Easy2Siksha.com
GNDU Question Paper-2024
B.A 3
rd
Semester
ENGLISH (Compulsory)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 100
Note: (1) Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section.
The Fifth question may be attempted from any section.
(2) Some questions may be divided into sub-parts, whichever question is chosen should be
attempted along with its sub-parts, if any. Sub-parts of questions cannot be chosen from
different questions. All the questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Do as directed:
(i) Put in the correct word:
I always feel ____________ when the sun is shining. (happy/happily)
(2) Put adjectives in the brackets in correct position:
An enormous umbrella. (red, yellow)
(3) Make one sentence from two. Complete the new sentence using 'too' or 'enough':
I can't drink this coffee. It is too hot.
This coffee is ______________
(4) Put the words in the right order to complete the sentence:
Tom likes to sing.
He has ____________ (voice/quite/good/a)
Easy2Siksha.com
(5) Put in correct preposition:
It was nice ______________ you to come and see me.
(6) Complete the sentence with 'on time' or 'in time':
The film was supposed to start at 8:30, but it didn't begin ______________
(7) Write sentence with 'in the end'. Use the verb in the brackets:
We had a lot of problems with our car.
(sell) ____________
(8) Complete the sentence with 'by':
I have to be at the airport not later than 8:30.
I have to be at the airport ___________
(9) Complete the sentence using your ideas:
I was asked a lot of questions during ___________
(10) Put in 'by' or 'until':
I think I will wait ____________ Thursday before making a decision.
2. Do as directed:
(i) Put in the correct word:
You look ____________ ! Are you alright? (terrible/terribly)
(2) Put adjective in the brackets in correct position:
An unusual ring (gold).
(3) Make one sentence from two. Complete the new sentence using 'too' or 'enough':
I can't explain the situation. It is too complicated. The situation is ___________
Easy2Siksha.com
(4) Put the words in the right order to complete the sentence:
The bus stop wasn't very near the hotel.
We had to walk __________ (quite/long/a/way)
(5) Put in correct preposition:
Isha doesn't look fine, I am worried __________ her.
(6) Complete the sentence with 'on time' or 'in time':
Why are you never ____________ ? You always keep everyone waiting
(7) Write sentence with 'in the end'. Use the verb in the brackets:
Anna got more and more fed up with her job. (resign). _____________
(8) Complete the sentence with 'by':
Please make sure that you are here not later than 2 o'clock. Please make sure that ______
(9) Complete the sentence using your ideas:
Nobody came to see me while ____________
(10) Put in 'by' or 'until':
I need to pay the phone bill. It has to be paid ____________ tomorrow.
SECTION-B
3. Write an essay on any One topic:
Pollution due to Excessive use of Plastic.
Health is Wealth.
Or
4. Do as directed:
Easy2Siksha.com
(1) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
I've applied ___________ a job at the factory.
(2) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
I don't want to discuss __________ what happened last night.
(3) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
Who's going to take care _____________ you when you are old?
(4) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
I am leaving my house _____________ 11 a.m. tomorrow morning.
(5) Complete the second sentence so that it means the same as first:
There was a lot of furniture in the room.
The room was full _____________
(6) Complete the following sentence using a verb in the correct form:
I liked an article in the newspaper, so I _____________ it out.
(7) Complete the sentence using-'in' or 'into' or 'out' or 'out of:
Why did Sarah drop __________ college? Did she fail in exams?
(8) Complete the sentence using a verb + 'on' or 'off':
It was warm, so I ____________ my jacket.
(9) Complete the sentence using a verb (in correct form) + 'down':
The train __________ as it approached the station.
(10) Complete the following sentence using a verb in the correct form:
Easy2Siksha.com
Don't __________ that box away. It could be useful.
SECTION-C
5. From your reading of the poem "That Time of Year Thou Mayst in Me Behold", describe
the boughs as they are seen in the autumn and tell how does autumn correspond to the
speaker's life? Also explain what do the images of "twilight" and "sunset" suggest.
6. From your reading of the poem "To the Skylark," describe the different objects with
which the skylark is compared to. Why does the poet think that the bird does not know
the pain? How does Shelley treat the bird as a model for the poet?
SECTION-D
7. (a) On the basis of your reading of "Global Health", explain what do you know about
the disease malaria. Is the disease common today? Where do you think cases of malaria
are most likely to be found? How do you think malaria spreads from one person to
another? Do you think it can be prevented, treated or cured?
(b) Complete the sentences from the list of words given below. These words replace the
words or phrases in parentheses, which are similar in meaning:
depressed, fatigue, enhance, straightforward, thrive, enhance, primarily, preliminary,
reluctant, remote, rural.
(1) There is a (simple) ____________ solution to the problem.
(2) Children (do well) _________ in their classrooms that are filled with activities.
(3) People from (country) ___________ villages are sometimes fatigued of cities.
(4) A good education will (improve) ________ your chances of getting a good job.
(5) Tourists are often (hesitant) ___________ to visit places where there is a lot of disease.
(c) Give one word for the following definitions:
(1) A fatty substance found in body __________
Easy2Siksha.com
(2) To carry out and organize an activity ____________
(3) To work with someone with a special purpose ___________
(4) A long-term plan to achieve a goal __________
(5) A change in focus or direction __________
8. (a) On the basis of your reading of "Multicultural Societies", describe how has
globalization affected you and cultures in different countries. What role has technology
played in globalization ?
(b) Give one word for the following definitions:
(1) To slow something down __________
(2) The process of forcing someone to leave a place _____________
(3) Not having any connection with religion ____________
(4) Extremely limiting or difficult ___________
(5) Official orders ___________
(c) From the list of words given below, find the noun that best continues an idea from the
first sentence of each item:
decrease, discovery, fact, opinion, possibility, prediction, requirement, response.
