‘The Sower’ is a translation of Victor
Hugo's French poem. It is translated by Toru Dutt from French to English. ‘The
Sower’ is a poem about a farmer who is sowing seeds. He has seen many bad
harvests in his life. However, he is so optimistic of having a good harvest
every time he tosses grain. The Sower the central aspect of this poem and the
poet minutely describes his activities in the farm.
Poet: Victor
Hugo
He was the poet,
novelist, and dramatist of the 19th century. He was one of the most important
French Romantic writers.
He is regarded
in France as one of the country's greatest poets. He is better known for his
famous novels as ''Notre-Dame de Paris''(1831) and "Les Miserables"
(1862).
Translated
by: Torulata Dutt
She was a
Bengali poet. She was also known as Toru. She wrote in English and French. She
was born on 4th March 1856 in Kolkata.
She is
considered to be ‘The first Indian poetess’ to write verses in English and
French. She translated dozens of poems and completed a novel before her death
at the age of 21. Her poems such as ‘Seeta’, ‘Lotus’ and ‘Our Casuarina Tree’
are well-loved.
See activity sheets by clicking on the following image-
(i)
Write an appreciation of the poem considering the following points:
About the poem / poet
/ title.
Theme
Poetic devices,
language, style
Special features /
novelties / focussing elements
Values, message
Your opinion about the
poem
Answer:
See answer of this
activity in the following book:
Activity Workbook Std.
XI English- By Prof. Tushar Chavan
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Extra Activities
1) Write
the rhyming words of the poem-‘The Sower’.
‘The
Sower’ is a translation of Victor Hugo's French poem. It is translated by Toru
Dutt from French to English. ‘The Sower’ is a poem about a farmer who is sowing
seeds. He has seen many bad harvests in his life. However, he is so optimistic
of having a good harvest every time he tosses grain. The Sower is the central
aspect of this poem and the poet minutely describes his activities in the farm.
Poet: Victor Hugo
He was the poet, novelist, and
dramatist of the 19th century. He was one of the most important French Romantic
writers.
He is regarded in France as
one of the country's greatest poets. He is better known for his famous novels
as ''Notre-Dame de Paris''(1831) and "Les Miserables" (1862).
Translated by:
Torulata Dutt
Torulata Dutt was a Bengali
poet. She was also known as Toru. She wrote in English and French.
She is considered to be ‘The
first Indian poetess’ to write verses in English and French. She translated
dozens of poems and completed a novel before her death at the age of 21. Her
poems such as ‘Seeta’, ‘Lotus’ and ‘Our Casuarina Tree’ are well-praised.
(ii) Discuss the
activities carried out by a farmer.
Answer:
Ploughing- नांगरणी
Sowing – पेरणी
Manuring- खत देणे
Weeding- तण काढणे
Reaping- कापणी / धान्य काढणे
(iii) In our
country engineering, teaching and medical fields are much sought after. Other
professions, occupations though they make a significant contribution to the
society, do not get their due.
Answer:
(ii) 'Agriculture
is the backbone of the Indian economy'. Fill in the boxes supporting this
statement. Complete the following web diagram.
A large part of Indian population is involved in
agriculture.
Agriculture-
the back- bone of India
-------------------------------------
-------------------------------------
-------------------------------------
Answer:
A large part of Indian population is involved in
agriculture.
Agriculture- the back- bone of
India
Provides employment to large number of people in
India
Provides sufficient food grains and other needy
things.
Gives strong support to Indian economy. Helps to
increase GDP.
Glossary:
Poem is based on:
The Farming and the life of a
farmer is the central idea of the poem and the poet gives his feelings for the
farmer along with the detailed description about the nature around the farmer.
Paraphrase of the
poem:- The
Sower
“Sitting in a
porchway………………working hours are well night past.”
The poet is sitting peacefully
in the veranda. He is enjoying the sunset. He describes the presence of
twilight. ‘The twilight hastens on to rule’ the line suggests the overpower of
the twilight over the light of the day. It is a time between the day and night.
Day is fading and night is approaching. ‘Working hours are well - nigh past’
this line suggests the time of work in the fields is now over. Soon it is going
to be night and dark all around.
“Shadow……………………… I
feel a thrill”
During the twilight, shadows
are spreading all around the area. In such time, the poet sees a farmer who is
standing alone in the fields. He is staying a bit there. ‘Old, in rags, he
patient stands’ this line gives the appearance of the Sower. The Sower is old
and his cloths are tattered. He is standing peacefully in the field. The poet
is so much thrilled to see his calm and peaceful appearance in the field.
“Black and
high……………… a time to reap”
Since it is a twilight time
everything appears to be blackish. ‘Silhouette’ is the French word. It means
the outline of the Sower. The black shadow of the Sower is dominating the deep
furrows in the fields. Since the sun is setting the silhouette gradually
becomes bigger and bigger thus even the deep furrows seem to be small in front
of the Sower. Here the human aspects is shown powerful and dominating over the
nature. In the next line, ‘now to sow……a time to reap’, the farmer is hoping
for a good harvest in future. He is sowing and expecting that seeds will grow,
the grains will appear and all his wishes will be fulfilled.
“Marches he along
the plain………to see him stride”
The poet describes the
movement of the farmer and his actions in the field. The poet appears the
farmer as marching like a soldier. It shows his strong determination and
positive attitude towards his work. The farmer moves forward and backward
scattering the precious grains which are both a symbol of prosperity and wealth
of future. The grain is called ‘precious grains’ because each and every grain
is important in the life of a farmer. The poet thinks deeply about the Sower’s
hard efforts.
“Darkness
deepens………………touch the starry skies”
Here the poet describes the night sky. The twilight gradually turns to night.
Everywhere the darkness appears. Now the poet speaks about the gestures of the
Sower. The poet feels the majestic and inspiring image of the Sower. The
gradual and progressive growth of the shadow of the Sower reaches the top of
the sky. The poet feels reverence to the hardworking farmer. He glorifies the
work of the Sower and considers his work as noble. Sower’s work gives him such
height/ importance that he can touch the sky.
Brain storming
activities.
1. There are a
number of challenges a farmer in India faces. Discuss with your partner. How it
is possible to improve the condition of farmers?
