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12th, Winter Break 2026, Holiday Homework

SET-1
1 Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below: 
Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow; 10x1 = 10
1.Doing housework, taking care of children and carrying out assorted jobs for husbands are work just as much as is performing paid employment in an office or factory. To ignore this is to do a disservice to women in the labour force. The reality of housework is that women’s work in the home averages 56 hours per 
week for the full time home maker and 26 hours per week for the employed wife/mother. Husbands and children barely increase their contribution to housework and child care when the wife/mother is in the labour force. As a result, the employed woman gives up her most of leisure to carry out responsibilities of family life.
2. We realize that it may sound strange to hear women’s activities in the home, called work. Since women, who do housework and take care of children receive no salary or wages; home-making is not considered ‘work’. Economists have finally helped us to recognize the importance of women’s work in the family by estimating the monetary value of home making. These estimates range from $ 4705 (1968) through $ 8200 (1972) to over $ 13000 per year in 1973 depending on whether the work of the home maker is considered equivalent to an unskilled, skilled or a professional worker, respectively. For example, is child care comparable to baby-sitting at $ 0.75 per hour, to a nursery school aid at $ 3 per hour, or to the care of a child psychologist at $ 30 per hour? 
3. Some people have proposed that the solution to the problem of the employed housewife would be to pay women for being housewives. Hence, women with heavy family responsibilities would not have to enter the labour force in order to gain income for themselves and/or their families. This is not a solution for many reasons – wages provide income, but they do not remedy the isolating nature of the work itself nor the negative attitudes housewives themselves have towards housework ( but not towards child care).
4. Wages for housework would reinforce occupational stereotyping by freezing women into their traditional roles. Unless women and men are paid equally in thelabour force and there is no division of labour based on sex, women’s work in the home will have no value.
5. Since it is not clear what constitutes housework, and we know that housework standards vary greatly, it would be difficult to know how to reward it. Pay for housework might place home-makers( mainly wives) in the difficult position of having their work assessed by their husbands, while in the case of single home-makers , it is not clear who would do the assessing. 
Based on the understanding of the passage, answer the questions that follow: 10x1 = 10 marks
(i) According to the passage ,__________ do not get salary for their work.
(a) The women who do the work of baby- sitting
(b) The women who are in labour force
(c) The women who do housework
(d) The women whose husbands are unemployed

(ii) Why is home-making not considered at par with paid work?
(a) It is not very clear what constitutes housework.
(b) House work varies from home to home
(c) It is not known how to assess and reward housework.
(d) All of the above.

(iii) On the basis of the passage, study the two statements, I and II given below:
 (I) women’s work in the home will acquire recognition when they will be 
paid equally in labour force.
 (II) Most of the time husbands and children help housewives in their 
housework.
Choose the correct option:
(a) I is true II is false
(b) II is true I is false
(c) Both I and II are true
(d) Both I and II are false

(iv) Who made us recognize the significance of women’s work?
(a ) Some people
(b ) The home-makers
(c ) The economists 
(d ) Employed housewives

(v) A full time housewife works 56 hours per week and gets _________
(a) $ 4705
(b) $ 8200
(c) $ 13000
(d) None of the above

(vi) Find the word from para 1 which means ‘ different’.
(vii) Find the antonym of ‘ same’. (para 5)
(viii) Complete the following sentence:
The traditional role of woman is to ______________ 
(ix) Why is an employed woman deprived of the joys of leisure?
(x) When will women’s work in the home be valued?
Ans.
(i) (c ) The women who do housework
(ii) (d) All of the above
(iii) (a) I is true II is false
(iv) (c ) The economists 
(v) (d) None of the above
(vi) Assorted
(vii) Vary
(viii) do housework/ take care of children/ carry out different works for husband/ 
carry out the responsibilities of family life.
(ix) She has to labour outside and inside her home. Her husband and children 
contribute little to housework/ carry out the responsibilities of family life.
(x) When they are paid equally in the labour force and there is no division of 
labour based on sex/gender.

2. Attempt any two from each sub- part : 
(A)Fill in the blanks with appropriate modals/auxiliaries 2x1= 2
(i) What _______ you prefer coffee or tea?
(ii) The child is serious. He ______ be taken to hospital immediately. 
(iii) Choose the correct option:
 ______ I use your mobile phone to call my brother? 
 (a ) Would (b) may (c ) ought to ( d ) must
(B) Change the narration 2x1 =2
(i) Geeta said to Ravi, “How can we find a solution to this problem?”
(ii) Keats says, “ A thing of beauty is joy forever.”
(iii) Choose the correct option
The doctor said to the patient, “Drink a lot of water to avoid dehydration.” 
(a) The doctor advised the patient to drink a lot of water to avoid dehydration.
(b) The doctor advised the patient not to drink water to avoid dehydration.
(c) The doctor advised the patient to drank a lot of water to avoid dehydration.
(d) The doctor told the patient that he drink water to avoiding dehydration.
(C) Fill in the blank with suitable articles wherever necessary 2x1=2
 (i) _______ sooner______ better.
 (ii) ______ English is spoken worldwide. 
(iii) He did his _______ best to win the match.  
(a ) a (b) an (c ) the (d) x
 (D) Change the voice 2x1= 2
 (i) She made me cry.
 (ii) You are requested to sit down.
 (iii) Choose the correct option.
 Birds fly in the sky.
(a) Birds are flown in the sky.
(b) The sky is flown in by birds
(c) Both ‘a’ and ‘b’.
(d) None of the above.
(E) Fill in the blank with correct form of verb. 2x1=2
(i) I wish I ________ that match. ( to watch)
(ii) Police _____ into the matter for two days ( to look)
(iii) Choose the correct option.
He along with his family members ___________ Madhogarh Fort every year.
(a) visit (b ) visits (c) are visiting (d ) visited
Ans.
3.1 Modals 
(i) would
(ii) must
(iii) (b) May
3.2 Change the narration 
(i) Geeta asked Ravi how they could find a solution to that problem.
(ii) Keats says that a thing of beauty is joy forever.
(iii) (a) The doctor advised the patient to drink a lot of water to avoid dehydration. 
3.3 Articles 
(i) the, the 
(ii) no article (X)
(iii) (d) X
3.4 Change the Voice 
(i) I was made to cry by her
(ii) Sit down, please. / Please, sit down.
(iii) (d) None of the above
3.5 Tense/ correct form of verb
(i) had watched
(ii) has been looking
(iii) (b) visits

3. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: (5)
 What I want should not be confused
 With total inactivity.
 Life is what it is about;
 I want no truck with death.
 If we were not so single-minded
 About keeping our lives moving
Questions:
(i) “Total inactivity’ refers to _________________.
(a) Life  (b) Death  
(c) Introspection (d) Counting 

(ii) The figure of speech used in “ I want no truck with death” is
(a) Simile   (b) Metaphor 
(c) Alliteration  (d) Personification 

(iii) Read the statements given below and choose the correct option
1 The poet values an active and meaning life
2 inactivity is equated with leisure, which the poet rejects
(a) Statement 1 is true but 2 is false
(b) Statement 2 is true but 1 is false
(c) Both the statements 1 and 2 are true
(d) Both the statements 1 and2 are false

(iv) The tone of the extract is
(a) Explanatory 
(b) Humorous 
(c) Cheerful 
(d) mournful

(v ) Name the poet of the above extract.
(a) John Keats
(b) Robert Frost
(c) Kamla Das
(d) Pablo Neruda
Ans.
(i) (b) Death 
(ii) (b) Metaphor 
(iii) (a) Statement 1 is true but 2 is false
(iv) (a) Explanatory 
(v) (d) Pablo Neruda

4. Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 
For a moment I thought of running away and spending the day out of doors. It was so warm, so bright! The birds were chirping at the edge of woods; and in the open field back of the sawmill the Prussian soldiers were drilling. It was all much more tempting than the rule for the participles, but I had the strength to resist, and hurried off to school.

