UP Board Class 12 English Question Paper with Answer Key (February 24, Code 316 ZW)

The destruction of forests causes several harmful effects. Two major disadvantages are:


(A) Loss of biodiversity: Many plants and animals lose their natural habitat, which leads to extinction of species.
(B) Environmental imbalance: Destruction of forests increases carbon dioxide levels, reduces rainfall, and contributes to global warming and soil erosion.


Conclusion:

Deforestation harms both the environment and living organisms, leading to climate change and ecological imbalance. Quick Tip: Forests are called the "lungs of the Earth" because they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Their destruction directly affects human survival.

The major sources of cooking energy include both traditional and modern fuels:


(A) Traditional sources: Firewood, cow dung cakes, and charcoal.
(B) Modern sources: Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), electricity, kerosene, biogas, and solar cookers.


Conclusion:

Traditional sources are still widely used in rural areas, but modern sources like LPG and biogas are preferred as they are cleaner and more efficient. Quick Tip: Using clean fuels like LPG, biogas, and solar energy reduces indoor pollution and improves health.

Step 1: Understanding Green Revolution technology.

The Green Revolution involved the introduction of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation, and modern agricultural practices.


Step 2: Impact on soil.


(A) Soil degradation: Excessive use of chemical fertilizers reduces natural fertility of soil.
(B) Soil pollution: Continuous application of pesticides and chemicals contaminates the soil.
(C) Loss of soil nutrients: Imbalance due to over-dependence on NPK fertilizers, leading to micronutrient deficiencies (like zinc and iron).
(D) Soil salinity: Over-irrigation increases salinity and alkalinity, affecting crop productivity.



Conclusion:

Though Green Revolution increased food production, it also caused soil degradation, nutrient imbalance, and pollution due to overuse of chemicals. Quick Tip: Sustainable farming practices and organic manures should complement modern technology to maintain soil health.

Step 1: Organic enrichment methods.

- Use of organic manure, compost, and vermicompost to restore natural fertility.

- Addition of green manures and crop residues to improve soil organic matter.


Step 2: Chemical and biological methods.

- Balanced use of fertilizers including micronutrients.

- Biofertilizers (e.g., Rhizobium, Azotobacter) to fix nitrogen.

- Use of crop rotation and leguminous crops to naturally add nutrients.


Step 3: Other sustainable practices.

- Reduced use of harmful pesticides and chemicals.

- Proper irrigation management to avoid salinity and waterlogging.



Conclusion:

Soil can be enriched by using organic manures, biofertilizers, crop rotation, and sustainable agricultural practices that restore and maintain fertility. Quick Tip: Enrich soil naturally with compost and crop rotation instead of relying only on chemical fertilizers.

Step 1: Understanding the question.

We are asked to find the word in the passage which has the same meaning as the word ‘effect’.


Step 2: Scanning the passage.

In the passage, it is mentioned: “Destruction of forests has a major impact on the productivity of our crop lands.”


Step 3: Identifying the synonym.

Here, the word ‘impact’ is used to show the result or effect caused by destruction of forests. The meaning of “impact” and “effect” is the same in this context.



Final Answer:

The word in the passage that means effect is impact. Quick Tip: To find synonyms, look for words that describe a similar action or result in the passage. Words like ‘impact’, ‘influence’, or ‘result’ are often used in place of ‘effect’.

Step 1: Understanding the question.

We need to find the antonym (opposite) of the word ‘minor’ from the passage.


Step 2: Scanning the passage.

The passage uses the expression: “Destruction of forests has a major impact on the productivity of our crop lands.”


Step 3: Identifying the antonym.

The word ‘minor’ means small or less important, whereas the opposite of this is ‘major’, which means large or important. In the passage, the word ‘major’ is used.



Final Answer:

The word in the passage opposite of minor is major. Quick Tip: When looking for antonyms in comprehension passages, focus on adjectives that describe size, importance, or degree—words like ‘major’ vs. ‘minor’, ‘high’ vs. ‘low’, etc.

Step 1: Understanding the phrase in context.

The passage mentions: “The total bio-mass production goes up and so does the drain of the nutrients from the soil.”