Answer:
2. The poet has
observed the sower closely. Express in your own words the reverence the poet
has for the sower.
Answer:
The poet realizes that the old
farmer is staying a bit in the farm. The poet fills thrill seeing that he does
not end his work just because others have ended their work. The poet feels
wonder and respect at his dark working figure. The poet is lost in thoughts
(muses) and expresses the importance of the farmer’s work. He declares that his
work touches the starry skies (as his work provides food to all). All these
show that the poet has observed the sower closely and he has reverence for
him.
3. The poet is
prompted to call the sower an ‘august personality’ which means- ‘one who has
reached the highest position in his work place’.
Explain this using
the following points.
i) Hard work
ii) Perseverance
iii) Dedication
Answer:
i) Hard work: The sower is termed as an august personality' by
the poet due to his hard-working nature. The sower continues his work well
beyond the working hours. Though the daytime is over, he carries on with his
work.
ii) Perseverance: The sower's perseverance can be seen when he
marches along the plain to and fro with a determination to sow the seeds and
hopes for a good harvest.
iii) Dedication: The dedication of the sower can be seen when he
takes the seeds and scattered all around, so that the seeds give him good
yield.
4.
(i) Pick out the
examples of alliteration from the poem and write them down.
Answer:
Examples of
Alliteration:
1) Sitting in a porchway
cool,
Sunlight, I see, dying fast,
2)
Working hours have well-nigh past.
3) But a sower
lingers still,
4) Black
and high, his silhouette
5) Dominates the
furrows deep!
6) Now to sow the task
is set.
7) From his hands
the precious grain;
8) Darkness deepens.
Fades the light.
9) Are august; and
strange; his height
10) Seems to touch
the starry skies.
(ii) 'Seems to
touch the starry skies'. The poet has used word imagery. Describe the
idea and pick out other similar examples from the poem.
Answer:
Imagery can be defined as a
writer or speaker's use of words or sentences to create a vivid mental picture
or physical sensation.
Examples of
Imagery:
1) Sitting in a porchway cool.
2) Sunlight, I see, dying
fast.
3) Twilight hastens on to
rule.
4) Shadows run across the
lands.
5) Old, in rags, he patient
stands.
6) Black and high, his
silhouette.
7) Dominates the furrows deep.
8) Marches he along the plain.
9) Darkness deepens. Fades the
light.
5. Poetic
appreciation
Write an
appreciation of the poem 'The Sower':
Answer-
About the poem:
The poem ‘The Sower’ is a
translation of Victor Hugo's French poem by Toru Dutt to English. It is a poem
about the hard work and persistence of the sower.
The poet: Poet Victor Hugo was the famous poet, novelist,
and dramatist of the 19th century. He was one of the most important French
Romantic writers.
The title:
The title ‘Sower’ shows the
work of a farmer. The poet observes his actions and expresses his respect for
the former who is doing this noble task.
Theme:
The poem is woven around the
theme of the farmer sowing his land. He seeks neither help nor company but does
his work till dark. Poet’s respect for the work of farmer is the central idea
of this poem.
Poetic devices,
language, style:
The poet has used the figures
of speech like Alliteration, Antithesis, Hyperbole, Inversion, Personification,
Repetition etc. The figurative use of poetic language makes the poem beautiful.
The word imagery ‘Shadows run across the lands’ presents clear picture of
natural phenomenon. The rhyme-scheme is ‘a b a b’ which provide a pleasing
rhythm. The word picture of the sower gives a real visualization of the hard
work and attitude of the farmer.
Special features /
novelties / focussing elements:
The poem shows the good
qualities like determination, hard work, perseverance etc. It shows the hard
work of the farmer. The poem enhances the respect for the farmer.
Values, message:
The poem gives the message
that one should keep working with a positive attitude in life as it brings good
results in the future.
My opinion about
the poem:
I like the poem very much. It
presents the positive and respectful picture of the farmer. I also appreciate
the qualities of the farmer which are depicted in this poem. I want to acquire
these qualities and positive approach to develop my life. I also realise the
worth of the farmer’s work.
6. Write the
rhyming words of the poem-‘The Sower’.
Answer:
1) cool-
rule
2) fast-
past
3) lands-
stands
4) still-
thrill
5) silhouette-
set
6) deep-
reap
7) plain-
grain
8) wide-
stride
9) light-
height
10) eyes-
skies
See More-
Activity No. 1
Q. Read the
extract and complete the activities given below.
Sitting in a porch way cool,
Sunlight, I see, dying fast,
Twilight hastens on to rule.
Working hours have well-nigh past.
Shadows run across the lands:
But a sower lingers still,
Old, in rags, he patient stands.
Looking on, I feel a thrill.
Black and high, his silhouette
Dominates the furrows deep!
Now to sow the task is set.
Soon shall come a time to reap.
Marches he along the plain
To and fro, and scatters wide
From his hands the precious grain;
Muse I, as I see him stride.
Darkness deepens. Fades the light.
Now his gestures to mine eyes
Are august; and strange; his height
Seems to touch the starry skies.
A1. Express (2)
The poet has observed the
sower closely. Express in your own words the reverence the poet has for the
sower.
Answer-
The poet realizes that the old
farmer is staying a bit in the farm. The poet feels thrilled seeing that he
does not end his work just because others have ended their work. The poet feels
wonder and respect at his dark working figure. The poet is lost in thoughts and
expresses the importance of the farmer’s work. He declares that his work
touches the starry skies (as his work provides food to all).
A2. Explain (2)
Explain the line: ‘Old, in rags, he patient stands.’
Answer-
The line ‘Old, in rags, he
patient stands.’ can be explained like this. The word ‘old’ shows age and
experience of the farmer. The word ‘in rags’ indicates the poverty of the
farmer. The word ‘patient’ expresses that the farmer is ready to wait for the crop
to grow. With the anticipation of the good harvest the farmer is working
peacefully in the farm.
A3. Personal
response (2)
Give a list of the essential
things required for sowing seeds in the farm.
Answer-
The essential things required
for sowing seeds in the farm are:
1) Seeds 2) Furrowing 3)
Cultivated land 4) Moisture in the land 5) Fertilizers 6) Workers 7) Bullocks
etc.
