Sub. Code: 0041'C'
NEB-GRADE XII
2080 (2023)
Compulsory English
New Course
(For regular students only)
Candidates are required to give their answers in their own words as far as practicable. The figures in the margin indicate full marks.
Time: 3 hrs. Full Marks: 75
Attempt all questions
Group 'A'
1. Read the following text and complete the tasks that follow. [15]
Can you imagine a college without walls, professors or classrooms ? Educator Bunker Roy can. More than 40 years ago, Roy, now 69, founded the Barefoot college in Tilonia, Rajasthan. His school admits rural women, often grandmothers and teaches them the basics of solar engineering and freshwater technology. His efforts have yielded enormous benefits. When the women return to their homes, they are trained enough to provide their communities, some of the world's most lonely places, with electricity and clean water. They also gain something important: a new found self confidence. The Barefoot model has already been used to empower women throughout Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Last year, former president, Bill Clinton presented Roy with a Clinton Global Citizen Award, which honours leaders who are solving the world's problems in effective ways.
If you go all over the world, to very remote villages, you will often find only very old people and very young people. The men have already left. So, two ideas were put into practice in order to make the Barefoot model work. First, it was declared that men are untrainable, restless, always ready to move, ambitious, and they all want a certificate to show for their efforts. And the moment you give one of them a certificate, he leaves the village looking for a job in the city. That is how, the simple, practical solution of training grandmothers came up. They are sympathetic, tolerant, willing to learn, and patient. All the qualities you need are there. And the second idea was not to give out certificates. Because the moment a certificate is given, a woman, like a man, will see it as a passport for leaving rural areas and going to urban areas to find a job.
Barefoot college follows the lifestyle of Mahatma Gandhi; students eat, sleep and work on the floor. They can work for 20 years or they can go home the next day. As of today, 604 women solar engineers from 1083 villages in 63 countries have been trained. The engineers have given solar power to 45,000 houses. These were done by women who had never left their homes before. They hate the idea of leaving their families and getting on a plane. When they reach India, sometimes after 19 hours of travel, they are faced with strange food, strange people and strange language. All the training is done in sign language. Yet in six months, they will know more about solar engineering than most university graduates. Some women face problems at home for attending college. Most of the husbands do not like their wives going to these colleges and tell them not to come back if they do so. But, on her return when she is able to help, provide her village with solar electricity, her husband wants her to get back home. The respect she now has is enormous and she considers, herself no less than solar engineers. Bunker Roy dreams of providing the world's 47 least developed countries with Barefoot college trained grandmothers, and solar-electrify more than 1,00,000 houses.
A. Complete the following sentences using the words highlighted in the text. Two of those words are not necessary. [5×1= 5 ]
a. I could not understand what he is saying, Can you tell me which..... he is speaking?
Ø language
b. The children in my class always become ....... near the end of the lecture.
Ø restless
c. A group of volunteers ...... a club and started to raise funds to help the poor people.
Ø founded
d. On completion of the training, everyone will be awarded a .....
Ø certificate
e. I have no idea why she is behaving in a ... way today.
Ø strange
B. Read the text again and write
TRUE if the statement agrees with the information given in the text. FALSE if the statement contradicts the information given in the text. NOT GIVEN if there is no information in the text. [5×1=5]
a. Barefoot college was established forty years ago. False
b. According to the passage, Bunker Roy is sixty nine years old. True
c. Roy's father encouraged him to set up Barefoot college. Not Given
d. Barefoot college enrolled only grandmothers who are willing to leave their homes. False
e. Majority of the men from the remote villages moved to city in search of work. True
C. Read the text again and answer the following questions in ONE SENTENCE each. [5×1=5]
a. In what way do you think Barefoot college is different from other colleges?
Ans:- Barefoot college is different from other colleges because it doesn't have walls, professors, or classrooms and focuses on training rural women, particularly grandmothers, in solar engineering and freshwater technology.
b. How was Roy's work recognised?
Ans:- Roy's work was recognized when he received a Clinton Global Citizen Award from former president Bill Clinton.
c. Why does the author mention the word 'passport' in the second paragraph?
Ans:- The word 'passport' is mentioned in the second paragraph to highlight how a certificate from the college could be seen as a means for women, like men, to leave rural areas and seek job opportunities in urban areas.
d. Do you agree or disagree with the ideology of Bunker Roy? Why, why not? Give a reason.