Step 2: Meaning of ‘bio-mass’.

Bio-mass refers to the total amount of organic matter produced by living organisms (plants, cowdung, crop wastes, firewood, etc.). In this context, it means the amount of plant and animal material that can be used as fuel or for energy.


Step 3: Application in passage.

In the passage, biomass is linked with crop wastes and cowdung being used as sources of energy. This also explains how nutrient drain affects soil productivity.



Final Answer:

In the passage, bio-mass means the total organic matter derived from plants (such as cowdung, crop wastes, and firewood) that can be used as energy. Quick Tip: To find the meaning of phrases like ‘bio-mass’, focus on surrounding examples (crop wastes, cowdung, firewood) that clarify the meaning in context.

(a): India – an Agricultural Country


India is primarily an agricultural country where nearly 60% of the population depends on farming and allied activities for their livelihood. Agriculture not only provides food to the people but also raw materials to many industries like textiles, sugar, and food processing. Crops such as rice, wheat, cotton, pulses, and sugarcane form the backbone of our economy.

With the Green Revolution, India became self-sufficient in food grain production, and today it is among the leading producers of cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Agriculture also contributes significantly to the GDP and export earnings of the country. However, challenges like small landholdings, dependence on monsoon, and lack of modern techniques still persist.

Therefore, there is a need to promote modern irrigation methods, mechanization, and farmer-friendly policies. Strengthening the agricultural sector is essential for ensuring food security and for the overall growth of India.

(b): Ways and Measures to Eradicate Dowry System


The dowry system is one of the most serious social evils in India. It places a heavy financial burden on the bride’s family and often results in exploitation, harassment, and even violence against women. Despite being legally banned, the practice still prevails in many parts of the country.

To eradicate dowry, strict implementation of anti-dowry laws is necessary. Awareness campaigns should be launched to educate people about the harmful effects of this practice. Girls must be empowered through education and financial independence so that they can resist social pressures. Social organizations and media should spread the message that marriage is a sacred bond, not a financial transaction.

Ultimately, the change must come from society itself. A collective effort of families, communities, and government can eliminate dowry and ensure equality, dignity, and respect for women in marriages.

(c): Free and Fair Print and Electronic Media – the Need of the Time


In a democracy, the media is rightly called the fourth pillar of the nation. Free and fair media, both print and electronic, plays a crucial role in informing citizens, exposing corruption, and safeguarding democratic values. Without unbiased media, people cannot make informed decisions about governance and policies.

Unfortunately, in recent times, media is often accused of sensationalism, political bias, and paid news. This undermines its credibility and weakens democracy. Hence, it is the need of the time that media should function with independence, responsibility, and truthfulness. Journalists must adhere to ethical standards and present facts without distortion.

Free and fair media ensures transparency, protects citizens’ rights, and holds those in power accountable. A strong, unbiased media is not just desirable but essential for the progress and stability of any nation. Quick Tip: Articles should be written with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Keep the language simple, factual, and impactful within the word limit.

Ram Sharma
123, Civil Lines
Lucknow
1st October, 2025

The Editor
The Times of India
New Delhi

Subject: Concern over unfair practices in competitive examinations

Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed daily, I wish to express my deep concern over the increasing unfair practices in competitive examinations. Many candidates resort to cheating with the help of electronic gadgets, leaked papers, and impersonation. Such practices demoralize hardworking students and damage the credibility of the entire education system.

It is my humble request to the concerned authorities to take strict measures such as advanced surveillance, strong invigilation, and severe punishment for offenders. This will restore fairness and faith in competitive exams.

Yours faithfully,

Ram Sharma Quick Tip: Letters to the editor should be formal, precise, and address issues of public concern.

Anita Verma
B.A. II Year
XYZ College
Kanpur
1st October, 2025

The Principal
XYZ College
Kanpur

Subject: Request for organizing co-curricular activities at regular intervals


Respected Sir,
I, a student of B.A. II Year, would like to request you to kindly arrange co-curricular activities in our college at regular intervals. Activities such as debates, quizzes, sports competitions, and cultural programs not only refresh students but also enhance their overall personality and confidence.

