CBSE 12th English Core Sample Paper 04 Page 1

Sample Paper 04
English core (301)
Class-XII Exam 2025-26
Time Allowed : 3 Hrs. Maximum Marks : 80
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions very carefully and follow them :
i. This question paper has 13 questions. All questions are compulsory.
ii This question paper contains three sections :
Section A : Reading Skills
Section B : Creative Writing Skills
Section C : Literature.
iii. Attempt all questions based on specific instructions for each part. Write the correct
question number and part thereof in your answer sheet.
iv Seperate instructions are given with each question/part, wherever necessary.
v. Adhere to the prescribed word limit while answering the questions.

SECTION A - READING SKILLS 22

1. Read the following passage. 12
1. The Himalayas, the world’s tallest mountain range, stretch across northern India and
serve as a natural barrier between the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia. These tow-
ering peaks, some rising above 8,000 meters, include Mount Everest, the highest point
on Earth. The Himalayas are home to diverse ecosystems, from snow-covered summits
to dense forests in the lower regions. The variation in altitude results in a wide range of
climates and habitats, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endangered
species like the snow leopard and the red panda.
2. The people living in the Himalayan region have adapted to its rugged terrain and harsh
climatic conditions. Most rely on agriculture, though the short growing season at high
altitudes limits the crops they can cultivate. Terrace farming is commonly practiced to
make the most of the limited arable land. In addition, many communities depend on
livestock, and some have turned to tourism, offering trekking and mountaineering ser-
vices to adventurers from around the world.
3. The monsoon rains are crucial for life in the Himalayas, though they also bring risks.
The heavy rainfall during the monsoon season replenishes the rivers that flow from the
mountains, providing water for agriculture and daily needs. However, the rains can also
cause landslides and floods, devastating villages and infrastructure. The local population
has developed early warning systems and adapted their building methods to mitigate
these risks, but the unpredictable nature of the monsoon remains a challenge.
4. The Himalayan glaciers are a critical source of freshwater, not only for the people of the
region but for millions across South Asia. These glaciers feed the major rivers, including
the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra. However, climate change poses a serious threat to
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the glaciers, which are melting at an alarming rate. If this trend continues, it could lead
to water shortages and increased flooding downstream. Efforts are being made to study
and protect the glaciers, but the magnitude of the problem requires global cooperation.
5. For those who visit the Himalayas, the experience is one of awe and inspiration. The
sheer scale of the mountains, the crisp, thin air, and the breathtaking views make the
Himalayas one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Himalayas are also a spiritual haven, attracting pilgrims
to its sacred sites, which are often located in remote, hard-to-reach areas.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.

i. According to paragraph 1, how does the variation in altitude affect the ecosystems of the
Himalayas? 1

ii. How does the author describe the relationship between the people of the Himalayas and
their environment, as mentioned in paragraph 2? 1

iii. Read and complete the following sentence suitably. 1

The phrase “terrace farming” in paragraph 2 refers to the agricultural practice of creat-
ing steps on the slopes of hills to grow crops.
Choose the correct response from the two options to complete the sentence.
Terrace farming is essential in the Himalayas because _____.
(A) it prevents soil erosion and makes arable land available on the steep slopes
(B) it allows the cultivation of a wide variety of crops

iv. Complete the following with ONE example, with reference to paragraph 3 : 1
The monsoon season in the Himalayas brings _____.

v. Why does the writer emphasize the importance of the glaciers in paragraph 4? 1
Because
(A) They provide a habitat for endangered species.
(B) They are a major source of freshwater for the region and beyond.
(C) They help control the climate of the region.
(D) They are popular tourist attractions.

vi. Provide ONE textual evidence with reference to paragraph 4, to support the following : 1
Climate change is seriously affecting the Himalayan glaciers.

