Class 12 Compulsory English, NEB Board Exam 2080 (2023) Question Paper with Solution
Sub.Code: 0041'C'
NEB-GRADE XII
2080 (2023)
Compulsory English
New Course
(For regular students only)
Candidates are required to give
their answers in their own words as far as practicable. The figures in the
margin indicate full marks.
Time: 3 hrs. Full Marks: 75
Attempt all questions
Group 'A'
1. Read the following text and
complete the tasks that follow. [15]
Can you imagine a college without
walls, professors or classrooms ? Educator Bunker Roy can. More than 40 years
ago, Roy, now 69, founded the Barefoot college in Tilonia, Rajasthan.
His school admits rural women, often grandmothers and teaches them the basics
of solar engineering and freshwater technology. His efforts have yielded
enormous benefits. When the women return to their homes, they are trained
enough to provide their communities, some of the world's most lonely places,
with electricity and clean water. They also gain something important: a new
found self confidence. The Barefoot model has already been used to empower
women throughout Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Last year, former president,
Bill Clinton presented Roy with a Clinton Global Citizen Award, which honours
leaders who are solving the world's problems in effective ways.
If you go all over the world, to
very remote villages, you will often find only very old people and very young
people. The men have already left. So, two ideas were put into practice in
order to make the Barefoot model work. First, it was declared that men are
untrainable, restless, always ready to move, ambitious, and they all
want a certificate to show for their efforts. And the moment you give
one of them a certificate, he leaves the village looking for a job in the city.
That is how, the simple, practical solution of training grandmothers came up.
They are sympathetic, tolerant, willing to learn, and patient. All the
qualities you need are there. And the second idea was not to give out
certificates. Because the moment a certificate is given, a woman, like a man,
will see it as a passport for leaving rural areas and going to urban areas to
find a job.
Barefoot college follows the
lifestyle of Mahatma Gandhi; students eat, sleep and work on the floor. They
can work for 20 years or they can go home the next day. As of today, 604 women
solar engineers from 1083 villages in 63 countries have been trained. The
engineers have given solar power to 45,000 houses. These were done by women who
had never left their homes before. They hate the idea of leaving their families
and getting on a plane. When they reach India, sometimes after 19 hours of
travel, they are faced with strange food, strange people and strange language.
All the training is done in sign language. Yet in six months, they will know
more about solar engineering than most university graduates. Some women face
problems at home for attending college. Most of the husbands do not like their
wives going to these colleges and tell them not to come back if they do so.
But, on her return when she is able to help, provide her village with solar
electricity, her husband wants her to get back home. The respect she now has is
enormous and she considers, herself no less than solar engineers. Bunker Roy
dreams of providing the world's 47 least developed countries with Barefoot
college trained grandmothers, and solar-electrify more than 1,00,000 houses.
A. Complete the following sentences
using the words highlighted in the text. Two of those words are not necessary.
[5x1=5 ]
a. I could not understand what he
is saying, Can you tell me which..... he is speaking?
Ø language
b. The children in my class always
become ....... near the end of the lecture.
Ø restless
c. A group of volunteers ...... a
club and started to raise funds to help the poor people.
Ø founded
d. On completion of the training,
everyone will be awarded a .....
Ø certificate
e. I have no idea why she is
behaving in a ... way today.
Ø strange
B. Read the text again and write TRUE
if the statement agrees with the information given in the text. FALSE if the
statement contradicts the information given in the text. NOT GIVEN if there is
no information in the text. [5x1=5]
a. Barefoot college was established
forty years ago.
Ø False
b. According to the passage, Bunker
Roy is sixty nine years old.
Ø True
c. Roy's father encouraged him to
set up Barefoot college.
Ø Not Given
d. Barefoot college enrolled only
grandmothers who are willing to leave their homes.
Ø False
e. Majority of the men from the
remote villages moved to city in search of work.
Ø True
C. Read the text again and answer the
following questions in ONE SENTENCE each. [5x1=5]
a. In what way do you think
Barefoot college is different from other colleges?
Ans:- Barefoot college is different from
other colleges because it doesn't have walls, professors, or classrooms and
focuses on training rural women, particularly grandmothers, in solar
engineering and freshwater technology.
b. How was Roy's work recognised?
Ans:- Roy's work was recognized when he
received a Clinton Global Citizen Award from former president Bill Clinton.
c. Why does the author mention the
word 'passport' in the second paragraph?
Ans:- The word 'passport' is mentioned
in the second paragraph to highlight how a certificate from the college could
be seen as a means for women, like men, to leave rural areas and seek job
opportunities in urban areas.
d. Do you agree or disagree with the ideology of Bunker Roy? Why, why not? Give a reason.