(1) Some experts believe there will be 9 billion people in the world by 2050. This ______
(2) Some people think that the Western culture has had too much influence around the
world. This ___________
(3) About 1.5 million people of Japanese descent now live in Brazil. This ________
(4) In the nineteenth century, established immigrant groups often had a hostile reaction to
the new immigrant groups. This ________
(5) In 1968, a resident of Brooklyn, New York, found the remains of a nineteenth century
African American settlement. This _________
Easy2Siksha.com
GNDU Answer Paper-2024
B.A 3
rd
Semester
ENGLISH (Compulsory)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 100
Note: (1) Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section.
The Fifth question may be attempted from any section.
(2) Some questions may be divided into sub-parts, whichever question is chosen should be
attempted along with its sub-parts, if any. Sub-parts of questions cannot be chosen from
different questions. All the questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Do as directed:
(i) Put in the correct word:
I always feel ____________ when the sun is shining. (happy/happily)
Ans: I always feel happy when the sun is shining.
(2) Put adjectives in the brackets in correct position:
An enormous umbrella. (red, yellow)
Ans: An enormous red and yellow umbrella
(3) Make one sentence from two. Complete the new sentence using 'too' or 'enough':
I can't drink this coffee. It is too hot.
This coffee is ______________
Ans: This coffee is too hot to drink.
Easy2Siksha.com
(4) Put the words in the right order to complete the sentence:
Tom likes to sing.
He has ____________ (voice/quite/good/a)
Ans: He has quite a good voice.
(5) Put in correct preposition:
It was nice ______________ you to come and see me.
Ans: It was nice of you to come and see me.
(6) Complete the sentence with 'on time' or 'in time':
The film was supposed to start at 8:30, but it didn't begin ______________
Ans: The film was supposed to start at 8:30, but it didn’t begin on time.
(7) Write sentence with 'in the end'. Use the verb in the brackets:
We had a lot of problems with our car.
(sell) ____________
Ans: We had a lot of problems with our car. In the end, we sold it.
(8) Complete the sentence with 'by':
I have to be at the airport not later than 8:30.
I have to be at the airport ___________
Ans: I have to be at the airport by 8:30.
(9) Complete the sentence using your ideas:
I was asked a lot of questions during ___________
Ans: I was asked a lot of questions during the interview.
(10) Put in 'by' or 'until':
I think I will wait ____________ Thursday before making a decision.
Easy2Siksha.com
Ans: I think I will wait until Thursday before making a decision.
2. Do as directed:
(i) Put in the correct word:
You look ____________ ! Are you alright? (terrible/terribly)
Ans: We use an adjective to describe how a person looks/feels.
(2) Put adjective in the brackets in correct position:
An unusual ring (gold).
Ans: An unusual gold ring
(3) Make one sentence from two. Complete the new sentence using 'too' or 'enough':
I can't explain the situation. It is too complicated. The situation is ___________
Ans: The situation is too complicated to explain.
(4) Put the words in the right order to complete the sentence:
The bus stop wasn't very near the hotel.
We had to walk __________ (quite/long/a/way)
Ans: We had to walk quite a long way.
(5) Put in correct preposition:
Isha doesn't look fine, I am worried __________ her.
Ans: Isha doesn't look fine, I am worried about her.
(6) Complete the sentence with 'on time' or 'in time':
Why are you never ____________ ? You always keep everyone waiting
Ans: Why are you never on time?
Easy2Siksha.com
(7) Write sentence with 'in the end'. Use the verb in the brackets:
Anna got more and more fed up with her job. (resign). _____________
Ans: Anna got more and more fed up with her job. In the end, she resigned.
(8) Complete the sentence with 'by':
Please make sure that you are here not later than 2 o'clock. Please make sure that ______
Ans: Please make sure that you are here by 2 o’clock.
(9) Complete the sentence using your ideas:
Nobody came to see me while ____________
Ans: Nobody came to see me while I was ill.
(10) Put in 'by' or 'until':
I need to pay the phone bill. It has to be paid ____________ tomorrow.
Ans: It has to be paid by tomorrow.
SECTION-B
3. Write an essay on any One topic:
Pollution due to Excessive use of Plastic.
Health is Wealth.
Ans: Pollution Due to Excessive Use of Plastic
Imagine for a moment that you are standing on a beautiful beach. The waves are rolling in,
the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink, and the breeze carries the salty freshness of
the sea. Now, instead of seashells scattered across the shore, you notice plastic bottles,
food wrappers, straws, and polythene bags lying everywhere. The sea itself seems to be
choking as waves push back heaps of plastic waste. Suddenly, the beauty of the scene
disappears, and you realize that this is not just a beach—it’s the condition of our planet
today.
This story is not imaginary. It is a reality in many parts of the world, and India too is
struggling with it. Plastic, which was once considered a "wonder material," has today
become one of the biggest threats to our environment. While it has made life convenient in
Easy2Siksha.com
countless ways, its excessive and careless use has given rise to a new kind of pollution
plastic pollution. Let’s unfold this story step by step to understand how something that was
supposed to help us has now started harming us.
1. The Invention and Spread of Plastic: A Blessing Turned Curse
Plastic was invented in the early 20th century and was celebrated as a revolutionary
material. It was cheap, lightweight, waterproof, and could be shaped into almost anything.
From bags, bottles, and toys to medical equipment, electronics, and vehicles, plastic found
its way into nearly every corner of our lives.
At first, it seemed like a blessing. Housewives loved plastic containers for storage, industries
loved it for packaging, and doctors used it in hospitals to maintain hygiene. Slowly, life
without plastic became unimaginable. But no one paid attention to one important question:
“What happens to plastic after we throw it away?”