A4. Poetic devices
(2)
Find and write any two
examples of personification from the poem. Give their explanation.
Answer-
Examples of
Personification:
1) Sunlight, I see dying Fast.
Explanation: The ‘sunlight’ is given the human quality of
dying fast.
2) Shadows run across the
lands.
Explanation: ‘Shadows’ are given the human quality of
running.
3) Twilight hastens on to the
rule.
Explanation: ‘Twilight’ is given the human quality of
hastening.
A5. Poetic
creativity (2)
Add two poetic
lines to make the rhyme scheme: a b a b
Sitting in a porch way cool,
Sunlight, I see, dying fast,
----------------------------,
----------------------------.
Answer-
Sitting in a porch way cool,
Sunlight, I see, dying fast,
I decide to go
near pool,
Not to want to
remain last.
See more
activities and their model answers in the following book:
(1) Each activity has to be answered
in complete sentence/sentences. Answers written in only one word will not be
given complete credit. Only the correct activity number written in case of
options will not be given any credit.
(2) Web diagrams, flow charts, tables
etc. are to be presented exactly as they are with answers.
(3) In point 2 above, only the words
written without the presentation of activity format/design, will not be given
credit. Use of colour pens/pencils etc. is not allowed. (Only blue/black pens
are allowed.)
(4) Multiple answers to the same
activity will be treated as wrong and will not be given any credit.
(5) Maintain the sequence of the
Sections/Question Nos./Activities throughout the activity sheet.
------------------------------------------------
SECTION -I: PROSE
(Reading for
Comprehension, Language Study, Summary and Mind Mapping)
Q. 1. (A) Read the extract and
complete the activities given below: (12) [16]
"Stop," said the other. "I don't want all that. Shall I
succeed in my present search or not? Answer this and go. Otherwise I will not
let you go till you disgorge all your coins." The astrologer muttered a
few incantations and replied, "All right. I will speak. But will you give
me a rupee if what I say is convincing? Otherwise, I will not open my mouth,
and you may do what you like." After a good deal of haggling the other
agreed. The astrologer said, "You were left for dead. Am I right?"
"Ah, tell me more."
"A knife has passed through you
once?" said the astrologer.
"Good fellow!" He bared his
chest to show the scar. "What else?"
"And then you were pushed into a
well nearby in the field. You were left for dead."
"I should have been dead if some
passer-by had not chanced to peep into the well," exclaimed the other,
overwhelmed by enthusiasm.
"When shall I get at him?"
he asked, clenching his fist.
"In the next world,"
answered the astrologer. "He died four months ago in a far-off town. You
will never see any more of him." The other groaned on hearing it. The
astrologer proceeded.
"Guru Nayak— "You know my name!" the other
said, taken aback.
"As I know all other things, Guru
Nayak, listen carefully to what I have to say. Your village is two days'
journey due north of this town. Take the next train and be gone. I see once
again great danger to your life if you go from home." He took out a
pinch of sacred ash and held it out to him. "Rub it on your forehead and
go home. Never travel southward again, and you will live to be a hundred."
"Why should I leave home
again?" the other said reflectively. "I was only going away now and
then to look for him and to choke out his life if I met him." He shook
his head regretfully. "He has escaped my hands. I hope at least he died
as he deserved." "Yes," said the astrologer. "He was
crushed under a lorry." The
other looked gratified to hear it.
A1. Rewrite the
following sentences and state whether they are True or False: (2)
(a) The name of the astrologer was
Guru Nayak.
(b) A passer-by had saved the other
man.
(c) The astrologer took out a pinch
of salt and held it to the other man.
(d) A knife had passed through the
other man long ago.
A2. The other man
looked gratified, because----------
(Choose Two correct alter-natives
from the following): (2)
(a) His enemy was going to meet him
in his own village.
(b) The astrologer told him that his
enemy was crushed under a lorry.
(c) His enemy died as he deserved.
(d) His enemy was very happy and
contented.
A3. The astrologer
suggested the other man never to travel southward again:
Guess and write the purpose behind
the astrologer's suggestion.
A4. Give/express your
views on the effect of superstitions. (2)
A5. Language study: (2)
(i) He shook his head
regretfully.
(Choose the correct alternative to
get the Present Perfect Tense form of the given sentence.)
(a) He shakes his head regretfully.
shaken his head regretfully.
(b) He has shaken his head regretfully.
(c) He had shaken his head
regretfully.
(d) He will shake his head
regretfully.
(ii) I will not open my
mouth.
(Choose the correct alternative to
get affirmative form without changing the meaning of the sentence.)
(a) I will not close my mouth.
(b) I will open my mouth.
(c) I will shut my mouth.
A6. Vocabulary (2)
Find and write the words which
have similar meaning for the following from the extract:
(a) bargaining
(b) surrender under pressure
(c) made a low sound of distress
(d) to look cautiously
(B) Language Study
(Non-Textual Grammar)
Do as directed:
(i) Use the correct
articles and rewrite the sentence:
(i) COVID-19 is one of ----- most
hazardous diseases witnessed by--------- world.
(ii) As soon as the
captain gave an order, the soldiers fired.
(Choose the correct alternative to
get 'No sooner....' form of the given sentence.)
(a) No sooner the captain gave an
order than the soldiers fired.
(b) No sooner did the captain give an
order than the soldiers fired.
(c) No sooner does the captain give
an order than the soldiers fired.
(d) No sooner has the captain given
an order than the soldiers fired.
(iii) The teacher said,
"The Earth revolves around the Sun."
(Choose the correct alternative to get
indirect narration of the given sentence.)
(a) The teacher said that the Earth
revolved around the Sun.
(b) The teacher said that the Earth
is revolving around the Sun.
(c) The teacher said that the Earth
had revolved around the Sun.
(d) The teacher said that the Earth
revolves around the Sun.
(iv) Spot the error and
rewrite the correct sentence.
I know a man which is very tall.
Q2. Read the extract and complete the
activities given below: (12) [18]
A child spends a major portion of
his life in taking formal education. School and related factors (e.g.
teachers, peer group, etc.) play a major role in the child's school
adjustments. Through his interaction with people in school, he learns how to
behave with peers and adults other than family members. He acquires values,
goals, aspirations and socially approved ways of behaviour. He gets a good
exposure to a new set of adult models. His formal education in school shapes
him into a mature, responsible and competent member of society.