Ans:- I agree with the ideology of
Bunker Roy because empowering rural women, particularly grandmothers, with
skills and knowledge to provide electricity and clean water to their
communities is a practical and effective way to address the challenges faced by
underdeveloped regions.
e. What is the main idea of the
text?
Ans:- The main idea of the text is to
highlight the success and impact of the Barefoot college founded by Bunker Roy,
which trains rural women in solar engineering and freshwater technology,
enabling them to bring electricity and clean water to their communities and
gaining self-confidence in the process.
2. Write short answers to the
following questions in about 75 words each. [5x2=10]
a) Describe the feeling of the
young couple when they first arrived at a new place. (Neighbours)
Ans:- This short story
"Neighbours," written by Austrian writer Tim Winton, explores the
theme of false judgement and highlights the idea that human relationships
transcend linguistic and cultural barriers. Upon arriving at a new place, the
young couple initially had a negative attitude towards their neighbours due to
their different languages, customs, behaviors, and hobbies. They were
particularly bothered by the loud discussions of the Macedonian family living
on their left and the elderly Polish widower on their right, who would often
cause disturbances by pounding and nailing things without purpose. These two
neighbors became their primary source of annoyance, creating a sense of
embarrassment and irritation for the young couple.
OR
What is the significance of
universal Declaration Human Rights? (Human Rights and the age of Inequality)
Ans:- In this essay "Human Rights
and the Age of Inequality," American writer Samuel Moyn addresses the
significant disparity between the growing problem of inequality and the remedy
provided by human rights, which he argues requires not a replacement but an
additional solution. Moyn emphasizes the importance of the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights as a global guide for promoting freedom and
equality, highlighting its role in safeguarding the rights of individuals
worldwide. This landmark document represents the first-ever consensus among
nations regarding the fundamental freedoms and rights that should be
universally upheld, enabling individuals to live their lives freely, equally,
and with dignity.
b) Differentiate between knowledge
and wisdom. (Knowledge and Wisdom)
Ans:- The essay "Knowledge and
Wisdom," has been written by British writer Bertrand Arthur William
Russell, delves into the distinction between knowledge and wisdom, highlighting
that these two aspects are not interchangeable. While knowledge refers to the
acquisition of data and information, wisdom pertains to the practical
application and utilization of knowledge to generate value. Knowledge can be
obtained through various means such as study, research, and experience, while
wisdom is cultivated through active learning and hands-on experiences rather
than mere rote memorization. It guides us on how to effectively employ acquired
knowledge for personal benefit or for the betterment of humanity. In this
analogy, if knowledge represents the engine, wisdom serves as the driver,
steering the direction and purpose of its utilization.
OR
Why is one not the centre of the
world? Explain. (Humility)
Ans:- In this essay
"Humility," Israeli writer Yuval Noah Harari explores the intricate
history of human civilization, emphasizing the conflict that arises from the
notion of being the center. Harari argues that the belief in being the center
is not genuinely unique but rather a fabricated construct rooted in egotism and
racism. He highlights that various groups consistently assert conflicting
claims, leading to ongoing conflicts among human civilizations.
c) Briefly describe your impression
of the Famous Actress. (A Matter of Husbands)
Ans:- The immensely talented Famous
Actress in this play exhibits remarkable skill in manipulating her opinions,
showcasing a cleverness that complements her beauty and youth. As a skilled
theater actress, she captivates audiences with her impressive acting abilities.
Despite her innocent outward appearance, her inner nature reveals a deceitful
and wicked character. In this play, she becomes the subject of suspicion and
accusation by the Earnest Young Woman. However, through her skillful speech and
persuasive reasoning, she adeptly defends herself and convinces the Earnest
Young Woman otherwise. Her cunning and deceptive storytelling techniques aim to
prevent the woman from believing that her husband is involved in an affair.
Unveiling the true extent of her immorality, the story concludes with the
revelation that Alfred, the husband of the Earnest Young Woman, was actually in
the Famous Actress's house, further adding to the complexity of the character.
d) Do you think that Mrs. Baroda,
towards the end of the story, really wanted to invite Mr. Gouvernail back to
her home? Give your reasons. (A Respectable Woman)
Ans:- Yes, I think that Mrs. Baroda,
towards the end of the story, it becomes clear that Mrs. Baroda possessed a
genuine desire to extend an invitation for Mr. Gouvernail to return to her
home, leaving her expression at the end filled with puzzlement. Mr. Gaston, her
husband, was taken aback by the unexpected display from his wife. Expressing
her triumph over any obstacles, she expressed her intention to treat Mr.