These activities provide a healthy break from routine studies and help in developing leadership qualities, team spirit, and creativity among students. We shall be grateful if such activities are organized periodically.

Yours obediently,

Anita Verma Quick Tip: In letters to the Principal, be polite, respectful, and clearly state your request.

Step 1: Understanding the term.

- A theist is one who believes in the existence of God.

- A devotee is a person who is deeply devoted to worship or service of God.

- A worshipper is one who shows reverence and adoration for God or a deity.

- An atheist is one who denies or does not believe in the existence of God.


Step 2: Conclusion.

Since the question asks for a person who does not believe in God, the correct term is atheist.


Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(D) atheist} \] Quick Tip: Remember: “Theist” = belief in God, “Atheist” = no belief in God.

Step 1: Meaning of the phrase.

The phrase “act upon” means to take action according to a suggestion, advice, or instruction.


Step 2: Analyzing the options.

- (A) To work hard: Incorrect, unrelated to the phrase.

- (B) To conduct: Too general, not the meaning here.

- (C) To advise: Incorrect, the phrase means to follow advice, not to give it.

- (D) To follow suggestion: Correct, this matches the meaning of “act upon.”


Step 3: Conclusion.

Therefore, “act upon” means to follow suggestion.


Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(D) to follow suggestion} \] Quick Tip: Phrases like “act upon” or “act on” usually imply following advice, instruction, or suggestion.

Step 1: Meaning of controversy.

A controversy is a prolonged public disagreement, debate, or heated discussion.


Step 2: Analyzing the options.

- (A) Fight: Refers to physical conflict, not the same as controversy.

- (B) Agreement: Opposite in meaning, so incorrect.

- (C) Dispute: Correct, since both “controversy” and “dispute” imply disagreement.

- (D) Resolution: Refers to solving a problem, opposite meaning.


Step 3: Conclusion.

Thus, the correct synonym of controversy is “dispute.”


Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(C) dispute} \] Quick Tip: When solving synonym questions, always look for the closest meaning in context; “controversy” = “dispute or debate.”

Step 1: Meaning of ‘better’.

The word “better” is the comparative degree of “good.” It means of higher quality or improved condition.


Step 2: Finding the antonym.

- The antonym of “good” is “bad.”

- The antonym of “better” (comparative form) is “worse” (comparative form of “bad”).


Step 3: Analyzing options.

- (A) Worse: Correct, opposite of “better.”

- (B) Bad: Opposite of “good,” not of “better.”

- (C) Worst: Superlative form, not the antonym of “better.”

- (D) Good: Related word, not opposite.


Step 4: Conclusion.

Thus, the antonym of “better” is “worse.”


Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(A) worse} \] Quick Tip: Comparative degrees must be matched with comparative antonyms: better ↔ worse, best ↔ worst.

Step 1: Analyze the sentence.

The sentence is: “Sardar Patel was one of the greatest man of India.”


Step 2: Grammar rule.

The phrase “one of the …” is always followed by a plural noun. Example: “one of the best players,” “one of the greatest leaders.”


Step 3: Identify the error.

Here, “man” is singular. It should be “men” to make the sentence correct:
“Sardar Patel was one of the greatest men of India.”


Step 4: Conclusion.

The incorrect word is “man.”


Final Answer: \[ \boxed{(B) man} \] Quick Tip: After “one of the,” always use a plural noun (e.g., leaders, men, books).

(i) From Direct to Indirect Speech


Step 1: Identify the reporting verb.

The reporting verb is ``said to’’. Since it is in past tense and the sentence is a question, it will change to ``asked’’.

Step 2: Change the question format.

In indirect speech, we remove the question mark and use the connector ``if’’ or ``whether’’ for yes/no type questions.

Step 3: Change the pronouns.

``you’’ (addressing Rita) becomes ``she’’.

Step 4: Adjust the tense.

The verb ``are’’ (present tense) changes to ``was’’ (past tense) because the reporting verb is in past.
\[ Indirect Speech: Sita asked Rita if she was well. \]


(ii) From Direct to Indirect Speech


Step 1: Identify the reporting verb.

The reporting verb is ``said to’’. Since it is a command, it will change to ``ordered’’ (or ``told’’ depending on context).