Questions:
(i) Complete the following sentence by choosing the appropriate option.
He hurried off to school resisting ________________ 
(a) Temptation 
(b) The rules for participles
(c) Aversion
(d) Both ‘a’ and ‘b’ 

(ii) On the basis of the extract, study the two statements, I and II given below:
 (I) The bright day, birds’ chirping, Prussian soldier drilling all tempted Franz.
 (II) Franz bunked the school and spent the day out of doors.
Choose the correct option:
 (a) I is true II is false
(b) II is true I is false
(c) Both I and II are true
(d) Both I and II are false

(iii) _________ is the narrator of this extract.
(a ) M. Hamel
(b) Franz
(c) Alphonse Daudet
(d) The Mayor 

(iv) Find the correct pair 
(a) sawmill --- onomatopoeia
(b) participles ---- onomatopoeia 
(c) chirping ---- onomatopoeia 
(d) Woods ------ onomatopoeia 

(v) The narrator wants to bunk the school because _____
(a) He wanted to seek bird’s eggs
(b) He did not like M.Hamel
(c) He was not prepared for the test on participles
(d) He wanted to spend some time with his friends
Ans.
(i) (a) Temptation
(ii) (a) I is true but II is false
(iii) (b) Franz
(iv) (c) chirping ------- onomatopoeia 
(v) (c) He was not prepared for the test on participles

Learn these Questions
1. You are the secretary, Science Club of Govt. Sr. Sec. School, Kothal Kalan, Mahendergarh. Write a notice for your school notice-board encouraging the bright science students of classes XI and XII to participate in the Inter- School Science Exhibition to be held next week in a neighbouring school. Sign yourself as Mohit/Priya. ( Word Limit 50 words)
2. You are Sumit/ Priti of Narnaul. Of late, chain snatching incidents are increasing in the city. Write a letter to the Editor of The Hindu drawing the attention of the concerned authorities. Also give suggestions. ( word limit 120-150)
3. The mushrooming of fast food outlets is creating a health hazard for the youth. School going children are adopting unhealthy eating habits. Your school organized a ‘ Let’s Eat Healthy Week’. As student editor of the school magazine, write a report on the event. You are Sonu/Sunita.
4. (a) What forces conspire to keep the workers in bangle industry of Firozabad in poverty? (Lost Spring) 
   (b) “All we have to fear is fear itself” says Roosevelt. Explain the importance of the statement. ( Deep Water)
5. (a) Describe the poetic devices used by Kamala Das in ‘ My Mother at Sixty Six. ( My Mother at Sixty Six) 
    (b) What is the ‘childish longing’ that the poet refers to? Why is it ‘vain’?(A Roadside Stand)
6. (a) What was Gondwana? ( Journey to the End of the Earth) 
    (b) What were the two ‘amazing’ things of the royal infant? ( The Tiger King)
7. What is ‘ linguistic chauvinism’? Analyse the order from Berlin in this light. How do you justify M. Hamel’s views about French and the new found love of the people towards their language?
8. Kalki’s ‘The Tiger King’ is a satire on the pride and unbridled power and rule of the stubborn Maharaja of Pratibandapuram. Describe the use of dramatic irony leading to the death of the Tiger King. ( The Tiger King)



SET-2
1. (B) Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow; 
1. Money came into existence to answer a need of mankind, but this need did not arise until civilization had grown beyond its earliest stages. Primitive man lived by hunting, each hunting only for himself and his family or tribe. At such a stage when strangers were avoided or driven away, money and trade were unnecessary. Later, when he had learnt to domesticate wild animals , man lived a nomadic and pastoral life, constantly wandering as he drove his flocks and herds to new pastures. As the road to wealth was then the possession of beasts, money in its modern form was still not necessary, although the beasts themselves were a form of money. It would suit, what few craftsmen there were to be paid for their wares in cattle and farmers and herdsmen to pay in that way. 
2. When human communities began to settle down and cultivate the land, in stead of wandering over it with their flocks and herds, the division of labour increased and people specialized in crafts and trades. Most men specialized in growing and producing something of which only a very small portion was necessary for their own wants. So they had to get rid of their surplus. In exchange for it, they wanted something which would give them the power to choose what they wanted from the surpluses of other people. A few transactions might take place in straightforward exchange or barter, but only certain things could be treated in this way. It was unlikely for instance, that a shoemaker needing supplies of corn for his family from time to time would always find that the farmer would take shoes in exchange. It would be more convenient, if there were some other object that would always be useful to both the shoe-maker and the farmer. 
3. Once the people have agreed what this other object is to be and once they are prepared always to accept it or offer it in payment, then we have money in its primitive form. It is the go-between in all business transactions or as the economists say, ‘a medium of exchange’. We have seen that in the pastoral stage of human history, cattle themselves were this generally acceptable commodity; it is therefore not strange that the Latin word for money, ‘pecunia’ comes from a similar Latin word, ‘ pecus’ meaning cattle. 
4. The trouble about the cattle is that they may become diseased, are easily driven away while their owners are asleep, require a lot of land on which to graze and can not easily be subdivided without being killed and so losing their value. The precious metals such as gold and silver do not suffer from any of these disadvantages. It can be buried and hidden away easily, it does not rust or lose weight through storage; it can be weighed out into quite small quantities without loss of value. Even some modern communities have used the precious metals by weight as their standard money. For many years the standard money of China was the ‘tael’ which was not a coin, but a weight of silver. 
5. There are, however, disadvantages in using weighed quantities of these metals. Dishonest person may mix them with less valuable metals of the same appearance and weight. The obvious way out of this difficulty is for the state to make coins of a standard shape, weight and fitness which are then called currency. 
Based on the understanding of the passage, answer the questions that follow: 10x1 = 10 marks 
(i) _________ was China’s standard money for many years. 
(a) Pecunia (b) Pecus (c) Both ‘a’ and ‘b’ (d) tael 

(ii) On the basis of your reading of the passage, find the incorrect statement. 
(a) Primitive man lived by hunting only for himself and family or tribe. 
(b) Money and even trade were unnecessary in primitive time. 
(c) Beasts were never used as a form of money. 
(d) The primitive stage and the nomadic stage are the first two stages in the development of human society. 

(iii) On the basis of the passage, study the two statements, I and II given below: 
 (I) The passage mentions three stages in the development of human society. 
 (II) Man had learnt to domesticate wild animals in nomadic stage. 
Choose the correct option: 
(a) I is true II is false (b) II is true I is false 
(c) Both I and II are true (d) Both I and II are false 

(iv) Complete the following sentence by choosing the most appropriate option. The word ‘pecunia’ originated from _____________ 
(a) English language (b) Latin language 
(c) French language (d) Sanskrit language 

(v) The only way to subdivide the cattle was to__________ 
 (a ) kill them (b) make them graze 
(c) drive them away (d) All of these 

(vi) Find the synonym of “ early” from the para 1 of the text. 
(vii) How did money come into existence? 
(viii) Complete the following sentence In nomadic stage man wandered in search of __________ 
(ix) Find the synonym of “ clear” from para 5. 
(x) Why is it necessary for the state to mint coins?
Ans.
(i) (d) Tael
(ii) (c) Beasts were never used as a form of money.
(iii) (c) Both I and II are true
(iv) (b) Latin language
(v) (a) Kill them
(vi) Primitive
(vii) to answer a need of mankind ( any other similar response)
(viii) New pastures 
(ix) obvious 
(x) To bring uniformity in the coins of standard shape, weight and size. It was necessary for the State to mint coins.