Gouvernail kindly during his next visit. Despite the confusion caused by her
unusual and delightfully toned statement, my belief is that she genuinely
desired to invite him back to her home and warmly accommodate him.
e) Explain the following lines from
the poem Every Morning I Wake with reference to the context.
We are not wholly bad or good
Who lives our live under Milk Wood,
And Thou, I know, wilt be the first
To see our best side, not our
worst.
Ans:- This stanza has been taken from
Robert Burn’s poem "Every Morning I Wake," this stanza explores the
speaker's belief in the divine's profound judgment. The stanza emphasizes the
omniscience of God, who possesses perfect knowledge of His children. The speaker
acknowledges that the inhabitants of Milk Wood, symbolizing humanity, are not
entirely good or bad. Each individual bears unique qualities and mentalities,
encompassing both positive and negative attributes. However, the speaker
maintains unwavering faith in God's discernment, as He is the first to
recognize and embrace the best aspects of His children while overlooking their
flaws. This stanza centers on the almighty's judgment, which exudes positivity
and works in favor of all individuals across the globe.
3. Write long answers to the
following questions in about 150 words each. [2x5=10]
a) Explain the following lines from
the poem 'Soft Storm' with reference to the context.
I become soft
When I saw a blood-stained shirt
speaking in the earth's ears
with bruised human lips
in the far corner
under the moon
of history and dreams
playing hide and seek
in open museums
of human times.
Ans:- This stanza has been taken from Abhi
Subedi's poem "Soft Storm," this stanza showcases the poet's
compassionate reflection on the absurdities witnessed during tumultuous eras.
Through keen observation and analysis, the main speaker contemplates an
inhumane act. In this particular stanza, the speaker's sensitivity resurfaces
upon encountering a blood-stained shirt, symbolizing a wounded individual,
within this lawless and barbaric land illuminated by the moon in a distant
corner. The wounded man, with bruised lips, desperately cries out for help, but
his pleas go unheard. Pain-stricken, he beseeches assistance, yet the people
around him exhibit profound indifference. In this moonlit land, which holds historical
and dreamlike significance, humanity seems conspicuously absent. The
inhabitants are superficial, leading self-centered lives, devoid of empathy.
They engage in a facade of existence, playing a game of hide and seek within
these open museums representing different human experiences. While referred to
as human times, the essence of humanity remains absent, as everyone dons a
counterfeit mask of compassion in their so-called lives.
OR
Do you think the relationships of
childhood are innocent, impartial and disinterested? Why, why not? Give reasons
based on the story 'My Old Home'.
Ans:- This story effectively reinforces
the belief that childhood relationships are characterized by innocence,
impartiality, and selflessness. Through the portrayal of Xun and Runtu's
friendship, the narrative exemplifies this notion. Regardless of social
barriers, their bond transcends societal expectations. During their childhood,
they engage in carefree play and exchange ideas, untouched by biases. Their
friendship remains untainted by class differences, as they interact without any
sense of hierarchy. Unaware of societal constructs, they embody true
companionship, devoid of partiality. The text demonstrates that childhood
friendships often exhibit similar traits, where deep connections form between
children. Such friendships exist in a realm untouched by societal negativity,
such as class divisions, prejudices, or discrimination. Rooted in joy, care,
love, and affection, childhood friendships epitomize purity and serve as a
stark contrast to the complexities of adult relationships.
b) Do you think money is the chief
determinant of maintaining relationship between characters in the play 'Facing
Death' ? Why, why not? Give reasons to support your answer.
Ans:- In the play "Facing Death," money plays a
pivotal role in the lives of Mr. Durand and his daughters, exerting a profound
influence on their relationships and overall well-being. Money emerges as the
primary source of conflict and hardship within the drama, driving the narrative
forward. The economic struggles faced by Mr. Durand's family thrust them into a
life of misery, devoid of essential necessities. The play portrays the family's
profound suffering, particularly through their constant hunger and inability to
afford bread. Mr. Durand, in his desperation, endures prolonged periods of
hunger and is even depicted resorting to consuming rat bait for sustenance. The
dire financial circumstances prevent Mr. Durand from fulfilling his daughters'
basic needs, exacerbating tensions within the family.
As a result of the ongoing economic
crisis, the relationship between Mr. Durand and Mrs. Durand deteriorates,
strained by their struggle to retain their wealth. The daughters, resentful of
their father's inability to provide for the family, harbor a deep dislike for
him. Their attitude towards him is marked by rudeness and a lack of compassion.