Unlike natural materials like wood or paper, plastic does not decompose easily. It can
remain in soil and water for hundreds of years. The more we used it, the more waste started
piling up. And now, decades later, the world is suffocating under the weight of this very
invention.
2. How Excessive Plastic Use Leads to Pollution
Plastic pollution is not limited to one place; it spreads everywhereair, land, and water.
Let’s look at how:
(a) Land Pollution
Most of the plastic waste we generate ends up in garbage dumps, open fields, or on
roadsides. Polythene bags, food wrappers, and bottles are often seen flying with the wind
and getting stuck in drains. This leads to waterlogging during rains and also destroys the
beauty of our surroundings. Stray animals, especially cows and dogs, often swallow plastic
while looking for food in garbage piles. This plastic chokes their intestines and sometimes
leads to their death.
(b) Water Pollution
Millions of tons of plastic waste are dumped into rivers, lakes, and oceans every year.
Bottles, straws, and fishing nets float on the surface, while microplastics (tiny broken-down
pieces) mix with water. Fish, turtles, and seabirds mistake them for food and die after
swallowing them. According to studies, by 2050, there may be more plastic in the ocean
than fish if this trend continues.
(c) Air Pollution
Easy2Siksha.com
Plastic also contributes to air pollution. When it is burnt in open areas (which is a common
practice in villages and towns), it releases toxic gases like dioxins and furans. These gases
are harmful to human lungs and can even cause cancer. The smoke not only pollutes the air
but also weakens the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful rays of the sun.
3. Why Do We Use So Much Plastic?
If plastic is so harmful, why do we still use it? The answer is simpleit is cheap, strong, and
convenient. Cloth bags are good but cost more than free polythene bags. Glass bottles are
reusable but heavier and fragile compared to plastic bottles. People and industries prefer
plastic because it saves money and effort.
Moreover, our throwaway culture makes the problem worse. We use plastic items like
straws, cups, plates, or spoons for just a few minutes, but they remain on Earth for
centuries. This imbalance between short-term use and long-term waste is the real reason
for plastic pollution.
4. Impact of Plastic Pollution on Life
The effects of excessive plastic use are dangerous and far-reaching:
1. On Environment: Soil loses its fertility when plastic blocks the natural exchange of
air and water. Plants cannot grow properly in plastic-contaminated soil.
2. On Animals: Birds and animals die after eating plastic waste. Marine life is
particularly at risk as oceans are becoming dumping grounds.
3. On Humans: Microplastics have entered our food chain. Studies show that we
consume tiny amounts of plastic daily through water, seafood, and even salt. These
microplastics can harm our kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
4. On Climate: The burning and production of plastic release greenhouse gases, which
worsen global warming and climate change.
5. Can We Imagine a Plastic-Free World?
Completely eliminating plastic may not be possible because it is deeply connected to
industries like medicine, transportation, and technology. However, we can definitely reduce
its excessive and unnecessary use. Many countries, including India, are taking steps to ban
single-use plastics like polythene bags, plastic straws, and disposable cutlery. But laws alone
are not enough—people’s habits must also change.
6. Solutions to Plastic Pollution
Easy2Siksha.com
The story of plastic pollution does not have to end in tragedy. If we act wisely, we can
change the ending. Here are some solutions:
1. Reduce: Avoid single-use plastics. Carry cloth or jute bags while shopping, use steel
bottles instead of disposable plastic ones, and refuse plastic straws.
2. Reuse: Instead of throwing away plastic containers, reuse them at home for storage
or gardening.
3. Recycle: Encourage recycling industries. Segregate waste at home into
biodegradable and non-biodegradable items so that plastic can be properly
processed.
4. Alternatives: Promote eco-friendly alternatives like bamboo cutlery, paper bags, and
biodegradable packaging.
5. Awareness Campaigns: Schools, colleges, and communities should spread
awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution. Small steps taken by individuals
can create a big change.
6. Government Policies: Strict implementation of bans on single-use plastic, along with
incentives for industries that adopt eco-friendly materials, is essential.
7. Role of Individuals in Fighting Plastic Pollution
We often think, “What difference can one person make?” But imagine if every person in
your city stopped using plastic bagsmillions of bags would be saved every day. Small acts
like carrying a reusable bottle, saying no to plastic straws, or cleaning your local park can
inspire others to do the same. Each responsible citizen becomes a hero in this story of
saving Earth.
8. A Vision for the Future
If we act today, the future can look very different. Imagine walking on a beach again, but
this time, instead of bottles and wrappers, you see seashells and starfish. Rivers flow freely
without clogged drains, animals graze without fear of swallowing plastic, and the air feels
fresher without the smoke of burning polythene. This vision is possible, but only if we
choose wisely now.
Conclusion
The story of plastic is a classic example of how human inventions can be both a boon and a
curse. What started as a miracle material has today become one of the greatest threats to
our planet. Excessive and careless use of plastic has polluted our land, water, and air,
putting the lives of humans, animals, and even future generations at risk.
Easy2Siksha.com
But every story can have a happy ending if the characters decide to change. We, as the main
characters of this Earth story, have the power to reduce plastic pollution. By making small
but consistent changes in our daily lives, supporting eco-friendly alternatives, and spreading
awareness, we can ensure that Earth remains a safe and beautiful home for all.
Health is Wealth.
Ans: Essay on Health is Wealth
Imagine this: two friends, Rohan and Karan, start their journey of life together. Rohan is full
of dreams and energy, while Karan is equally ambitious but careless about his health. Rohan
wakes up early, eats balanced meals, plays football, and spends time laughing with his
family. Karan, on the other hand, skips meals, eats fast food late at night, hardly exercises,
and always says, “I’ll take care of my health later.” Ten years down the line, Rohan is
glowing with energy, working productively, and enjoying his life. Karan, however, is
struggling with frequent illnesses, feels tired even after small tasks, and spends a big part of
his income on medicines and doctors.