vii. In the line, ‘The sheer scale of the mountains’ (Paragraph 5), what does the phrase
‘sheer scale’ suggest about the Himalayas? 2

viii. Complete the analogy with ONE word from paragraph 1 : 1

snow leopard: fauna :: dense forests: _____
(A) land (B) climate
(C) flora (D) altitude
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ix. Why is it fair to say that the statement ‘the Himalayas are also a spiritual haven’ in
paragraph 5 uses descriptive language? 1
(A) It highlights the cultural significance of the Himalayas.
(B) It explains how the Himalayas are a popular adventure destination.
(C) It describes the physical challenges of reaching sacred sites.
(D) It focuses on the importance of spirituality in the region.
x. Assess the potential challenges or benefits of balancing conservation efforts with the
needs of the local communities, as suggested in paragraph 4. 2

2. Read the following carefully. 10

1. Global literacy rates have improved significantly over the past few decades, with
the global average currently at 86%. However, disparities still exist between regions,
especially in developing countries where the literacy rate averages 73%. In contrast,
developed countries boast a 99% literacy rate. This case study explores the literacy rates
across various regions and the factors contributing to these differences.
2. Data was collected from UNESCO and other international education reports to analyze
global literacy rates among individuals aged 15 and above. In developing countries, the
gender disparity in literacy rates is notable, with 80% of males being literate compared
to 70% of females. Factors such as education access, government investment, and rural-
urban divides were considered in understanding their impact on literacy levels.
3. The survey examined the literacy gap between rural and urban populations. In developing
countries, rural areas have a literacy rate of 60%, significantly lower than the 85% rate
in urban regions. The reasons behind low literacy rates in rural areas were primarily
due to poverty and lack of infrastructure. Social inequality also plays a major role, with
females in rural areas disproportionately affected.
4. The results of the survey highlighted significant disparities between regions. In developing
countries, 73% literacy was observed, while developed countries maintained an impressive
99% rate. Gender disparity continues to be a pressing issue, particularly in developing
regions, with 80% of males literate compared to 70% of females. The rural literacy rate,
at 60%, lags significantly behind urban areas, where it stands at 85%.
5. The data shows that, despite global improvements, literacy efforts need to focus
on marginalized communities in developing countries. Government investment in
infrastructure and education, particularly in rural regions, is crucial. Scholarships for
girls, teacher training, and school-building initiatives in rural areas can raise literacy
rates, particularly in areas where gender and geographic disparities persist.
6. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions in developing regions to
improve global literacy. Reducing the literacy gap, especially in rural and marginalized
communities, could increase overall global literacy beyond the current 86% average, and
significantly boost development and social equity in those regions.
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Answer the following questions, based on given passage.

i. Complete the following suitably. 1

In the introduction, the researcher links global literacy rates with educational policy to
highlight _____.

ii. What would the following be classified as? 1

To explore the factors contributing to literacy rate disparities between developed and
developing countries.
Select the appropriate response.
(A) Research outcome (B) Secondary objective
(C) Method of analysis (D) Primary objective

iii. Give two points to support why gender disparity was included as a focus in the study on
literacy rates. 2

iv. Paragraph 3 includes words – ‘poverty’ and ‘social inequality.’ 1

Classify the following sentences as ‘poverty’ or ‘social inequality’:
Sentence 1: Lack of funds to build schools in rural areas affects literacy rates.
Sentence 2: Girls in developing countries are often denied education due to cultural
norms.

v. Read the following : 1

Ravi lives in a rural area in a developing country, where the literacy rate is 60%. His
sister, Priya, faces additional barriers due to gender disparity, as only 70% of females in
their country are literate.
Select the option that identifies the correct factors affecting Ravi and Priya’s literacy
rates.
(A) Geographic disparity and gender disparity
(B) Poverty and access to technology
(C) Urbanization and economic development
(D) Government investment and cultural norms

vi. Although rural and urban areas both show significant differences in literacy rates, why
is the literacy rate in rural areas much lower? 1

vii. Analyse how targeted interventions in rural areas and among females can significantly
improve literacy rates in developing regions. 2

viii. What is the ultimate goal for stakeholders, based on the insights from the study? 1
(A) Increase government spending on technology
(B) Close the literacy gap between developed and developing countries
(C) Promote literacy only in urban areas
(D) Focus on higher education programs exclusively
CBSE 12th English Core Sample Paper 04 Page 5

SECTION B - CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS 18

All the names and addresses used in the questions are fictitious. Resemblance, if any,
is purely coincidental.
3. Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B), in about 50 words. 1#4 = 4
A. You, as the School Secretary of the Social Service Club, have to write a notice to be put
up on the school noticeboard regarding the need to raise funds for lepers in your city.
Funds collected will be sent to the Red Cross, New Delhi. Each donor will be issued a
formal receipt for the donation. The Red Cross will award a Red Cross to the donor
donating more than `500.