Step 2: Remove quotation marks.

Commands in indirect speech are reported using the structure: reporting verb + object + infinitive.

Step 3: Change the verb form.

The imperative sentence ``Do not stand’’ changes to the negative infinitive ``not to stand’’.

Step 4: Change possessive pronouns if needed.

``my shop’’ (spoken by the shopkeeper) becomes ``his shop’’.
\[ Indirect Speech: The shopkeeper ordered me not to stand in front of his shop. \]


Final Answers:

(i) Sita asked Rita if she was well.

(ii) The shopkeeper ordered me not to stand in front of his shop. Quick Tip: Rules to remember:
1. Questions → ``asked/inquired’’ + if/whether.
2. Commands → ``ordered/told’’ + to/not to + verb.
3. Pronouns and tenses must be adjusted according to the context.

(i) Into Compound Sentence


Step 1: Identify the given sentences.

Both sentences have the same subject ``My friend’’ with two negative qualities – not intelligent and not diligent.

Step 2: Recall the rule.

A compound sentence is formed by joining two independent clauses using a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor).

Step 3: Apply the rule.

Join the two ideas using ``nor’’ (because both are negative).
\[ Final Answer: My friend is neither intelligent nor diligent. \]



(ii) Into Complex Sentence


Step 1: Identify the given sentence.

The sentence is ``The question is too difficult to solve.’’ It contains ``too…to’’ which can be rewritten into a complex sentence using ``that’’.

Step 2: Recall the rule.

A complex sentence contains one main clause and one subordinate clause connected with subordinating conjunctions (that, because, although, etc.).

Step 3: Apply the rule.

Replace ``too…to’’ with ``so…that’’.
\[ Final Answer: The question is so difficult that it cannot be solved. \]


Final Answers:

(i) My friend is neither intelligent nor diligent.

(ii) The question is so difficult that it cannot be solved. Quick Tip: - Compound sentence = two independent clauses + coordinating conjunction.
- Complex sentence = main clause + subordinate clause with subordinating conjunction.

(i) Into Passive Voice


Step 1: Identify the subject, verb, and object.

- Subject = She
- Verb = did not help
- Object = the poor man

Step 2: Rule of passive voice.

In passive, the object becomes the subject. The tense and negative form should be maintained.

Step 3: Apply the rule.

“The poor man” will become the subject.
\[ Final Answer: The poor man was not helped by her. \]



(ii) Into Passive Voice


Step 1: Identify the sentence type.

This is an imperative sentence (command). In passive voice, imperative sentences generally begin with ``Let…''.

Step 2: Apply the rule.

The object ``this work’’ comes at the beginning.
\[ Final Answer: Let this work be completed at once. \]


Final Answers:

(i) The poor man was not helped by her.

(ii) Let this work be completed at once. Quick Tip: In passive voice: - The object of the active sentence becomes the subject.
- Auxiliary verbs (is, was, be) are used according to tense.
- For imperatives, use ``Let + object + be + past participle’’.

(i) Sentence: My hair is black.


Step 1: Identify the error.

The word ``hair’’ is considered a collective noun and is generally used in the plural sense but treated as singular when referring to the whole mass. The sentence ``My hair is black’’ is actually correct. However, if we are talking about one strand, we should use ``a hair’’.

Step 2: Correct form.

The given sentence is already correct.
\[ Correct Answer: My hair is black. \]



(ii) Sentence: Rich men should help the poors.


Step 1: Identify the error.

The word ``poor’’ is an adjective. When used as a noun to represent poor people collectively, it does not take a plural form. Therefore, ``poors’’ is incorrect.

Step 2: Correct form.

Remove the ``s’’ and keep ``poor’’ as it is.
\[ Correct Answer: Rich men should help the poor. \]


Final Answers:

(i) My hair is black. (Already correct)

(ii) Rich men should help the poor. (Corrected) Quick Tip: - Collective nouns like ``hair’’ are singular when used for the whole mass.
- Adjectives used as nouns (the rich, the poor, the blind) remain in singular form.

(i) Complement — Compliment


Step 1: Understand the meanings.

- Complement means something that completes or goes well with something else.

- Compliment means praise or kind words.