This little story is not unusualit reflects a truth that we often forget: without health,
wealth has no meaning. That is why people have wisely said, “Health is Wealth.”
In this essay, let us walk through this idea in a simple, story-like manner, and understand
why good health is the most precious treasure we can ever have.
The Real Meaning of “Health is Wealth”
When we hear the word wealth, most of us imagine money, gold, property, cars, and
luxuries. But ask yourselfwhat will all this mean if your body is weak, your mind is
disturbed, or you cannot even enjoy a meal without medicine? True wealth is not just
counted in currency; it is counted in the strength of your body, the peace of your mind, and
the happiness of your soul.
Good health allows us to work, earn, learn, and dream. It is the foundation on which
everything elseeducation, career, relationships, successcan stand. A person with poor
health may possess millions in the bank but will never be able to enjoy the taste of life. On
the other hand, a healthy but average-income person often feels richer because he can live
life fully.
Health as the Silent Treasure
Let us think of health as a silent treasure hidden inside us. We don’t realize its value until we
start losing it. Have you noticed how we suddenly remember to drink hot water, eat fruits,
Easy2Siksha.com
or rest properly only after we fall sick? That is the irony of human naturewe take health
for granted, while running after money, fame, or material possessions. But once health is
gone, everything else loses its shine.
Even in our ancient Indian scriptures, health was given supreme importance. Ayurveda,
Yoga, and meditation were developed not just as medical systems but as lifestyles to keep
the body and mind balanced. Our ancestors knew that a sound body is the true temple
where a sound mind can reside.
Why Health is More Valuable Than Wealth
1. Wealth can be earned again, but health once lost is difficult to regain.
You can lose money in business and earn it back. But can you easily restore a
damaged liver, a weak heart, or a disturbed mind? Prevention is always better than
cure.
2. Wealth benefits others only if you are healthy enough to use it.
What is the use of a luxurious car if you are bedridden and cannot drive it? What is
the use of a banquet full of dishes if you are told to live only on bland porridge?
3. Health gives freedom.
When you are healthy, you can travel, play, work hard, and enjoy life. Poor health
makes you dependent on others, even for simple tasks.
4. Wealth is external; health is internal.
You may wear expensive clothes, but if your face looks pale and tired, people will still
feel sorry for you. On the other hand, even with simple clothes, a healthy body
radiates confidence and charm.
Physical Health: The Body as an Instrument
Our body is like an instrument, and health is the music that flows from it. If the strings are
broken, no matter how expensive the instrument is, it cannot create harmony.
To maintain physical health:
Eat balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, pulses, and grains.
Exercise dailywalking, running, cycling, or yoga.
Sleep on time and rest adequately.
Drink enough water and avoid harmful addictions like smoking or drinking.
These simple habits act like investments, giving huge returns in the form of energy and long
life.
Mental Health: The Mind as the Master
Easy2Siksha.com
Physical health is incomplete without mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are
modern-day diseases that even money cannot cure. A person with millions in his bank may
still be unhappy if his mind is restless.
To maintain mental health:
Practice meditation or mindfulness.
Keep a positive attitude.
Spend time with loved ones and in nature.
Limit screen time and stay away from unnecessary negativity.
Mental health gives us clarity of thought, emotional stability, and the ability to make wise
decisions.
Social Health: Happiness in Relationships
Health is not just about body and mind but also about relationships. A person in good health
naturally shares happiness, supports others, and builds strong bonds. Ill health often makes
people irritable and lonely.
When we are healthy, we are able to laugh with friends, celebrate festivals, and enjoy the
warmth of family. These moments are priceless and cannot be bought with money.
Health and Productivity
A healthy student studies better, a healthy worker performs better, and a healthy leader
guides better. Energy, focus, and enthusiasm all come from health. Countries with healthier
citizens progress faster because they save money on healthcare and use it for development.
That is why governments invest in healthcare systems, awareness programs, and
vaccination campaigns.
The Modern Irony
Today, in the race for success, many people sacrifice their health to earn wealth. They eat
fast food because they have no time to cook, sit for long hours in offices without exercise,
and sleep late while working on laptops. At first, nothing seems wrong, but slowly lifestyle
diseases like diabetes, obesity, and heart problems start appearing. Then begins the
opposite racespending all the earned wealth on hospitals, medicines, and treatments.
Isn’t it ironic? We lose health to earn wealth, and then we lose wealth to regain health.
Would it not be wiser to balance both from the beginning?
Easy2Siksha.com
A Balanced Life: The True Secret
The real secret is not to reject wealth but to balance it with health. We need money to
survive and fulfill dreams, but money should not come at the cost of our body and mind. If
we manage time for exercise, eat wisely, sleep properly, and keep stress away, we can enjoy
both health and wealth together.
Remember, wealth may give comfort, but health gives joy. Comfort without joy is
meaningless.
Inspirational Examples
History and daily life give us examples. Mahatma Gandhi lived a simple life but remained
active and strong till old age, inspiring millions. On the other hand, many rich businessmen
and celebrities have suffered early deaths due to unhealthy lifestyles. These examples
remind us that health is the real kingmaker.
Conclusion: The True Treasure
At the end of the day, when we lie down to sleep, what matters is not how much money is
locked in the cupboard but how peaceful our sleep is, how comfortable our body feels, and
how calm our mind rests.
So, the proverb “Health is Wealth” is not just a sayingit is a lifelong truth. A healthy body
and a healthy mind are greater than gold, diamonds, or dollars. They are the roots from
which happiness, success, and prosperity grow.
4. Do as directed:
(1) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
I've applied ___________ a job at the factory.
Ans: I've applied for a job at the factory. 󷄧󼿒
(2) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
I don't want to discuss __________ what happened last night.