They withhold even a glass of milk when their father is unable to bring bread,
snatching it away from him and even depriving him of matches when he goes to
smoke. However, a significant shift occurs in their behavior when their father
expresses the possibility of acquiring money. Suddenly, they exhibit kindness,
love, and remorse for their previous mistreatment. They even go as far as
apologizing for their rude behavior and expressing affection towards their
father.
The play vividly demonstrates the power
of money in shaping the dynamics between characters. It reveals how the absence
or presence of wealth can fundamentally alter relationships, causing deep
divisions and fluctuations in behavior. The daughters' treatment of their
father is directly tied to his financial capabilities, reflecting the
unfortunate reality that money often becomes the determining factor in familial
bonds. The play serves as a poignant commentary on the impact of economic
crises on individuals and the profound influence of monetary resources on
interpersonal dynamics.
4. Write a news story in approximately
150 words that is to be published in The Rising Nepal about a senior social
worker's visit in your college/school.
Senior Social Worker Inspires
Students During Visit to Local College
Kathmandu, 9th May 2023 -
The students of Nava Jyoti School were honored to host a distinguished guest,
senior social worker, during his recent visit to the campus. The renowned
philanthropist, known for his tireless efforts in empowering marginalized
communities, shared his wisdom and experiences with the enthusiastic audience.
During his engaging speech, he
captivated the students with inspiring stories of his work and the impact it
has made on countless lives. He emphasized the importance of education as a
powerful tool for transforming society and urged the students to strive for
excellence in their academic pursuits.
In an interactive session, the
students had the opportunity to ask questions and seek guidance from his past.
His thoughtful responses and practical advice left a lasting impression on the
young minds, igniting a sense of responsibility towards social causes and a
desire to contribute to their communities.
The senior social worker's visit
served as a catalyst for positive change within the college. Inspired by his
words, the students have already initiated plans to collaborate on social
welfare projects and volunteer activities.
Principal Dhundi Raj Poudel,
expressed gratitude for the visit, stating, "We are privileged to have had
[Name] enlighten our students with his invaluable insights. His visit has
ignited a spark within them, inspiring them to become compassionate leaders and
change-makers." This visit keep undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the
students of Nava Jyoti School, who now strive to follow in his footsteps and
make a difference in society.
5. Your school has recently opened
a vacancy for different positions. Write a job application with your complete
CV that is to be mailed to your school. (State your age, qualifications,
experience, hobby etc, but do not write your school's name).
Baneshwor, Kathmandu 9th May, 2023
Nepal
To the Principal
ABC School
Putalisadak, Kathmandu
Subject: Application for the secondary
level teacher vacancy
Respected Sir,
I am writing to apply for the
position of Secondary Level English Teacher in your school. With a deep passion
for teaching and a strong command of the English language, I am confident in my
ability to create an engaging and effective learning environment for students.
I am 30 years old and hold a
Bachelor's degree in English Literature from Tribhuvan University.
Additionally, I have completed a teaching certification program, which has
provided me with comprehensive knowledge of pedagogical methods and instructional
strategies. My educational background has equipped me with a solid foundation
in literature, grammar, and language acquisition.
I have 5 years of experience
teaching English at the secondary level. I have had the privilege of teaching a
diverse range of students with varying levels of proficiency, allowing me to
develop effective teaching approaches to meet individual needs. Throughout my
career, I have successfully designed and implemented engaging lesson plans,
facilitated classroom discussions, and provided constructive feedback to
enhance students' language skills.
Apart from my qualifications and
experience, I am an avid reader and writer, and I actively participate in
writing workshops and literary discussions. This passion for literature and
language not only fuels my personal growth but also enables me to inspire a
love for English among my students. I believe in creating a nurturing and inclusive
classroom environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and
effective communication.
Enclosed is my curriculum vitae,
which provides detailed information about my educational background, teaching
experience, professional development, and references. I am confident that my
skills, dedication, and passion for teaching make me an ideal candidate for the
Secondary Level English Teacher vacancy at your school.
Thank you for considering my
application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the
academic and personal growth of students at your institution.
I look forward to the possibility
of an interview to discuss how my skills and teaching philosophy align with the
vision of your school.
Yours sincerely,
Santa Ram Chaudhary
Curriculum Vitae
Name : Santa Ram
Chaudhary
Date of Birth : 08/July/1993
Age : 30
Address : Baneshwor Kathmandu
Nationality : Nepali
Gender : Male
Religion : Hindu
Academic Qualification : Bachleor’s
degree from Tribhuvan
University in the year of 2020
Experience : 3 years of
teaching experience
Hobby : Travelling,
Listening songs, Reading
books
Contact No : # # # # # #
Ans:- In recent years, virtual classes
have emerged as a popular mode of education, offering numerous advantages over
traditional classroom settings. With advancements in technology and the rise of
online learning platforms, virtual classes have become an accessible and
effective means of education.
