Practice Paper – 1
Time Allowed: 3 Hours | Maximum Marks: 80
SECTION A – READING (20 Marks)
Q1. Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow: (10 Marks)
High altitude climbing is still a very dangerous task in spite of the availability of oxygen masks and other protective equipment, which modern climbers take with them. These, of course, are indispensable accessories of climbing, but more important than these is the stamina of the climber, which ultimately determines the success of his attempt. Throughout his journey, death is his constant companion, which he can keep at a distance only with his superb presence of mind.
He has to tread every inch of the ground with utmost care, for a false step may not only strike him a fatal blow, but also bring disaster to the whole expedition. That is why all expeditions invariably take with them local guides who are experienced climbers and who have a thorough knowledge of the nature of the terrain. Moreover, a huge amount of capital is needed for financing these expeditions, and this is generally provided by governments or rich private organizations.
The primary object of a mountaineering expedition is to get to the top of a high mountain, which, in the past has withstood all attempts to conquer it. But it should not be presumed that the expedition is a complete failure if it does not reach its destination. Sometimes operations are temporarily suspended because of bad weather, loss of some valuable equipment or the sudden death of a very important member of the party.
Every big expedition takes with it men who are interested in botany, biology, geology and various other branches of science, and these men carry with them equipment for recording their observations concerning the weather, the terrain, and different forms of life in higher altitudes. Other scientists, explorers and expeditionists utilize the fruits of their observations. Thus, every unsuccessful expedition contributes to the success of later expeditions.
The British Expedition led by Colonel Hunt would have found their way to Everest much more difficult had not earlier expeditions armed them with useful knowledge about the death dealing weather which they had to encounter in the vicinity of the summit.
To ordinary people, mountaineering need not be a fearful journey in the land of snowstorms, where the brave adventurer is always face to face with death. They can scale less ambitious heights, rest their weary limbs under a quiet shelter and feast their eyes in the distant landscape. In the company of friends, they can enjoy an outing near a waterfall or cross into the next valley with haversacks full of provisions dangling from their shoulders. All those who can afford to go to hill station should seek this innocent pleasure, for it can be had without any risk to life or limb.
Questions:
I. What determines the success of climbers, according to the passage? (1)
II. List two indispensable accessories mentioned for climbers. (1)
III. Why are local guides essential for expeditions? Support with a reason from the text. (2)
IV. How does an unsuccessful expedition contribute to later successes? (2)
V. What does the phrase “death is his constant companion” imply about high-altitude climbing?
A) Climbers are immortal.
B) The risk of mortality is ever-present.
C) Death is avoidable with equipment.
D) Fear is unnecessary. (1)
VI. (True/False) Ordinary people can enjoy mountaineering without significant risks. (1)
VII. Identify the synonym of “indispensable” from the passage. (1)
VIII. Find the antonym of “temporarily” from the passage. (1)
Q2. Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow: (10 Marks)
Remaining focused in studies during student life is crucial for better knowledge and performance. With numerous distractions in today’s world, students need effective strategies to maintain their concentration. One of the primary ways to stay focused is to create a structured study schedule. By allocating specific time slots for studying, students can develop a routine that reduces procrastination and enhances productivity.
Another important strategy is to create a conducive study environment. This involves choosing a quiet, well-lit place free from distractions such as television, social media, and noisy surroundings. Additionally, keeping study materials organized and within reach can help students stay on track.
Taking regular breaks is also essential. Studies have shown that short breaks during study sessions can boost focus and memory retention. Techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break, can be particularly effective.
Staying healthy by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, and exercising regularly can also improve concentration. Physical health has a direct impact on cognitive functions, making it easier to stay focused and absorb information.
Lastly, setting clear and achievable goals can motivate students to stay committed to their studies. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable ones can make studying less overwhelming and more rewarding.