A
child's experiences in school give him lessons in team spirit, cooperation,
healthy competition, goal setting and goal attainment. A child's school
adjustments depend largely upon teachers' values, principles and attitudes.
Family background of peers, their habits also are important. Extra-curricular
activities in school, a child's participation in them, the reinforcement and
punishment he gets, influence his school adjustments.
During early school years,
children's adjustment problems are related to being regular and punctual,
doing homework and following discipline. Later on, children are concerned
about maintaining social relations. During adolescence, the issue is how to
develop and maintain relationship with opposite sex members. Adolescents are
also anxious about obtaining good grades in examinations and choosing an
appropriate career. School adjustments have far-reaching effects on
children's success in life.
Peer groups range from
neighbourhood play gangs and informal play groups to organized groups such as
study circles. A peer group has its own group structure and expectations from
its members. Non-fulfilment of these expectations causes the members to face
rejection from the peers.
Children are under the influence
of peers. A child's attitude, habits and behaviour are largely influenced by
his interactions with peers.
A1. Complete the
following sentences with the help of the extract:(2)
(a) The formal education that a child
gets in school moulds him into--------------
(b) School adjustments have
long-lasting effects on-------------
(c) A child's interactions with peers
have a great influence on his----------
(d) A child's school adjustments have
to rely largely on----------
A3. Find the facts from
the extract and complete the table: (2)
A
B
From the interaction with people in
school, a child learns and acquires
(a) Learns----------------------
-----------------------------------
(b) acquires
-----------------------------------
School experiences teach him,
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
A4. Express your views
regarding school education in connection with character building: (2)
A5. Language Study:(2)
(i) A child spends a
major portion of his life in taking formal education:
(Choose the correct alternative that
indicates modal auxiliary showing 'obligation.')(1)
(a) A child should spend a major
portion of his life in taking formal education.
(b) A child must spend a major
portion of his life in taking formal education.
(c) A child will spend a major
portion of his life in taking formal education.
(d) A child can spend a major portion
of his life in taking formal education.
(ii) A peer group has
its own group structure and expectations from its members:
(Choose the correct alternative to
get 'not only.... but also' form of the above sentence.):(1)
(a) A peer group has not only its own
group structure but also expectations from its members.
(b) A peer group not only has its own
group structure but also expectations from its members.
(c) Not only a peer group has its own
group structure but also expectations from its members.
(d) A peer group has its own group structure
not only but also expectations from its members.
A6. Match the words in
column 'A' with their antonyms in column 'B':(2)
A
B
(1) early
(2) rejection
(3) success
(4) anxious
(a) acceptance
(b) failure
(c) carefree
(d) recitation
(e) late
(B)
Summary Writing
(B) Summary Writing:(3)
Write a summary of the
above extract with a suitable title. Take help of the given points/hints.
[Child's
interaction with people in school - his experiences in school - adjustment
problems - peer group influence]
(C) Mind Mapping :
Develop a 'Mind
Mapping' frame/design using your ideas/ thoughts / concepts to illustrate /
develop on the topic: 'Best Sources of Entertainment'.
SECTION - II: POETRY
(Poetry and Appreciation) (3)
Q. 3. (A) Read the extract and
complete the activities given below: (10) [14]
He felt the cheering power of spring,
It made him whistle, it made him sing;
His heart was mirthful to excess,
But the Rover’s mirth was wickedness.
His eye was on the Inchcape Float;
Quoth he, “My men, put out the boat,
And row me to the Inchcape Rock,
And I’ll plague the Abbot of
Aberbrothok.”
The boat is lower’d, the boatmen row,
And to the Inchcape Rock they go;
Sir Ralph bent over from the boat,
And he cut the bell from the Inchcape
Float.
Down sank the Bell with a gurgling
sound,
The bubbles rose and burst around;
Quoth Sir Ralph, “The next who comes
to the Rock,
Won’t bless the Abbot of Aberbrothok.”
A1. Rewrite the
following sentences as per their occurrence in the extract: (2)
(1) Sir Ralph cut the Inchcape Bell.
(2) Sir Ralph asked his men to row
him to the Inchcape Rock.
(3) The Inchcape Bell sank down.
(4) Sir Ralph kept his eye on the
Inchcape float.
A2. But the Rover's
mirth was wickedness': Explain the line in your own words. (2)
A3. 'Those men who do
wrong things, meet with due punishment':
Express your point of
view on the above statement. (2)
A4. Pick out and write
the rhyming words from the first stanza and also write its rhyme scheme. (2)
A5. Compose four poetic
lines of your own on - 'A memorable evening on a beautiful beach'. (2)
(B) Appreciation: (4)
Write a poetic appreciation of the
poem given below:
When I had money, money, O!
I knew no joy till I went poor;
For many a false man as a friend
Came knocking all day at my door.
Then felt I like a child that holds
A trumpet that he must not blow
Because a man is dead; I dared
Not speak to let this false world
know.
Much have I thought of life, and
seen
How poor men’s hearts are ever
light;
And how their wives do hum like
bees
About their work from morn till
night.
Much have I thought of life, and
seen
How poor men’s hearts are ever
light;
And how their wives do hum like
bees
About their work from morn till
night.
So, when I hear these poor ones
laugh,
And see the rich ones coldly frown
Poor men, think I, need not go up
So much as rich men should come
down.
When I had money, money, O!
My many friends proved all untrue;
But now I have no money, O!
My friends are real, though very
few.
SECTION - III
(WRITING SKILLS)
Q. 4. Complete the activities as per
the instructions given below: [16]
(A) Attempt 'Any One' from the given
activities: (4)
(1) Drafting a virtual
message:
Imagine, you are Rahul/Jyoti studying
in 12th standard. You are going to attend an International Awareness
Programme in New Delhi the next week.
Draft a message in about 100/150 words
to convey the same to your classmate. Give your own reasons to support your
message.
OR
(2) Statement of
Purpose:
You wish to pursue your graduation
/diploma at a reputed university in any of the streams of your own choice,
either arts, commerce, science, management, medicine, agriculture,
engineering, law or any other degree you have in your mind.