Here are some key advantages of
virtual classes:
1. Flexibility: One of the most
significant advantages of virtual classes is the flexibility they offer.
Students can access course materials and participate in lessons from anywhere,
at any time. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals with
busy schedules, such as working professionals or students with other
commitments. It allows them to balance their academic pursuits with their
personal and professional responsibilities.
2. Access to a Wide Range of Courses:
Virtual classes provide access to a diverse range of courses, often taught by
experts in their respective fields. Students can choose from a wide array of
subjects, including niche topics that may not be readily available in
traditional educational institutions. This allows learners to tailor their
education to their specific interests and career goals, enhancing their overall
learning experience.
3. Enhanced Collaboration and
Interaction: Virtual classes often incorporate interactive tools and discussion
forums that foster collaboration and engagement among students. Through online
platforms, learners can participate in group projects, engage in meaningful
discussions, and share ideas with classmates from diverse backgrounds. This
collaborative learning environment not only promotes teamwork but also
encourages the development of critical thinking and communication skills.
4. Personalized Learning Experience:
Virtual classes allow for personalized learning experiences. Students can
progress at their own pace, reviewing concepts as needed and focusing on areas
where they require additional practice. This individualized approach to
education ensures that each student's unique learning needs are met, promoting a
deeper understanding of the subject matter.
5. Cost and Time Savings: Virtual
classes often eliminate the need for commuting and physical classroom
infrastructure, resulting in cost and time savings for both students and
educational institutions. Students can save on transportation expenses,
accommodation costs, and other associated fees, while educational institutions
can reach a wider audience without the constraints of physical space.
Conclusion, virtual classes offer
numerous advantages that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of
learners. The flexibility, access to diverse courses, enhanced collaboration,
personalized learning experience, and cost and time savings make virtual classes
an attractive option for those seeking quality education. As technology
continues to advance, virtual classes will likely play an increasingly
significant role in shaping the future of education.
7. Do as indicated in the brackets
and rewrite the sentences. [10]
a) The little girl danced really
........ in the annual programme of the school. (Complete the sentence with an
appropriate adverb.)
Ø nicely
b) One of the boys ...... still
working on the project assigned by the teacher. (Put the correct 'be' verb in
the space)
Ø is
c) The street had a nasty jam.
There …… (might/must/could/would) have been a demonstration of some political
parties. (Put the most appropriate modal auxiliary verb.)
Ø might
d) I do not, in fact, know who she
is staring suitable preposition in the space.) (on/in/at/with). (Put a suitable
preposition in the space)
Ø at
e) I am not sure of why she was so
upset and distracted that day. She ..... by her past memories. (Use the
appropriate form of the verb 'overcome'.)
Ø had been overcome
f) Students generally
dislike........... (giving/given/to be given/being given) strict instructions
by the administration. (Choose the correct option.)
Ø being given
g) It is almost impossible for one
to succeed.......... one works hard. (Put a correct conjunction in the space.)
Ø but
h) They saw a man in the river,
(who/whose/whom/that) would be an inspiration for them to know how struggle
pays in life. (Choose the appropriate relative pronoun.)
Ø who
i) No pone loves people teasing
them in the public. (Change into passive voice.)
Ø No one loves being teased in the
public.
j) "I didn't catch you. Is it
50 or 80 ?" the customer said. (Change into indirect speech.)
Ø The customer asked if it was 50 or
80.
5. Choose and
copy the correct alternatives. (5x1=5)
a) Which one of
the following words has a different final sound ?
(i) rough (ii) tough (iii) though (iv)
calf
Ø though
b) I got a
beautiful present in my birthday. The word 'present' in this sentence
is...................
(i) an
adjective (ii) an adverb (iii) a verb (iv) a noun
Ø a
noun
c) Which one of
the following words has a prefix ?
i) unity (ii) under (iii) union (iv)
unfair
Ø unfair
d) Which one of
the following words comes between 'bore' and 'brace' in the dictionary entry?
i) border (ii) bracelet (iii) box iv) boost
Ø box
e) Nothing
can..................for the loss of a child. Which of the following phrasal
verbs completes this sentence ?
i) make up (ii) make over (iii) make off (iv) make
into
Ø make
up
THANK YOU
Class 12 Compulsory English, NEB Board Exam 2080 (2023) Question Paper with Solution
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