2. (B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow: 
Therefore on every morrow, are we wreathing 
A flowery band to bind us to the earth, 
Spite of despondence, of inhuman dearth 
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days, 
Of all unhealthy and o’ver-darkened ways 
Made for our searching: yes, in spite of all’ 
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall 
From our dark spirits. 
Questions:
(i) In difficult times who/what helps us to overcome the difficulties? 
(A) Our relatives (B) Our best friends 
(C) Our local Society (D) Some shape of beauty 

(ii) Complete the following analogy with a word from the given options: 
 despondence : dejection :: dearth : ______________ 
(a) scarcity (b) beneficent (c) comfort (d) none 

(iii) On the basis of the extract, study the two statements, I and II given below: 
 (I) Despondency, depression, unhealthy and wrong ways taken up by humans cause suffering and pain. 
 (II) The imagery ‘ flowery band’ represents earthly ties. 
Choose the correct option: 
(a) I is true II is false (b) II is true I is false 
(c) Both I and II are true (d) Both I and II are false 

(iv) Which of the following word rhymes with the word ‘all’ 
(a) days (b) pall (c ) earth (d) ways 

(v) Identify the figure of speech used in ‘ noble nature’. 
(a) Simile (b) Alliteration (c) Transferred epithet (d) Antithesis
Ans.
(i) (d) Some shape of beauty
(ii) (a) scarcity 
(iii) (c) Both I and II are true
(iv) (b) Pall
(v) (b) Alliteration

3.  (B) Read the following extract carefully and answer the questions that follow: 
When I first visited Gandhi in 1942 at his ashram in Sevagram, in central India, he said, “I will tell you how it happened that I decided to urge the departure of the British. It was in 1917.” He had gone to the December 1916 annual convention of the Indian National Congress party in Lucknow. There were 2301 delegates and many visitors. During the proceedings, Gandhi recounted, “a peasant came up to me looking like any other peasant in India, poor and emaciated, and said, “ I am Rajkumar Shukla. I am from Champaran, and I want you to come to my district! 
Questions:
(i) Rajkumar Shukla belonged to __________ 
(a) Sevagram (b) Champaran (c) Lucknow (d) Chandigarh 

(ii) Complete the following analogy: 
Departure : Arrival :: _________ : chubby 
(a) Emaciated (b) delegate (c) Convention (d) Proceeding 

(iii) “When I first visited Gandhi.” Who is “I” here? 
(a) Rajkumar Shukla (b) Dr. Rajender Prasad 
(c) Louis Fischer (d) Charles Andrews 

(iv) When did Gandhi Ji decide to start his mission for independence? 
(a) In 1916 (b) In 1917 (c) In 1942 (d) In 1947 

(v) Rajkumar Shukla met Gandhi ji in________ 
(a) In 1916 at Lucknow (b) In 1917 at Champaran (c) In 1942 in Delhi (d) In 1916 at Kanpur
Ans.
(i) (b) Champaran
(ii) (a) Emaciated
(iii) (c ) Louis Fisher
(iv) (b) 1917
(v) (a) in 1916 at Lucknow

4. (A) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow; 
Anyway, here is what happened at Grand Central. One night last summer I worked late at the office. I was in a hurry to get uptown to my apartment so I decided to take the subway from the Grand central because it is faster than the bus. Now I do not know why this should have happened to me. I am just an ordinary guy named Charley, thirty one years old and was wearing a tan gabardine suit and a straw hat with a fancy band; I passed a dozen men who looked just like me. 
Questions: 
(i) State whether the following statement is ‘True’ or ‘False’ Charley used the subway because it was quicker than the bus. 
(ii) How old was Charley? 
(iii) Which time frame is represented through the kind of outfit mentioned in the extract? 
(iv) Complete the following sentence; Grand central is a/an____________ 
(v) Name the chapter and its author.
Ans.
(i) True 
(ii) Thirty one
(iii) Present time
(iv) Train station/ Terminal/railway station
(v) The Third Level, Jack Finney

(B) Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow; 
Derry : I’d not come to steal anything 
Mr. Lamb : No, no. the young lads steal…. Scrump the apples. You are not so young. 
Derry : I just…just wanted to come in. into the garden. 
Mr. Lamb: so you did. Here we are ,then. 
Derry : you don’t know who I am. 
Mr. Lamb : A boy. Thirteen or so 
Derry : Fourteen.( Pause) But I’ve got to go now. Good-bye. 
Mr. Lamb : Nothing to be afraid of. Just a garden. Just me. 
Derry : But I am not…. I’m not afraid. (Pause) People are afraid of me.
Questions: 
(i) State whether the following statement is ‘True’ or ‘False’. Derry entered the garden as he wanted to meet Mr. Lamb. 
(ii) How old was Derry? 
(iii) According to Mr. Lamb who comes to steal apples from the Garden? 
(iv) Complete the following sentence; People are afraid of Derry because__________
(v) Name the chapter and its author.
Ans.
(i) False
(ii) Fourteen
(iii) Young lads/ small children
(iv) He has a burnt face/ his half face was burnt with acid/ he thought he had an ugly face
(v) On the Face of It, Susan Hill

Learn these Questions:
4 Attempt any one from (A) , (B) and (C) given below: 5 
(A) You are the secretary, Science Club of Govt. Sr. Sec. School, Kothal Kalan, 
Mahendergarh. Write a notice for your school notice-board encouraging the 
bright science students of classes XI and XII to participate in the Inter- School 
Science Exhibition to be held next week in a neighbouring school. Sign yourself as 
Mohit/Priya. ( Word Limit 50 words)
 OR
(B) Draft a matrimonial advertisement for publication in a newspaper for a 
suitable match for your brother. ( word limit 50 words)
 
 OR
(C) You are making an effort to spread the message of communal harmony. 
Prepare a poster with catchy slogans to be displayed in the school premises. ( 
Word limit- 50)
5 Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below: 5
(A) You are Sumit/ Priti of Narnaul. Of late, chain snatching incidents are increasing in 
the city. Write a letter to the Editor of The Hindu drawing the attention of the 
concerned authorities. Also give suggestions. ( word limit 120-150)
 OR
You are Ansul/ Manisha. You saw the given advertisement in the newspaper and want 
to apply for the position advertised.
 M. S. Public School
 Requires PGT ENGLISH
Young Male or Female
Qualifications
 MA English, B.Ed
 Good communication skills
 Experience 2 years
Job Profile: Taking remedial classes
 Teaching classes 9- 12
 Organize co- curricular activities
Salary : As per merit and school policy
Apply within 10 days to Principal, M.S Public School, Rewari
Write an application to the Principal, M.S. Public School, Rewari, along with your 
bio- data in 120-150 words applying for the post advertised.
6 Attempt any one from (A) and (B) given below: 5
(A ) The mushrooming of fast food outlets is creating a health hazard for the youth. 
School going children are adopting unhealthy eating habits. Your school organized a ‘ 
Let’s Eat Healthy Week’. As student editor of the school magazine, write a report on 
the event. You are Sonu/Sunita.
 OR
(B ) You are Nishant/ Palak studying in Delhi Public School, Ambala. While 
commuting for your school everyday you find many of your school boys and girls 
taking free lift from the passing cars, which you do not like. Write an article in about 
120 to 150 words on “ The Evil of Hitch- hiking” for publication in your school magazine.
10 Answer any three questions in about 30- 40 words 2x3 = 6 marks
(a) What forces conspire to keep the workers in bangle industry of Firozabad in 
poverty? (Lost Spring)
(b) “All we have to fear is fear itself” says Roosevelt. Explain the importance of 
the statement. ( Deep Water)
(c) What work was assigned to Asokamitran in the Gemini Studio? 
(Poets and Pancake)
(d) Why was Gandhi Ji not allowed to draw water from the well? ( Indigo)
(e) What do you understand by “ interstices”? How does Umberto Eco utilize his 
interstices? ( The Interview)
11 Answer any two questions in about 40-50 words 2x3= 6 marks
(a) Describe the poetic devices used by Kamala Das in ‘ My Mother at Sixty Six. ( 
My Mother at Sixty Six)
(b) What is the ‘childish longing’ that the poet refers to? Why is it ‘vain’?(A Roadside Stand)
(c) After reading the poem ‘ Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’, what opinion do you form 
about Aunt Jennifer’s husband? ( Aunt 
Jennifer’s Tigers)
12 Answer any two questions in about 30-40 words: 2x2= 4 marks
(a) What was Gondwana? ( Journey to the End of the Earth)
(b ) What were the two ‘amazing’ things of the royal infant? ( The Tiger King) 
 (c ) State any two qualities of Hana. ( The Enemy) 
 (d ) Who was Mr. Lamb? How does Derry get into his garden? ( On the Face of It)
13 Answer any one of the following in about 120-150 words: 5
(a)What is ‘ linguistic chauvinism’? Analyse the order from Berlin in this light. How do 
you justify M. Hamel’s views about French and the new found love of the people 
towards their language?
 
