CBSE Previous Year Question Papers Class 12 English 2019 Delhi
Time allowed : 3 hours
Maximum marks: 100
General instructions:
- This paper is divided into three sections : A, B and C. All the sections are compulsory.
- Separate instruction are given with each section and question, wherever necessary. Read these instructions very carefully and-follow them faithfully.
- Do not exceed the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.
** Answer is not given due to change in present syllabus
CBSE Previous Year Question Papers Class 12 English 2019 Delhi SET I
Note: Except for the following questions, all the remaining questions have been asked in previous sets.
Section – A
(READING)
Question 1.
Read the passage given below : [20]
1. All of the Earth’s ocean share one thing in common: plastic pollution. Discarded plastic bags, cups, and bottles make their way into the sea. Today, it seems that no part of the ocean is safe from plastic trash. In recent years, oceanographers have searched in vain for a pristine marine environment. They have found plastic everywhere they have looked. “It is a common global problem, we can’t point to a single habitat or location with no plastic.”
2. Plastic harms wildlife and introduces dangerous chemicals into marine ecosystems—
communities of organisms interacting with their surroundings. Once plastic enters the environment, it lasts a long time. Scientists are working to prevent plastic pollution from entering the sea.
3. When people litter, or when trash is not properly disposed of, things like plastic bags, bottles, straws, foam beverage cups get carried to the sea by winds and waterways. About 80 percent of ocean plastic originates on land. The rest comes from marine industries such as shipping and fishing.
4. In 2015, engineer Jenna Jambeck at the University of Georgia and other researchers calculated that at least 8 million tons of plastic trash is swept into the ocean from coasts every year. That’s the equivalent of a full garbage truck of plastic being dumped into the sea every minute. If current trends in plastic production and disposal continue, that figure will double by 2025. A report published by the World Economic Forum last year predicts that by 2050, ocean plastic will outweigh all the fish in the sea.
5. In today’s world, plastic is everywhere. It’s found in shoes, clothing, household items, electronics and more. There are different types of plastics, but one thing they all have in common is that is that they’re made of polymers – large molecules made up of repeating units. Their chemical structure gives them a lot of advantages: they’re cheap and easy to manufacture, lightweight, water-resistant, durable, and can be moulded into nearly any shape.
6. Unfortunately, some of the properties that make plastics great for consumer goods also make them a problem pollutant. Plastic’s durability comes in part from the fact that unlike paper or wood, it does’t biodegrade, or beak down naturally. Instead it just fragments, or breaks into tiny pieces over time. These tiny pieces, known a microplastic, can potentially stick around for hundreds or perhaps even thousands of years.
7. Another problem with plastics is the other chemicals they contain, like dyes and flame retardants. When plastic isn’t disposed of properly, these additives end up in the environment. Plastic also tends to absorb harmful chemicals from its surroundings. “It’s like a sponge for persistent organic pollutants.” These long-lasting, toxic substances include pesticides and industrial chemicals. If plastic absorbs the chemicals, and marine organisms eat the plastic, they may be exposed to higher concentrations of these contaminants.
8. One of the biggest impacts of plastic pollution is its effects on sea life. Seals, sea turtles, and even whales can become entangled in plastic netting. They can starve to death if the plastic restricts their ability to move or eat. Or the plastic can cut into the animals’ skin, causing wounds that develop severe infections.
9. Sea turtles eat plastic bags and soda-can rings, which resemble jellyfish, their favourite food. Seabirds eat bottle caps or chunks of foam cups. Plastic pieces may make an animal feel full, so it doesn’t eat enough real food to get the nutrients it needs. Plastic can also block an animal’s digestive system, making it unable to eat.
10. Plastic and its associated pollutant can even make it into our food supply. Scientists recently examined fish and shell-fish bought at markets in California and Indonesia. They found plastic in the guts of more than a quarter of samples purchased at both locations. In organisms that people eat whole, such as sardines and oysters, that ‘means we’re eating plastic too. In larger fish, chemicals from plastic may seep into their muscles and other tissues that people consume.
11. One way to keep the ocean cleaner and healthier is through cleanup efforts. A lot of plastic waste caught in ocean currents eventually washes up on beaches. Removing it can prevent it from blowing out to sea again. Beach clean-up is ocean clean-up.
12. Cleanup efforts can’t reach every corner of the ocean or track down every bit of microplastic. That means it’s critical to cut down on the amount of plastic that reaches the sea in the first place. Scientists are working towards new materials that are safer for the environment. For example, Jambeck and her colleagues are currently testing a new polymer that breaks down more easily in seawater.
13. “Individual actions make a big difference,” says Jambeck. Disposing of plastic properly for recycling or trash collection is a key step. “And simple things like reusable water bottles, mugs, and bags really cut down on waste,” she says. Skipping straws or using paper ones helps too. Ocean pollution can seem overwhelming, but it’s something everyone can help address. This is a problem we can really do something about.
Question 1.1.
On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, answer each of the questions given below by choosing the most appropriate option : [1 × 5 = 5]
(i) Percentage of ocean plastic that originates from land is :
(a) 20%
(b) 50%
(c) 80%
(d) 25%
Answer:
(c) 80%
(ii) In which year did Jenna Jambeck and other researchers calculate that at least 8 million tons of plastic trash is swept into ocean every year?
(a) 2018
(b) 2015
(b) 2005
(d) 2010
Answer:
(b) 2015
(iii) Plastic is not biodegradable because it is made up of :
(a) low atomic particles
(b) tiny particles
(c) strong big particles
(d) large molecule polymers
Answer:
(d) large molecule polymers
(iv) Sea turtles eat:
(a) plastic bottles
(b) plastic bags and soda-can rings
(c) bottle caps
(d) chunks of foam cups
Answer:
(b) Plastic bags and soda-can rings
(v) Scientists bought fish and shell-fish for examination at markets in :
(a) China and Russia
(b) Pakistan and Afghanistan
(c) California and Indonesia
(d) Australia and Brazil
Answer:
(c) California and Indonesia
Question 1.2.
Answer the following question briefly: [1 × 6 = 6]
(i) Which articles made of plastic generally cause pollution in the sea ?
(ii) How does plastic in oceans harm marine ecosystems?
(iii) How is microplastic formed?
(iv) Why is plastic compared to a sponge?
(v) What is the biggest impact of plastic pollution on sea life?
(vi) How are scientists trying to reduce the plastic pollutants?
Answer:
(i) Discarded plastic bags, cups and bottles cause pollution in the sea.
