ANSWERS:

1. (b) By making information accessible to everyone
The passage clearly states that the Internet has transformed education by making information accessible to everyone with a computer or smartphone.

2. (b) Critical thinking
Students must develop critical thinking skills to evaluate sources and distinguish between credible information and misinformation.

3. (c) Affects physical health and social relationships
The passage mentions that excessive screen time can negatively affect physical health and impact social relationships.

4. (b) Parents and educators
The passage states that parents and educators play a crucial role in guiding young people to use the Internet responsibly.

5. (b) Digital literacy education
According to the passage, teaching digital literacy is essential in today's world.

6. (b) Online libraries and virtual classes
Students can access online libraries, attend virtual classes, and collaborate with peers from around the world.

7. (c) High cost
High cost is not mentioned as a challenge in the passage.

8. (b) Traditional study methods and physical activities
Parents and educators should encourage a balanced approach, combining online learning with traditional study methods, physical activities, and face-to-face interactions.

9. (c) Harnessing its potential while being aware of limitations
The key is to harness the Internet's potential while being aware of its limitations and risks.

10. (b) Their goals
When used wisely, the Internet can help students achieve their goals.

ANSWERS:

(a) Deforestation, pollution, and climate change threaten our planet's future.

(b) Two examples of sustainable practices are: reducing plastic use and conserving water. (Or: planting trees and using renewable energy sources)

(c) Conservation

(d) The younger generation has a special responsibility to preserve the Earth for future generations.

ANSWER: (Option 1)

Examination Hall
Jaipur, Rajasthan
10 November 2025

Dear Rohan,

I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. I am writing to share my wonderful experience of visiting the magnificent Amber Fort last Sunday with my family.

The Amber Fort is a stunning example of Rajputana architecture that perfectly showcases Rajasthan's glorious heritage. As we approached the fort, I was amazed by its grandeur and the beautiful fusion of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. The intricate carvings on the walls, the beautiful mirror work in the Sheesh Mahal, and the stunning frescoes left me absolutely spellbound.

Our guide was very knowledgeable and explained the historical significance of each section. I learned fascinating details about the royal families who once resided there and their lifestyle. The Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas were particularly impressive. The view from the fort ramparts was breathtaking - the entire Jaipur city spread below like a painting.

The elephant ride to the fort entrance was an unforgettable experience. I also enjoyed exploring the beautiful gardens and the light and sound show in the evening. I have taken many photographs which I am eager to show you when we meet.

You must plan a visit to Jaipur soon so we can explore more historical monuments together. I am sure you will love it as much as I did.

Hoping to hear from you soon.

Your loving friend,
Priya Sharma

ANSWER:

The Importance of Education

Education is the cornerstone of personal and societal development. It empowers individuals with knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for success in life. Education opens doors to better career opportunities and helps people make informed decisions about their lives. It promotes social equality by providing everyone with an equal chance to improve their circumstances regardless of their background. An educated society is more progressive, tolerant, and prosperous. Education not only teaches academic subjects but also instills important life values such as discipline, respect, honesty, and responsibility. It is the most effective tool for eradicating poverty, unemployment, and social evils. Every child deserves quality education to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to building a better world.

ANSWERS:

1. which / that

2. who / that

ANSWERS:

1. at

2. on

3. at / by

ANSWERS:

1. some / little

2. many / several / some

ANSWERS:

1. She said that she was going to school.

2. He said that he had finished his homework.

3. They said that they would come the next day.

ANSWERS:

1. We are taught English by the teacher. / English is taught to us by the teacher.

2. A letter was written by her.

3. The mouse was caught by the cat.

ANSWERS:

1. The children are playing in the garden.

2. This book is very interesting.

3. I get up early every morning.

ANSWERS:

1. goes

2. played

3. have been reading

ANSWERS:

1. but

2. or / otherwise

3. and

ANSWERS:

1. Where is she going?

2. Who broke the glass?

3. When will they come?

ANSWERS:

1. My brother lives in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

2. She said, "I am very happy."

3. What is your name?

ANSWERS:

1. Tommy found a real book, which was very old. It had stories printed on paper with yellow and crinkly pages, unlike the electronic books they were used to in their time.

2. The story was set on May 17, 2157, in the future.

3. According to Margie, it was funny to read words that stood still on paper instead of moving on a screen as they were supposed to in her time. The yellow and crinkly pages were also amusing to her.

4. In Margie's time, books were completely electronic and displayed on screens with moving words. They did not have physical pages to turn. In contrast, the old book had stories printed on paper with pages that could be turned. The words remained still on the paper, and the same words appeared when you turned back to previous pages. The concept of paper books with permanent, still words was completely foreign and fascinating to Margie and Tommy, as they had only known digital books throughout their lives.

ANSWER 1:

Margie felt better about her mechanical teacher when the County Inspector adjusted it to an easier level suited to her age and ability. She was relieved that the teacher would not be taken away completely and that her lessons would become simpler and more manageable.

ANSWER 2:

Kezia avoided her father because she was afraid of him. He appeared very strict and intimidating with his loud voice, big hands, and authoritative manner. His strict discipline and harsh behavior made her extremely nervous and uncomfortable in his presence, causing her to stay away from him.