Ans:- I agree with the ideology of Bunker Roy because empowering rural women, particularly grandmothers, with skills and knowledge to provide electricity and clean water to their communities is a practical and effective way to address the challenges faced by underdeveloped regions.
e. What is the main idea of the text?
Ans:- The main idea of the text is to highlight the success and impact of the Barefoot college founded by Bunker Roy, which trains rural women in solar engineering and freshwater technology, enabling them to bring electricity and clean water to their communities and gaining self-confidence in the process.
2. Write short answers to the following questions in about 75 words each. [5×2=10]
a) Describe the feeling of the young couple when they first arrived at a new place. (Neighbours)
Ans:- This short story "Neighbours," written by Austrian writer Tim Winton, explores the theme of false judgement and highlights the idea that human relationships transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. Upon arriving at a new place, the young couple initially had a negative attitude towards their neighbours due to their different languages, customs, behaviors, and hobbies. They were particularly bothered by the loud discussions of the Macedonian family living on their left and the elderly Polish widower on their right, who would often cause disturbances by pounding and nailing things without purpose. These two neighbors became their primary source of annoyance, creating a sense of embarrassment and irritation for the young couple.
OR
What is the significance of universal Declaration of Human Rights? (Human Rights and the age of Inequality)
Ans:- In this essay "Human Rights and the Age of Inequality," American writer Samuel Moyn addresses the significant disparity between the growing problem of inequality and the remedy provided by human rights, which he argues requires not a replacement but an additional solution. Moyn emphasizes the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a global guide for promoting freedom and equality, highlighting its role in safeguarding the rights of individuals worldwide. This landmark document represents the first-ever consensus among nations regarding the fundamental freedoms and rights that should be universally upheld, enabling individuals to live their lives freely, equally, and with dignity.
b) Differentiate between knowledge and wisdom. (Knowledge and Wisdom)
Ans:- The essay "Knowledge and Wisdom," written by British writer Bertrand Arthur William Russell, delves into the distinction between knowledge and wisdom, highlighting that these two aspects are not interchangeable. While knowledge refers to the acquisition of data and information, wisdom pertains to the practical application and utilization of knowledge to generate value. Knowledge can be obtained through various means such as study, research, and experience, while wisdom is cultivated through active learning and hands-on experiences rather than mere rote memorization. It guides us on how to effectively employ acquired knowledge for personal benefit or for the betterment of humanity. In this analogy, if knowledge represents the engine, wisdom serves as the driver, steering the direction and purpose of its utilization.
OR
Why is one not the centre of the world? Explain. (Humility)
Ans:- In this essay "Humility," Israeli writer Yuval Noah Harari explores the intricate history of human civilization, emphasizing the conflict that arises from the notion of being the center. Harari argues that the belief in being the center is not genuinely unique but rather a fabricated construct rooted in egotism and racism. He highlights that various groups consistently assert conflicting claims, leading to ongoing conflicts among human civilizations.
c) Briefly describe your impression of the Famous Actress. (A Matter of Husbands)
Ans:- The immensely talented Famous Actress in this play exhibits remarkable skill in manipulating her opinions, showcasing a cleverness that complements her beauty and youth. As a skilled theater actress, she captivates audiences with her impressive acting abilities. Despite her innocent outward appearance, her inner nature reveals a deceitful and wicked character. In this play, she becomes the subject of suspicion and accusation by the Earnest Young Woman. However, through her skillful speech and persuasive reasoning, she adeptly defends herself and convinces the Earnest Young Woman otherwise. Her cunning and deceptive storytelling techniques aim to prevent the woman from believing that her husband is involved in an affair. Unveiling the true extent of her immorality, the story concludes with the revelation that Alfred, the husband of the Earnest Young Woman, was actually in the Famous Actress's house, further adding to the complexity of the character.
d) Do you think that Mrs. Baroda, towards the end of the story, really wanted to invite Mr. Gouvernail back to her home? Give your reasons. (A Respectable Woman)
Ans:- Yes, I think that Mrs. Baroda, towards the end of the story, it becomes clear that Mrs. Baroda possessed a genuine desire to extend an invitation for Mr. Gouvernail to return to her home, leaving her expression at the end filled with puzzlement. Mr. Gaston, her husband, was taken aback by the unexpected display from his wife. Expressing her triumph over any obstacles, she expressed her intention to treat Mr. Gouvernail kindly during his next visit. Despite the confusion caused by her unusual and delightfully toned statement, my belief is that she genuinely desired to invite him back to her home and warmly accommodate him.
e) Explain the following lines from the poem Every Morning I Wake with reference to the context.