You have fixed your career goals and
also have similar background to achieve your dreams. Taking help of the above
points/information write a 'Statement of purpose' in about 100/150 words as a
part of your application process to get admission at a university of your
choice
OR
(3) Group Discussion:
You and your three friends (John,
Irfand and Ravina) are selected as a team for group discussion for a reputed
T.V. channel. The topic of discussion is 'Importance of English literature'.
Write suitable dialogues for each participant giving his/her opinion on the
topic.
(B) Attempt 'Any One' from the given
activities:
E-mail:
(1) You purchased 42 inches Smart T.V.
four months ago from M.G. Electronics and Appliances. It is not working
properly and also it doesn't have good sound and picture quality. The
warranty period of the T.V. is still valid. Write an E-mail in about 100/150
words to the shop owner complaining about the problem.
OR
Report Writing:
(2) Your junior college recently
organised a 'Book Reading Competition'. You are the students' representative.
Write a report of the competition in about 100/150 words.
OR
Interview:
(3) Imagine, you have to conduct an
interview of a teacher who recently received the Ideal Teacher Award from the
state government. With the help of the given table and points, draft
questions for an interview.
(Do not change the sequence of the
questions.)
Name of the interviewee
Area of success/reputation
Date/Venue/Time
Duration of interview
Questions:
Questions should be based on -
(1) decision
(2) idols
(3) support
(4) education
(5) training
(6) success
(7) dream
(8) goals/destination
(C) Attempt 'Any One' from the given
activities:
Speech:
(1) Imagine you have to deliver a
speech on the topic 'Save Earth Save Life' on World Environment Day in your
junior college. Draft a speech in about 100/150 words that you wish to
deliver before the audience.
OR
(2) Compering:
Suppose, you are going to compere in a
felicitation programme of the meritorious students in H.S.C. Board
Examination of your junior college. As
a compere, prepare the whole programme script considering the sequence and
details of the overall programme. You may take help of the given hints:
[Welcome song, Introductory speech,
Presentation of the result, Felicitation of meritorious students,
Representative talks/Speeches by meritorious students and their parents,
Small interview session, Chairperson's address, Vote of thanks.]
OR
Expansion of Ideas:
(3) Expand the following idea in about
100/150 words with the help of the points given below:
'All is well that Ends well.
- Well begun is just half done
- It's all about the finishing touch
- Patience and perseverance are always
counted
- Happy ending leads to satisfaction
(D) Attempt 'Any One' from the given
activities:(4)
Review:
(1) You have recently read a book.
Write a 'Review' in about 100/150 words of the book with the help of the
following points:
Title/author of the book
Subject/Story/Information
Language/Style/Presentation
Benefits/Message
OR
Blog:
(2) Write a 'Blog' in a proper format
on 'Yoga - A practice for better living' with the help of the following
points in about 100/150 words:
- Importance of Yoga in life
- Keeps body fit and healthy
- Refreshes soul and mind
- Stress buster
- Meditation helps in focusing
OR
Appeal:
(3) Your college has organised a
motorcycle rally to make people aware to save paper and save trees.
Prepare an 'Appeal' on the topic 'Save
Paper, Save Trees' with the help of the following points in about 100/150
words:
- Convincing appeal
- Need
- Information/Facts
- Famous personality/Guest
- Venue, date and time
SECTION IV
(LITERARY GENRE - NOVEL) – Marks 16
Q. 5.
(A) Complete the activities given below
as per the instructions: (4)
(i) Pick out the odd
element from each line: (2)
(a) Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene,
Daniel Defoe, Anthony Burgess.
(b) Mystery, Style, Conflict,
Character.
(c) The turn of the screw, Aphra
Behn, Rajmohan's Wife, Jane Eyre.
(d) Drama, Novel, Psychology, Poetry.
(ii) Choose the correct
alternatives and rewrite the sentences: (2)
(a) The novel as a literary genre has
a history of about ---------- years.
[two thousand five hundred, two
thousand, five hundred]
(b) The new literature written in the
18th century was characterised by-------------------
[mystery, fantasy, spirit of realism]
(c) In ------------ novel, the
surface meaning is different from the symbolic meaning.
[Allegorical, Dystopian, Gothic]
(d) ---------------has coined the
phrase: Stream of Consciousness'.
[Jane Austen, Virginia Woolf, William
James]
(B) Answer in about 50 words the
questions given below:(4)
(i) Explain in brief
the theme of the extract from 'To Sir, With Love'.(2)
Answer-
See answer in Activity Work Book for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan (Page No. 336)
(ii) Give the
character-sketch of Denham in the extract from 'To Sir, With Love'.(2)
Answer-
See answer in Activity Work Book for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan (Page No. 335)
(C) Answer the following:(4)
(i) Complete the table
highlighting various traits of the following characters in the extract from
'Around the World in Eighty Days'.(2)
Name of the characters
Traits
(1) Aouda
(2) Detective Fix
Answer-
See answer in Activity Work Book for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan (Page No. 338)
(ii) We can go around
the world in less time by journeying eastward'.
Justify it with Fogg's
journey in the extract from "Around the World in Eighty Days'.(2)
(in about 50 words)
See answer in Activity Work Book for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan (Page No. 338)
(D) Answer the questions given below.
(4)
(i) Elaborate the
following line in the light of the novel 'The Sign of Four'.(in about 50 words) (2)
"You really are an automaton - a
calculating machine."
Answer-
See answer in Activity Work Book for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan (Page No. 342)
(ii) Arrange the
following incidents in correct sequence as per their occurrence in the extract
from the novel 'The Sign of Four'. (2)
(a) Miss Morstan showed Holmes the
pearls and letter.
(b) Miss Morstan discussed her
problem with Holmes and Watson.
(c) They planned to meet the writer
of the letter.
(d) Miss Morstan met Holmes and
Watson at their house.
Answer-
1. (d) Miss Morstan met Holmes and Watson at their house.
2. (b) Miss Morstan discussed her problem with Holmes and Watson.
3. (a) Miss Morstan showed Holmes the pearls and letter.
4. (c) They planned to meet the writer of the letter.