 OR
(b) “ The whole world… was nothing but a big rattrap”. How does the author 
use the metaphor of the rattrap in the story? How does the peddler save himself 
to be trapped in the rattrap? ( The Rattrap)
14 Answer any one of the following in about 120-150 words: 5
(a) Kalki’s ‘The Tiger King’ is a satire on the pride and unbridled power and rule of the 
stubborn Maharaja of Pratibandapuram. Describe the use of dramatic irony leading 
to the death of the Tiger King. ( The Tiger King)
 or
(b) Why is Antarctica the place to go to, to understand the earth’s present, past and 
future? Elaborate your answer with reference to the lesson ‘Journey to the end of 
the Earth. (Journey to the end of the Earth)


9th, Winter Break 2026. Holiday Homework

SET-1
 Q-1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. (10)
Drug addiction is a major social evil of modern times. It has transcended all barriers of cast,colour,creed and sex. It is a problem that is eating into the vitals of society. In the beginning a person takes a drug out of curiosity. There are some who take drugs simply for the thrill it gives them. The tragedy is that once a person gets used to taking any kind of intoxicating drugs it becomes addiction. His body develops dependence on the drug.He has to steadily increase the dose. Even if at any point of his life,he realises his folly, it becomes extremely difficult for him to give up drugs.
 It is like being in the clutches of a monster. It is pathetic to see a drug addict,when he does not get his usual dose. His whole body writhes in pain which drives to madness.Besides,taking drugs is expensive. Therefore,it drives drug addicts to stealing,committing petty crimes and other Anti social activities.It is not surprising that drug addicts become anti social elements. Drugs completely destroy the mental faculties to think clearly and to rationalize.
Questions. 10×1=10
(a) What harm is the evil of drug addiction doing to our society?
(b) Why does a person take drugs in the beginning?
(c) When does drug taking become addiction?
(d) What happens when a drug addict does not get his usual dose?
(e) Give a suitable title to the passage.
(f) What mental faculties are destroyed by drugs? 
(i) imagination. (ii) intuition 
(iii) perception. (iv) to think clearly and to rationalize 
(g) It is very easy for a drug addict to give up drugs: 
(i) True (ii) False
(iii) Not mentioned. (iv) partially true
(h) Drug addicts become........
(i) social (ii) humble 
(iii) amiable. (iv) antisocial 
(i) What drives the drug addicts to madness? 
(i) neglect. (ii) poverty 
(iiii)body pain. (iv) loneliness 
(J) What makes the drug addicts to commit petty crimes?
(i) It give them pleasure. (ii) to pay for the drugs
(iii) they are stressed. (iv) not mentioned

Ans.
(a) drug addiction is eating into the vitals of our society 
(b) a person takes drugs in the beginning out of curiosity 
(c) when a person gets used to taking any kind of intoxicating drug it becomes addiction. 
(d) his whole body writhes in pain which drives him to madness. 
(e) Drug addiction: a threat to human beings 
(f) (iv) to think clearly and to rationalize 
(g) (ii) False 
(h) (iv) Anti social 
(i) (iii) body pain 
(j) (ii) to pay for the drugs

2. Attempt any ten of the following. questions. (10x1=10)
Fill in the blanks with Correct option
(Tense)
(a) I have not met him since I .....................(leave) the town
(ⅰ) leave (ii) left (iii) has left (iv) had left
(b) Hurry up! The train....................... (whistle)
(i) whistles (ii) is whistling (iii) are whistling (iv) has been whistling

(Punctuation)
(C) ashoka the great adopted buddhism
 (i) Ashoka the great adopted buddhism
(ii) Ashoka , the great adopted buddhism 
 (iii) Ashoka, the great, adopted Buddhism
(iv) Ashoka, the great adopted Buddhism

(Modal)
(d) Walk slowly lest you.................... fall
 (i) will (ⅱ) should (iii) can (iv) may

Change into Passive voice
(e) He knows me
(i) He is known by me
(ⅱ) I am known by him
(iii) He is known to me
(iv) I am known to him

Change into indirect speech
(f) The teacher said to me,"What is your name?".
(i) The teacher said that what my name was
(ii) The teacher asked me what my name was 
(iii) The teacher asked me what was your name.
(iv) The teacher asked me what was my name.

Preposition 
(g) He is superior.......................me.
(i) to    (ii) by    (iii) from    (iv) than

Determiner
(h) Will you give me.................. water? 
 (i) any (ii) some (iii) many (iv) none of the above 

Article 
(i) I saw................... one-eyed man yesterday 
 (ⅰ) the (ⅱ) a (iii) an (iv) No article 

Clause 
(J) What have you done? Tell me 
 (i) Tell me what you have done? 
(ii) Tell me what have you done? 
(iii) Tell me what have you done. 
(iv) Tell me what you have done. 

Verb agreement 
(K) The principal and teacher................. honoured by the Education Minister on 26 January 2024 
(i) is (ii) are (iii) were (iv) was Conjunction 
(L) He worked hard................... failed. 
(ⅰ ) yet (ⅱ) still (iii) because (iv) but 

Ans.
(a). (ii). left 
(b). (ii). is whistling 
(c). (iii). Ashoka ,the great , adopted Buddhism. 
(d). (ii). should 
(e). (iii) He is known to me. 
(f). (ii). The teacher asked me what my name was. 
(g). (I). to 
 (h). (ii). some 
 (i). ( ii). a 
 (j). (iv). Tell me what you have done . 
(k). (iv). was 
 (l). ( iv). but

3. Attempt the given stanzas (5) 
I shall be telling this with a sigh 
somewhere ages and ages hence,; 
Two roads diverged in a wood 
and I took the one less travelled by, 
And that has made all the difference. 
Questions: 
(a) What would the poet be telling with a sigh? 
(b) Where did the two roads diverge? 
(c) Which road did the poet take? 
(d) Name the poem and its poet. 
(e) What had made all the difference?

Ans.
(a) He would be telling how he had taken one of the two diverging roads in a wood and how it had made all the difference. 
(b) The two roads diverged in a wood. 
(c) The poet took the road that was less travelled by. 
(d) Poem: The Road Not Taken Poet: Robert Frost 
(e) The poet's choice of the road had made all the difference. 

4. Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. (5) 
Margie always hated school, but now she hated it more than ever. The mechanical teacher had been giving her test after test in geography and she had been doing worse and worse until her mother had shaken her head sorrowfully and sent for the County Inspector. He was a round little man with a red face and a whole box of tools with dials and wires .He smiled at Margie and gave her an apple, then took the teacher apart. 
Questions: 
(a) What did Margie hate now more than ever? 
(b) Why did her mother send for the County Inspector? 
(c) Name the chapter and its writer. 
(d) What had the mechanical teacher been doing? 
(e) Find the word from the passage which is the opposite of " happily".

Ans.
(a) Now Margie hated school more than ever. 
(b) Margie 's mother sent for County Inspector because Margie 's mechanical teacher was giving her test after test in geography and she was doing worse and worse. 
(c) Chapter: The Fun They Had Writer : Issac Assimov 
(d) The mechanical teacher had been giving Margie test after test in geography. 
(e) Sorrowfully.

Learn these Questions
1. You are Raj/ Rani of House no -78, Model Town, Rewari. You placed an order of 20 computers for your coaching institute. with Info Tech Computers, Gurugram. Now, due to some reasons' you want to cancel that order, Write a letter to the manager of Info Tech Computers, Gurugram requesting him to cancel your order
Ans.
H.No-78 
Model Town Rewari 
29 May 2024 

The Manager 
Info Tech Computers Gurugram 
Subject - Cancel the order of 20 computers.
Sir, 
I am writing to inform you that we are cancelling our order of 20 computers,placed on 15th April 2024, due to an inordinate delay in supplying the computers.As per our agreement,the computers were supposed to be delivered to us by 15th May 2024.Since the time of delivery has long expired we are compelled to cancel the order.You are also directed to refund the advance amount paid to your firm on 15th April 2024through cheque no-151029.We are sorry for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause.
Thanking you. 
Yours sincerely 
Raj/Rani

2. You have a car. You want to sell it. Draft a suitable advertisement under "for sale "column of a local newspaper.
Ans.