We are not wholly bad or good
Who lives our live under Milk Wood,
And Thou, I know, wilt be the first
To see our best side, not our worst.
Ans:- This stanza has been taken from Robert Burn’s poem "Every Morning I Wake," this stanza explores the speaker's belief in the divine's profound judgment. The stanza emphasizes the omniscience of God, who possesses perfect knowledge of His children. The speaker acknowledges that the inhabitants of Milk Wood, symbolizing humanity, are not entirely good or bad. Each individual bears unique qualities and mentalities, encompassing both positive and negative attributes. However, the speaker maintains unwavering faith in God's discernment, as He is the first to recognize and embrace the best aspects of His children while overlooking their flaws. This stanza centers on the almighty's judgment, which exudes positivity and works in favor of all individuals across the globe.
3. Write long answers to the following questions in about 150 words each. [2×5=10]
a) Explain the following lines from the poem 'Soft Storm' with reference to the context.
I become soft
When I saw a blood-stained shirt
speaking in the earth's ears
with bruised human lips
in the far corner
under the moon
of history and dreams
playing hide and seek
in open museums
of human times.
Ans:- This stanza has been taken from Abhi Subedi's poem "Soft Storm," this stanza showcases the poet's compassionate reflection on the absurdities witnessed during tumultuous eras. Through keen observation and analysis, the main speaker contemplates an inhumane act. In this particular stanza, the speaker's sensitivity resurfaces upon encountering a blood-stained shirt, symbolizing a wounded individual, within this lawless and barbaric land illuminated by the moon in a distant corner. The wounded man, with bruised lips, desperately cries out for help, but his pleas go unheard. Pain-stricken, he beseeches assistance, yet the people around him exhibit profound indifference. In this moonlit land, which holds historical and dreamlike significance, humanity seems conspicuously absent. The inhabitants are superficial, leading self-centered lives, devoid of empathy. They engage in a facade of existence, playing a game of hide and seek within these open museums representing different human experiences. While referred to as human times, the essence of humanity remains absent, as everyone dons a counterfeit mask of compassion in their so-called lives.
OR
Do you think the relationships of childhood are innocent, impartial and disinterested? Why, why not? Give reasons based on the story 'My Old Home'.
Ans:- This story effectively reinforces the belief that childhood relationships are characterized by innocence, impartiality, and selflessness. Through the portrayal of Xun and Runtu's friendship, the narrative exemplifies this notion. Regardless of social barriers, their bond transcends societal expectations. During their childhood, they engage in carefree play and exchange ideas, untouched by biases. Their friendship remains untainted by class differences, as they interact without any sense of hierarchy. Unaware of societal constructs, they embody true companionship, devoid of partiality. The text demonstrates that childhood friendships often exhibit similar traits, where deep connections form between children. Such friendships exist in a realm untouched by societal negativity, such as class divisions, prejudices, or discrimination. Rooted in joy, care, love, and affection, childhood friendships epitomize purity and serve as a stark contrast to the complexities of adult relationships.
b) Do you think money is the chief determinant of maintaining relationship between characters in the play 'Facing Death' ? Why, why not? Give reasons to support your answer.
Ans:- In the play "Facing Death," money plays a pivotal role in the lives of Mr. Durand and his daughters, exerting a profound influence on their relationships and overall well-being. Money emerges as the primary source of conflict and hardship within the drama, driving the narrative forward. The economic struggles faced by Mr. Durand's family thrust them into a life of misery, devoid of essential necessities. The play portrays the family's profound suffering, particularly through their constant hunger and inability to afford bread. Mr. Durand, in his desperation, endures prolonged periods of hunger and is even depicted resorting to consuming rat bait for sustenance. The dire financial circumstances prevent Mr. Durand from fulfilling his daughters' basic needs, exacerbating tensions within the family.
As a result of the ongoing economic crisis, the relationship between Mr. Durand and Mrs. Durand deteriorates, strained by their struggle to retain their wealth. The daughters, resentful of their father's inability to provide for the family, harbor a deep dislike for him. Their attitude towards him is marked by rudeness and a lack of compassion. They withhold even a glass of milk when their father is unable to bring bread, snatching it away from him and even depriving him of matches when he goes to smoke. However, a significant shift occurs in their behavior when their father expresses the possibility of acquiring money. Suddenly, they exhibit kindness, love, and remorse for their previous mistreatment. They even go as far as apologizing for their rude behavior and expressing affection towards their father.