Download the HSC Board Sept. 2021 Activity Sheet in PDF
Click on the Arrow
👇
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Std XII Board September 2021 Exam Activity Sheet
Activity Sheet
Important instructions:
(1) Each activity has to be answered in complete sentence/sentences. Answers written in only one word will not be given complete credit. Only the correct activity number written in case of options will not be given any credit.
(2) Web diagrams, flow charts, tables etc. are to be presented exactly as they are with answers.
(3) In point 2 above, only the words written without the presentation of activity format/design, will not be given credit. Use of colour pens/pencils etc. is not allowed. (Only blue/black pens are allowed.)
(4) Multiple answers to the same activity will be treated as wrong and will not be given any credit.
(5) Maintain the sequence of the Sections/Question Nos./Activities throughout the activity sheet.
SECTION -I: PROSE
(Reading for Comprehension, Language Study, Summary and Mind Mapping)
Q. 1. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: (12) [16]
"Stop," said the other. "I don't want all that. Shall I succeed in my present search or not? Answer this and go. Otherwise I will not let you go till you disgorge all your coins." The astrologer muttered a few incantations and replied, "All right. I will speak. But will you give me a rupee if what I say is convincing? Otherwise, I will not open my mouth, and you may do what you like." After a good deal of haggling the other agreed. The astrologer said, "You were left for dead. Am I right?" "Ah, tell me more." "A knife has passed through you once?" said the astrologer. "Good fellow!" He bared his chest to show the scar. "What else?" "And then you were pushed into a well nearby in the field. You were left for dead." "I should have been dead if some passer-by had not chanced to peep into the well," exclaimed the other, overwhelmed by enthusiasm. "When shall I get at him?" he asked, clenching his fist. "In the next world," answered the astrologer. "He died four months ago in a far-off town. You will never see any more of him." The other groaned on hearing it. The astrologer proceeded. "Guru Nayak— "You know my name!" the other said, taken aback. "As I know all other things, Guru Nayak, listen carefully to what I have to say. Your village is two days' journey due north of this town. Take the next train and be gone. I see once again great danger to your life if you go from home." He took out a pinch of sacred ash and held it out to him. "Rub it on your forehead and go home. Never travel southward again, and you will live to be a hundred." "Why should I leave home again?" the other said reflectively. "I was only going away now and then to look for him and to choke out his life if I met him." He shook his head regretfully. "He has escaped my hands. I hope at least he died as he deserved." "Yes," said the astrologer. "He was crushed under a lorry." The other looked gratified to hear it.
A1. Rewrite the following sentences and state whether they are True or False: (2)
(a) The name of the astrologer was Guru Nayak.
(b) A passer-by had saved the other man.
(c) The astrologer took out a pinch of salt and held it to the other man.
(d) A knife had passed through the other man long ago.
Answer-
(a) The name of the astrologer was Guru Nayak.- False
(b) A passer-by had saved the other man.- True
(c) The astrologer took out a pinch of salt and held it to the other man.- False
(d) A knife had passed through the other man long ago.- True
A2. The other man looked gratified, because----------
(Choose Two correct alter-natives from the following): (2)
(a) His enemy was going to meet him in his own village.
(b) The astrologer told him that his enemy was crushed under a lorry.
(c) His enemy died as he deserved.
(d) His enemy was very happy and contented.
Answer-
(b) The astrologer told him that his enemy was crushed under a lorry.
(c) His enemy died as he deserved.
A3. The astrologer suggested the other man never to travel southward again:
Guess and write the purpose behind the astrologer's suggestion.
Answer-
The astrologer suggested the other man not to travel southward again because he did not want to see the person whom he tried to kill in a feat of anger. He knew that the other man (stranger) wanted to kill him to complete his revenge. He feared that he might recognize him some day. So he needed to make himself safe by giving such advice.
A4. Give/express your views on the effect of superstitions. (2)
Answer-
Superstitions have a negative impact on the people in society. Many persons become passive and stop their work fearing failure. The different types of superstitions have bad effect on individuals’ risk-taking behaviour. They also create loose the confidence of the person. So in my opinion, we should avoid superstitions.
A5. Language study: (2)
(i) He shook his head regretfully.
(Choose the correct alternative to get the Present Perfect Tense form of the given sentence.)
(a) He shakes his head regretfully. shaken his head regretfully.
(b) He has shaken his head regretfully.
(c) He had shaken his head regretfully.
(d) He will shake his head regretfully.
Answer-
He has shaken his head regretfully.
(ii) I will not open my mouth.
(Choose the correct alternative to get affirmative form without changing the meaning of the sentence.)
(a) I will not close my mouth.
(b) I will open my mouth.
(c) I will shut my mouth.
Answer-
I will shut my mouth.
A6. Vocabulary (2)
Find and write the words which have similar meaning for the following from the extract:
(a) bargaining
(b) surrender under pressure
(c) made a low sound of distress
(d) to look cautiously
Answer-
(a) bargaining- haggling
(b) surrender under pressure- disgorge
(c) made a low sound of distress- groaned
(d) to look cautiously- peep
(B) Language Study (Non-Textual Grammar)
Do as directed:
(i) Use the correct articles and rewrite the sentence:
(i) COVID-19 is one of ----- most hazardous diseases witnessed by--------- world.
Answer-
COVID-19 is one of the most hazardous diseases witnessed by the world.
(ii) As soon as the captain gave an order, the soldiers fired.
(Choose the correct alternative to get 'No sooner....' form of the given sentence.)
(a) No sooner the captain gave an order than the soldiers fired.
(b) No sooner did the captain give an order than the soldiers fired.
(c) No sooner does the captain give an order than the soldiers fired.
(d) No sooner has the captain given an order than the soldiers fired.
Answer-
No sooner did the captain give an order than the soldiers fired.
(iii) The teacher said, "The Earth revolves around the Sun."
(Choose the correct alternative to get indirect narration of the given sentence.)
(a) The teacher said that the Earth revolved around the Sun.
(b) The teacher said that the Earth is revolving around the Sun.
(c) The teacher said that the Earth had revolved around the Sun.
(d) The teacher said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.
Answer-
The teacher said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.
(iv) Spot the error and rewrite the correct sentence.
I know a man which is very tall.
Answer-
I know a man who is very tall.