Easy2Siksha.com
Ans: I don't want to discuss what happened last night.
(3) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
Who's going to take care _____________ you when you are old?
Ans: Who's going to take care of you when you are old? 󷄧󼿒
(4) Fill in correct preposition in the following sentence:
I am leaving my house _____________ 11 a.m. tomorrow morning.
Ans: I am leaving my house at 11 a.m. tomorrow morning. 󷄧󼿒
(5) Complete the second sentence so that it means the same as first:
There was a lot of furniture in the room.
The room was full _____________
Ans: The room was full of furniture. 󷄧󼿒
(6) Complete the following sentence using a verb in the correct form:
I liked an article in the newspaper, so I _____________ it out.
Ans: I liked an article in the newspaper, so I cut it out. 󷄧󼿒
(7) Complete the sentence using-'in' or 'into' or 'out' or 'out of:
Why did Sarah drop __________ college? Did she fail in exams?
Ans: Why did Sarah drop out of college? Did she fail in exams? 󷄧󼿒
(8) Complete the sentence using a verb + 'on' or 'off':
It was warm, so I ____________ my jacket.
Ans: It was warm, so I took off my jacket. 󷄧󼿒
(9) Complete the sentence using a verb (in correct form) + 'down':
The train __________ as it approached the station.
Easy2Siksha.com
Ans: The train slowed down as it approached the station. 󷄧󼿒
(10) Complete the following sentence using a verb in the correct form:
Don't __________ that box away. It could be useful.
Ans: Don't throw that box away. It could be useful. 󷄧󼿒
SECTION-C
5. From your reading of the poem "That Time of Year Thou Mayst in Me Behold", describe
the boughs as they are seen in the autumn and tell how does autumn correspond to the
speaker's life? Also explain what do the images of "twilight" and "sunset" suggest.
Ans: A Gentle Beginning
Imagine you are standing in a quiet garden. The trees around you are not covered with the
fresh green of spring, nor are they in the full bloom of summer. Instead, their branches look
bare, a few yellow leaves cling here and there, and most of the boughs are empty. You can
even see birds’ nests left behind after the little creatures have flown away. This is the
season of autumn, when life is no longer full of energy and brightness but is slowly
preparing for the end of the year.
This exact picture is what Shakespeare paints in his sonnet “That Time of Year Thou Mayst in
Me Behold.” Through the image of autumn, twilight, and sunset, he compares the natural
world to the stages of human life—especially his own. Let’s explore how he does this in a
way that makes us feel both the sadness and the beauty of growing older.
The Boughs in Autumn
In the poem, the speaker asks us to “behold” him, just as one would look at trees in autumn.
The boughs, or branches, are almost bare. They have lost most of their leaves, just like an
aging person has lost much of his youthful strength and energy. The few remaining leaves
are yellow, the colour of fading life.
On those branches are “bare ruined choirs where late the sweet birds sang.” This is one of
the most touching images in the sonnet. The empty branches look like the broken, deserted
places where once there was music and joy. It is as if the boughs represent the speaker’s
bodyonce full of liveliness and song, but now silent, weak, and waiting for the end.
Easy2Siksha.com
So autumn here is not just a season of nature. It becomes a mirror for the speaker’s own
life. Just as autumn comes after the bright warmth of summer, old age follows youth. The
boughs tell us that the speaker is in the autumn of his life, nearing its winterdeath.
Autumn and the Speaker’s Life
Now, how exactly does autumn correspond to the speaker’s life?
Think of human life as having seasons:
Spring is childhoodfresh, innocent, and full of growth.
Summer is youthwarm, bright, filled with strength and love.
Autumn is old agethings begin to fade, strength decreases, and life moves towards
its end.
Winter is deaththe final silence.
The speaker clearly sees himself in the autumn stage. He is no longer young; his energy,
passion, and perhaps even his health have started to decline. Just as autumn trees shed
their leaves, he feels he has lost the vibrancy of youth. But Shakespeare doesn’t present this
with bitterness. Instead, he uses autumn to show both the sadness and the beauty of this
stagebecause autumn is also a time of quiet reflection, maturity, and wisdom.
The Image of “Twilight”
After autumn, the speaker uses another imagetwilight. Twilight is that short time of the
day when the sun is almost set, and night is about to begin. It is neither day nor night but a
beautiful, fading moment between the two.
For the speaker, twilight represents the last years of his life. The full light of day (youth and
adulthood) is gone, and the dark night (death) is approaching. Just as twilight slowly
disappears into night, the speaker feels his own life slipping away into death.
Twilight, then, is an image of life’s fragility. It reminds us that life is temporary and fleeting,
and we must cherish it while it lasts.
The Image of “Sunset”
Linked with twilight is the image of sunset. Sunset is not only beautiful but also symbolic. It
marks the end of the day, just as death marks the end of life. The warmth and brightness of
the sun gradually vanish, leaving behind darkness.
The speaker says that after sunset, “black night” takes away the light. In human terms, this
means that once life ends, death (like night) takes over. Sunset is therefore a gentle but
Easy2Siksha.com
certain reminder that life will end. But Shakespeare doesn’t describe it in a fearful way.
Instead, he shows sunset as natural, inevitable, and even poetic.
Why These Images Matter
Together, these imagesautumn boughs, twilight, and sunsetcreate a picture of the
speaker’s stage in life. They show us the natural process of aging and death, but not in a
hopeless tone. Instead, they make us realize that just as nature follows a cycle, human life
too follows its own rhythm.
There is another hidden beauty here: when the beloved sees the speaker as autumn,
twilight, or sunset, her love becomes even more meaningful. She loves him not because he
is young and strong, but because she knows his time is limited. Love becomes deeper when
we realize that life is short.