 Car For Sale 

A 2008 white Maruti Alto car is available for sale. It is fully insured, company maintained, running in good condition, having good mileage, completed 30000 kms. Expected selling price 50000 rupees, No bargaining. Interested persons can contact:ABC Mob.No.94××××××00 

Learn answers of these questions from your notebook
3. (a) When and how did Bismillah khan get his big break ? 
    (b) Kezia decides that there are 'different kinds of fathers'. What kind of father was Mr Macdonald?
4.  Draw a character Sketch of Santosh Yadav.
5. (a) What should we do to make friends with the wind? 
    (b) What does the poet like to do when it rains?
6. (a) Why does the lost child lose interest in the things he had wanted earlier ? 
    (b) Why does the author say," Toto was not the sort of pet we could keep for long."?
7.  How did the guru save the life of his disciple?


SET-2
1. Read the passage jivan below and answer the questions that follow. (10) 
 For millions of people in India, river Ganga is the most sacred river.It is considered as mother and goddess.It is also a lifeline to millions of Indians who live on the banks of its course and depend on it for their daily needs. River Ganga is the third largest river in the world by the amount of water that flows through it. It is the longest river in India. The river water of Ganga is used for irrigation,transportation and fishing.The gangetic plane formed by river Ganga is one of the most fertile lands on Earth.This is why almost 10% of the world population lives here and earn its livelihood. The Ganga,in India is the most worshipped body of water.The irony here is that in spite of being the most worshipped river, it is also the dirtiest one.It carries metals thrown out by tanneries, waste produced by industries and urban waste from different cities. All this has made river Ganga the fifth most polluted river in the world. Another major reason that adds to the Ganga river pollution is the coal based power plants on its banks which burn tons of coal every year and produce a lot of fly ash .This Ash mixed with domestic waste water is released in the river. This bad situation calls for an urgent need to make efforts to reduce pollution and revive river Ganga. To achieve these objectives the Government of India has started a programme named "Namami Gange Programme".The main pillars of this programme are sewage treatment,river surface cleaning, afforestation,river front development and public awareness.The importance of the success of Namami Gange Programme can be seen through publically.
Questions:
1 (a) ............. feline for milions of indians. 
 (i) Krishna. (ii) Ganga (iii) Narmada. (iv) Yamuna 

(b) ...................of world population lives near rivee Ganga. 
 (i) 30%. (ii) 15% (iii) 10%. (iv) 20% 

(c) Ganga is the................ most polluted river in the world. 
 (i) Fifth. (ii) First (iii) Second. (iv)Third 

(d) Ganga is the ............... largest river in the world by the amount of water that flows through it. 
 (i) First (ii) Second (iii) Fourth. (iv) Third 

(e) Most people in India considered the Ganga as.............. 
(f) The Government of India has started a programme named................ to clean the Ganga Q 
(g) What are the main pillars of "Namami Gange programme"? 
(h) For what purposes is the Ganga water used? 
(i) Name two pollutants that make river Ganga very dirty. 
(j). Which two purposes will be served by the program "Namami Gange"?
Ans.
(a). (iii) Ganga
(b). (iii) 10% 
(c). (i) fifth 
(d). (iv) Third 
(e). mother and goddess 
(f). Namami Gange Programme 
(g). (i) sewage treatment (ii) surface cleaning 
(h). It's water is used for irrigation,transportation and fishing 
(i) (i) metals thrown out by tanneries (ii) waste produced by industries 
(j). (i) reduce pollution (ii) revive river Ganga

2. Passage 
I inherited honesty and self- discipline from my father; from my mother, I inherited faith in goodness and deep kindness and so did my three brothers. and sister, I had three close friends in my childhoodRamanadha Sastry, Arvindan and Sivaprakasan. All these boys were from orthodox Hindu Brahmin families. As children, none of us ever felt any difference amongst ourselves because of our religious differences and upbringing. 
Questions:
(a) What did the writer inherit from his father? 
(b) How many brothers and sisters did Kalam have? 
(c) Who were Kalam's Childhood friends ? 
(d) Name the chapter and its writer. 
(e) Find the word from the passage which means" the treatment and education one receives as a Child"
Ans.
(a) The writer inherited honesty and self - discipline from his father. 
(b) Kalam had three brothers and one sister. 
(c) Ramanadha Sastry,Arvindan and Sivaprakashan were Kalam's childhood friends. 
(d) Chapter: My Childhood Writer: A P.J.Abdul Kalam 
(e) Upbringing

3. Stanza
Out from the earth cave, 
And the strength of the tree exposed, 
The source, 'white and wet, 
The most sensitive, hidden 
For years inside the earth. 
Questions: .
(a) What has the root formed under the earth? 
(b) How is the strength of the tree exposed? 
(c) What is the most sensitive part of a tree? 
(d) Where does the root remain hidden for years? 
(e) Name the poem and its poet.
(a) The root has formed a cave under the earth. 
(b) The strength of the tree is exposed by pulling out its root. 
(c) The most sensitive part of a tree is its root. 
(d) The root remains hidden inside the earth for years. 
(e) Poem : On Killing A Tree Poet. : Gieve Patel
 
Learn these Questions:
Q.4 Write an application to the Principal of Government Model Sanskriti Senior Secondary School, 
Mahendergarh for making arrangement of Computer classes in your school.
Ans.
To
The Principal 
Government Model Sanskriti Sr Sec School 
Mahendergarh 

Subject -- To make arrangement of computer classes 

Respected sir/ma'am, 
I am student of 9th class of your school.On behalf of my class I want to make a humble request.We have no computer classes.These days computer knowledge is essential in all spheres of life. We can see computers everywhere in our daily life.For a student without computer knowledge future is dark.Internet is a source of information.One can find many e-books.projects, models, study material on internet free of cost.This provides a wonderful platform to grow.We are lagging behind many students of other schools who are studying computer in their schools.Kindly start computer classes in our school also.We"ll be highly obliged.
Thanking you. 

Yours obediently 
XYZ 

Q.5 You are the examination Incharge of your school. Write a notice informing the students about the 
commencement of half yearly exams and their instructions.
Ans.

 Government Model Sanskriti Sr Sec School, Mahendergarh 

 NOTICE 

Commencement of Half-Yearly Exam 

Date: 29 August 2024 

All the students are informed that the half -yearly exams for class 3rd to 12th will be conducted from 15th September 2024 to 28th September 2024 to.Timings of the exams will be 8.30 am to 11.30 am. Wish you all the students all the best for your exams. For further information, please contact the undersigned. 

ABC Exam Incharge


Learn answers of these questions from your notebook
Q.7 
(c) Why does the world remember Einstein as a 'world citizen' ?
(d) What two important and earth shaking decisions did the doctor take while he was looking into the 
mirror ? 
Q.8 
Kalam narrates two incidents that show how differences can be created and also how they can be 
resolved. How can people change their attitudes?
Q. 10 
(c) How did Saint Peter punish the selfish woman?
(d) How does the poet suggest that all people on earth are the same?
Q.11 
(c) In what way is Iswaran an asset to Mahendra?
(d) Why did the swallow not leave the prince and go to Egypt?
Q.12 
Behrman had a dream? How did it Come true ?


11th, Winter Break 2026. Holiday Homework

 SET-1

1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. Do any one.(

A) In a world increasingly driven by material pursuits and personal ambition, the value of volunteerism and social work often goes unnoticed. Yet, these acts of selflessness are the verthreads that hold the fabric of society together. Whether it is distributing food in underserved communities, tutoring underprivileged children, or cleaning public spaces, volunteering helps bridge the gap between privilege and need.

Social work is not limited to large organisations or professional social workers. Every individual has the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society. Students, especially, can benefit greatly from engaging in such activities. It enhances their sense of empathy, build leadership qualities, and instills a deep sense of civic responsibility. In fact, many educational institutions around the world now require community service as part of their curriculum.