(ii) Plastic absorbs dangerous chemicals from its surroundings that include pesticides and other industrial chemicals. When marine life eats the plastic, they may be exposed to higher concentration of these contaminants.
(iii) Plastic doesn’t biodegrade or breakdown naturally. It just breaks into tiny pieces which are known as microplastic.
(iv) Plastic tends to absorb harmful chemicals from its surroundings which is why it is compared to a sponge. It’s like a sponge for persistent organic pollutants.
(v) The biggest impact of plastic pollution on the life is that seals, sea turtles and even whales can become entangled in plastic netting. They can starve to death if plastic restricts their ability to move or eat. It can cut into the animals’ skin and may cause wounds.
(vi) To reduce the plastic pollutants, scientists are working towards new materials that are safer for the environment. They are testing a new polymer that breaks down more easily in seawater.
Question 1.3.
Answer any three of the following questions in 25-30 words each: [2 × 3 = 6]
(i) How does plastic waste enter the ocean?
(ii) How is it true to say that plastic is everywhere in today’s world?
(iii) Which property of plastic makes it a problem pollutant?
(iv) What has scientist Jambeck suggested for having cleaner and healthier oceans?
Answer:
(i) When people litter or when trash is not properly disposed of, things like plastic bags, bottles, straws, foam, beverage cups get carried to the sea by winds and waterways. This is how plastic waste enters the oceans. About 80% of ocean plastic originates on land. The rest comes from marine industries such as shipping and fishing.
(ii) Its true to say that in today’s world, plastic is everywhere as it’s found in shoes, clothing, household items, electronics and more.
(iii) Some of the properties of plastic make it a problem pollutant. Unlike paper or wood, it doesn’t biodegrade or breakdown naturally. Instead, it just fragments or breaks into tiny pieces known as microplastic which potentially sticks around for hundreds or perhaps thousands of years.
(iv) Jambeck has suggested that individual actions make a big difference. Disposing of plastics properly for recycling or trash collection is a key step. Skipping straws or using paper ones helps too.
Question 1.4.
Pick out the words/phrases from the passage which are similar in meaning to the following: [1 × 3 = 3]
(i) unspoiled (para 1)
(ii) long lasting (para 5)
(iii) people working together (para 12)
Answer:
(i) pristine
(ii) durable
(iii) colleagues
Question 2.
Read the passage given below: [10]
1. Getting enough sleep is an important as taking time out to relax. A good night’s sleep is essential for preserving the health of your brain and gives you the best chance to meet the coming day with a razor sharp mind. An average person needs about six to eight hour sleep a night—although it is also true that you need slightly less than this, as you grow older-another advantage of aging stress and sleep deprivation often feed on each other, since stress tends to make it harder for you to fall asleep at night and sleep deprivation in itself causes stress.
2. Eventually, too little sleep can dramatically interfere with the performance of your memory-something you obviously want to prevent. If you are not getting enough sleep, try going to bed 30 to 60 minutes earlier than your normal bed time for a few days. Lie down on the bed and try to relax by dissociating yourself from your daily routine work. This is normally enough to catch up on any sleep deprivation.
3. If, however, you suffer from insomnia you should seek the advice of your doctor. The chances are it is already affecting your ability to remember and recall information – and if you are struggling to improve your memory scores, this could be at the root of your problem. Prolonged periods of insufficient sleep can deplete your immune system, make you more accident prone and even cause depression—this can also reinforce a more negative outlook on life, which can contribute to your stress burden. The good news is that your memory and mood should automatically improve once you improve your sleep patterns. Tackle your sleep issues and everything else should fall into place.
4. Because stress management is so essential to maximize your brain power, if you are not in the habit of setting aside time to relax, make it a priority to do so. Even a minute or two of deep breathing can start to work wonders. Often the best ideas and memories can come to you when you are in a state of relaxation as it is during these moments that you brain stores, processes and plays with the information it has received.
5. Meditation has long been part of religious and spiritual life, specially in Asia. Today, more and more people are adopting it in Western countries also, for its value of developing peace of mind and lowering stress. There is some evidence that regular meditation can have real sleep gain and health benefits particularly in terms of protecting your brain against aging.
Question 2.1.
On the basis of your understanding of the above passage, make notes on it using headings and subheadings. Use recognizable abbreviations (wherever necessary-minimum four) and a format you consider suitable. Also supply an appropriate title to it. [5]
Question 2.2.
Write a summary of the above passage in about 100 words. [5]
Answer:
TITLE : BENEFITS OF A GOOD SLEEP
1. Imp. of enough sleep
(i) Essential for the health of the brain
(ii) Gives chance to meet the cmng. day with a razor sharp mind
(iii) Avg. person reqrs. six to eight hour sleep a night
2. Effects of little sleep or insomnia
(i) Interferes with memory
(ii) Depletes immune system
(iii) Makes you accident prone
(iv) Causes depression
3. Stress mngmnt. and meditation
(i) Max. brain power
(ii) Brings best ideas and memories
(iii) Develops peace of mind
(iv) Protects brain against aging
| Imp. | – Importance |
| Cmng. | — Coming |
| Avg. | — Average |
| Reqrs. | — Requires |
| Mngmnt. | — Management |
| Max. | — Maximise |
SUMMARY:
Good sleep is necessary for a healthy brain. Six to eight hours sleep a night is required for an average person! Too little sleep or insomnia interferes with the performance of memory and can lead to depression. It further adds on to stress burden. Good sleep patterns help to improve mood and memory. Besides, stress management also maximizes brain power. Relaxed mind is a home for best ideas and memories. Meditation, which has been a part of religious and spiritual life particularly in Asia, develops peace of mind and lowers stress, regains sleep and health. Western countries are also adopting meditation for the same reason.
Section – B
(ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS)
Question 3.
You are Principal of National Public School,
Jaipur. You require a TGT (Maths) for your school. Drat a suitable advertisement in not more than 50 words for the ‘Situations Vacant’ column of ‘The National Times’ stating essential and desirable qualifications, experience etc. of the candidates. [4]
OR
Arts Club of your school is going to organize a drawing and painting competition. Write a notice in not more than 50 words, to be displayed on the school notice board, inviting students to participate in it. Give all the necessary details. You are Rishabh/Ridhima, Secretary, Arts Club, Sunrise Public School, Gurugram, Haryana.