A Story-Like Conclusion
So, if we think back to that quiet garden with bare autumn trees, a fading sunset in the sky,
and the soft arrival of twilight, we can see Shakespeare himself in those images. He is like
the tree that has lost its leaves, like the sun that is about to set, like the twilight that is
about to fade into night.
But rather than filling us with despair, these images fill us with tenderness. They remind us
to value love and life more, especially when time is running short. That is why Shakespeare’s
sonnet still touches us todayit turns the sadness of aging into a gentle story of beauty,
acceptance, and love.
6. From your reading of the poem "To the Skylark," describe the different objects with
which the skylark is compared to. Why does the poet think that the bird does not know
the pain? How does Shelley treat the bird as a model for the poet?
Ans: A Fresh Beginning:
Imagine a warm evening. The sun is going down, the sky is glowing, and suddenly a little bird
rises high into the air. It sings, not for applause, not for fame, but simply out of pure joy.
That bird is a skylark. When Shelley sees it, he doesn’t just see a bird; he sees a living symbol
of happiness, beauty, and inspiration. The whole poem “To the Skylark” is his way of
admiring this bird, comparing it with many objects, and then realizing how different the
bird’s life is from that of human beings.
Now, let us see the three main parts of the question one by one.
Easy2Siksha.com
1. Objects with which the Skylark is Compared
Shelley’s imagination is very powerful. He does not simply say, “the skylark sings
beautifully.” Instead, he paints pictures with words and compares the skylark to many
different things, each one bringing out some special quality of the bird.
Like a spirit of joy:
Shelley first calls the skylark a “blithe spirit.” It is not just a bird of flesh and bone,
but a spirit of happiness. It seems to be filled with endless cheer, free from all
worries of the world.
Like a star:
He compares the skylark to a star shining brightly in the sky, hidden by daylight but
still sending its light across. Just as a star seems far away and mysterious, the skylark
also seems beyond human reach, filling the air with music.
Like a cloud of fire:
He imagines the bird’s song spreading like a glowing cloud lit by the setting sun. This
comparison shows how the skylark’s voice spreads everywhere, covering the sky
with beauty.
Like a poet or prophet:
Shelley also compares the bird to a poet, prophet, and even a maiden in love. Why?
Because like them, the skylark pours out intense emotions. Its song is spontaneous,
truthful, and filled with passion, just as a poet writes verses or a lover expresses
feelings.
Like a glow-worm or rose:
At another point, the skylark is compared to a glow-worm hidden in the grass or a
rose surrounded by leaves. These comparisons highlight how beauty sometimes
hides itself yet spreads light or fragrance everywhere—just like the skylark’s invisible
presence in the sky but powerful impact on the earth.
In all these images, Shelley is not just praising a bird’s song; he is showing us that the skylark
is more than natureit is a symbol of pure art, pure happiness, and pure inspiration.
2. Why Shelley Thinks the Bird Does Not Know Pain
Here comes the heart of the poem. Humans, no matter how happy, always carry some
shadow of sadness. Even in laughter, there is worry about tomorrow, memories of loss, or
fear of suffering. But Shelley imagines that the skylark’s life is different.
The skylark sings as if it has never known pain, fear, or disappointment.
Its voice is always fresh, joyous, and without any trace of sorrow.
Unlike humans, who sing songs often born out of pain, heartbreak, or struggle, the
skylark’s song is pure joy.
Easy2Siksha.com
Shelley envies this quality. He feels that if humans could sing like the skylarkfree from
grieftheir art would be perfect and their lives would be filled with peace. But since
humans cannot escape pain, their creations, though beautiful, are always mixed with
sadness.
3. How Shelley Treats the Skylark as a Model for the Poet
Now comes the most interesting part. Shelley was not just admiring a bird; he was actually
learning from it. The skylark becomes his teacher, his model of inspiration.
Teacher of Joy:
Shelley asks the skylark to teach him the secret of its happiness. He wants to learn
how to fill his poetry with the same pure joy, so that his verses might bring comfort
to the world.
A Model of Expression:
Just as the skylark sings freely, without fear or restriction, Shelley wishes to write
poetry that is natural, unrestrained, and filled with music.
A Symbol of Artistic Perfection:
For Shelley, a true poet should inspire humanity in the same way that the skylark
inspires him. The bird becomes a model of how poetry should rise above ordinary
worries and touch something divine.
A Source of Hope:
Shelley imagines that if he could learn the skylark’s art, his words would change the
hearts of people and spread joy across the world. Thus, the skylark is not only a bird
but a shining example of the poet’s highest dream.
Wrapping It Up Like a Story
So, if we put it all together, here is the simple story hidden in “To the Skylark”:
Shelley sees a little bird flying and singing. He is so moved that he compares it to stars, fire,
flowers, poets, and prophets. He realizes that unlike humans, the skylark seems free from
pain, and that is why its song is so perfect. Finally, he wishes that he, too, could learn this art
and become a poet whose verses spread joy and hope like the skylark’s song spreads beauty
in the sky.
Final Thought
Shelley’s skylark is not just a bird—it is a symbol of what human beings long for: a life
without sorrow, an art without flaws, and a joy that is eternal. By treating the skylark as a
model, Shelley reminds us that poetry, like birdsong, should rise above pain and touch
something heavenly.
Easy2Siksha.com
SECTION-D
7. (a) On the basis of your reading of "Global Health", explain what do you know about
the disease malaria. Is the disease common today? Where do you think cases of malaria
are most likely to be found? How do you think malaria spreads from one person to
another? Do you think it can be prevented, treated or cured?
Ans: Malaria: A Story of a Tiny Parasite and a Big Battle
Imagine a peaceful village where people go about their daily liveschildren running in the
fields, farmers working in the paddy lands, and families sitting together after a long day. Life
looks normal, but hidden in the buzzing sound of a small mosquito lies a danger that has
troubled humankind for centuries. This danger is called malaria.