Step 2: Use them in sentences.

- The red scarf is a perfect complement to her dress.

- He gave me a nice compliment on my presentation.
\[ Final Answer: Complement = completes, Compliment = praise. \]



(ii) Fair — Fare


Step 1: Understand the meanings.

- Fair means just, beautiful, or an exhibition.

- Fare means the money paid for a journey.

Step 2: Use them in sentences.

- She won the prize because the judge was very fair.

- The bus fare from Delhi to Agra is 200 rupees.
\[ Final Answer: Fair = just/beautiful, Fare = travel cost. \] Quick Tip: Homophones sound similar but have different meanings. Always use context (sentence meaning) to choose the correct word.

Hunger and man have a relationship since birth. With birth, man also brings his hunger along with him. Hunger is proof of the survival of any person. But when this hunger takes the form of greed, it becomes a cause of worry. Someone’s excessive greed becomes the reason for others’ troubles. Hunger and starvation are the indicators of inequality. Quick Tip: While translating, focus on keeping the original meaning intact, and choose simple, natural English expressions.

Step 1: Understanding the peddler’s life and mindset.

The peddler was a poor man who wandered from place to place selling rattraps. His poverty, loneliness, and constant struggle for survival made him bitter towards the world. He often reflected upon his situation and developed a philosophy of life based on his experiences.

Step 2: Comparison of the world with a rattrap.

The peddler felt that the entire world was nothing but a giant rattrap. Just like a rat is tempted by bait such as cheese or food and ultimately gets trapped, in the same way, human beings are tempted by material comforts, money, luxuries, and worldly joys. These temptations act as bait that lures people into misery and suffering.

Step 3: The moral significance of his belief.

He believed that once a person gave in to greed or desire for wealth, he or she was caught in a trap from which it was difficult to escape. This metaphor reflected not only his personal experiences but also the theme of human weakness and temptation.

Step 4: Conclusion.

Thus, the peddler considered the world as a rattrap because it symbolized deception, temptation, and eventual suffering. His belief was a reflection of his own hardships and his way of justifying the difficulties of life. Quick Tip: Always include background, analysis, and conclusion when answering questions from literature to make your solution complete and score full marks.

Step 1: Context of the story.

“The Last Lesson” by Alphonse Daudet describes the situation when the French provinces of Alsace and Lorraine were captured by Prussia, and the teaching of French in schools was ordered to be stopped. On that day, M. Hamel, the French teacher, gave his last lesson with great emotion and patriotism.

Step 2: M. Hamel’s view on the French language.

M. Hamel told the students that the French language was the most beautiful, clear, and logical language in the world. He stressed that they should never forget or neglect it, because it was a source of pride and cultural identity.

Step 3: Language as a tool of freedom.

He explained that as long as people hold fast to their language, they are like prisoners with a key. Their language gives them strength, unity, and the power to resist foreign domination. Losing a language means losing one’s identity and sense of belonging.

Step 4: Emotional appeal.

M. Hamel criticized the people of Alsace for postponing the learning of their own language and realizing its value only when it was too late. His words were filled with sorrow, but also with pride in the richness of French.

Step 5: Conclusion.

Thus, M. Hamel emphasized that language is not just a medium of communication but also a powerful symbol of national pride, unity, and freedom. His speech served as a reminder of the deep connection between language, identity, and independence. Quick Tip: In literature answers, add historical and emotional context along with the character’s views for a well-rounded, high-scoring response.

Step 1: Context of Seemapuri.

Seemapuri, located on the outskirts of Delhi, is home to migrants from Bangladesh. The people live in extreme poverty without proper houses, sanitation, or basic facilities. Children here grow up in deprivation and neglect.

Step 2: Reason for staying barefoot.

The children in Seemapuri often stayed barefoot because their families could not afford to buy shoes. Some children claimed it was a tradition to remain barefoot, but in truth, it reflected their poverty and helplessness.

Step 3: Symbolic meaning.

The barefoot image symbolized deprivation, inequality, and neglect by society. It highlighted the stark contrast between privileged children who have all comforts and the poor who lack even basic needs.

Step 4: Conclusion.