Answer:
| SITUATION VACANT National Public School requires a trained, efficient maths teacher below 35 years of age for teaching IX and X classes. The candidate must be B.Ed and possess an experience of teaching for five years in a reputed school. Walk-in-interview on 20th April from 9.00 a.m. to 11. a.m. in the Principal’s office. Contact: Principal, National Public School, F-16, Durgapura, Jaipur |
OR
| SUNRISE PUBLIC SCHOOL, GURUGRAM NOTICE 5th September, 20XX DRAWING AND PAINTING This is to inform all the students of the school that ‘Arts Club’ is going to organize a drawing and painting competition for classes V to X on Saturday, 19th September in the school Crafts Room between lO.a.m to 12.00 p.m. Those who are willing to participate can give their names to their respective class teachers. |
Question 4.
You have realized the necessity of education and financial independence of women for their family, society and in turn for the nation. Write a letter to the Editor, ‘The National Times’
highlighting your ideas on the importance of education of women leading to a better status for them. You are Tarun/Taruna, B-7/9, Mall Road, Delhi. (100-125 words) [6]
OR
You bought a refrigerator two months ago from Mohan Sales, Ashok Vihar, Bangalore. It has developed certain problems regarding its functioning. Cooling has stopped and it is making a lot of noise. Write a letter of complaint to the Manager asking him for immediate repair/replacement of the same. You are Sachin/ Shashi, 61 Pratap Enclave, Bangalore. (100-125 words)
Answer:
B-7/9, Mall Road Delhi
14th November, 20XX
The Editor
The National Times
Delhi
Subject: Importance of Education for Women
Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to highlight the issue of women education in our country. Education plays a vital role in improving the socio-economic conditions of our nation and educating women holds an important position in this regard. Earlier, women’s education was forbidden in our society but today women are highly educated and qualified professionals and scholars. There are women judges, doctors, executives, entrepreneurs, engineers, pilots and sportspersons in the country today. Women are present in every walk of life, competing with men quite successfully and this is possible only because they are given proper education facilities and opportunities. They can prove to be productive for the welfare of the society as well as the country if their education is given due importance like their male counterparts. Today, women even provide financial support to their family also.
It is said that a child’s first school is her/his home and for that purpose, the mother needs to be educated enough. This not only helps the child but also helps in improving women’s status and position in her family. For a developing country like India where women form half of the population, it’s important to educate women for the betterment of the their family, society and in turn for the nation.
I hope my thoughts will persuade the people to act towards the betterment of women.
Thanking You
Yours faithfully
Tarun/Taruna
OR
61, Pratap Enclave Bangalore
10th August, 20XX
The Manager
Mohan Sales,
Ashok Vihar
Bangalore
Subject. : Complaint regarding defective refrigerator
Sir,
Two months ago, I purchased a double door five star Samsung refrigerator in the colour cherry red, model no. A 233408 vide cash memo no. 453, dated 10th June, 20XX from your showroom. I was extremely happy to have purchased such a branded product but to my utter disappointment, it has not been working properly for the past few days.
Though for the first six weeks, it gave a trouble- free service but after that it started having problems. Its cooling has stopped and it makes a lot of noise too. Sometimes it even gives shock and gets heated quickly.
Therefore, I request you to send your service engineer to check its functioning. In case if there is any serious technical fault, I would like you to replace it as it is under the warranty period. I hope you would do the needful.
Thanking You
Yours faithfully
Sachin/Shashi
Question 5.
Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion : ‘Capital Punishment should be abolished/ [10]
OR
Regular practice of yoga is useful in maintaining good health. It is also important for good concentration and peace of mind. You are Shivam/Shabnam.
Write a speech in 150-200 words to be delivered in the morning assembly of your school, highlighting the impact of yoga in our life.
Answer:
CAPITAL PUNISHMENT SHOULD BE ABOLISHED
FOR THE MOTION:
Honorable Judges, Respected Principal, Teachers and my dear friends! Good Morning. Today I feel privileged to present my views in favour of the motion ‘Capital Punishment should be abolished’. Before starting of, I would like to explain what ‘Capital punishment’ is? It is actually the death penalty given by the government of a country to the person who has committed any serious crime. In my opinion, ‘Capital Punishment’ should be abolished. By giving someone a death penalty, it doesn’t mean that the crime is over or the victim is given justice. Instead, they should be punished in such a way that would make them realize and feel the pain and embarrassment from deep inside the heart. As we know that the crime graph is rising higher day by day and it’s not possible to hang all the criminals to death for their heinous crimes. So the accused must be given punishment that would make others afraid and they dare not think of committing crimes in future.
Moreover, death penalty is not for the democratic countries and civilized societies. It is not considered just and appropriate as in some cases influential and rich people hire good and reputed lawyers and could be saved if it falls on them. But on the other hand, those who cannot afford a good lawyer, succumb to death. Therefore, it is not justified. Rather imprisonment is far better to make a criminal realize his fault and to give him an opportunity to reform himself.
AGAINST THE MOTION:
Honorable Judges, Respected Principal, Teachers and my dear friends ! Good Morning. Today I stand before you to present my views against the motion ‘Capital Punishment should be abolished’.
For any crime there is a punishment and certain crimes are so ghasly for which capital punishment must be given to the criminals, otherwise the jutice would be denied to the victim. Besides, the criminals will get the opportunity to commit a more crimes. If they wouldn’t the fear of death, they would continue their wrongdoings. If capital punishment will be abolished, the other criminals will feel free to do such things in future which is unacceptable in the society as well as in the country. When a person commits a crime, he tries to escape the punishment by offering bribe to the police officials or jail authorities or hiring an influential lawyer. Even if he gets life imprisonment, it is nothing in front of the pain he caused to the victim.
Countries like United States of America give capital punishment to the criminals to lower the crime rates. If a person commits serious crimes like murder or rape, they should be given death penalty so as to give perceptual relief to the victim’s relatives. In a lot of cases, when the criminals are excused, they repeat the gruesome crimes. To avoid such situation, death penalty is must as it would refrain others from doing crimes and make the society safe. It is an appropriate punishment for the accused and also for those who continue to commit crimes even after being released from the jail.
OR
IMPACT OF YOGA IN OUR LIFE
By Shivam/Shabnam
Good Morning everybody, I am Shivam/ Shabnam, a student of class XII of your school. It is a great opportunity for me to share my views on the topic ‘Impact of Yoga in our life’ in today’s assembly.