Malaria is not just an ordinary fever. It is a disease caused by a tiny parasite called
Plasmodium. This parasite is so small that we cannot see it with our naked eyes, but its
effect on humans is powerful enough to make them weak, bedridden, and sometimes even
cause death. The interesting part is that malaria does not spread directly from one sick
person to another like the common cold. Instead, it has a middle agenta mosquito.
How Does Malaria Spread?
The story begins when a female Anopheles mosquito bites a person who already has
malaria. While sucking blood, the mosquito picks up the Plasmodium parasites. Later, when
this same mosquito bites another healthy person, it injects those parasites into the new
victim’s bloodstream. From here, the parasites travel to the liver, multiply, and then attack
the red blood cells, causing repeated cycles of fever and chills.
That is why malaria is often described as a “mosquito-borne disease.” It does not pass
through touch, sharing food, or breathing near a patient. The only villain in the chain is the
mosquito, acting as the carrier of the parasite.
What Happens to a Person with Malaria?
The symptoms of malaria are like a pattern that repeats: first the patient feels sudden chills,
then high fever, followed by sweating. Along with this, there may be headache, nausea,
vomiting, or body pain. This cycle can return again and again, making the person extremely
weak.
In serious cases, especially if not treated on time, malaria can damage organs like the brain
and kidneys. Children and pregnant women are often the most vulnerable.
Easy2Siksha.com
Is Malaria Still Common Today?
Now, you might wonder: “Is malaria still around in today’s world of advanced medicines and
hospitals?” The answer is yes, but with some hope. Malaria is not as widespread as it was a
few decades ago because of global health campaigns, awareness, and better treatment.
However, it still affects millions of people every year, especially in tropical and subtropical
regions.
Countries in Africa, South Asia, and parts of South America continue to face the biggest
challenges. For example, sub-Saharan Africa carries the heaviest burden, where thousands
of children die each year from this disease. India too, though much better now than before,
still reports cases in rural and forested areas where mosquito breeding is common.
So, while malaria may not be as common in modern cities or developed nations, it remains a
serious concern in many developing countries.
Can Malaria Be Prevented?
Yes, malaria can definitely be prevented, and the key lies in controlling mosquitoes. If there
are fewer mosquitoes, the disease cannot spread. Preventive steps include:
Using mosquito nets while sleeping, especially treated with insecticide.
Spraying insecticides in breeding areas.
Removing stagnant water near homes, because mosquitoes lay their eggs in such
water.
Wearing protective clothing and using repellents in mosquito-prone areas.
Prevention also includes giving medicines as a precaution to travelers who visit malaria-
affected countries.
Can Malaria Be Treated or Cured?
Fortunately, malaria is treatable and curable if detected on time. Doctors use medicines
such as chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), and quinine to kill
the parasite. The treatment depends on the type of Plasmodium species and the severity of
the disease.
The challenge, however, is that in some regions, the parasites have developed resistance to
older drugs, which makes treatment a bit more complex. This is why scientists and health
organizations continue to search for better medicines and even vaccines.
Easy2Siksha.com
A Ray of Hope
The global fight against malaria has brought positive results. Campaigns by the World
Health Organization (WHO) and other health agencies have saved millions of lives. In fact,
researchers have recently developed vaccines that show promise in protecting children
against malaria. This gives hope that one day, malaria may no longer be a deadly threat.
Conclusion
So, if we look at malaria like a story, it is the tale of a tiny parasite carried by a mosquito that
enters human blood and causes cycles of fever, weakness, and sometimes death. It is not as
common today as in the past, but it still exists in tropical countries, especially in Africa and
Asia. It spreads not by human touch, but by the bite of an infected mosquito. The good
news is that malaria can be prevented through mosquito control and cured through timely
medicines.
This story teaches us a simple but powerful lesson: sometimes the smallest creatures, like a
mosquito, can bring the biggest dangers, but with knowledge, care, and science, humanity
can fight back and win.
(b) Complete the sentences from the list of words given below. These words replace the
words or phrases in parentheses, which are similar in meaning:
depressed, fatigue, enhance, straightforward, thrive, enhance, primarily, preliminary,
reluctant, remote, rural.
(1) There is a (simple) ____________ solution to the problem.
(2) Children (do well) _________ in their classrooms that are filled with activities.
(3) People from (country) ___________ villages are sometimes fatigued of cities.
(4) A good education will (improve) ________ your chances of getting a good job.
(5) Tourists are often (hesitant) ___________ to visit places where there is a lot of disease.
Ans: There is a (simple) straightforward solution to the problem.
Children (do well) thrive in their classrooms that are filled with activities.
People from (country) rural villages are sometimes fatigued of cities.
A good education will (improve) enhance your chances of getting a good job.
Easy2Siksha.com
Tourists are often (hesitant) reluctant to visit places where there is a lot of disease.
(c) Give one word for the following definitions:
(1) A fatty substance found in body __________
(2) To carry out and organize an activity ____________
(3) To work with someone with a special purpose ___________
(4) A long-term plan to achieve a goal __________
(5) A change in focus or direction __________
Ans: A fatty substance found in body → Cholesterol
To carry out and organize an activity → Conduct
To work with someone with a special purpose → Collaborate
A long-term plan to achieve a goal → Strategy
A change in focus or direction → Shift
8. (a) On the basis of your reading of "Multicultural Societies", describe how has
globalization affected you and cultures in different countries. What role has technology
played in globalization ?
Ans: Globalization, Cultures, and Technology A Human Story
Imagine you are sitting in your room one evening, scrolling through your phone. You listen
to a Korean pop song, then order an American-style burger from an app, and later watch a
Spanish drama on Netflix with English subtitles. Before going to sleep, you text your cousin
who lives in Canada. Without even realizing it, you’ve traveled across half the world
without leaving your chair. This invisible thread connecting people, cultures, and countries is
what we call globalization.