Moreover, volunteering provides real-world experience that cannot be gained from textbooks alone. Working with people from different walks of life nurtures emotional intelligence and broadens perspectives. It also boosts mental well-being, as numerous studies have shown that helping others increases feelings of happiness and reduces stress.

In essence, volunteerism is not just about giving—it is also about growing. It teaches humanity, compassion, and the joy of contributing to something larger than oneself. In a time when the world often seems divided, acts of service remind us of our shared humanity.

Questions:

(i) The author of the passage wants to:

(a) Build a utopian society without needy, hungry and poor people

(b) Make people aware of their surroundings and connect with each other

(c) Foster the feeling of volunteerism and social work in people from all walks of life

(d) All of these


(ii) Helping others _____ happiness and ____ stress.

(a) increases; increases

(b) decreases; increases

(c) increases; decreases

(d) decreases; decreases


(iii)The fact that many educational institutions have included community service in their curriculum signifies that:

(a) They want to over-burden students with extra tasks.

(b) They want to foster the feeling of humanity in children.

(c) They want students to feel egoistic about themselves.

(d) They want the poor to feel inferior.


(iv)Why does the act of working selflessly go unnoticed, according to you?

(a) The people don’t care about the poor anymore due to rising scams by such people.

(b) Individualism and busy life may be a cause for not noticing the surroundings.

(c) In a world driven by material pursuits, people just want to get more and more money.

(d) All of these may be potential causes.


(v) What does social work lead to?

(a) Bridging gap between the privileged and the needy

(b) Happiness on the sides: the donor and the receiver

(c) Increased stress and anxiety due to loss of money

(d) Both (a) and (b)


(vi)What are some ways in which we can help poor people?

(vii)How is social work not limited to big organisations?

(viii)What are some benefits of working with people coming from different walks of lif

(ix) How can students benefit from volunteerism and social wor

(x) Give a suitable title to the passage.

Ans. (i) (d) All of these (ii) (c) increases; decreases (iii) (b) They want to foster the feeling of humanity in children. (iv) (d) All of these may be potential causes. (v) (d) Both (a) and (b) (vi) By distributing food in underserved communities, tutoring underprivileged children, and cleaning public spaces. (vii) Because every individual has the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society, not just professional social workers or large organisations. (viii) It nurtures emotional intelligence and broadens one’s perspective. (ix) It builds empathy, leadership skills, civic responsibility, and provides real-world experience that textbooks lack. (x) Any relevant title including the aspects of volunteerism and social work

2.  Grammar 
Attempt any ten questions out of the twelve given: 
(A) Fill in the blanks with correct form of the verb: 
(i) If I _____ (be) a superhero, I could’ve saved his life. 
(ii) The doctor _____ (be) late; the patient had already died. 

(B) Fill in the blanks with suitable modals: 
(iii)We ____ to serve our country. 
(iv)You ____ quit smoking. (Compulsion) 

(C) Identify the parts of speech underlined in the given sentences: 
(v) She will meet you at 9. 
(vi)The old man I told you about is one of the best actors. 

(D) Identify the type of clause underlined in the given sentences: 
(vii)I don’t know why she left so early. 
(viii)She sings better than I expected. 

(E) Fill in the blanks with correct determiners: 
(ix) ______ of the time has been wasted. (Much/Many) 
(x) ______ child is important. (Every/Each) 

(F) Change the voice of the given sentences as directed: 
(xi)Who has written this letter? (Direct Indirect) 
(xii)Let the match begin. (Indirect Direct)

Ans. (i) were (ii) was (iii) ought (iv) must (v) Pronoun (vi) Adjective (vii)Noun clause (viii)Adverb clause (ix) Much (x) Every (xi) By whom has this letter been written? (xii)Begin the match.

3. Read the passages given below and answer the questions that follow. (5)
Amenhotep III — Tut's father or grandfather — was a powerful pharaoh who ruled for almost four decades at the height of the eighteenth dynasty's golden age. His son Amenhotep IV succeeded him and initiated one of the strangest periods in the history of ancient Egypt. The new pharaoh promoted the worship of the Aten, the sun disk, changed his name to Akhenaten, or 'servant of the Aten,' and moved the religious capital from the old city of Thebes to the new city of Akhetaten, known now as Amarna. He further shocked the country by attacking Amun, a major god, smashing his images and closing his temples. "It must have been a horrific time," said Ray Johnson, director of the University of Chicago's research centre in Luxor, the site of ancient Thebes. "The family that had ruled for centuries was coming to an end, and then Akhenaten went a little wacky." 
Questions: 
(i) Name the chapter and the author. 
(a) Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues; A.R. Butler 
(b) Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues; A.R. Williams 
(c) The Portrait of Akhenaten’s Deeds; Khushwant Singh 
(d) Silk Road; Nick Middleton 

(ii) Which of the following is the correct order of succession (assuming Amenhotep III to be Tut’s grandfather)? 
(a) Amenhotep III Akhenaten Amenhotep II 
(b) Amenhotep III Akhetaten Tutankhamun 
(c) Amenhotep III Akhenaten Tutankhamun 
(d) Amenhotep II Amenhotep III Tutankhamun

(iii)Which of the following was the religious capital at the time of reign of Amenhotep III?
(a) Amarna (b) Akhetaten (c) Thebes (d) Valley of Kings 

(iv)Which of the following things was/were done by Akhenaten, which shocked the country? 
(a) Smashing Amun’s images 
(b) Closing Amun’s temples 
(c) Worshiping Aten (sun disk) 
(d) All of these 

(v) What is the difference between Akhenaten and Akhetaten?
 (a) Former is the name of a pharaoh while the latter is a place 
(b) Former is a place while the latter is the name of a pharoah 
(c) Former was the religious capital of Egypt at the time of Amenhotep III while the latter is that at the time of Amenhotep IV 
(d) There is no difference as these both mean the same.
Ans. (i) (b) Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues; A.R. Williams (ii) (c) Amenhotep III Akhenaten Tutankhamun (iii) (c) Thebes (iv) (d) All of these (v) (a) Former is the name of a pharaoh while the latter is a place

4. Read the stanza given below and answer the questions that follow. 
 Till the goldfinch comes, with a twitching chirrup 
A suddenness, a startlement, at a branch end. 
Then sleek as a lizard, and alert and abrupt, 
She enters the thickness, and a machine starts up 
Of chitterings, and of tremor of wings, and trillings – 
The whole tree trembles and thrills 
It is the engine of her family. 
She stokes it full, then flirts out to a branch-end 
Questions: 
(i) Name the poem and the poet. 
(a) The Laburnum Top; William Douglas 
(b) The Laburnum Top; Ted Hughes 
(c) Goldfinch; Ted Hughes
 (d) Childhood; Markus Natten

(ii) Which poetic device is used in “sleek as a lizard”? 
(a) Metaphor (b) Alliteration (c) Simile (d) Personification 

(iii)What does “stokes it full” imply? 
(a) Fills its young ones’ stomachs 
(b) Fuels up the tree 
(c) Shakes the tree 
(d) Doesn’t give food to her young ones 

(iv)The poem depicts two phases of life: monotony and happenings. Which phase is shown in these lines? 
(a) Monotony (b) Happenings (c) None of these (d) Both (a) and (b) 

(v) How is activity shown in these lines? 
(a) Chittering (b) Trilling (c) Tremor of Wings (d) All of these
Ans. (i) (b) The Laburnum Top; Ted Hughes (ii) (c) Simile (iii) (a) Fills its young ones’ stomachs (iv) (b) Happenings (v) (d) All of these 

Learn these Questions
1. You are Ashutosh/Atishi, resident of 234, Bharat Nagar, Delhi. Due to frequent power cuts in your area, students are not able to study well. The exams are approaching and the power cuts are hampering children’s studies. Write a letter to Operations Manager of Electricity Board complaining for the same.
Ans.
234, Bharat Nagar 
Delhi – 1100XX 
22nd May 2025 

The Operations Manager 
Delhi Electricity Board 
Delhi 

Subject: Complaint Regarding Frequent Power Cuts in Bharat Nagar

Sir/Madam, 
I am Ashutosh/Atishi, a resident of 234, Bharat Nagar, Delhi. I am writing to bring to your attention the frequent and prolonged power cuts occurring in our locality over the past few weeks. 