Yoga is not merely a physical exercise which includes stretching, breathing or twisting the body in different ways, but it results into a healthy development of mind, body and soul. Today’s sedentary lifestyle has invited many diseases where man has limited time to spare for his health. It is also important for good concentration and peace of mind. With regular practice of yoga, we tend to become more sensitive to the kind of food our body asks. With the genuine effort made by our honorable Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, it is celebrated every year on 21st June. Not only Indians but the whole world has accepted the power of yoga. A few minutes of yoga helps to get relief from stress. It helps detox the body and de-stress the mind. Yoga is the best way to calm a disturbed mind and increase the level of well-being in a person. On the other hand, yoga postures massage organs and strengthen muscles; breathing techniques and meditation release stress and improve immune system. Yoga and meditation work on keeping the mind happy and peaceful. When we feel drained out of energy, a few minutes of yoga can provide the freshness and energy back to our body. It also helps in improving body postures. Today, students face many problems due to the burden of studies and feel depressed but yoga acts as the stress buster for them. In many schools yoga is practiced on the daily basis as a part of curriculum. Hence, we too should add yoga to our daily routines for a healthy life.
Thank you.
Question 6.
Hard work and punctuality are essential for a happy and successful life. They help in meeting the desired targets of our life. You are Kavya/Kanha. Write a article in 150-200 words highlighting the importance of hard work and punctuality in a student’s life. [10]
OR
In your locality a blood donation camp was organized by an NGO- ‘For Your Health’. Many people visited the camp and donated blood. Write a report in 150-200 words for a local newspaper covering the arrangements, doctors, team, refreshment served etc.
Answer:
IMPORTANCE OF HARD WORK AND PUNCTUALITY IN STUDENT’S LIFE
By Kanha/Kavya
Punctuality is a trait which makes a man successful in life and if it is accompanied with hard work, nothing can stop him from reaching the zenith of success. In a student’s life, punctuality is must so that he/she can achieve good scores. A hard working and punctual student is respected and liked by all whether it is his teachers, society, family or friends. Students should follow the examples of great leaders ” like Abdul Kalam Azad in order to achieve success and fame. Being punctual refers to the quality to be on time and to complete every task in a systematic way. It encourages the student to do the work on time and keep an update of everything. This quality can be developed at any stage of life but if it is developed during childhood, it would prove to be better. Hard work and punctuality gives fruitful results in the long run. Lack of punctuality and hard work causes harmful effects. It is only the result of hard work and efforts of the scientists that the world has developed so far. Only hard work and punctuality make a student stand aloft the others and lack such trait make them lag behind. It is truly said that time is priceless. Once you have lost it, you can never get it back.
OR
BLOOD DONATION CAMP
By XYZ, staff reporter
24th June, 20XX: ‘A blood donation camp’ was organized by an NGO ‘For Your Health’ yesterday in our society. A team of eminent doctors and their efficient staff attended the camp. The main objective of organizing this camp was to emphasize the need of creating awareness among the people about the need of blood donation. People in large numbers came to donate blood whole-heartedly for this noble cause. It was so overwhelming to see their enthusiasm. The event made it clear that there are still lots of people who give their selfless contribution to save the life of others. Blood donation is ranked as the highest form of service towards mankind. Addressing the gathering, the chief of medical staff told that it was a matter of pleasure to see the enthusiastic response of the public for such a cause. He further added that donating blood regularly doesn’t affect the health at all, Impressed by his speech, many people took an oath to donate blood whenever required.
At the end of the event, juice, fruits and other healthy refreshments was given to all those who donated the blood. Overall, the camp was a big success.
Section – C
(LITERATURE : TEXT BOOKS AND LONG READING TEXT)
Question 7.
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: [1 × 4 = 4]
I looked again at her, wan, pale
as a late winter’s moon and felt that old
familiar ache, my childhood’s fear,
but all I said was, see you soon, Amma,
all I did was smile and smile and smile
(i) Name the poet and the poem.
(ii) What was the poet’s childhood fear?
(iii) What is the poetic device used in line 1-2?
(iv) Explain : ‘late winter’s moon.
OR
……. The stunted, unlucky heir
Of twisted bones, reciting a father’s gnarled disease.
His lesson, from his desk. At back of the dim class
One unnoted, sweet and young. His eyes live in a dream.
Of squirrel’s game, in tree room, other than this.
(i) Who is the unlucky heir?
(ii) What has he inherited?
(iii) Who is sitting at the back of the dim class?
(iv) How is he different from rest of the class?
Answer:
(i) Kamala Das is the poet and the name of the poem is ‘My Mother at Sixty-Six’.
(ii) The poet’s childhood fear was that her mother would leave her alone and go away.
(iii) The poetic device used in lines 1-2 is simile.
(iv) Late winter’s moon appears dull and hazy and it has no brightness. Similarly, poet’s mother also looks tired and lifeless.
OR
(i) The unlucky heir is the boy with the stunted growth.
(ii) He has inherited his father’s gnarled disease of twisted bones.
(iii) A young, sweet, unnoted boy is sitting at the back of the dim class.
(iv) He is different from the rest of the class as he is lost in the world of his dreams of a bright future and he isn’t sad or morbid like others.
Question 8.
Answer any four of the following questions in 30 – 40 word each : [3 × 4 = 12]
(i) Who did M. Hamel blame for the neglect of learning on the part of boys like Franz?
Answer:
M.Hamel blamed the parents for the neglect of learning on the part of boys like Franz because their parents wanted them to work on farm to earn some money. Franz himself wanted to enjoy his time and thus, avoided going to school. M. Hamel blamed himself too for the neglect as he made the boys work in the garden which made them miss their lessons and whenever he wanted to go fishing, he gave them a holiday.
(ii) How did the instructor turn Dougla into a swimmer?
Answer:
Douglas was afraid of water and he wanted to overcome his fear. So he took the help of an instructor who taught him the strokes in swimming, how to inhale and exhale and how to use his limbs and his hands in water. He put a belt around Douglas during practice and after perfecting each part, he built a complete swimmer out of Douglas.
(iii) Why do you think Gandhiji considered the Champaran episode to be a turning point in his life?
Answer:
Gandhiji considered the Champaran episode as the turning point of his life because after this episode, the peasants realized their rights and came out of the fear of British landlords. They also got 25% of their land tax as compensation money. This was also the beginning of the cultural, economic and social transformation of the peasants in India. The British were forced to leave the lands of the peasants and hence, the peasants became the owner of their own lands.
(iv) What made the chief astrologer place his finger on his nose?
Answer:
The Chief astrologer placed his finger on his nose because he was astonished when he heard the ten-day-old royal infant uttering the words so clearly in his little squeaky voice. The chief astrologer took off his spectacles and gazed intently at the baby in sheer surprise.