Now, let’s see how globalization has affected us and the cultures of different countries, and
what magic wand technology has played in making it all possible.
1. How Globalization Affects Us Personally
Globalization is not something far away in booksit is right in front of us in our daily life.
Easy2Siksha.com
Food habits: Once, our grandparents mostly ate local fooddal, roti, rice, seasonal
vegetables. Today, you and I eat pizza, noodles, pasta, or even sushi. These foods
belong to other cultures but have become part of our lifestyle.
Fashion: Globalization shows up in what we wear. Jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, or
branded clothes like Nike and Adidas have become universal fashion statements.
Education and careers: Many of us dream of studying abroad, working in
international companies, or even freelancing for clients overseas. This is possible
because globalization has opened borders for education and jobs.
Thinking and attitudes: The younger generation often thinks differently compared to
the past. We talk about equality, women’s rights, environment, and LGBTQ+ rights
issues that became part of our lives through global movements and awareness.
So, globalization has not just changed what we consume, but also how we think, act, and
even how we plan our futures.
2. Impact on Cultures Across Countries
Globalization is like a bridge that allows cultures to meet, mix, and sometimes even clash.
Cultural exchange: Music, films, art, and literature now cross borders freely.
Hollywood movies are enjoyed in India, Bollywood is loved in the Middle East, and K-
pop has a fan base across the globe. This exchange creates a sense of shared human
experience.
Cultural blending: Festivals like Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and Christmas are
celebrated in India, while Yoga and Ayurveda have spread worldwide. Cultures
borrow and share, creating a new kind of global culture.
Challenges to tradition: At the same time, globalization sometimes puts traditional
practices at risk. Younger people may prefer fast food over traditional meals, or
Western clothing over traditional attire. This makes some worry that local identity
might get lost.
Respect and tolerance: When cultures interact, people also learn to respect
differences. For example, working in a multinational company teaches employees to
collaborate with colleagues from many cultural backgrounds.
Thus, globalization is like a two-sided coin: it enriches cultures by sharing, but also threatens
them by overshadowing local traditions.
3. Role of Technology in Globalization
If globalization is a train, then technology is the engine that drives it. Without technology,
globalization would just be a dream.
Internet and communication: Thanks to smartphones, video calls, and social media,
people can communicate instantly across the globe. A student in India can attend an
Easy2Siksha.com
online class hosted by a professor in the USA. Families stay connected across
continents with just one click.
Transport: Airplanes, cargo ships, and modern railways make it easy to travel and
transport goods across borders. That’s why fruits from Australia, clothes from China,
or gadgets from Japan are available in your local market.
Media and entertainment: Platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and Instagram allow
cultural products to spread worldwide. A dance step that starts in Africa can become
a global trend in just a week.
Business and trade: Technology allows global companies like Amazon, Flipkart, and
Uber to function. Small businesses also benefit by selling their products online to
international buyers.
Awareness and social issues: Through global campaigns on social media, people
unite for causes like climate change, gender equality, or disaster relief. Technology
has given people a global voice.
So, technology is not just a helperit is the heart of globalization. It makes the world feel
like one big neighbourhood.
4. A Balanced View The Pros and Cons
It is important to see both sides of the story.
Positive side: Globalization gives us variety, opportunities, and connections. It brings
cultures together and helps people grow with new ideas.
Negative side: At the same time, it can reduce the uniqueness of local traditions,
create cultural uniformity, and increase dependence on other nations. Sometimes,
smaller cultures are overshadowed by dominant global cultures.
Conclusion
In short, globalization is like a riverit flows, connects, and nurtures, but it can also wash
away if not handled carefully. It has entered every corner of our lives, from the clothes we
wear to the dreams we dream. Technology acts as the bridge that keeps this global river
flowing smoothly.
For students like us, globalization is both a teacher and a challenge. It teaches us to be
open-minded, tolerant, and ambitious. But it also reminds us not to forget our roots, our
language, and our traditions. After all, a tree can only grow tall if its roots remain strong.
Easy2Siksha.com
(b) Give one word for the following definitions:
(1) To slow something down __________
(2) The process of forcing someone to leave a place _____________
(3) Not having any connection with religion ____________
(4) Extremely limiting or difficult ___________
(5) Official orders ___________
Ans: To slow something down → Delay / Hinder
The process of forcing someone to leave a place → Expulsion
Not having any connection with religion → Secular
Extremely limiting or difficult → Restrictive
Official orders → Decrees
(c) From the list of words given below, find the noun that best continues an idea from the
first sentence of each item:
decrease, discovery, fact, opinion, possibility, prediction, requirement, response.
(1) Some experts believe there will be 9 billion people in the world by 2050. This ______
(2) Some people think that the Western culture has had too much influence around the
world. This ___________
(3) About 1.5 million people of Japanese descent now live in Brazil. This ________
(4) In the nineteenth century, established immigrant groups often had a hostile reaction to
the new immigrant groups. This ________
(5) In 1968, a resident of Brooklyn, New York, found the remains of a nineteenth century
African American settlement. This _________
Ans: Some experts believe there will be 9 billion people in the world by 2050. This
prediction
Some people think that the Western culture has had too much influence around the world.
This opinion
About 1.5 million people of Japanese descent now live in Brazil. This fact
In the nineteenth century, established immigrant groups often had a hostile reaction to the
new immigrant groups. This response
Easy2Siksha.com
In 1968, a resident of Brooklyn, New York, found the remains of a nineteenth century
African American settlement. This discovery
“This paper has been carefully prepared for educational purposes. If you notice any mistakes or
have suggestions, feel free to share your feedback.”