The play vividly demonstrates the power of money in shaping the dynamics between characters. It reveals how the absence or presence of wealth can fundamentally alter relationships, causing deep divisions and fluctuations in behavior. The daughters' treatment of their father is directly tied to his financial capabilities, reflecting the unfortunate reality that money often becomes the determining factor in familial bonds. The play serves as a poignant commentary on the impact of economic crises on individuals and the profound influence of monetary resources on interpersonal dynamics.
4. Write a news story in approximately 150 words that is to be published in The Rising Nepal about a senior social worker's visit in your college/school.
Ans:
Senior Social Worker Inspires Students During Visit to Local College
Kathmandu, 7th May 2023 - The students of Kuleshwor Secondary School (KMV) were honored to host a distinguished guest, the former Chief of Bagmati Province and senior social worker, during her recent visit to the campus. The renowned philanthropist, known for her tireless efforts in empowering women and protecting them from domestic violence and trafficking, shared her wisdom and experiences with the enthusiastic audience.
During her motivational speech, she captivated the students with inspiring stories of her work and the impact it has made on countless lives. She emphasized the importance of education as a powerful tool for transforming society and urged the students to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits.
In an interactive session, the students had the opportunity to ask questions and seek guidance from her past. Her thoughtful responses and practical advice left a lasting impression on the young minds, igniting a sense of responsibility towards social causes and a desire to contribute to their communities.
The senior social worker's visit served as a catalyst for positive change within the college. Inspired by her words, the students have already initiated plans to collaborate on social welfare projects and volunteer activities.
Principal SK Nepal, expressed his gratitude for the visit, stating, "We are privileged to have had Anuradha Koirala enlighten our students with her invaluable insights. Her visit has ignited a spark within them, inspiring them to become compassionate leaders and change-makers." This visit has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the students of Kuleshwor Secondary School, who now strive to follow in her footsteps and make a difference in society.
5. Your school has recently opened a vacancy for different positions. Write a job application with your complete CV that is to be mailed to your school. (State your age, qualifications, experience, hobby etc, but do not write your school's name).
Kathmandu-13, Kalimati 7th May, 2023
Nepal
To the Principal,
Janaprabhat Secondary School,
Kalimati, Kathmandu.
Subject: Application for the secondary level teacher vacancy
Sir,
I am writing to apply for the position of Secondary Level English Teacher in your school. With a deep passion for teaching and a strong command of the English language, I am confident in my ability to create an engaging and effective learning environment for students.
I am 28 years old and hold a Bachelor's degree in English Literature from Tribhuvan University. Additionally, I have completed a teaching certification program, which has provided me with comprehensive knowledge of pedagogical methods and instructional strategies. My educational background has equipped me with a solid foundation in literature, grammar, and language acquisition.
I have 6 years of experience teaching English at the Secondary Level. I have had the privilege of teaching a diverse range of students with varying levels of proficiency, allowing me to develop effective teaching approaches to meet individual needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully designed and implemented engaging lesson plans, facilitated classroom discussions, and provided constructive feedback to enhance students' language skills.
Apart from my qualifications and experience, I am an avid reader and writer, and I actively participate in writing workshops and literary discussions. This passion for literature and language not only fuels my personal growth but also enables me to inspire a love for English among my students. I believe in creating a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication.
Enclosed is my curriculum vitae, which provides detailed information about my educational background, teaching experience, professional development, and references. I am confident that my skills, dedication, and passion for teaching make me an ideal candidate for the Secondary Level English Teacher vacancy at your school.
Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the academic and personal growth of students at your institution.
I look forward to the possibility of an interview to discuss how my skills and teaching philosophy align with the vision of your school.
Yours sincerely,
Durga Gurung
Curriculum Vitae
Name : Durga Gurung
Date of Birth : 14/Feb/1992
Age : 30
Address : Chandragiri-12, Kathmandu
Nationality : Nepali
Gender : Female
Religion : Hindu
Academic Qualification : Bachleor’s Degree from Tribhuvan
University in the year of 2016
Experience : 6 years of teaching experience at Secondary Level
Hobby : Travelling, Reading and Writing literature
Contact No : 9800000000
6. Write an essay in about 300 words about the advantages of virtual class. [10]
Ans:- Advantages of Virtual Class
In recent years, virtual classes have emerged as a popular mode of education, offering numerous advantages over traditional classroom settings. With advancements in technology and the rise of online learning platforms, virtual classes have become an accessible and effective means of education.