(v) How did the writer indicate that Dr. Sadao’s father was a very traditional and conventional man ?
Answer:
Dr. Sadao’s father was a very traditional and conventional man. He was a gentle and quiet person who never joked or played with his son. Sadao’s education was his chief concern. He bestowed infinite pains upon Sadao, who was his only son. He was strict but a caring and loving father. He considered arranged marriage the best and believed in the purity of race.
(vi) How does Jo want the story to end? Why?
Answer:
Joe wants another ending of the story. She wants that the wizard should slap Roger Skunk’s mother because of her silly action and take a revenge. By changing the end, she wants to force her views on her father.
Question 9.
Answer any one of the following in 120-150 words: [6]
(i) “Seemapuri, a place on the periphery of Delhi yet miles away from it, metaphorically. ” Explain.
(ii) ‘The Rattrap’ focuses on human loneliness and the need to bond with others. Comment.
(iii) Attempt a character sketch of Sophie as a girl who lives in her dreams.
Answer:
(i) The story ‘Lost Spring’ revolves around the pathetic lives of the poor children who live in the slums and work in unhygienic conditions.
Seemapuri is a slum area on the periphery of Delhi with a settlement of more than 10,000 rag pickers. Those who live here are squatters who came from Bangladesh back in 1971. They live in the structures of mud with roofs of tin or tarpaulin, devoid of sewage systems, drainage or running water. One may think that the life of people living on the periphery of the national capital must be very easy-going, rich and good but it is all opposite. They have no identity or permits except ration cards as food is more important to them than any identity. Children grow up only to become the supporters of their parents in survival. To them, garbage means ‘gold’. It is their daily bread, a roof over their heads. It is a gift for them because whenever they find some silver coin in a heap of garbage, they hope to survive on it for some days.
(ii) ‘The Rattrap’ is a bit philosophical story which tells that the world is a trap and the materialistic things are bait. In the story, the author tells that humans need someone to share their joys and sorrows. They can’t live alone and that’s why they are called social animals. In the story too, the peddler is lonely and so is the crofter. The peddler is a lonely man who sells rattraps to avoid his loneliness whereas the crofter is an old man who has neither wife nor child. Due to his loneliness, he wants someone to talk to. So he becomes talkative and friendly with the peddler and allows him to have a conversation with him. He not only gives him a shelter but also gives him the food to eat and tobacco to smoke. He tells the peddler everything about himself and his earnings. On the other hand, the iron master and his daughter are also lonely. They have lots of money but no companion and so they request the peddler to spend Christmas with them.
(iii) It is a natural thing for teenagers to dream. It is a part of their life but sometimes these dreams are impractical and non-realistic and when they are shattered, they cause a lot of pain.
In the story ‘Going Places’, the author has described the feelings and dreams of such a girl Sophie who was a school-going teenager. She was a day-dreamer who fantasizes her future life with Danny Casey, a football player from Ireland. She dreamt of having met him twice in the arcade. For her, he was the hero to be worshipped. She also thought of owning a boutique despite her weak financial status. She was blind to the bitter truth of life. She dreamt of an imaginary life, full of beautiful things. She also dreamt of becoming an actress as there was lot of money and fame in that profession. She wanted to be a fashion designer too. Overall, she wanted to lead a lavish and a grand life against which her father and friend Jansie had warned her. Her dreams were unrealistic in the sense that ultimately she would have to work in a biscuit factory as planned. She wanted to have the things which were impossible.
Question 10.
Answer any one of the following in 120-150 words: [6]
(i) Derry and Mr. Lamb both are victims of physical impairment, but their attitudes towards life are completely different. Elaborate.
Answer:
Answer:
Derry and Mr. Lamb both are victims of physical impairment, but their attitudes towards life are completely different. Derry and Mr. Lamb have the Same sense of loneliness and they both live a secluded life due to their physical disability. Mr. Lamb is disabled but calm and maintains peace with people around him. He has a tin leg as his real one was blown away in a war. He . is not irritated by the children who call him ‘Lamey-Lamb’. He always lives in peace. On the other hand, Derry has a burnt face as he got acid all down on his face in an unfortunate accident. He is always conscious of it and so gets alienated from the world. Before coming in contact with Mr. Lamb, Derry feels lonely due to the behavior of the people but Lamb inspires him and fills him with self-confidence and determination. His meeting with Mr. Lamb is a turning point in his life. He learns to live a respectful life. Mr. Lamb teaches him to live life to the fullest regardless of his disability. He tells him to move ahead in life as his brain and senses are competent enough. He imbibes positive attitude in him. He shows him the way to live in this world in spite of his disability because he could do much better than others.
(ii) Write a character sketch of the Governor of Oxford Prison based on the story, ‘Evans Tries an O-Level’.
Answer:
Governor of Oxford Prison was a generous and an understanding man who allowed Evans to appear for an O-level exam. Evans was a criminal and had escaped from jail earlier twice, so governor took all the possible precautions for the smooth conduct of the examination. The examination had been arranged in the cell itself. The door was locked one day before and the security was made very tight. No visitors were allowed to see him and a microphone was fixed in the cell so that the Governor could hear every bit of a sound. Everything was checked thoroughly to ensure the ways that could help him escape. This shows that he was very wise; on the other hand he was so simple that he couldn’t understand the cunningness of Evans. He didn’t realize the extent of Evans, cunningness. Governor was also trusting and therefore, he was fooled by Evans again in the end.
(iii) Why did Bama stroll in the market place instead of hurrying back home? Describe the sights she enjoyed seeing there.
Answer:
Bama stopped at the market place because she was surprised and excited to watch all the fun and games that were going on, different exhibitions, entertaining novelties and oddities in the streets, the shops and the bazaar. She took thirty minutes walking home from her school when she could have covered the distance in just ten minutes. The performance by the monkey and the snake charmer; the cyclist who had not got off his bike for three days, and who kept pedalling as hard as he could from break day; the rupee notes that were pinned on to his shirt to spur him on; the spinning wheels; the Maariyaata temple, the huge bell hanging there; the Pongal offerings being cooked in front of the temple; the dried fish stall by the statue of Gandhi; the sweet stall, the stall selling fried snacks, and all the other shops next to each other; the changing colour of street lights from blue to violet, clay beads, instruments for cleaning ears—all these things attracted her and kept her standing still for long.
Question 11.
Answer any one of the following questions in 120-150 words : [6]
(i) Why was Mrs. Hall happy to have a guest at ‘Coach and Horses’ Inn? How did the stranger behave at the inn?