Q2. Read the extract and complete the activities given below: (12) [18]
A child spends a major portion of his life in taking formal education. School and related factors (e.g. teachers, peer group, etc.) play a major role in the child's school adjustments. Through his interaction with people in school, he learns how to behave with peers and adults other than family members. He acquires values, goals, aspirations and socially approved ways of behaviour. He gets a good exposure to a new set of adult models. His formal education in school shapes him into a mature, responsible and competent member of society. A child's experiences in school give him lessons in team spirit, cooperation, healthy competition, goal setting and goal attainment. A child's school adjustments depend largely upon teachers' values, principles and attitudes. Family background of peers, their habits also are important. Extra-curricular activities in school, a child's participation in them, the reinforcement and punishment he gets, influence his school adjustments. During early school years, children's adjustment problems are related to being regular and punctual, doing homework and following discipline. Later on, children are concerned about maintaining social relations. During adolescence, the issue is how to develop and maintain relationship with opposite sex members. Adolescents are also anxious about obtaining good grades in examinations and choosing an appropriate career. School adjustments have far-reaching effects on children's success in life. Peer groups range from neighbourhood play gangs and informal play groups to organized groups such as study circles. A peer group has its own group structure and expectations from its members. Non-fulfilment of these expectations causes the members to face rejection from the peers. Children are under the influence of peers. A child's attitude, habits and behaviour are largely influenced by his interactions with peers.
A1. Complete the following sentences with the help of the extract:(2)
(a) The formal education that a child gets in school moulds him into--------------
(b) School adjustments have long-lasting effects on-------------
(c) A child's interactions with peers have a great influence on his----------
(d) A child's school adjustments have to rely largely on----------
Answer-
(a) The formal education that a child gets in school moulds him into a mature, responsible and competent member of society.
(b) School adjustments have long-lasting effects on children's success in life.
(c) A child's interactions with peers have a great influence on his attitude, habits and behaviour.
(d) A child's school adjustments have to rely largely on teachers' values, principles and attitudes.
A2. Develop the flow chart given below:
Children's Adjustment Problems:
👇
Early school years:
👇
Later school years:
👇
During adolescence:
👇
Peer group expectations:
Answer-
Children's Adjustment Problems
👇
Early school years: Being regular and punctual, doing homework, following discipline.
👇
Later school years: Concerned about maintaining social relations.
👇
During adolescence: How to develop and maintain relationship with opposite sex members.
👇
Peer group expectations: Non-fulfilment leads to face rejection from peers.
A3. Find the facts from the extract and complete the table: (2)
A
B
From the interaction with people in school, a child learns and acquires
From the interaction with people in school, a child learns and acquires
(a) Learns how to behave with peers and adults other than family members. (b) acquires values- values, goals, aspirations and socially approved ways of behaviour
School experiences teach him
team spirit, co-operation, healthy competition, goal setting and goal attainment
A4. Express your views regarding school education in connection with character building: (2)
Answer-
I think school education plays a vital role in the process of character building. Healthy and impartial atmosphere of the school can give students good chance to develop their characters. Students learn etiquettes, respect for other’s views, team spirit and social awareness in schools. So, school education is important for character building.
(Accept any reasonably correct answer.)
A5. Language Study:(2)
(i) A child spends a major portion of his life in taking formal education:
(Choose the correct alternative that indicates modal auxiliary showing 'obligation.')(1)
(a) A child should spend a major portion of his life in taking formal education.
(b) A child must spend a major portion of his life in taking formal education.
(c) A child will spend a major portion of his life in taking formal education.
(d) A child can spend a major portion of his life in taking formal education.
Answer-
(b) A child must spend a major portion of his life in taking formal education.
(ii) A peer group has its own group structure and expectations from its members:
(Choose the correct alternative to get 'not only.... but also' form of the above sentence.):(1)
(a) A peer group has not only its own group structure but also expectations from its members.
(b) A peer group not only has its own group structure but also expectations from its members.
(c) Not only a peer group has its own group structure but also expectations from its members.
(d) A peer group has its own group structure not only but also expectations from its members.
Answer-
(a) A peer group has not only its own group structure but also expectations from its members.
A6. Match the words in column 'A' with their antonyms in column 'B':(2)
A
B
(1) early (2) rejection (3) success (4) anxious
(a) acceptance (b) failure (c) carefree (d) recitation (e) late
Answer-
A
B
(1) early (2) rejection (3) success (4) anxious
(e) late (a) acceptance (b) failure (c) carefree
(B) Summary Writing:(3)
Write a summary of the above extract with a suitable title. Take help of the given points/hints.
[Child's interaction with people in school - his experiences in school - adjustment problems - peer group influence]
Answer-
Importance of School education
School helps a child to do the adjustment. He learns how to behave with peers and adults other than family members. He learns good things and becomes a mature, responsible and competent member of society. In school a child knows about team spirit, cooperation, healthy competition, goal setting and goal attainment. A child’s school adjustments depend mostly on teachers, peers, extra-curricular activities and punishments. During early school years, children's adjustment problems are related to his work in school and following discipline. During adolescence, the issue is relationship with opposite sex members. Children are also anxious about good grades in examinations and choosing a suitable career. Peers pay an influential role here.
(C) Mind Mapping :
Develop a 'Mind Mapping' frame/design using your ideas/ thoughts / concepts to illustrate / develop on the topic: 'Best Sources of Entertainment'.
Q. 3. (A) Read the extract and complete the activities given below: (10) [14]
He felt the cheering power of spring, It made him whistle, it made him sing; His heart was mirthful to excess, But the Rover’s mirth was wickedness.
His eye was on the Inchcape Float; Quoth he, “My men, put out the boat, And row me to the Inchcape Rock, And I’ll plague the Abbot of Aberbrothok.”
The boat is lower’d, the boatmen row, And to the Inchcape Rock they go; Sir Ralph bent over from the boat, And he cut the bell from the Inchcape Float.
Down sank the Bell with a gurgling sound, The bubbles rose and burst around; Quoth Sir Ralph, “The next who comes to the Rock, Won’t bless the Abbot of Aberbrothok.”
A1. Rewrite the following sentences as per their occurrence in the extract: (2)
(1) Sir Ralph cut the Inchcape Bell.
(2) Sir Ralph asked his men to row him to the Inchcape Rock.