Here are some key advantages of virtual classes:
1. Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of virtual classes is the flexibility they offer. Students can access course materials and participate in lessons from anywhere, at any time. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals with busy schedules, such as working professionals or students with other commitments. It allows them to balance their academic pursuits with their personal and professional responsibilities.
2. Access to a Wide Range of Courses: Virtual classes provide access to a diverse range of courses, often taught by experts in their respective fields. Students can choose from a wide array of subjects, including niche topics that may not be readily available in traditional educational institutions. This allows learners to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals, enhancing their overall learning experience.
3. Enhanced Collaboration and Interaction: Virtual classes often incorporate interactive tools and discussion forums that foster collaboration and engagement among students. Through online platforms, learners can participate in group projects, engage in meaningful discussions, and share ideas with classmates from diverse backgrounds. This collaborative learning environment not only promotes teamwork but also encourages the development of critical thinking and communication skills.
4. Personalized Learning Experience: Virtual classes allow for personalized learning experiences. Students can progress at their own pace, reviewing concepts as needed and focusing on areas where they require additional practice. This individualized approach to education ensures that each student's unique learning needs are met, promoting a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
5. Cost and Time Savings: Virtual classes often eliminate the need for commuting and physical classroom infrastructure, resulting in cost and time savings for both students and educational institutions. Students can save on transportation expenses, accommodation costs, and other associated fees, while educational institutions can reach a wider audience without the constraints of physical space.
Conclusion, virtual classes offer numerous advantages that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of learners. The flexibility, access to diverse courses, enhanced collaboration, personalized learning experience, and cost and time savings make virtual classes an attractive option for those seeking quality education. As technology continues to advance, virtual classes will likely play an increasingly significant role in shaping the future of education.
7. Do as indicated in the brackets and rewrite the sentences. [10]
a) The little girl danced really ........ in the annual programme of the school. (Complete the sentence with an appropriate adverb.)
Ø nicely
b) One of the boys ...... still working on the project assigned by the teacher. (Put the correct 'be' verb in the space)
Ø is
c) The street had a nasty jam. There …… (might/must/could/would) have been a demonstration of some political parties. (Put the most appropriate modal auxiliary verb.)
Ø might
d) I do not, in fact, know who she is staring suitable preposition in the space.) (on/in/at/with). (Put a suitable preposition in the space)
Ø at
e) I am not sure of why she was so upset and distracted that day. She ..... by her past memories. (Use the appropriate form of the verb 'overcome'.)
Ø had been overcome
f) Students generally dislike........... (giving/given/to be given/being given) strict instructions by the administration. (Choose the correct option.)
Ø being given
g) It is almost impossible for one to succeed.......... one works hard. (Put a correct conjunction in the space.)
Ø but
h) They saw a man in the river, (who/whose/whom/that) would be an inspiration for them to know how struggle pays in life. (Choose the appropriate relative pronoun.)
Ø who
i) No pone loves people teasing them in the public. (Change into passive voice.)
Ø No one loves being teased in the public.
j) "I didn't catch you. Is it 50 or 80 ?" the customer said. (Change into indirect speech.)
Ø The customer asked if it was 50 or 80.
8. Choose and copy the correct alternatives. (5×1=5)
a) Which one of the following words has a different final sound ?
(i) rough (ii) tough (iii) though (iv) calf
Ø though
b) I got a beautiful present in my birthday. The word 'present' in this sentence is...................
(i) an adjective (ii) an adverb (iii) a verb (iv) a noun
Ø a noun
c) Which one of the following words has a prefix ?
i) unity (ii) under (iii) union (iv) unfair
Ø unfair
d) Which one of the following words comes between 'bore' and 'brace' in the dictionary entry?
i) border (ii) bracelet (iii) box iv) boost
Ø box
e) Nothing can..................for the loss of a child. Which of the following phrasal verbs completes this sentence ?
i) make up (ii) make over (iii) make off (iv) make into
Ø make up
The End.
 | Question Paper with Solution){kind=link}
0 Comments