(ii) Describe Mr. Marvel’s meeting with the mariner at Port Stowe. What kind of person was the mariner?
(iii) How did Dunstan Cass meet his end?
(iv) Describe the circumstances under which Silas Mamer had to leave Lantern Yard.
Question 12.
Answer any one of the following question in 120-150 words :** [6]
(i) How does the novel. ‘The Invisible Man’ highlight the theme of corruption of morals in the absence of social restriction?
(ii) Compare and contrast Griffin (the invisible man) and Dr. Kemp as scientist and also as members of society.
(iii) George Eliot has portrayed Godfrey as a morally weak characters. Comment.
(iv) In ‘Siles Mamer’, describe the role of Dolly Winthrop.
CBSE Previous Year Question Papers Class 12 English 2019 Delhi SET II
Note: Except for the following questions, all the remaining questions have been asked in previous sets.
Section – A
(READING)
Question 1.4.
Pick out the words/phrases from the passage which are similar in meaning to the following: [1 × 3 = 3]
(i) dropped/thrown (para 4)
(ii) unluckily (para 6)
(iii) look like (para 9)
Answer:
(i) dumped
(ii) unfortunately
(iii) resemble
Section – B
(ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS)
Question 5.
Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion: Indulgence of the youth in the use of Internet is a great bane for them. [10]
OR
Outdoor exercise or morning and evening walk during winter months has become difficult in the polluted atmosphere of the metropolitan cities. In such a situation indoor (team) games have become very important. Write a speech in 150-200 words persuading your students to make more use of facilities for basketball, badminton etc available in your school. You are Principal of your school.
Answer:
INDULGENCE OF THE YOUTH IN THE USE OF THE ‘INTERNET’ IS A GREAT BANE FOR THE MOTION:
Honorable Judges, Respected Principal, Teachers and my dear friends! Good Morning.
Today, I stand before you to speak in favour of the motion ‘Indulgence of the youth in the use of internet is a great bane for them’.
Today we are living in a highly-technological and advanced world. Modern gadgets and the internet has become an integral part of the youth’s life. They live in a fascinating world where they want everything to move fast. Even while looking for the meaning of a word, the youngsters don’t use dictionary, instead they switch over the internet to look for it. While scrolling through Facebook or Instagram, they feel that everyone is living a better life than them. This leads to frustration. This social media behavior is linked with major depression disorder. E-books have replaced printed books. An e-book reader uses rapidly changing technology to read books in a digital format. Then comes the mobile phones. There is no doubt that mobile phones have brought revolution in the field of communication and are considered as the biggest blessing of modem science. But it proves to be the most hazardous gadget as it distracts the youth from studies and their academic goals. Computers and internet have made every possible information accessible at one click but there are certain disadvantages which can’t be overlooked. Over-dependency upon internet has made life sedentary which in turn, leads to many disorders like obesity, diabetes, heart problems and blood pressure. Researches have proved over use of internet hampers intellectual growth, language development and innovative thinking. Therefore, I must say that too much indulgence in the use of internet is a great bane for the youth.
AGAINST THE MOTION:
Honorable Judges, Respected Principal, Teachers and my dear friends! Good Morning. Today, I stand before you to speak against the motion ‘Indulgence of the youth in the use of internet is a great bane for them.’
In my view, indulgence of the youth in the use of internet is not a bane; rather it is a boon for them. The internet revolution has completely changed the lives of the youth today. The number of internet user has increased a lot due to easy accessibility and affordability. Whether it is homework, chatting, e-mailing, project work, information gathering or any other purpose, internet has occupied its solid space in every home. The internet provides information on any topic and youth considers it the best source of gaining knowledge as it saves their time and energy comparatively if they look into books or anywhere else. Therefore, books have taken a back seat in this regard and internet has become more reliable. It is supposed to be multitasking and provides knowledge on the basis of students’ ability and understanding. It makes the routine lesson interesting, motivating and exciting for students. It is accompanied with audio-visual aids which give pleasure in learning and the students’ quest to know more increases. The internet is not only the source of getting information but it is equally an efficient means of communication. The world has shrunk due to it because e-mailing and chatting have paved a path to discuss and spread education on a large scale.
OR
THE IMPORTANCE OF INDOOR GAMES
Good Morning everybody! Today as we observe that life in metro cities has become very difficult due to the increasing rate of pollution, it’s my duty to count on the hazardous consequences of the outdoor activities for all the students. Whenever we go out, we inhale smoke and poisonous gases along with oxygen. The burden of overgrowing population, unrestricted cutting of trees and unlimited urbanization has resulted in excessive pollution and so it has become impossible to do any outdoor exercise or morning and evening walk especially during harsh winters. Therefore, I would say that students must fully utilize the facilities of sports like badminton, basketball etc. available in the school as for good mental growth, we cannot deny the importance of these games. It helps to interact with each other as well. Children exchange ideas and thoughts while playing. As it is not possible to avail these facilities outside, our school has started the games within school premises. Trained coaches have been appointed for the students keeping in view the interest of the children in their respective field of interest. Students can play during zero periods and before the assembly. Provisions have been also made for evening training classes. These games are must for the children’s balanced personality. Moreover, physical activities provide an outlet for the surplus energy.
Therefore, I would like all the students to make use of the sports facilities available in the school for which no extra fee would be charged.
Thank you !
Section – C
(LITERATURE : TEXT BOOKS AND LONG READING TEXT)
Question 8.
Answer any four of the following question in 30-40 word each : [3 × 4 = 12]
(i) Why did the village elders occupy the back benches in the classroom to attend the last lesson delivered by M. Hamel?
Answer:
Answer:
The village elders occupied the back benches in the classroom to attend the last lesson delivered by M. Hamel because they felt sorry for not attending the school ever. They wanted to show their sympathy and respect for the teachers. They thanked M. Hamel for his long and devoted service of forty years to teach the children of the school.
(ii) Why did William Douglas choose Y.M.C.A. pool when he decided to learn to swim?
Answer:
William Douglas chose Y.M.C.A. pool when he decided to learn to swim because it was a safe and an ideal place for swimming. It was only two or three feet deep at the shallow end; and while it was nine feet at the other, the drop was gradual whereas Yakima river was dangerous and many people had drowned in it earlier.
(iii) What did Gandhiji do about the social and cultural upliftment of the Champaran villages?