(3) The Inchcape Bell sank down.
(4) Sir Ralph kept his eye on the Inchcape float.
Answer-
1) (4) Sir Ralph kept his eye on the Inchcape float.
2) (2) Sir Ralph asked his men to row him to the Inchcape Rock.
3) (1) Sir Ralph cut the Inchcape Bell.
4) (3) The Inchcape Bell sank down.
A2. But the Rover's mirth was wickedness': Explain the line in your own words. (2)
Answer-
'But the Rover's mirth was wickedness': The line shows the nature of Ralph. Ralph spotted the Inchcape Bell and hatched the plan to destroy the good work done by the Abbot. He was jealous due to his fame so such thinking made him joyful. His intention was evil. He wanted to destroy the good work of the Abbot.
A3. 'Those men who do wrong things, meet with due punishment':
Express your point of view on the above statement. (2)
Answer-
I agree with the view that 'those men who do wrong things, meet with due punishment'. Bad people are the selfish. They worship only themselves and their opinions. They are haunted by notions of unavoidable doom and a sense of futility. And they cannot become wise because truth is what their fears and fancies demand, not what a sober observation reveals. Due to this, at the end they fall in the same trap which they want to use for others. In this connection it is rightly said ‘as you, so shall you reap.
(Accept any reasonably correct answer.)
A4. Pick out and write the rhyming words from the first stanza and also write its rhyme scheme. (2)
Answer-
Rhyming words:
Spring- sing
Excess- wickedness
Rhyme scheme:
a a b b
A5. Compose four poetic lines of your own on - 'A memorable evening on a beautiful beach'. (2)
Answer-
The sun and sand go hand in hand.
The sound of constant waves -
There's a smell of salt in the air.
The ocean is seen through a haze
OR
Though it was evening
But still sun was shining
Sunrays playing with the water
And the children were running helter skelter
(B) Appreciation: (4)
Write a poetic appreciation of the poem given below:
When I had money, money, O!I knew no joy till I went poor; For many a false man as a friend Came knocking all day at my door.
Then felt I like a child that holds A trumpet that he must not blow Because a man is dead; I dared Not speak to let this false world know.
Much have I thought of life, and seen How poor men’s hearts are ever light; And how their wives do hum like bees About their work from morn till night.
Much have I thought of life, and seen How poor men’s hearts are ever light; And how their wives do hum like bees About their work from morn till night.
So, when I hear these poor ones laugh, And see the rich ones coldly frown Poor men, think I, need not go up So much as rich men should come down.
When I had money, money, O!My many friends proved all untrue; But now I have no money, O!My friends are real, though very few.
Answer-
See answer in Activity Work Book for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan (Page No. 312)
SECTION - III
(WRITING SKILLS)
Q. 4. Complete the activities as per the instructions given below: [16]
(A) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities: (4)
(1) Drafting a virtual message:
Imagine, you are Rahul/Jyoti studying in 12th standard. You are going to attend an International Awareness Programme in New Delhi the next week. Draft a message in about 100/150 words to convey the same to your classmate. Give your own reasons to support your message.
You wish to pursue your graduation /diploma at a reputed university in any of the streams of your own choice, either arts, commerce, science, management, medicine, agriculture, engineering, law or any other degree you have in your mind. You have fixed your career goals and also have similar background to achieve your dreams. Taking help of the above points/information write a 'Statement of purpose' in about 100/150 words as a part of your application process to get admission at a university of your choice
You and your three friends (John, Irfand and Ravina) are selected as a team for group discussion for a reputed T.V. channel. The topic of discussion is 'Importance of English literature'. Write suitable dialogues for each participant giving his/her opinion on the topic.
You purchased 42 inches Smart T.V. four months ago from M.G. Electronics and Appliances. It is not working properly and also it doesn't have good sound and picture quality. The warranty period of the T.V. is still valid. Write an E-mail in about 100/150 words to the shop owner complaining about the problem.
(2) Your junior college recently organised a 'Book Reading Competition'. You are the students' representative. Write a report of the competition in about 100/150 words.
(3) Imagine, you have to conduct an interview of a teacher who recently received the Ideal Teacher Award from the state government. With the help of the given table and points, draft questions for an interview.
(Do not change the sequence of the questions.)
Name of the interviewee
Area of success/reputation
Date/Venue/Time
Duration of interview
Questions:
Questions should be based on - (1) decision (2) idols (3) support (4) education (5) training (6) success (7) dream (8) goals/destination
(1) Imagine you have to deliver a speech on the topic 'Save Earth Save Life' on World Environment Day in your junior college. Draft a speech in about 100/150 words that you wish to deliver before the audience.
Answer-
See answer in Activity Workbook for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan
Suppose, you are going to compere in a felicitation programme of the meritorious students in H.S.C. Board Examination of your junior college. As a compere, prepare the whole programme script considering the sequence and details of the overall programme. You may take help of the given hints: [Welcome song, Introductory speech, Presentation of the result, Felicitation of meritorious students, Representative talks/Speeches by meritorious students and their parents, Small interview session, Chairperson's address, Vote of thanks.]
Expand the following idea in about 100/150 words with the help of the points given below: 'All is well that Ends well. - Well begun is just half done - It's all about the finishing touch - Patience and perseverance are always counted - Happy ending leads to satisfaction
(D) Attempt 'Any One' from the given activities:(4)
(1) Review:
You have recently read a book. Write a 'Review' in about 100/150 words of the book with the help of the following points: Title/author of the book Subject/Story/Information Language/Style/Presentation Benefits/Message
Answer-
See answer in Activity Workbook for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan
Write a 'Blog' in a proper format on 'Yoga - A practice for better living' with the help of the following points in about 100/150 words: - Importance of Yoga in life - Keeps body fit and healthy - Refreshes soul and mind - Stress buster - Meditation helps in focusing
Answer-
See answer in Activity Workbook for Std. XII English by Prof. Tushar Chavan
Your college has organised a motorcycle rally to make people aware to save paper and save trees. Prepare an 'Appeal' on the topic 'Save Paper, Save Trees' with the help of the following points in about 100/150 words: - Convincing appeal - Need - Information/Facts - Famous personality/Guest - Venue, date and time