Thus, the children in Seemapuri stayed barefoot not by choice but due to poverty, which became a symbol of inequality and hopelessness in their lives. Quick Tip: Always explain both the literal and symbolic meaning of such references in literature-based answers.

Step 1: Context of the industry.

In Firozabad, thousands of families are engaged in the glass bangle industry. The work is done in dark, unhygienic places without proper ventilation or safety measures.

Step 2: Physical hazards.

Workers are exposed to high temperatures, flames, and chemicals. They suffer from burns, cuts, respiratory diseases, and weak eyesight. Many lose their vision at a very young age due to constant exposure.

Step 3: Social and economic hazards.

The workers are trapped in poverty, debt, and exploitation. Middlemen, sahukars, and politicians ensure that they remain poor and dependent. Children are forced into labour, unable to attend school, continuing the cycle of poverty.

Step 4: Conclusion.

Thus, working in the glass bangle industry is hazardous both physically and socially. It destroys health, education, and hopes of generations, trapping them in misery forever. Quick Tip: When discussing such industries in exams, always mention physical dangers, social exploitation, and the cycle of poverty.

Step 1: Background of the fear.

William O. Douglas developed a deep fear of water due to two childhood incidents: first, when he was very young, a strong wave knocked him down at a beach; second, when he was at the YMCA pool, an older boy threw him into the water, and he almost drowned. These incidents left him terrified of water.

Step 2: Decision to overcome the fear.

Douglas realized that this fear was holding him back in life. He wanted to enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating without constant fear. So, he resolved to overcome it with determination.

Step 3: Systematic training.

Douglas hired a swimming instructor. The instructor adopted a step-by-step scientific method:

- First, he made Douglas practice breathing and exhaling underwater.

- Then, he taught him to use a rope and pulley to get used to water.

- Slowly, he introduced kicking, arm movements, and floating.

- Each lesson helped Douglas gain confidence in controlling his body in water.


Step 4: Facing fear directly.

Even after training, Douglas still felt fear at times. To completely conquer it, he challenged himself by swimming alone in lakes like Triggs and Warm Lake. By practicing and facing his fear repeatedly, he finally defeated it.

Step 5: Conclusion.

Thus, through courage, determination, and persistent effort, Douglas was able to overcome his fear of water and live a fearless, fulfilling life. Quick Tip: When writing literature answers, always include background, struggle, method of overcoming, and final achievement for full marks.

Step 1: The peddler’s philosophy.

The peddler was a poor man who sold rattraps. He believed that the world itself was like a giant rattrap, where material wealth and pleasures acted as bait to trap human beings in suffering. This philosophy reflected his bitterness towards life.

Step 2: His wrongdoing.

One day, he stole thirty kronor from a kind crofter who had offered him shelter. While escaping, he felt guilty but justified his act by thinking of the world as a rattrap that had trapped him.

Step 3: Compassion of Edla.

Later, he was invited by Edla Willmansson and her father, the ironmaster, to celebrate Christmas at their home. Even when they discovered that he was not the man they thought, Edla treated him with respect, kindness, and dignity. She offered him food, clothes, and shelter without humiliating him.

Step 4: Transformation.

The peddler was deeply moved by Edla’s compassion. For the first time, he felt trusted and respected as a human being, not as a thief. This kindness awakened his conscience, and he decided to change his ways.

Step 5: Conclusion.

Ultimately, it was Edla’s generosity and faith in human goodness that transformed the peddler. He left behind the stolen money, wrote a letter to Edla, and signed himself as “Captain von Stahle,” showing that he had redeemed himself. Quick Tip: In questions about character transformation, always emphasize the role of kindness, compassion, and human dignity as the turning points.

The phrase “far, far from gusty waves” comes from Stephen Spender’s poem An Elementary School Classroom in a Slum. It refers to the slum children who live in poverty-stricken conditions. Unlike healthy children, they are deprived of nature’s freshness, energy, and vitality symbolized by gusty waves.

Conclusion:

The slum children are far away from the beauty of nature and the joys of healthy life, symbolized by gusty waves. Quick Tip: When answering poetry questions, always connect the imagery used by the poet with the central social or moral theme of the poem.