Answer:
For social and cultural upliftment of the Champaran villages, Gandhiji did many things. He fought for the justice to the sharecroppers of Champaran. The sharecroppers got freedom from the prolonged fear of the British landlords only due to him. He decided to eradicate illiteracy by opening primary schools over there. His wife Kasturba taught the lessons of cleanliness and sanitation to the people. A doctor volunteered for six months in the village to keep a check on health issues Personal and community hygiene was emphasized by Gandhiji.
(iv) What great miracle did the ten-day-old Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur perform? How did it affect the people who listened to him?
Answer:
When ten-day-old Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur spoke in his little squeaky voice that ‘everyone who was born, had to die’, left everyone in utter surprise. Not only that, the baby raised intelligent questions, like what would be the manner of his death? The people who stood there were astonished as it was incredible that a baby of barely ten days, opened its lips in speech.
(v) How did Dr. Sadao perform his duty as a patriotic Japanese ?
Answer:
Dr. Sadao was a Japanese surgeon. An American prisoner of war was washed ashore in a dying state. He was thrown on the doorsteps of Dr. Sadao. Doctor was full of patriotism but as a doctor, he had to save the life of a dying man first. Therefore, he operated on the prisoner of war and as a true Japanese, he informed the General. This is how he performed his duty as a patriotic Japanese.
(vi) How can we say that Jack is a dominant male ?
Answer:
Jack was the father of a little girl Jo’ to whom he used to tell the bedtime stories. When his daughter grew up she began to ask him a number of questions. Jack was unable to invent new stories and thus, all his stories were alike except the main creature. He was indeed a dominant male as he enjoyed when his daughter listened to him carefully without interrupting him and his authority.
Question 9.
Answer any one of the following questions in 120-150 words: [6]
(i) What are the hazards of working in a glass bangle industry ?
Answer:
Hazards of working in a glass bangle factory are manifold. It is harmful for the eyes of the maker as the polishing of the glass bangles produces dust which may result into blindness. Working in the glass furnaces with high temperature and in dingy cells without proper ventilation and light take away the brightness of eyes. Similarly, during the welding work in the glass factory, sitting in dark rooms in front of flickering lamps is equally harmful for the eyes and many children lose their eyesight even before they grow up. Their eyes become so accustomed to that light that they cannot see the natural daylight outside. There are chances of skin bum too. Working in glass bangle industries leaves an adverse effect on the health of the workers. Besides the workers are physically, emotionally and psychologically hurt too. They are exploited by middlemen, policemen, sahukars, bureaucrats and politicians and it is impossible for them to come out of their trap.
(ii) What made the peddler finally change his ways ?
Answer:
The peddler was a rattrap seller who led a dull and monotonous life of a vagabond. He was a petty thief who stole thirty kronors from the house of crofter. Once, he was invited by an ironmaster, who thought him to be an old acquaintance of his. The peddler declined his invitation but when his daughter Edla persuaded him, he agreed. Edla showed pity on him and asked him to spend Christmas with them. Her behavior changed his conscience and he finally changed his way of living when got immense love and affection from Edla. His life was miserable but when he was shown hospitality and respect, he changed his way of living. He was full of gratitude to Edla for her kindness and generosity and started living the life of dignity and respect. While giving Edla the gift of rattrap, he asked her to return the thirty kronors of the crofter which he had stolen earlier. Thus, his life was completely transformed.
(iii) What was Sophie’s dream ? How was it unrealistic ? How was she different from Jansie ?
Answer:
Sophie was a day dreamer like all the other adolescents of her age. She was a victim of all the wild fantasies and totally cut off from the realities of life. Although she belonged to a lower middle-class family, she was blind to the bitter truth of life. She dreamt of an imaginary life, full of beautiful things in which she owned a boutique. She also dreamt of becoming an actress as there was lot of money and fame in that profession. She wanted to be a fashion designer too. It can be said that she wanted to lead a lavish and grand life which was not possible. Her dreams were unrealistic in the sense that ultimately she would have to work in a biscuit factory as planned.
On the other hand, Jansie was realistic and practical. Sophie and Jansie were classmates and friends but Sophie didn’t want to tell anything to Jansie as she would spread her secrets in the whole neighbourhood. Jansie didn’t possess unrealistic dreams. She dissuaded Sophie too from having such dreams so as to avoid depression and frustration later.
CBSE Previous Year Question Papers Class 12 English 2019 Delhi SET III
Section – A
(READING)
Question 1.4.
Pick out the words/phrases from the passage which are similar in meaning to the following: [1 × 3 = 3]
(i) unsafe (para 2)
(ii) rubbish/junk (as a noun) (para 3)
(iii) shaped/formed (para 5)
Answer:
(i) dangerous
(ii) trash
(iii) moulded
Section – B
(ADVANCED WRITING SKILLS)
Question 6.
People like to travel to their places of work in their own cars. It is comfortable and they also reach their destinations more or less in time. However, use of private vehicles leads to pollution and traffic jams and it is expensive – also. Air-conditioned public buses, which
are smaller in size, seating 15-20 people and tickets, reasonably priced can be a boon for the people. Write an article in 150-200 words on the topic. ‘Need of better Public Transport.’ You are Resham/Rehana. [10]
OR
Your school held a two-day Diwali Mela in the school grounds. Various food stalls were put up by the students. On the second day, there was a song and dance programme. Prizes were q awarded to the participants. However, there were no fire works. You are Amit/Amrita. Write a report on the event in 150-200 words for your school magazine
Answer:
NEED OF BETTER PUBLIC TRANSPORT
By Resham/Rehana
We all know that travelling by a private vehicle is very convenient and takes far less time than public transport but simultaneously/it leads to pollution and traffic jams. Moreover, they prove to be extremely expensive as the petrol prices are increasing day by day. In that case, there is a serious need of better public transport which is comfortable and can accommodate 15 to 20 people at a time. The ticket prices should also be reasonable so that everyone can afford it. It is a known fact that in metro cities, from every house, a minimum of two to three vehicles are used by the members for going to their working places. Sometimes they remain stranded in their vehicles for long hours due to heavy traffic jams which result into excessive emission of polluted gases in the atmosphere and delay to reach their destinations.
So it would be far better if the government provides good public transport facilities which could be accessible to all. It would create lot of convenience for the general public and daily commuters. It has many social, economic and environmental benefits. Social benefits of using public transport are multifold. It helps in developing a sense of being a community among people. They feel a connection with those who are traveling with them. It encourages people to have a healthy lifestyle as they walk to their stations, stands or stops. Moreover, it is less stressful as it saves a lot of time. Economic benefits include less expenditure of money on buying cars or spending money on its maintenance. Travelling by public transport is much cheaper than private transport. It also reduces pollution and road congestion thus, helps in environmental conservation.
