What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insight from the study?
(A) increase profitability through enhanced social media marketing.
(B) build healthier online communities.View Solution
Your school library has acquired a number of new library books. As the librarian of the school, write a notice informing the students about the arrival of new books along with details of borrowing and returning these books. Include other necessary details. Put your notice in a box.
A "Career Guidance and Counselling" workshop is to be held in your school. As the president of the cultural club, write a notice to inform the students about it and invite registrations from classes XI - XII. Include other necessary details. Put your notice in a box.
You are the Principal of St. Margaret School, Mumbai. Draft a formal invitation card, inviting parents and community members to view scientific projects and working models. Invent details.
You have been invited to attend the Parent-Teacher Meeting in your daughter's school. Draft a reply in not more than 50 words, consenting to attend the same.
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Select the line/s that suggests the following :
The so-called victors of the wars are indifferent to the consequences of their actions.
What does the imagery of 'green wars' not represent in the given extract?
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Complete the following suitably.
"Would put on clean clothes ?"
'Clean clothes' here refers to..........
Choose a word from the brackets to complete the following suitably :
Phrases like 'victory with no survivors' illustrate the
(irony/satire) in the situation where those claiming victory
actually achieve nothing of true value.
Read the Assertion and the Reason below with reference to the given context.
Assertion : The poet criticizes the superficial actions of those involved in conflicts.
Reason : The actions described are meant to highlight the futility and destructiveness of wars.
Choose the correct option :
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What is the message that you would give to the warmongers, based on the given extract?
Which of the above lines suggests that 'the enduring nature of beauty brings everlasting joy ?'
The phrase 'A bower quiet for us' does not imply:
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In the line 'Its loveliness increases', the word 'its' refers to ...........
Choose a word from the brackets to complete the following suitably :
The phrase 'joy forever' implies that the essence of beauty is a source of............. (eternal/transient) peace and happiness.
Read the following statements :
Assertion : The poet believes that beauty provides everlasting joy and comfort.
Reason : Beauty creates an environment conducive to health and well-being.
Choose the correct option from among the following :
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State in one sentence, what you would include in your address to those who seek beauty.
Complete the following suitably.
The passage suggests that the author's Antarctic experience was..........
Choose the correct option:
The Shokalskiy was wedged in a thick stretch of ice. As a result the captain..........
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What did the Captain instruct the team to do?
Why does the writer describe what happens as an epiphany?
Complete the following suitably:
It was celebration time for all the tigers because..........
What strategy does the king use to ensure that he hunts all the tigers?
The king's ‘vow’ indicates that he is a man:
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What were the consequences of going against the king's proclamation?
Give a brief description of the editor.
The Boss's long speech and the visitor's serious demeanor indicate.........
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The poet addressed .........(a puzzled/an enthusiastic) audience.
What, added as a last straw, made the poet's speech difficult to understand?
Select the textual option that is closest to indicating a sense of unfamiliarity about the poet (or the editor).
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Why was the speech by The Boss in 'most general terms'?
Complete the following suitably:
Eco suggests that his books for children also share his ethical interest because they are about......... (violence/peace).
Complete the following suitably:
Umberto Eco's philosophical interests are .............. in his academic work and novels, making them interconnected.
Select the textual option that is closest to indicating how his philosophical interests are represented.
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What does the following line from the extract showcase?
"The same bunch of ethical, philosophical interests".
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"I work in empty spaces." Choose the option that most accurately captures Eco's idea of empty spaces.
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What according to Umberto Eco will happen if all the empty spaces are eliminated from the universe?
Comment on the contrast brought out in the poem 'A Roadside Stand'.
How does Sophie plan to get the kind of money she wanted for her boutique? (Going Places)
Why was Kothamangalam Subbu considered No. 2 in Gemini Studios? (Poets and Pancakes)
Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being resolute? (Indigo)
Bring out Umberto Eco's humility and modesty as evident in "The Interview".
How is beauty seen in the 'grandeur of the dooms'? (A Thing of Beauty)
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