The situation has become particularly distressing for students in the area, as their examinations are approaching, and the constant interruptions in electricity are severely affecting their ability to study and prepare effectively. These outages often last for several hours at a stretch, and occur without prior notice. 

I request you to kindly look into this matter and take immediate steps to ensure an uninterrupted power supply, especially during the evening hours. Your prompt action in resolving this issue will be greatly appreciated by all residents, particularly the student community. 

Thank you for your attention. 

Yours sincerely, 
Ashutosh/Atishi 

Resident, 234, 
Bharat Nagar Delhi – 1100XX 

2. You are Ankit/Ankita, secretary, Red Cross Society Unit of your school. The Red Cross Society organised a blood donation camp at your school. Write a report for the same.
Ans.

 Blood Donation Camp

A Blood Donation Camp was organised by the Red Cross Society Unit of our school on 20th May 2025 in the school auditorium. The event was inaugurated by the Principal, who addressed the students on the importance of donating blood and saving lives. 

Doctors and paramedical staff from a reputed local hospital were invited to conduct the camp. Teachers, parents, and senior students participated enthusiastically. Proper hygiene and safety measures were followed throughout. A total of 120 units of blood were collected. 

The camp was a grand success and helped instil a sense of social responsibility and compassion among the students. 


Learn the answers of these questions from your notebook
3. Describe the relation of author with his Grandmother. How was the relationship of author and his Grandmother more like friends? Correlate it with your experiences with your grandparents. (The Portrait of a Lady)
4. (i) What was the first sign of the impending disaster that wreaked havoc upon the family? (We’re Not Afraid to Die…if We Can All Be Together) 
  (ii) What did Gaitonde go through at Azad Maidan? (The Adventure) 
 (iii)What did Howard Carter do in 1920s because of which the mummy was in bad condition? (Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues)
5. (i) Why aren’t the father and son able to communicate? (Father to Son)
6. Why did Aram and Mourad return the horse to John Byro? If you were in their place, would you have done so? If yes, why? (The Summer of a Beautiful White Horse)
7. (i) Why did Mrs. S’s daughter want to go back? (The Address) 
    (ii) How did the doctor save the baby? (Birth)


SET-2
1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow. 
(B) Drug addiction is a serious problem that affects individuals, families, and communities. Often, people fall into addiction due to peer pressure, stress, emotional trauma, or even curiosity. In some cases, the easy availability of drugs and lack of awareness about their harmful effects lead young people to try substances that can destroy their health and future. Preventing drug addiction begins with education. When young people are informed about the long-term consequences of substance abuse—such as mental illness, financial problems, or broken relationships—they are more likely to make healthier choices. Parents, schools, and the media must work together to spread awareness and provide emotional support to those at risk. For individuals already affected by addiction, seeking help is the first step toward recovery. Drug deaddiction centres offer medical treatment and counselling. Many recovering addicts also benefit from support groups, where they share their experiences and encourage one another. The road to recovery may be challenging, but with the right support system and strong willpower, people can reclaim their lives. As a society, we must show compassion rather than judgement. Addiction is a health issue, not a crime. Creating a safe, understanding environment helps people open up, seek help, and take the first steps toward a drug-free future.
Questions: 
(i) How can one prevent getting addicted to drugs? 
(a) Getting aware about harmful effects of drugs 
(b) Trying drugs just out of curiosity 
(c) Not going to Drug Deaddiction Centres 
(d) All of these 

(ii) Drug addiction affects: 
(a) Individuals only (b) Both societies and communities 
(c) Only societies (d) Individuals, their families, societies and communities 

(iii)The best way to treat drug addicts is to: 
(a) Socially boycott them (b) Support their addiction 
(c) Let them be as they are (d) Bringing them help 

(iv) “Prevention is better than cure.” How? 
(a) Preventing drug addiction is as easy as combatting it after addiction. 
(b) Drugs are a way of escapism; there is no need to prevent it. 
(c) Cure of drug addiction is really difficult and challenging. 
(d) Curing drug addiction is really, a one-step process. 

(v) What does ‘compassion’ mean? 
(a) Kindness, empathy and helpfulness 
(b) Vileness, agility and bluntness 
(c) Realness, monotony and melancholy 
(d) Idleness, inaction and passivity 

(vi)What are some reasons for drug addiction? 
(vii)What role do parents play in prevention of drug addiction? 
(viii)How is drug addiction cured? 
(ix) List some steps for a drug-free future.
 (x) Give a suitable title to the passage.
Ans. (i) (a) Getting aware about harmful effects of drugs (ii) (d) Individuals, their families, societies and communities (iii) (d) Bringing them help (iv) (c) Cure of drug addiction is really difficult and challenging. (v) (a) Kindness, empathy and helpfulness (vi) Curiosity, peer pressure, emotional stress, and lack of awareness about harmful effects of drugs. (vii) By maintaining open communication, providing emotional support, and being vigilant about behavioural changes. (viii) Through medical treatment, counselling, rehabilitation, and support from family and society. (ix) Spreading awareness, educating youth, strengthening family bonds, and ensuring access to help centres. (x) Steps Towards a Drug-Free Society.

2. Read the passage given below and make notes by supplying suitable headings, sub-headings etc. and using abbreviations (minimum 4). Supply a list of abbreviations used. Give a suitable title to the passage. 
Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese military strategist and author of The Art of War, believed that the greatest victories are won not through brute force but through careful strategy and deep understanding. Although his work was written over 2,500 years ago, his principles remain relevant today—not only in warfare but also in leadership, business, and personal growth. One of Sun Tzu’s most famous teachings is: “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.” This highlights the importance of self-awareness and observation. In modern life, this could mean knowing your strengths and weaknesses as well as understanding the challenges you face—whether they are exams, competitions, or emotional struggles. Another striking principle is: “The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.” This suggests that true wisdom lies in resolving conflict without aggression. In school life, this might apply to handling arguments without shouting, or solving problems with calm reasoning instead of reacting impulsively. Sun Tzu also emphasised adaptability: “Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows.” This reminds us that success often depends on how we adjust to our circumstances. In a rapidly changing world, those who are flexible in thought and action often move ahead. Ultimately, Sun Tzu’s teachings are not just about war—they are about understanding, patience, and strategy. If we reflect on these lessons, we may find that life itself is a kind of battlefield where the wisest warriors are not those who fight the most, but those who think the best.
Ans. Title: Teachings of Sun Tzu 
1. Value of Strategy over Force 
1.1 Sun Tzu = ancient Chinese strategist 
1.2 Emphasis on deep understanding & planning 
1.3 Victory = result of awareness, not strength 

2. Self-awareness & Observation 
2.1 Quote: “Know the enemy and know yourself…” 
2.2 Importance of knowing one’s abilities & challenges 
2.3 Application: Exams, emotions, personal goals 

3. Peaceful Conflict Resolution 
3.1 Quote: “Subdue enemy w/o fighting” 
3.2 Use calm reasoning, avoid aggression 
3.3 Useful in school & real-life issues 

4. Adaptability is Key 
4.1 Quote: “Water shapes its course…” 
4.2 Flexibility = key to success 
4.3 Helps in fast-changing environments 

5. Broader Relevance 
5.1 Lessons apply to leadership, business, life 
5.2 Life = a battlefield of choices 
5.3 Wise thinking > aggressive action

Key to Abbreviations: 
Abbreviation Meaning
 =                     is 
&                     and 
w/o                 without 
>                     more important than 

3. Read the passages given below and answer the questions that follow.
(B) These beasts would cock their great big heads when they became aware of our approach and fix us in their sights. As we continued to draw closer, they would explode into action, speeding directly towards us, like a bullet from a gun and nearly as fast. These shaggy monsters, blacker than the darkest night, usually wore bright red collars and barked furiously with massive jaws. They were completely fearless of our vehicle, shooting straight into our path, causing Tsetan to brake and swerve. The dog would make chase for a hundred metres or so before easing off, having seen us off the property. 
Questions: 
(i) Name the chapter and the author. 
(a) Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues; A.R. Butler 
(b) Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues; A.R. Williams 
(c) The Portrait of Akhenaten’s Deeds; Khushwant Singh 
(d) Silk Road; Nick Middleton 