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B. You are Jairam Reddy, the Head of the English Club. On the occasion of the International
Day of English Language, your school has decided to organize English Week. You are
required to call a meeting of the officer bearers of the English Language Club to plan
arrangements for the event. Draft a notice for the same.

4. Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B), in about 50 words. 1#4 = 4
A. Your parents have completed 25 years of happy married life. Invite your uncle, living in
Surat, to join you in the silver jubilee celebrations of their marriage at your residence
C-4/Sector 9, Kumar Enclave, Sagar.


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B. You are Sunil/Sunita Bhasin, a celebrated illustrator. You have been invited by the literacy
club, S.K. School, Jaipur, to deliver a lecture on ‘Life Skills’. Draft a letter of formal
acceptance of the invitation in about 50 words. Address it to the Director of the school.

5. Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B), in 120-150 words. 1#5 = 5
A. You are Anushka/Amit staying at A-23/1, Ashok Nagar, Delhi. You find it disturbing
that despite a ban on smoking in public places, people are seen smoking in cities. It
shows a lack of civic sense in the people. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily
expressing your concern about indifference of people to their own as well as others’
health. It is harmful to the environment too. Suggest some ways to sensitize city dwellers
about the safe environment.


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B. You see a classified advertisement in a leading daily inviting application for the post
of an accountant. Write a letter along with resume in 120-150 words to the Manager,
Rockfield Pvt. Ltd., Bhopal, offering your candidature.
You are Raman Mehta/Reshma Mehta.

6. Attempt ANY ONE of the two, (A) or (B) in 120-150 words. 1#5 = 5
A. You are Priya/ Piyush. You find illiteracy as the biggest impediment to the development
of a nation. You strongly believe that education can play a very important role in the
progress of a country. Write an article in 120-150 words on ‘Education—The Biggest
Tool of Progress’.
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B. Vidya Bhawan Senior Secondary School, Noida, recently organised a 3-day environment
awareness camp for the students to be prefects/monitors. Write a report about the same
in 120-150 words for the school magazine.

SECTION C- LITERATURE 40

7. Read the following extracts and solve ANY ONE of the given two, (A) or (B). 1 # 6 = 6
A. Aunt Jennifer’s tigers prance across a screen.
Bright topaz denizens of a world of green.
They do not fear the men beneath the tree;
They pace in sleek chivalric certainty.
Aunt Jennifer’s fingers fluttering through her wool
Find even the ivory needle hard to pull.
The massive weight of Uncle’s wedding band
Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer’s hand.
(Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers)
i. What is the tone of the poet in the given lines?
(A) Sarcastic and tolerant (B) Sympathetic
(C) Wondrous (D) None of these

ii. Select the phrase that suggests the following :

The tigers are fearless, graceful and beautiful.
iii. Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.
Qualities of Aunt Jennifer that can be inferred from the given lines are meek and
_____ (artistic/timid).
iv. Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract.
Assertion : Aunt Jennifer’s tigers symbolize confidence and freedom, in contrast to her
own life, which is weighed down by struggles.
Reason : The tigers prance fearlessly, while Aunt Jennifer’s fingers struggle to pull the
needle due to the burden of her marriage, represented by Uncle’s heavy wedding band.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship:
(A) Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation
of the assertion.
(B) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct
explanation of the assertion.
(C) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(D) The assertion is false, but the reason is true.
v. What do Aunt Jennifer’s tigers not fear?
vi. Complete the following suitably.
‘Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer’s hand’ implies that Aunt Jennifer was _____.
CBSE 12th English Core Sample Paper 04 Page 7