The poet describes a tall girl in the classroom who has her head bent down. This imagery suggests weakness and exhaustion, both physical and emotional. Her posture reflects malnutrition, hopelessness, and the heavy burden of poverty.

Conclusion:

The “weighed-down head” symbolizes the suffering of slum children, particularly the tall girl, who is burdened by deprivation and lack of opportunities. Quick Tip: Focus on symbolic meanings of physical descriptions in poetry to highlight the poet’s message effectively.

The “paper-seeming boy” in the poem looks very thin, pale, and malnourished, almost like a sheet of paper. His eyes are described as being like those of a rat—weak, frightened, and full of hunger. This comparison reflects his state of poverty, fear, and helplessness.

Conclusion:

The boy’s eyes symbolize deprivation, vulnerability, and the miserable condition of slum children. Quick Tip: When poets use similes or metaphors (like “rat’s eyes”), they aim to highlight deeper emotions such as fear, hunger, or suffering. Always explain both the literal and symbolic meanings.

(a) Central Idea of "A Thing of Beauty"

The poem by John Keats conveys that beauty is eternal and everlasting. A beautiful thing provides joy forever, even when life is full of sadness and problems. Natural beauty such as the sun, the moon, trees, flowers, and rivers gives us peace and removes the gloom of our hearts. Keats emphasizes that beauty is a source of inspiration and hope that helps humans move forward in life with positivity.



(b) Central Idea of "My Mother at Sixty-six"

The poem by Kamala Das expresses the poet’s deep love and concern for her aging mother. While traveling, she observes her mother’s pale and weak face, which reminds her of mortality. At the same time, she notices the world outside the car—green trees and playing children—which symbolizes youth, energy, and life. The central idea is the contrast between life and death and the emotional pain of separation from loved ones.



(c) Central Idea of "Keeping Quiet"

The poem by Pablo Neruda emphasizes the need for introspection and peace in a restless world. The poet suggests that by keeping quiet and still for a few moments, people can realize the importance of harmony, humanity, and brotherhood. Silence will help us to reflect on our actions, reduce selfishness, and create unity among people. The central idea is that quietness and self-reflection are necessary for peace and survival on Earth. Quick Tip: While writing the central idea, always focus on the main theme of the poem, avoid long summaries, and use simple clear language.

Step 1: Prediction at birth.

At the birth of the Tiger King (Maharaja of Pratibandapuram), astrologers foretold that he would grow up to be a great warrior and ruler. However, they also predicted that his death would come from a tiger.

Step 2: King’s reaction.

When the king demanded to know the exact cause of his death, the astrologers clearly said that no matter what he did, one day a tiger would be the reason for his end.

Step 3: Attempts to defy fate.

To challenge and defeat fate, the Tiger King set out on a mission to kill one hundred tigers, believing that eliminating all tigers would protect him from death.

Step 4: Reality of the prophecy.

Although he killed ninety-nine tigers, fate still worked its way. The hundredth tiger, which was weak and half-dead, escaped his bullet. Later, the king met his death due to an injury from a toy tiger, fulfilling the astrologer’s prophecy in an unexpected manner.

Conclusion:

The astrologers had predicted that the Tiger King’s death would come from a tiger, and despite his efforts to avoid it, fate fulfilled the prophecy in an ironic twist. Quick Tip: In literature, prophecies often symbolize the inevitability of fate, showing that human power and pride cannot escape destiny.

Step 1: Introduction to the third level.

In “The Third Level” by Jack Finney, the narrator Charley discovered a strange and mysterious railway platform at the Grand Central Station. Unlike the modern first and second levels, this third level seemed to belong to the past.

Step 2: Description of the third level.

The third level had old-style coaches, dim lights, brass spittoons, and people dressed in 19th-century clothing. It reflected the year 1894, with its quiet charm, peace, and simplicity, contrasting with the rush and anxiety of Charley’s modern world.

Step 3: Its location.

It was situated in Grand Central Station, New York, and Charley stumbled upon it while trying to find his way home. However, many believed it was only a creation of his imagination or a psychological escape.

Step 4: Symbolic meaning.

The third level symbolized man’s desire to escape modern-day stress, insecurity, and restlessness. For Charley, it became a doorway into a peaceful past where life was calm and stable.