ANSWER: (Option 1)

Tommy found the old paper book fascinating but also considered it wasteful and impractical from his futuristic perspective. He was initially curious about how books were printed on paper in the past and enjoyed showing it to Margie. However, he believed that electronic screens were far superior because they could store thousands of books without taking up physical space. Tommy thought it was silly and wasteful to throw away a book after reading it, which is what people used to do with paper books in earlier times. Despite his interest in the historical artifact, he clearly preferred the convenience and efficiency of modern electronic technology. His attitude reflected the advanced technological society he lived in, where printed books were considered completely obsolete and inefficient. Nevertheless, the discovery sparked genuine curiosity in him about how education and reading worked in earlier centuries.

ANSWER:

The Happy Prince teaches us that true happiness comes from helping others and showing compassion. Though he sacrificed his beauty and precious jewels to help the poor and suffering, he found real joy and contentment in alleviating their misery. His selfless acts demonstrate that material wealth and physical beauty mean nothing compared to kindness and humanity.

ANSWERS:

1. The diverging roads symbolize the choices we face in life. They represent different paths, decisions, or directions that a person must choose between. The roads stand for the various opportunities, careers, relationships, or life directions one can take. Each choice leads to different outcomes and experiences, and choosing one path means leaving another unexplored. The symbol emphasizes that life is full of choices, and every decision we make shapes our future and determines who we become.

2. The traveler was sorry because he could not travel both roads simultaneously. Being one person, he had to make a choice and consequently leave one path unexplored. This made him regretful and curious about what experiences and opportunities the other road might have offered him.

3. Diverged

ANSWER 1:

The central theme of "Wind" by Subramania Bharati is the importance of inner strength and resilience in facing life's challenges. The poet uses wind as a metaphor for difficulties and hardships in life. He suggests that we should make ourselves physically and mentally strong to face adversities rather than complaining about them. Just as weak structures are destroyed by strong winds while sturdy buildings remain intact, weak people crumble under difficulties while strong individuals overcome them successfully. The poem encourages us to befriend the wind, meaning we should embrace challenges and become stronger through them rather than running away from problems. It emphasizes that strength, determination, and courage are essential qualities for survival and success in life.

ANSWER 2:

In "Rain on the Roof," Coates Kinney describes rain as a soothing, comforting, and nostalgic presence. The rhythmic patter of raindrops on the roof tiles creates a peaceful and musical atmosphere. The sound is portrayed as gentle and melodious, bringing tranquility to the poet's mind. The rain evokes pleasant memories of the past, particularly of his mother, and creates a sense of deep nostalgia. The poet finds solace and emotional comfort in listening to the rain, which helps him reconnect with cherished memories. The rain is described as having an almost magical quality that can transport one's thoughts to happier times and provide relief from present worries.

ANSWER: (Option 1)

"The Lost Child" by Mulk Raj Anand beautifully illustrates the irreplaceable and incomparable nature of parental love. The story powerfully demonstrates that no material possession or worldly pleasure can substitute for the love, security, and comfort provided by parents.

At the beginning of the story, the child is attracted to various things at the village fair - colorful toys, sweet shops, balloons, flower garlands, and a carousel. He repeatedly asks his parents for these items, showing typical childish desires for material things. However, his parents keep refusing, and he continues following them obediently despite his desires.

The turning point comes when the child realizes he has lost his parents in the crowd. Suddenly, all those attractive things that seemed so important moments ago completely lose their appeal. When a kind stranger tries to console him by offering all the things he had wanted - toys, sweets, balloons, and even a ride on the carousel - the child refuses everything. He cries desperately for his parents, showing no interest in any of the attractions that had fascinated him earlier.

This story teaches us that parental love is the foundation of a child's emotional security and happiness. Parents represent safety, protection, and unconditional love that cannot be replaced by any amount of material wealth or entertainment. The child's frantic search for his parents, despite being offered everything he had earlier desired, demonstrates that emotional bonds and family relationships are infinitely more valuable than material possessions. The story reminds us to appreciate our parents and recognize that their presence and love are the most precious gifts we have in life.

ANSWER: (Option 2)

Oscar Wilde's "The Happy Prince" conveys a profound and moving message about the true meaning of happiness through selfless sacrifice and compassion for others. The story beautifully challenges our conventional understanding of happiness based solely on material wealth, physical beauty, and personal comfort.

Initially, the Happy Prince lived in a magnificent palace where he experienced all possible worldly pleasures and luxuries. However, he remained completely ignorant of the suffering and misery that existed beyond the palace walls. When he died and was transformed into a golden statue placed high above the city, he could see the entire town and witness the poverty, illness, and hardship faced by common people. This new perspective transformed his entire understanding of happiness and purpose.

The Prince discovered that true happiness does not come from possessing wealth or enjoying personal comforts, but from helping others and alleviating their suffering. He systematically gave away his gold leaf covering and precious jewels - his sapphire eyes and ruby sword - to help the poor, sick, and needy people of the city. Despite becoming shabby, dull, and ugly in appearance, he experienced genuine joy and deep contentment in serving others.

The little swallow, who initially planned to fly to Egypt for warmth and pleasure, also learned this valuable lesson. He sacrificed his journey to warmer lands and eventually his own life to help the Prince distribute his riches to the needy. The swallow discovered that serving others and showing compassion brought greater satisfaction than pursuing personal comfort and pleasure.

The story concludes with God recognizing the Prince and the swallow as the two most precious things in the city, validating their selfless actions with divine approval. This ending reinforces the message that true value lies not in material possessions or physical beauty, but in compassion, kindness, and sacrifice for others' welfare. The story teaches us that genuine happiness is found in giving rather than receiving, in helping others rather than accumulating wealth, and in showing compassion rather than remaining indifferent to others' suffering. It reminds us that material possessions are temporary and superficial, but the joy of serving humanity is eternal and spiritually fulfilling.