(ii) Which breed of dog is being referred to in this passage? 
(a) German Shepherd (b) Golden Retriever 
(c) Tibetan Mastiff (d) Snow Leopard 

(iii)Which of the following features is INCORRECT with respect to the breed of dogs being referred to? 
(a) Shaggy (b) Small (c) Black (d) Fast 

(iv)How did Tsetan react to the incoming dog? 
(a) Patted the dog (b) Braked and Swerved 
(c) Fed the dog (d) Kept looking at the dog

(v) Arrange the following events in the order of their appearance in the passage: 
I. The dogs look at the car. 
II. The dogs sense the approaching car. 
III. The dogs chase the car. 
IV. The dogs cross the path of car. 
V. Tsetan drives away. 
(a) I II III IV V 
(b) V IV III II I 
(c) II I IV III V 
(d) III IV II V I
Ans. (i) (d) Silk Road; Nick Middleton (ii) (c)Tibetan Mastiff (iii) (b) Small (iv) (b) Braked and Swerved (v) (c) II I IV III V

4. Read the stanza given below and answer the questions that follow.
(B) When did my childhood go? 
Was it the day I ceased to be eleven, 
Was it the time I realised that Hell and Heaven, 
Could not be found in Geography, 
And therefore could not be, 
Was that the day! 
Questions: 
(i) Name the poem and the poet. 
(a) The Laburnum Top; William Douglas 
(b) The Laburnum Top; Ted Hughes 
(c) Goldfinch; Ted Hughes 
(d) Childhood; Markus Natten 

(ii) Ceased to be eleven means: 
(a) Having eleven friends initially, now having twelve 
(b) Aging to be twelve from the age of eleven 
(c) Not being able to score eleven marks 
(d) Stopping at the eleventh mile stone 

(iii)What is the poet trying to find out? 
(a) When he lost his childhood 
(b) Why he lost his childhood 
(c) How he lost his childhood 
(d) To whom he lost his childhood

(iv)What does the poet suggest about Hell and Heaven? 
(a) They exist. (b) They don’t exist. 
(c) Maybe they exist. (d) They can be found on map. 

(v) ‘Was’ is in the beginning of several lines of the given stanza. This poetic device is called Anaphora, in which a word or a phrase is repeated at the beginning of several lines in a stanza. Which of the following options shows Anaphora? 
(a) I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up… I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia… I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi… 
(b) See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil. 
(c) I’m a Pepper, he’s a Pepper, she’s a Pepper, we’re all a Pepper! 
(d) Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country
Ans. (i) (d) Childhood; Markus Natten (ii) (b) Aging to be twelve from the age of eleven (iii) (a) When he lost his childhood (iv) (b) They don’t exist. (v) (a) I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up… I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia… I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi…  


Learn these Questions
3. (A) You are Ram/Rama, head boy/girl of GSSS Kalanaur. Your school is organising a debate 
competition on the topic: ‘Rise of A.I. in Learning: Boon or Bane’. Draft a notice inviting the 
names of interested students. Invent necessary details.
Ans.

 GOVT. SR. SEC. SCHOOL, KALANAUR 

NOTICE 

Debate Competition on AI in Learning 

Our school is organising a debate competition on the topic “Rise of A.I. in Learning: Boon or Bane” on 2nd June 2025 in the school auditorium at 10:00 a.m. Students from Classes IX to XII are eligible to participate. Each participant will be given 4 minutes to present their views either for or against the motion. Those interested must submit their names to the undersigned by 28th May 2025. Certificates and prizes will be awarded to the winners. Don’t miss the chance to express your ideas and sharpen your speaking skills! 

Ram/Rama 

Head Boy/Head Girl 

Date: 22nd May 2025



(B) You are Ashish/Asha, resident of 569, DC Colony, Faridabad. You are moving out to Delhi as 
you got transferred. Hence, you want to rent your house. Write a classified advertisement fo
the same to be published in a local daily.
Ans.

 TO LET 

Available for rent: 2BHK independent house at 569, DC Colony, Faridabad. Well-ventilated, furnished, with modular kitchen and parking space. Located in a peaceful residential area near market and schools. Suitable for small family. Interested tenants may contact Ashish/Asha at 9XXXXXXX. Reason: Transfer to Delhi.



4. (B) Write an application to the Principal of your school as head boy/girl, seeking his/her permission to organise a symposium on ‘Mindfulness and Healthy Lifestyle’, stating the need for the same in present time. 
Ans.
The Principal 
Govt. Sr. Sec. School
Jind

Date: 22nd May 2025 

Subject: Permission to Organise a Symposium on ‘Mindfulness and Healthy Lifestyle’ 

Respected Sir/Madam, 
I am Ram/Rama, the Head Boy/Head Girl of your esteemed institution. I wish to seek your kind permission to organise a symposium on the topic ‘Mindfulness and Healthy Lifestyle’ in the school auditorium. 

In today’s fast-paced and stressful environment, especially among students, issues like anxiety, poor sleep habits, and unhealthy eating are becoming increasingly common. A symposium on this theme will help raise awareness about mental well-being, stress management, balanced diets, and the importance of mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga. 

We plan to invite a guest speaker, prepare interactive sessions, and ensure active student participation. This initiative will promote a healthier and more focused school environment. Kindly grant us permission to conduct this programme at a suitable date and time. 

Thank you. 

Yours sincerely, 
Ram/Rama 
Head Boy/Head Girl 

5. Attempt any one from the given alternatives in about 100 words:
(B) Write a paragraph on the topic: ‘India’s Unity in Diversity’.
Ans.
Unity in Diversity in India 
India is a country known for its unity in diversity. Despite having people of various religions, languages, and cultures, the nation remains united. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh, each region has its unique traditions, festivals, and lifestyles. Yet, Indians stand together in times of celebration as well as crisis. This beautiful blend of differences teaches us tolerance, respect, and brotherhood. Our Constitution guarantees equal rights to all citizens, ensuring harmony among diverse groups. India’s unity in diversity is not just a slogan—it is the true spirit of the nation.

Learn the answers of these questions from your notebook
8. Answer any one of the following questions in about 100 words:
“The Earth’s vital signs reveal a patient in declining health.” How is this statement proved in the 
chapter? What are some steps that you can take to “heal” the “ailing planet”? (The Ailing Planet: the Green Movement’s Role)
9. Answer any four of the following questions in about 30-40 words each:
(i) What was the first sign of the impending disaster that wreaked havoc upon the famil
(We’re Not Afraid to Die…if We Can All Be Together)
(ii) What did Gaitonde go through at Azad Maidan? (The Adventure)
(iii)What did Howard Carter do in 1920s because of which the mummy was in bad condition? (Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues)
(iv)Why did the author feel relieved to meet Norbu? Why was his happiness short-lived? (Silk Road)
(v) What happened to the bond between author and his Grandmother in the city? (The Portrait of a Lady)
11. Answer any two of the following questions in about 40-50 words each:
(i) Why aren’t the father and son able to communicate? (Father to Son)
(ii) How is the water cycle depicted in the poem? (The Voice of the Rain)
(iii)What is the central idea of the poem ‘A Photograph’? 
[III: Snapshots] 
12. Answer any one of the following questions in about 100 words:
Why did Aram and Mourad return the horse to John Byro? If you were in their place, would 
you have done so? If yes, why? (The Summer of a Beautiful White Horse)
OR
How was Mrs. Pearson manipulated by her own son, daughter and husband? Why do you 
think it was necessary for Mrs. Fitzgerald to step in? What would have happened, according 
to you, if Mrs. Fitzgerald would not have stepped in? (Mother’s Day)
13. Answer any three of the following questions in about 30-40 words each:
(i) Why did Mrs. S’s daughter want to go back? (The Address)
(ii) How did the doctor save the baby? (Birth)
(iii)Why was melon crowned as the king? (The Tale of Melon City)
(iv)Mention two traits of Garoghlanian Tribe. (The Summer of a Beautiful White Horse)