Conclusion:

The third level was a mysterious platform located in Grand Central Station, representing the year 1894, and symbolizing an escape from the tensions of modern life. Quick Tip: The third level is both a literal place in the story and a metaphor for escapism, reflecting man’s wish to return to a simpler time.

Step 1: Context of the letter.

In “The Third Level” by Jack Finney, Charley was obsessed with finding the mysterious third level of Grand Central Station. To prove its existence, he searched for evidence and finally found a letter written by his friend Sam. This letter confirmed that the third level was not just his imagination.

Step 2: The content of the letter.

Sam’s letter was dated July 18, 1894, and it was written on old-style stationery. In the letter, Sam revealed that he had successfully reached the third level and from there had gone to Galesburg, Illinois, in 1894. He described the place as peaceful, with big houses, lawns, trees, and friendly people. He explained that he had settled there to escape the anxieties and insecurities of the modern world.

Step 3: Importance of the letter.

The letter served as strong proof for Charley that the third level was real. It also reflected human desire for an escape into a simpler, tension-free life. The fact that Sam had vanished and his letter came from the past added to the mystery of the story.

Conclusion:

Sam had written that he had found the third level and had moved permanently to Galesburg in 1894, living a happy and peaceful life there. This confirmed Charley’s belief in the existence of the third level. Quick Tip: Sam’s letter highlights the story’s theme—human beings long for an escape into a simpler past to find peace and happiness.

Step 1: Situation of the wounded soldier.

In “The Enemy” by Pearl S. Buck, Dr. Sadao, a Japanese surgeon, found an injured American prisoner of war washed ashore near his house. Though Japan was at war with America, Dr. Sadao’s sense of humanity compelled him to save the man’s life.

Step 2: Preparation for the operation.

Dr. Sadao examined the soldier and discovered he had a deep bullet wound. Despite the risks of being branded a traitor, he decided to operate. He sterilized his instruments, wore sterile gloves, and prepared a clean surgical environment. His wife, Hana, assisted him during the operation.

Step 3: Performing the surgery.

Dr. Sadao carefully removed the bullet lodged in the soldier’s body. He stopped the bleeding, cleaned the wound to prevent infection, and stitched it up with great skill. The soldier was unconscious during the operation but later regained his senses after proper care.

Step 4: Outcome of the operation.

Dr. Sadao’s expert surgery and continuous medical attention saved the soldier’s life. Though it put him in a moral conflict between duty to his country and duty as a doctor, his professional ethics and humanity prevailed.

Conclusion:

Dr. Sadao operated on the white man with utmost precision and compassion, successfully removing the bullet and saving his life despite the political enmity. Quick Tip: “The Enemy” shows that true humanity and professional duty often rise above national boundaries and enmities.

Step 1: Identity of the Tiger King.

The Tiger King was the ruler of Pratibandapuram, also known as Maharaja Sir Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur.


Step 2: Reason for the title.

At his birth, astrologers predicted that his death would come from a tiger. To prove the prophecy wrong and to assert his power, he started killing tigers. He killed ninety-nine tigers during his lifetime.



Conclusion:

He came to be called the ‘Tiger King’ because of his obsession with killing tigers to defy the astrologer’s prediction. Ironically, he ultimately died because of the hundredth tiger, fulfilling the prophecy.
Quick Tip: The story of the Tiger King is a satire on arrogance, pride, and the futility of trying to defy fate.

Step 1: Context of the story.

The story comes from “Should Wizard Hit Mommy?” by John Updike. In the story, Jack narrates a tale about a little girl named Jo who wants the wizard to be hit instead of the mother.


Step 2: Reason for Jack’s insistence.

Jack insisted that the mother was right and it was the wizard who should be hit because he wanted to enforce the traditional authority of parents. Jack believed that parents knew what was best for their children and children should obey them.



Conclusion:

Jack emphasized that the mother was correct and the wizard wrong because he wanted to teach Jo the importance of parental authority and discipline, reflecting his own conservative mindset.
Quick Tip: The conflict between Jack and Jo highlights the contrast between blind obedience to authority and the child’s sense of justice.