Questions:
I. Which strategy is recommended to reduce procrastination?
A) Skipping meals
B) Structured study schedule
C) Watching TV
D) Social media (1)
II. How does a conducive study environment enhance focus? (1)
III. Explain the Pomodoro Technique in your own words. (2)
IV. (True/False) Physical health has no impact on cognitive functions. (1)
V. Which activity is NOT suggested for improving concentration?
A) Exercising
B) Eating nutritious food
C) Skipping meals
D) Sleeping adequately (1)
VI. Identify a synonym for “procrastination” from the passage. (1)
VII. How do achievable goals help students? (1)
VIII. Mention two ways in which physical health supports focus. (2)
SECTION B – WRITING & GRAMMAR (30 Marks)
Q3. Complete ANY TEN of the following tasks: (10 × 1 = 10 Marks)
- Convert to passive voice: “The chef cooked a delicious meal.”
- Report the speech: She said, “I will visit the museum tomorrow.”
- Fill in the blank with a modal verb: “You ________ finish homework before playing.”
- Correct the error: “She don’t like soccer.” → Error: ____; Correction: ____.
- Use the correct determiner: ” of my friends are coming.”
- Change to active voice: “The book was written by the author.”
- Correct the sentence: “He is more smarter than his brother.”
- Convert to passive voice: “They are building a bridge.”
- Fill in the blank with the verb form: “By the time we arrived, the movie ________ (start).”
- Report the question: “Where have you been?” he asked.
Q4. Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 120–150 words: (8 Marks)
A. You are Rohan/Rohini Sharma, a resident of Green Valley Society, Pune. Write a letter to the Municipal Commissioner of Pune City, highlighting the problem of irregular garbage collection in your area.
OR
B. You are Priya/Piyush Verma, Head Girl/Head Boy of Sunshine Public School, Jaipur. Write a letter to the Principal requesting the installation of solar panels on the school rooftop.
Q5. Attempt ANY ONE of the following in 120–150 words: (10 Marks)
A. Write an analytical paragraph about the Reusable Cloth Mask (using given points).
- Made from organic cotton and biodegradable materials
- Adjustable ear loops and nose wire for comfort
- Three-layer filtration for protection
- Available in multiple sizes (adult, child) and vibrant designs
- Washable and reusable up to 50 times
Analyse why this cloth mask would be an effective choice for schools. Consider factors like environmental impact, affordability, safety, and student-friendly design.
OR
B. Write an analysis of the Proposed Community Library (using given features).
- Dedicated children’s section with storytelling zones
- Digital kiosks for online research and e-books
- Quiet study rooms and free Wi-Fi
- Wheelchair ramps and Braille books for inclusivity
- Solar-powered lighting and rainwater harvesting
Analyse the suitability of this library for your community. Focus on accessibility, technological integration, sustainability, and its role in promoting literacy.
SECTION C – LITERATURE (30 Marks)
Q6. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (6 Marks)
“It’s true, sir, you can trust me. But to be frank, no one else has ever trusted me. But I will earn it, sir. I will learn to write, sir, and I will work for it.”
(The Thief’s Story, Footprints Without Feet)
- Who speaks these lines and to whom? (1)
- What was the speaker’s weakness mentioned earlier? (1)
- How had the listener shown trust in the speaker? (2)
- What change is reflected in the speaker by these words? (2)
Q7. Answer ANY TWO of the following in about 30–40 words each: (2 × 3 = 6 Marks)
A. How did Valli show her enthusiasm and maturity in Madam Rides the Bus?
B. What is the irony of the title The Necklace by Guy de Maupassant?
C. In the poem Animals, how does the poet contrast human and animal behaviour?
Q8. Answer ANY ONE of the following in 100–120 words: (8 Marks)
A. In Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, what obligations does Mandela highlight as duties of every man? Was he able to fulfil them?
OR
B. “Griffin’s misuse of scientific discovery in Footprints without Feet makes him a lawless wanderer.” Elaborate with examples from the text.
Q9. Answer ANY ONE of the following in 100–120 words: (10 Marks)
A. How does Anne Frank’s diary inspire hope and optimism even in difficult times? (The Diary of a Young Girl)
OR
B. The play The Proposal is a satirical exposure of petty human quarrels and greed. Examine with reference to the characters.