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B. For once on the face of the Earth
let’s not speak in any language,
let’s stop for one second,
and not move our arms so much.
It would be an exotic moment
without rush, without engines,
we would all be together
in a sudden strangeness.
(Keeping Quiet)
i. Why does the poet use the word ‘let’s’ ?
ii. Why is there a reference to language in the given extract?
(A) To mention propaganda (B) To mention miscommunication
(C) To mention verbal violence (D) Both (A) and (C)
iii. Why do you think the poet employs words like ‘exotic’ and ‘strangeness’ ?
iv. Read the assertion and the reason below, with reference to the given extract.
Assertion : The poet advocates for a moment of global stillness and silence to experience
unity and peace.
Reason : By pausing all activity and refraining from speaking, people would experience
a shared moment of “sudden strangeness” that could bring them closer together.
Choose the correct option regarding their relationship:
(A) Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation
of the assertion.
(B) Both the assertion and the reason are true, but the reason is not the correct
explanation of the assertion.
(C) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(D) The assertion is false, but the reason is true.
v. Select the correct option from those given in brackets, to fill in the blank.
The poet is propagating the need for peace and _____ (brotherhood/childhood).
vi. Complete the following suitably.
By ‘arms’, we mean _____.
8. Read the following extracts and solve ANY ONE of the given two, (A) or (B). 4 # 1 = 4
A. DERRY : Things.
MR LAMB : It’s all relative. Beauty and the beast.
DERRY : What’s that supposed to mean?
MR LAMB : You tell me.
DERRY : You needn’t think they haven’t all told me that fair), story before. ‘It’s not
what you look like, it’s what you are inside. Handsome is as handsome does. Beauty
loved the monstrous beast for himself and when she kissed him, he changed into a hand-
some prince.’ Only he wouldn’t, he’d have stayed a monstrous beast. I won’t change.
MR LAMB : In that way? No, you won’t.
(On the Face of It)
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i. What is the playwright’s purpose of using contractions in the extract?

ii. What is Derry’s attitude towards other people?.
(A) This is his acid was hurting him more than his optimism.
(B) This is his optimism was hurting him more than acid.
(C) This is his pessimism was hurting him more than acid.
(D) This is his acid was hurting him more than his pessimism.
iii. The phrase ‘handsome is as handsome does’ means that _____.
iv. Give one reason why does the narrator use various symbols and imageries borrowed from
nature.


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B. Students on Ice, the programme I was working with on the Shokalskiy, aims to do exactly
this by taking high school students to the ends of the world and providing them with
inspiring educational opportunities which will help them foster a new understanding
and respect for our planet. It’s been in operation for six years now, headed by Canadian
Geoff Green, who got tired of carting celebrities and retired, rich, curiosity-seekers
who could only ‘give’ back in a limited way. With Students on Ice, he offers the future
generation of policy-makers a life-changing experience at an age when they’re ready to
absorb, learn, and most importantly, act.
(Journey to the End of the Earth)
i. Complete the sentence appropriately.
‘Students on Ice’ is an award winning programme offering unique learning expeditions
in the _____.
ii. In the given extract, which is NOT an indication for the future of humankind, as per the
extract?
(A) Depletion of ozone layer (B) Emission of CO2 and other poisonous gases
(C) Global warming (D) Decreased temperature

iii. What is the aim of the students on ice programme? Discuss.

iv. Why is a visit to Antarctica important to realize the effect of global warming?

9. Read the following extracts and solve ANY ONE of the given two, (A) or (B). 1 # 6 = 6
A. “Why aren’t you wearing chappals?” I ask one.
“My mother did not bring them down from the shelf,” he answers simply.
“Even if she did he will throw them off,” adds another who is wearing shoes that do not
match. When I comment on it, he shuffles his feet and says nothing. “I want shoes”,
says a third boy who has never owned a pair all his life. Travelling across the country I
have seen children walking barefoot, in cities, on village roads. It is not lack of money
but a tradition to stay barefoot, is one explanation. I wonder if this is only an excuse to
explain away a perpetual state of poverty.
(Lost Spring)
i. What is an excuse to explain away a perpetual state of poverty?
CBSE 12th English Core Sample Paper 04 Page 9

ii. Select the option that completes the given sentence appropriately.
In the statement ‘I want shoes’, the boy is _____.
(A) sorrowful (B) wishful
(C) hopeful (D) perplexed

iii. Complete the sentence with appropriately.