OR
DIWALI MELA
By Amit/Amrita
The festival of Goddess Lakshmi and Festival of lights came alive in our school on 27th October. The school organized a two-day Diwali Mela in the school grounds. The whole school wore a festive look. The building were illuminated with earthen lamps and lanterns. The reception hall and the corridors were decorated with marigold flowers which are considered auspicious. Children were very excited and had lot of fun. The main attraction was different food stalls which were set up by the students which included Indian, Continental, Italian and Chinese food. There was also a stall which displayed decorative and perfumed candles and many other decorative items made by the school children which were also meant for sale. People in large numbers purchased those candles and decorative items to motivate the children. On the second day, a cultural program was organized which stole the hearts of the viewers. Everybody appreciated the enthusiasm and endeavor of the students. The participants were awarded prizes by the Principal for their overwhelming performances.
It was an eco-friendly Diwali as there were no fire-works. Students were also asked to spread the message of celebrating eco-friendly Diwali. Our Principal briefed the students about the harmful effects of fire crackers on the environment.
Section – C
(LITERATURE : TEXT BOOKS AND LONG READING TEXT)
Question 8.
Answer any four of the following questions in 30-40 word each : [3 × 4 = 12]
(i) How did M. Hamel make his last lesson a special one ? What did he emphasize in it?
Answer:
M.Hamel made his last lesson special by wearing a special outfit and talking about the French language at length. He told that it was the most beautiful language in the world – the clearest and the most logical. He asked the students that they must guard it because when people are enslaved, the language is the only key to their prison.
(ii) Which two incidents in the life of William Douglas before he was ten years old created an aversion in his mind to water.
Answer:
As a boy, Douglas was scared of water a lot. His first experience was on the sea beach when he was with his father and a powerful wave swept over him. Although, the wave receded but it left Douglas terrified. At the second time, when William Douglas was learning swimming in Y.M.C.A. pool, a strong boy threw him into the deep water of the pool. He was saved but the terror, stayed with him and he couldn’t go near water for years.
(iii) Why did Gandhiji not accept C.F. Andrews, help during Champaran movement ?
Answer:
Gandhiji did not accept C.F. Andrew’s help during Champaran movement because he thought that in having an Englishman on their side was not helpful or a fair fight. That would show the weakness of their heart. He wanted Indians to be self-reliant in their struggle against injustice. He wanted Indians to rely upon themselves to win the battle.
(iv) How did the Tiger King’ manage to kill the hundredth tiger?
Answer:
The Tiger King had already killed Ninety- nine tigers and only one tiger was left and if he could kill just one more, he would have no fears left. But now it became impossible to locate tigers anywhere. The king sank into gloom but soon came the happy news about a tiger seen in the nearby village in his own state. He announced a three year exemption from all the taxes to the village in his excitement. He set out for hunt and managed to kill the hundredth tiger in the village.
(v) What was Hana’s role in Dr. Sadao’s life when he brought home an injured American soldier ?
Answer:
When Dr. Sadao brought an injured American soldier to his home, Hana played a crucial role. On the humanitarian ground, she nursed the soldier herself when she got no cooperation from her maid. She did all the household work herself gracefully. She washed the soldier’s wound and fed him,
which indicates her respect and obedience towards her husband. She did whatever Dr. Sadao asked her to do during the operation.
(vi) We can’t approve of Jack’s attitude towards his wife. Comment.
Answer:
Jack recalled certain moments of humiliation towards himself while telling stories to his daughter. He was influenced by his own childhood experiences and failures. He wanted to help his wife but didn’t make any efforts. He was a temperamental husband. He didn’t want to speak or work with her and even touch her. Thus, his attitude towards his wife is not acceptable.
Question 9.
Answer any one of the following question in 120-150 words: [6]
(i) What kind of life did children living in Seemapuri lead ?
Answer:
Seemapuri is a settlement of more than 10,000 rag pickers situated on the periphery of Delhi. The people living there have migrated from Bangladesh. They lived in the structures of mud with roofs of tin and tarpaulin. They didn’t have any identity or permits. Their children also helped them in earning their livelihood. Saheb was one of the children who lived here. He was from a poor family of Bangladesh. In order to earn their livelihood, his family shifted to Delhi where they settled in Seemapuri. But when they found no work to do, they became rag pickers. They had to search the garbage like others for something to make their livelihood. Sahib, whose age was to enjoy the life, go to school and live his childhood, also looked into the heaps of garbage for some coins. It was a tedious task as they used to leave their houses barefoot early in the morning with a bag on their shoulders. They did not have chappals, so they were not in a habit to wear them. Because their fields and homes were swept away in the flood in Bangladesh, so they came to the big city with a hope but even here they led a miserable life.
(ii) How did the crofter tempt the peddler to steal his money ? How did it change the peddler’s life ?
Answer:
The peddler was a lonely man who looked like a beggar. He was a homeless wanderer who used to sell rattraps. Once he knocked the door of a crofter who was equally lonely like him for a night stay. He was received by the crofter warmly and cheerfully. Crofter was proud of his cow that gave him enough milk. So he told the peddler about the thirty kronors he got by selling the milk of the cow and he used to keep his money in a leather pouch that hung from a nail in the window frame. He felt that the peddler did not believe him so he showed the money to convince him.
Having stolen the money, the peddler didn’t find it safe to walk along the public highway. So he went through the woods and got lost. Here, he thought that the whole world was a rattrap and the money he had stolen was a bait and he himself was trapped in it. Later, he regretted for stealing the crofter’s money so much so that when Edla invited him for Christmas, he returned the stolen money to her.
(iii) What did Sophie tell her father and her brother about her ‘meeting(s)’ with Danny Casey ? How did each of them react ?
Answer:
Danny Casey was a young footballer who played for Ireland. Sophie considered him a hero whom she worshipped. She was always occupied with his thoughts. She told her brother Geoff that she had met Danny Casey in the arcade while she was looking at the clothes in Royce’s window. Casey came and stood by her. She recognized him and then they started talking. Then she asked for an autograph but neither of them had a pen or paper. She further told her brother that Danny’s eyes were green. He was gentle but was not very tall. When her brother told about this to their father, he didn’t believe in her story at all as he knew her habit of indulging in wild fantasies. His expression was one of disdain. He called this story as one of her many wild stories and warned her against them as they would land her in trouble.