We as readers can sympathise with the boys because _____.

iv. Identify the textual clue that allows the reader to infer that narrator knows the reality
behind the boys not wearing any chappals.

v. How would you judge the act of shuffling by the boy?

vi. Select the correct option to fill in the blank.

When the narrator comments on unmatching shoes, he _____
(A) shuffles his shoes without responding
(B) hides behind the other boys
(C) changes his shoes
(D) rebukes the narrator and mocks her dress


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B. They had merely heard that a Mahatma who wanted to help them was in trouble
with the authorities. Their spontaneous demonstration, in thousands, around the
courthouse was the beginning of their liberation from fear of the British. The officials
felt powerless without Gandhi’s cooperation. He helped them regulate the crowd. He
was polite and friendly. He was giving concrete proof that their might, hitherto dreaded
and unquestioned, could be challenged by Indians. The government was baffled. The
prosecutor requested the judge to postpone the trail. Apparently, the authorities wished
to consult their superiors.
(Indigo)
i. List details about Gandhi’s protest in this extract.

ii. Why did the officials feel powerless?

(A) Because the crowd was listening only to Gandhi.
(B) Because of Gandhi’s polite and friendly behaviour.
(C) Because of Gandhi’s refusal to cooperate with them.
(D) The crowd was getting violent.
iii. Complete the sentence appropriately.
Gandhi’s protest in Champaran is most appropriately a great model of _____.

iv. What style is being used by the author when he says, “Apparently, the authorities
wished to consult their superiors”?

v. What was the beginning of the liberation of Indians from the British rule?
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vi. Which of the following headlines best suggests the central idea of the extract?
(A) The tyranny of the British officials
(B) Gandhi’s leadership quality
(C) Postponement of trail
(D) The friendly behaviour of Gandhiji

10. Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in 40-50 words each : 5 # 2 = 10
i. Describe the events of the last lesson that M. Hamel conducted with his class.
(The Last Lesson)
ii. Why did the poet think of young trees and merry children? How did it connect with her
childhood fear? (My Mother at Sixty-Six)
iii. What are the different kinds of war mentioned in the poem that the poet is against?
(Keeping Quiet)
iv. What made the peddler think that he had indeed fallen into a rattrap? (The Rattrap)

v. Why did Gandhi agree to the settlement of 25% per cent refund to the farmers?
(Indigo)
vi. What is the poet’s complaint in the poem “A Roadside Stand”?

11. Answer ANY TWO of the following three questions in 40-50 words each : 2#2 = 4
i. How does Mr. Lamb keep himself busy when it is bit cool? (On the Face of It)

ii. In what context Hana remembers the cruel nature of General Takima? (The Enemy)

iii. What do you infer from Sam’s letter to Charley? (The Third Level)

12. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. 1#5 = 5
A. M. Hamel was dressed formally as a mark of honour to his last lesson. He had served
the institution for forty years wholeheartedly. The villagers had come to display their
respect for the country which was another’s from now onwards.
After reading ‘The Last Lesson’, can you compare any of your teachers with M Hamel?
What values did she/he possess that every teacher should be endowed with? Are you a
true patriot? Can you be one of those villagers?


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B. ‘A Thing of beauty is a joy forever.’ This is what John Keats says in the poem. Do you
think in the present times of acute stress and violence, proximity to beautiful things can
lead man to everlasting happiness? Discuss.
(A Thing of Beauty)
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13. Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. 1#5 = 5
A. ‘Being human is the greatest virtue and treating an enemy is not a sin.’
As a part of the research, discuss the statement in relation to the lesson ‘The Enemy’ in
about 120-150 words.


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B. How did the prediction of chief astrologer come true, though The Tiger King had killed
the hundred tigers? Write a short paragraph in about 120-150 words with reference to
the lesson “The Tiger King”.


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